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Gouverneur Hospital Workers Protest Contract Impasse

Story Published: Jul 15, 2011 at 2:21 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 15, 2011 at 6:24 PM EDT

Unionized workers at Gouverneur's E.J. Noble Hospital took their frustrations to the streets Friday to voice displeasure over the lack of a new contract.

The 133 members of the Service Employees International Union Local 1199 have been working without a contract since April.

The union represents licensed practical nurses, radiology and lab technicians as well as maintenance and clerical workers at the hospital.

A federal mediator has been involved in the talks which began five months ago.

Union officials say the hospital has stood fast on its demand that workers pay a percentage of their health insurance.

"The other workers here, including administration and management, they get their health insurance for free. And they're asking the lowest paid workers to pay an amount that's just not affordable," said Tracy Tupper, a union representative.

"what we're asking for is that they start participating. Our latest offer is $50 a pay period," said hospital CEO Chuck Conole.

Both sides return to the bargaining table July 19.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
, Watertown, NY

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