Workers at George Derby Centre, the veterans’ residential care facility in Burnaby, have had their lay-off notices rescinded after the George Derby Care Society board of directors decided to abandon plans to contract out health support services.
Housekeeping, food services, laundry, clerical and activity staff – members of the Hospital Employees’ Union – learned of the Centre’s decision on December 6.
HEU secretary-business manager Bonnie Pearson says that this is the best possible news for members and for the veterans who live at George Derby Centre.
“With the lay-off notices rescinded, the veterans and their families will retain the familiar and dedicated workers they have come to know and trust, and affected workers will continue to support and care for the residents they’ve come to know so well,” says Pearson. “This is good news for all involved,
In a December 6 letter to the union, the facility’s executive director confirmed that “the contracting out process for George Derby Centre has been ended effective immediately” and that workers were now being notified “that their layoff notice has been rescinded and that they will continue in their permanent positions.”
Pearson adds that the union is prepared to work with George Derby Centre, the residents and the families to maintain and improve services and care, and called on the Fraser Health Authority and Veterans Affairs Canada to be part of those discussions.