BCGEU launches new phase of fight-back campaign against BCNU raid

The BCGEU is entering the next phase of the campaign to stop the BC Nurses’ Union raid of LPNs and other heath care professionals. This phase will include more member-to-member outreach in an effort to address questions and concerns that LPNs have and to clear up misinformation spread by the BCNU.

Outreach over the past nine months has confirmed that there is clear support among BCGEU LPNs to remain in the BCGEU.

A large number of LPNs value their BCGEU membership and have expressed distrust in the BCNU’s motives.

“I question why they are only now taking such an interest in LPNs, just as we are taking on leadership roles in health care and expanding our scope of practice,” wonders Margaret Tune, an LPN from Creekside Landing in Vernon.

The BCNU raid on LPNs is faltering despite nine months of intensive campaigning and countless resources spent trying to pry LPNs away from their current unions.

It is now clear that the BCNU will fall far short of their goal of a province-wide application for LPNs.

“Our outreach to LPNs has garnered lots of positive feedback,” says BCGEU President Darryl Walker.

“We’ve had an opportunity to hear what LPNs’ concerns are leading into bargaining and we’re finding them as eager as we are to head to the bargaining table together.”

“The BCNU ought to be quite disappointed with their raid campaign,” says Walker.

“They have spent a lot of money and used up a lot of people’s time and it looks as though they may not have much to show for their efforts.”