The New Brunswick government and the New Brunswick Nurses Union have signed a new collective agreement that includes a 12.5 per cent wage increase over four years. The agreement affects more than 9,000 nurses across the province.
The union’s membership includes registered nurses, nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses working in hospitals, public and community health programs, Ambulance NB and extra-mural programs.
Wage increases and shift premiums
The general wage increase is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2024. Extra pay for weekend, evening and night shifts has also been retroactively increased under the agreement.
“Nurses play a critical role in caring for New Brunswickers each and every day,” said Premier Susan Holt. “We are excited to follow through on our promise to sign a new collective agreement with over 9,000 nurses in the province to show our respect and appreciation for their service. I want to thank every nurse in the province for their contribution to our health-care system.”
Working group to review staffing issues
A working group will be established to review issues related to nurse staffing and nurse-to-patient ratios. The goal is to improve working conditions for nurses across the province.
“We are so pleased to be able to celebrate this new contract with the nurses today,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy. “Both parties worked extremely hard to reach this deal that is reflective of the important role that these employees play in our health-care and long-term care systems.”
The agreement covers nurses working in various healthcare settings throughout New Brunswick, including hospitals, community health programs and emergency medical services.
