We all have to stick together - we will get through this

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housekeeper wearing mask in front of hospital

“I was on a day off when a member called me. She was just screaming into the phone. “Have you heard?” No, I’m in Winners right now. What’s going on, I asked?

She told me that our jobs were going back into the health authority and it was so exciting for everybody.

We are so incredibly grateful. We are really hoping for a fresh start, but we’re not sure what the changes will be and that can be a bit nerve wracking.

I worked at the hospital when we were contracted-out.  Many of us were making more than $18 an hour and our wages dropped down to $10 an hour.

Some people chose to apply for those jobs and others did not. It turned ugly with people calling each other scabs. It was a tough time and many friendships were lost. I ran a daycare out of my home for several years and in 2010, I returned to work as a housekeeper in the hospital.

Aside from wages and benefits, the removal of pensions was huge for us. It’s difficult to even think of retiring and it’s so inequitable because all of the other health care workers get to enjoy pension benefits. Most of the workers are new Canadians and women. In so many ways, I feel like companies take advantage of that.

I just want to thank all of the health care workers, from the doctors, nurses, medical imaging and lab staff, and all other members of the health care team who have supported us.  The workload is tough for everybody right now. Health care is going through many changes. We all have to stick together - we will get through this.”

Karen, housekeeping, part of the health care team