HSAA and AHS Union Agreement: What You Need to Know
The Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) and the Alberta Health Services (AHS) have been in negotiations over a new collective agreement since the previous one expired in March 2020. After months of talks, the two parties reached an agreement on June 18, 2021, which was ratified by HSAA members in July.
Here`s what you need to know about the HSAA-AHS union agreement:
1. Length of Agreement
The new collective agreement is for three years, starting from April 1, 2020, to March 31, 2023.
2. Wage Increase
HSAA members will be receiving a 1% wage increase retroactive to April 1, 2020, followed by a 1.5% increase on April 1, 2021, and a 2% increase on April 1, 2022.
3. Lump Sum Payment
In addition to the wage increases, HSAA members will receive a lump sum payment of $1,200 in recognition of their hard work and dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. Job Security
The agreement includes language that protects job security for HSAA members. There will be no layoffs or loss of positions due to outsourcing or privatization during the term of the agreement.
5. Health and Safety
The agreement also includes provisions to improve health and safety in the workplace. AHS has agreed to provide additional funding to address workplace violence, and HSAA members will have access to new training and resources to help prevent and respond to workplace violence.
6. Benefits
There are some changes to benefits in the new agreement. Vision care coverage will be increased from $300 to $350 per year, and dental coverage will be increased from $2,500 to $2,750 per year.
7. Contracting Out
The new agreement includes a provision that prohibits AHS from contracting out any work currently being done by HSAA members without first consulting with the union.
In conclusion, the new HSAA-AHS union agreement provides wage increases, job security, improved health and safety, and better benefits for HSAA members. It also includes provisions to prevent contracting out and acknowledges the hard work and dedication of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
