HSA President Cindy Stewart joined other union leaders at a rally in Vancouver to support HEU and BCGEU members who are on strike for a first collective agreement with Sodexho. The 1,100 workers have been on strike since Sept. 15. The majority of the dietary, cleaning and other support services workers are paid $10.15 per hour.

Members encouraged to get involved in upcoming municipal and federal elections

HSA and its members have become increasingly active politically. HSA members worked on the recent provincial election in unprecedented numbers. Many of these members attended one of the three campaign schools HSA offered during the past year. Feedback from these members emphasized the value of these campaign schools in preparing members to work on election campaigns.

Direct employees of health authorities, including all HSA members, will have access to work in the event that HEU members in a first contract dispute with Sodexho erect picket lines. Each of the worksites affected has been designated locations where picketing is allowed, and access is guaranteed to ensure 100 per cent levels of service by direct employees of the health authorities.

HSA today received notice that the Hospital Employees' Union has issued 72-hour strike notice against Sodexho. The parties have been bargaining for a first collective agreement since March 11.

The earliest potential for job action is Thursday, Sept. 15. Because of orders issued by the Labour Relations Board, HSA and other union members will not be affected by picket lines, except that access to the worksite will be through designated entrances.

Members encouraged to get involved in upcoming municipal and federal elections