About 2,000 nurses and health care workers at the University of Michigan Health-Sparrow voted nearly unanimously to authorize a strike.þþThe union reported that 98.7% of voting members authorized a strike, and the union will give the hospital a 10-day notice if a strike is called, the Michigan Nurses Association said in a statement. The MNA is assisting the union for the workers, the Professional Employee Council of Sparrow Hospital-Michigan Nurses Association.þþNo decision has been made to strike, said Jeff Breslin, a registered nurse and president of the local union.þþU-M Health-Sparrow officials said in a statement they hope an agreement can be reached without a strike and are making plans to ensure safe staffing levels in the event of a strike.þþÿOur nurses and health care professionals are vital to protecting the health of our communities and the future of this health system,ÿ the hospital system said in an unsigned statement. ÿWe understand the urgency and the importance of a contract that meets everyone's needs, while also ensuring our patients receive the best possible care.ÿþþThe contract for nurses and workers expired on Oct. 30. Negotiations between the health system and the PECSH-MNA have been ongoing since August and reached a peak Wednesday after what the union described as 300 hours of negotiations.þþÿThe overwhelming 'yes' vote sends a clear message to Sparrow executives that we are fed up with their disrespect and willing to do whatever it takes to get a fair contract,ÿ Breslin said.þþThe union represents primarily nurses but includes workers from 58 different health care disciplines.þþNurses are asking for competitive pay, more affordable health care coverage for themselves, increased staffing levels and better security measures.þþThey are negotiating their first contract for the union since U-M acquired the Sparrow health care system in spring 2023. At that time, Sparrow cited rising labor costs and declining patient numbers as an issue.þþNegotiators from each side are expected to meet Thursday and have three days scheduled for negotiations next week, Breslin said.
Source: lansingstatejournal.com
