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Nfld. public sector unions sign H1N1 agreement

Covers rescheduling of staff to respond to absenteeism resulting from the flu pandemic.

St. John's (16 Nov. 2009) - Public sector unions in Newfoundland and Labrador have signed an agreement with the province to address the impact of the H1N1 flu crisis on staffing.

The following unions are covered by the protocol:

  • The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE/NUPGE).
  • The Newfoundland and Labrador Nurses' Union (NLNU).
  • The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).
  • The Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers' Association (NLTA).
  • The Association of Allied Health Professionals (AAHP).
  • The Canadian Merchant Service Guild (CMSG).

NAPE says the agreement permits a planned response to an emergency without undue delays and restrictions and will assist in ensuring the health, safety and security of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. The full text of the agreement has been posted by NAPE on its website.

The agreement allows for the rescheduling of staff to respond to absenteeism due to the flu pandemic. Measures covered include the following:

  • Employees may work outside their bargaining unit but not beyond their scope of practice.
  • Employees who are ill and cannot attend work will be compensated as per their collective agreements.
  • Employees can be redeployed on a voluntary basis or in accordance with collective agreements.
  • Time limits for the submission and processing of grievances will be waived.
  • Employees will continue to be covered for workers' compensation benefits.

Finance Minister Tom Marshall says a collaborative effort between unions and government paved the way for the accord –  which the province describes as the Good Neighbour Agreement.

 NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE

More information:
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Good Neighbour Agreement