Nurses on strike walk around the block in show of support for their contract bargaining. The union-represented nurses have been on strike since Jan. 10.
Nurses on strike walk around the block in show of support for their contract bargaining. The union-represented nurses have been on strike since Jan. 10.
HOOD RIVER — Since going on strike Jan. 10, union-represented nurses at Providence Hospitals across Oregon continue to stand on the picket lines. Bargaining teams from the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) are looking to improve health care benefits, give nurses “market competitive wages” and create safe working environments for nurses and patients.
On Jan. 14, the ONA issued a statement that Providence had returned to the bargaining table. Nurses remained on the picket lines and bargaining teams from the ONA sent proposals to Providence.
According to a Jan. 23 release from the ONA, Oregon lawmakers have begun to show support for the nurses looking for a fair contract. Senators and district representatives signed a letter that was sent to Providence President and CEO Eric Wexler.
On Jan. 25, Oregon State Representative Maxine Dexter showed her support for Hood River nurses and made an appearance on the picket line. In a post on Instagram, Dexter said, "I'm proud to stand with [the nurses] on the picket line as they strike for the support they deserve. We all benefit from a fair contract. That's why yesterday I sent a letter demanding Providence and the Oregon Nurses Association reach an agreement as soon as possible."
Providence Hood River told Columbia Gorge News they are in "regular, ongoing contact with federal mediators." The hospital calls the current proposals from the ONA "not financially sustainable," and they expect the strike to continue.
Jeanie Vieira, RN, chief executive Providence Hood River, said, “Because of the commitment of our caregivers reporting to work and our replacement staff, we are keeping our focus where it belongs: on our patients.”
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