North Shore Medical Center- Union Hospital Members Ratify New Contract

March 16, 2015

After months of negotiations, 1199SEIU members at Union Hospital have ratified a new contract. Our unity and advocacy convinced Partners executives to give in on several key items to help form the basis of the agreement. The bargaining committee fought long and hard over wages, benefits, and job protection.

The agreement protects jobs through any sale or merger of Union Hospital. The pensions of anyone affected by switches to Salem Hospital are protected, as well as severance benefits.

The new proposal eliminates the bottom grade, readjusts the wage scale for the lower paid works, and guarantees at least a minimum 4% increase over the life of the contract for everyone.

Mark Van Doren, who has been a transporter at Union Hospital for 23 years and will get to $15 during the new contract said, "After working at Union Hospital for over 20 years I'm excited to finally get to $15 per hour."