Unified Picket at Nathan Littauer Hospital

More than nine months into negotiations with an intransigent management, NYSNA RNs picketed the Gloversville, NY, facility on September 4 in a spirited show of unity. Nearly the entire bargaining unit – 138 nurses – was present. “Every nurse here cares deeply about giving our patients safe and quality care,” said Marion Enright, RN, a 25-year Nathan Littauer staff nurse.

A fair contract

Seeking a new collective bargaining agreement, issues of staffing ratios, retirement and pension benefits separate the parties. Patient safety is also an issue. “We are all from this community and have sacrificed for the benefit of Nathan Littauer. All we’re asking for is a fair contract that includes enforceable safe staffing levels,” said Miriam Mustara, RN. Nurses at the facility filed an unfair labor practice against management for intimidating nurses and for making threats of retaliation for union activity.

“We urge hospital management to stop wasting time and precious resources on legal tactics designed to delay and intimidate nurses, and instead work hand-in-hand with RNs in the best interests of our patients,” said Mustara.