Arbitration dates set to hear arguments for Biomedical Engineering Technologists

An arbitrator has been selected to hear the dispute between HSA and HEABC on appropriate wage rates and other classification issues for Biomedical Engineering Technologists who recently joined HSA.

Arbitrator Judi Korbin will hear arguments August 2 and 3. At issue are entry-level wage rates, classification of supervisory positions, and opportunities for recognition of work over and above the entry level.

-HSA appreciates the difficulty for members who have recently moved into the bargaining unit, and the reduction in related to changes in the work-week and LTD plan," said Ron Ohmart, HSAs Executive Director ... Labour Relations.

-Hopefully we will be successful at arbitration, and because the decision will be retroactive to May 6, the current losses should be recovered. In the meantime, I ask members to remain patient until the process is concluded," Ohmart added.

HSA is working to ensure there is a quick resolution to the issues raised as a result of the BMETs recent entry into the Paramedical Professional Bargaining Association collective agreement and HSA. An appeal on the issue of union representation is still before the Labour Relations Board.

Ohmart said that HSA will ensure that representatives of the BMETs are in attendance at the arbitration. He added that since employers have been slow in getting information about the new members to HSA, the union has not been able to communicate directly with the new members.