[HALIFAX, NS] – Unionized workers at a Halifax-area nursing home who are trying to negotiate their first contract have voted against their employer's latest offer.
The 158 workers at Ivany Place in Bedford are members of Local 41 of the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union.
They voted 89 per cent in favour of rejecting a contract offer Thursday by Northwoodcare Bedford Inc.
The union says it will ask the conciliator to file a report next week, triggering a 14-day countdown to a strike.
Union president Joan Jessome says there are a number of outstanding issues, including the fate of a retirement allowance for workers and a proposed dental plan.
The employees work in a variety of jobs at Ivany Place, including client support, food services, recreation and maintenance.
Northwood Homecare workers are also poised to go on strike, as early as Monday.
