Alberta registered nurses ratify deal that includes wage freeze, job security
The agreement covers 28,000 nurses across Alberta
The United Nurses of Alberta says its members have ratified a new contract with the province that includes a two-year wage freeze and job security.
Union president Heather Smith said the contract recognizes the reality of the economic climate in Alberta.
The agreement covers about 28,000 registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses.
The three-year agreement will run retroactive from April 2017 to March 31, 2020, and includes a wage re-opening provision in the third year.
The union says it expects the agreement will be ratified by Alberta Health Services later Friday.
Alberta is facing a $10.3-billion deficit this year, and Finance Minister Joe Ceci has asked public-sector unions to consider zero wage increases while the province works to keep front-line jobs.