Nyack nurses to hold second protest June 21

Upset that hospital management has yet to offer a fair contract

NYACK, June 16, 2010 – There’s a poster on a wall in Nyack Hospital that features an image of a tree. It’s intended to encourage the community to “help us grow the quality of our service” by offering suggestions.

Nyack nurses also have ideas on how to improve service. They know that the fundamentals of quality care are recruiting and retaining RNs, respecting nurses’ concerns about patient safety, and involving the community to determine how best to meet its needs.

The nurses have been trying to address these issues in their current contract negotiations, but the hospital refuses to engage in meaningful discussions.

In response, the nurses will conduct an informational picket on Monday, June 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in front of the hospital’s entrance on North Highland Avenue (Route 9W) between 5th and Sickles avenues.

“We’re seeking a contract that will help the hospital remain competitive,” said Anna Marie Perkins, RN, president of the bargaining unit. “Does this sound unreasonable?”

When negotiations began last fall, the hospital’s representatives contended publicly that they wanted to finish by Dec. 15. But across the table, they engaged in one stall tactic after another and demanded deep cuts in the nurses’ healthcare plan. Ten months and 24 sessions later, management has yet to offer the nurses a proposal that’s fair.

Management’s attitude has most certainly been evident at the bargaining table, as it demands givebacks in the RNs health insurance before it will discuss any patient care issues. Nyack RNs have already held one protest, on March 9, and pledged to hold as many as necessary until management offers them a fair contract.

“We’ve supported the hospital through its leanest days and have contributed to its improving situation,” Perkins said. “We enjoy being a part of the Nyack team. We just want Nyack Hospital to show it shares our commitment.”

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 professional association and largest union for registered nurses. It supports nurses and nursing practice through education, research, legislative advocacy, and collective bargaining.

- 30 -