B.C. nurses ratify new 3-year collective agreement

Nurses in British Columbia have ratified a newthree-year collective agreement covering about 51,000 registered,psychiatric and licensed practical nurses in the province.

The new three-year agreement retroactively takes effect April 1, 2022, and includes general wage increases, improved on call rates, responsibility pay, premiums, expanded mentorship positions, and initiatives focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, and Indigenous-specific anti-racism.

The B.C. Nurses' Union says 61 per cent of its members voted infavour of the new deal, which also includes improvements in jobflexibility and access to leaves, and investments in workplacehealth and safety.

Out of 48,000 members, the union said40,526, or 84 per cent of the membership, voted on the deal.

Union president Aman Grewal says the agreement recognizes nurses'dedication and sacrifice and includes significant investments torecruit more into the profession.

Premier David Eby says the agreement is part of the government'scommitment to continue supporting nurses and strengthening theprovincial health-care system.

The government has promised to make B.C. the first Canadian province to adopt a nurse-to-patient ratio to improve workload standards in public health.

Itsays it will spend $750 million on the newstaffing model, which will allow nurses to spend more time with thepeople they care for and provide better services.