Labor Board rules in favor of Benedictine nurses

KINGSTON, August 22, 2008 – The National Labor Relations Board, Region 3, has ruled that registered nurses at Benedictine Hospital in Kingston may proceed with an election for union representation by the New York State Nurses Association.

Benedictine challenged the election on several points, most of which were denied by the NLRB. While hospital management claimed that the filing was “premature” because of a possible consolidation with Kingston Hospital, the NLRB ruled that this would not make the proposed bargaining unit inappropriate.

The NLRB also rejected the hospital’s claim that many of its nurses are “supervisory” and ineligible for union representation, excluding only three RNs who hold permanent charge positions.

“We are so ready to have an election,” said Mary Sue D’Orazio, RN. “The hospital has employed the usual stalling tactics, but the delay has not changed our determination to join NYSNA and have a united voice on behalf of ourselves and our patients.”

The NLRB ruled that Benedictine must provide a list of eligible bargaining unit members by Aug. 26. The Board has not yet set a date for the election.

The New York State Nurses Association is the voice for nursing in the Empire State. With more than 36,000 members, it is the state's largest union and professional association for registered nurses. It supports nurses and nursing practice through education, research, legislative advocacy, and collective bargaining.

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