Alberta’s licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and other healthcare workers have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action.
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) says 98 per cent of its members in nursing care roles backed the move, with more than 11,000 votes cast across Locals 041 to 046.
“Members have spoken loud and clear,” said AUPE vice-president Sandra Azocar. “They’re done with being undervalued and are ready to fight for better wages and safer working conditions.”
Votes were cast between Oct. 30 and Nov. 3, and the results still need certification from the Alberta Labour Relations Board. If approved, job action could begin as early as Nov. 17.
The union says it’s still open to negotiations, with talks scheduled for Nov. 6–9. AUPE is seeking fair wage increases, improved benefits, better work-life balance, and more support for professional development.
Finance Minister Nate Horner says he’s disappointed with the strike vote, arguing AUPE’s demands go too far.
Horner says the union’s proposal would give LPNs pay increases of 40 to 55 per cent, bringing them close to registered nurse wages and costing the province more than $2 billion.
While AUPE argues LPNs should earn 84 per cent of RN pay since they can perform about the same percentage of duties—Horner says the two roles differ in education and scope.
“We value Alberta’s nurses,” Horner said, “but now isn’t the time for pay hikes or reduced hours that would strain our healthcare system.”
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