Buffalo, NY— Today, more than 2,800 Registered Nurses and Service, Technical and Clerical staff at Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Mercy Hospital of Buffalo and Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus have overwhelmingly voted to ratify new four-year contracts worth an additional $100 million dollars.
The contracts maintain generous pension and health benefits, preserve safe staffing ratios that support quality patient outcomes, and enhance compensation across the board. Wages would rise a minimum of 12 percent over four years, with increased differentials for evening and night shifts, increased bonuses for working extra hours, and several other incentives. The contracts also continue market-leading health insurance coverage and a prescription plan that leverages the system’s buying power.
Negotiations between the three Catholic Health hospitals and CWA Locals 1133 and 1168 began in March under a new executive leadership team led by President & CEO Joyce Markiewicz, a nurse herself, and the System’s first Chief Nursing Officer, Catherine Mohr. Efforts have been focused on sustainability, recruitment and retention, and providing associates with opportunities to advance their careers as well as competitive market wages for all associates.
“Catholic Health is committed to our caregivers, patients, and the long-term sustainability of healthcare in our community,” said Joyce Markiewicz, President & CEO of Catholic Health. “These contracts are competitive, sustainable, and focused on supporting the people who make Catholic Health strong.”
