Labour activists rally to fight against privatization and contracting out of healthcare workers
KELOWNA, BC, May 25, 2012 /CNW/ - Over one hundred activists from all sectors of the labour movement rallied today in support of the 130 workers from Spring Valley Care Centre who have all been given lay off notices.
The rally, which took place outside the office of Kelowna-Mission MLA Steve Thomson, also raised awareness about the ongoing fight of privatization and contracting out of healthcare services across BC.
"The passage of Bill 29 in 2002, allowed care facilities to contract out care and support services to reduce wages. This is one more example of how BC Liberal policies have failed seniors and their families," says BCGEU President Darryl Walker. "At the same time it continues to drive down the wages of health care workers, most of whom are women. These workers should not be tossed aside in a drive to reduce costs and increase profits."
BC Federation of Labour President Jim Sinclair called on Premier Christy Clark to intervene and protect the jobs of the Spring Valley care home workers and the quality of care for seniors throughout the province.
"Our seniors and their families deserve better from this government," said Sinclair. "Bill 29 has done nothing but line the pockets of facility owners at the expense of seniors and the people who serve them."
Holly Reid, Communications Officer, BCGEU 604-785-0124
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