(BUFFALO, NEW YORK) – Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1168 and 1199 Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Workers East-represented Caregivers who work at Western New York’s largest employer, Kaleida Health, have agreed to extend the current contract through June 14th at 11:59 p.m.

The Health Care Workers, who are demanding improved staffing levels, increased safety protections, job security, as well as dignity and respect, believe Kaleida Health must offer a comprehensive wage and benefit package to recruit and retain experienced Workers to provide care for patients - including improvements in pensions.  In addition, the Caregivers believe they  should not be asked to accept concessionary proposals from management.

CWA Local 1168 President Cori Gambini said: “We believe it is prudent to extend the current contract. Discussions regarding economic matters will commence and we need to take the time needed to negotiate the best contract we can for our Membership.  We understand we will not finalize everything before the current expiration date and this extension will provide our Members with a sense of stability and assurance as we continue to negotiate a successor agreement.”

Cathy DiFlavio, a Registered Nurse who serves as 1199 SEIU’s Administrative Organizer, said: “Extending the current contract ensures the rights of our Members will be protected and all current contract language remains in effect as we continue to bargain every day.”

The current agreement covers nearly 8,000 Union Members at Buffalo General Medical Center, Oishei Children’s Hospital, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, HighPointe on Michigan, DeGraff Medical Park, and various community-based clinics across Western New York. 

The Caregivers work as Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Professionals, Technical Employees, Clinicians, Business Office Clerical, and Service and Maintenance at three major hospitals, two nursing homes and a variety of clinics across Erie and Niagara Counties.  

A Federal Mediator from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) was present during contract talks until government cuts. Unions and management then hired a Mediator familiar with both parties, who joined the talks last week.  

Bargaining resumed Tuesday of this week and continues daily from Monday through Friday beginning at 9 a.m. each day.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: Unions Agree to Extend Contract with Kaleida Health Amid Ongoing Negotiations