ICYMI: Strike Over: Providence nurses ratify contract, return to work

Providence issued a statement on Feb. 24 and said, “Providence Oregon is pleased that union-represented RNs at all eight Oregon hospitals voted to approve new contracts and end their strikes. We recognize the challenges faced over the past six weeks and are proud of these agreements that address issues the union bargaining teams identified as priorities during negotiations.”

The ONA highlighted terms of the contract that will set new standards for wages, staffing and patient safety.

Nurses will receive an immediate pay raise of up to 22% and additional increases between 20% and 42% over the lifetime of the deal.

The contract will also establish a new Statewide Health Benefits Workgroup whose duty it will be to evaluate current plans and consider the creation of a statewide health benefits trust that will ensure comprehensive coverage for nurses.

In another important victory for the nurses union, expiration or wage reopener dates for the majority of contracts (10 bargaining units) are now aligned within three months of each other, strengthening ONA’s collective voice.

“These hard-won contracts reflect the dedication and determination of ONA nurses who stood strong on the strike line in their fight for fair treatment, safe working conditions, and better healthcare for all Oregonians,” the ONA said.

Davina Craig, a nurse at Providence Hood River is thankful the two sides could come to an agreement, but acknowledges there is still unfinished business.

“This contract represents a victory for frontline nurses throughout the Gorge, but more importantly it’s a victory for our patients and this community we call home. Still, there is more work to be done on key issues like employee healthcare and we are looking forward to those negotiations in solidarity with our Providence colleagues throughout Oregon,” Craig said. “With this contract, our ability to recruit and retain more nurses and spend more time with patients just drastically improved. This strike was not easy for any of us, and we recognize it was not easy for our patients either and we want to thank everyone for their incredible support.”