Your Union filed a policy grievance against Vancouver Coastal Health Authority alleging that its use of agency Community Health workers to perform home support work amount to illegal contracting-in.

The matter was heard by arbitrator Julie Nichols over a three day period, concluding on April 12, 2017. Arbitrator Nichols issued the award on May 26, 2017. She denied the grievance, accepting the Employer's argument that its use of agency Community Health workers was contracting-out permitted under the Collective Agreement.

Upon review of the award, we believe there are legal errors that should not be allowed to stand. As a result, we are in the process of appealing the award.

Your Union will keep you updated on any developments.

In solidarity

Deb Wilson

Staff Representative

Negotiations Department