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1199SEIU health care workers at Brooks ratify new contract

On May 22, 1199SEIU members at Brooks Memorial Hospital ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that will increase wages, provide additional training to caregivers, and improve security for workers in their jobs and in retirement.

Carol Ames, a Brooks Memorial Hospital employee in the Health Information department stated, “There is an undeniable connection between health care workers who can take care of themselves and their families at home and who are respected on the job — and quality patient care. This agreement gives members economic security and peace of mind by providing a guaranteed pension, affordable health insurance and annual wage increases.”

Jeffrey St. George, a patient care assistant and negotiating committee member, said that this is more important to the community than might meet the eye.

“When health care workers have good, stable, union jobs that provide livable wages and affordable benefits, local economies prosper. That’s because we can pay the bills and also have some money left over to enjoy what the community offers in retail, recreation and entertainment. It’s a win-win,” he said.

There are 162 health care workers in the 1199SEIU bargaining unit, which includes registered nurses; PCAs; licensed practical nurses; lab, radiology and ultrasound mammography technicians; maintenance mechanics; food service attendants; environmental services; and others.

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