For Immediate Release

Contact: Mark Genovese, 518.782.9400, ext. 353

St. Elizabeth nurses to protest Sept. 16

UTICA, Sept. 10, 2009 – Registered nurses at St. Elizabeth Medical Center will conduct an informational picket on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in front of the hospital at 2209 Genesee St.

The 550 RNs are represented for collective bargaining by the New York State Nurses Association. They are currently negotiating a new contract. Their most recent three-year agreement expired on June 30.

During negotiations on Wednesday, management continued to demand the RNs give up benefits that are vital to recruiting and retaining highly skilled nurses during a severe nursing shortage.

The New York State Nurses Association is the voice for nursing in the Empire State. With more than 37,000 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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