The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) has recently negotiated a new collective agreement for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) in Alberta. The agreement covers over 5,000 LPNs who provide essential care to patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings across the province.

The new collective agreement includes several key provisions that will benefit LPNs in Alberta. One of the most significant changes is an increase in wages. LPNs will receive a 2% general wage increase in the first year of the agreement, followed by 1% increases in each of the next three years. This increase will help to ensure that LPNs are fairly compensated for the important work they do in the healthcare system.

The agreement also includes improvements to vacation and other leave entitlements. LPNs will now be entitled to five weeks of vacation after 15 years of service, an improvement from the previous four weeks. They will also be eligible for four paid personal and family days per year.

In addition to these improvements, the agreement also includes provisions related to health and safety in the workplace. LPNs will have access to additional training and support to help them identify and manage workplace hazards. They will also have improved access to mental health and wellness resources to help them manage the stresses of their work.

The AUPE collective agreement for LPNs in Alberta is an important milestone for these essential healthcare workers. The improvements it contains will help to ensure that LPNs are fairly compensated for the important work they do, and that they have access to the resources and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. As healthcare continues to evolve and change, it is important that LPNs have a strong collective voice to advocate for their needs and interests. With this new agreement, they have taken an important step in that direction.