Update from your local unit officers:

On Feb. 15, manage­ment indicated that they would like to move forward with a second extension for both the Incen­tive Pay and Tempo­rary Shift Assign­ment MOUs (Memorandum of Understanding) through April 30. Their initial proposal was an exten­sion of the current MOUs which are in effect. Currently the language includes 40% incentive shift pay. Your local unit officers deliberated and felt an in-person meeting with management to discuss the MOUs, as well as their effectiveness, or lack thereof, was promptly needed. The goal was to continually work to improve the percentage being offered, which we believed would result in better staffing for the nurses.

On Feb. 18, Management sent an email, refusing to meet with your officer team, communicating it would not be productive to meet since they would not be offering any changes to the current MOU other than extension of dates. They stated other parameters were not open for discussion.

As your officer team, we are frustrated by the refusal to meet and remain disappointed, in particular at the close-minded approach we feel from Management. We are the nurses on the front line, and at the bedside. We know what it’s like to strive for patients while our candles are burning at both ends. In return, Management was not interested in hearing from us.

After careful consideration, as your elected leaders who represent your voice, we have agreed to extend both MOUs. While we don’t agree 40% is enough, we did feel the extension of the agreements were best for the bargaining unit.

Use the links below to view the newly signed MOUs.

This outcome is the reason to join WSNA local leadership as a Local Unit Liaison (LUL). Our efforts to UNITE must continue. Contract negotiations will begin this fall. We are preparing NOW by recruiting YOU. Use the link below to find out more information on the LUL role and sign up showing your solidarity!

LAST CALL! Nurses’ week T-Shirts!

This is the last and final call to get your preordered, personally sized, FREE t-shirt. This is your nurse’s week gift from the local unit officers. The shirts will be ordered soon and handed out during nurses’ week. Deadline to sign up is Monday, Feb 28. After this date, shirts will be made available during nurses’ week, but your size is not guaranteed.

Other information: To reach a WSNA Local Unit Officer at any time, leave a message on Voice Tel and one will return your call – 1 – 866-305‑5612.

To reach your WSNA Nurse Rep, Jaclyn Smedley email jsmedley@wsna.org