Attention UPSE Health Members:
I want to inform you that HPEI has issued an announcement that they will be proceeding with the “Nursing Retention Incentive Program” for Registered Nurses (RN) and Nurse Practitioners (NP). UPSE has not at this time signed any formal agreement with the Employer, as we need to ensure we make an informed decision that is in the best interest of all our members, so we are still currently in discussions regarding the parameters of this program.
For clarity, UPSE was not consulted on the above noted program. Since October 17, 2022, when the program was announced, we have met with various levels of government to obtain answers as it relates to the parameters of the program, how the amounts were established for each group, how the classification groups for this program were identified.
Government and Health PEI have not provided answers to our questions, and I am reluctant to sign anything that has not addressed our concerns. The rates offered to our members are lower than the rates offered to other groups, there is an exclusion of classification groups within UPSE, and other unions are excluded from this program. Union solidarity is fundamental, and I will not be coerced by the employer to sign anything until I have all the information available to make an informed decision that is in the best interest of all our members. Thank you for your ongoing dedication and work during these challenging times and I will continue to advocate for the membership and keep you updated.
Karen Jackson,
President, UPSE