New Brunswick has reached a collective agreement with CUPE Local 1252 that will give more than 9,600 health-care workers wage increases totalling $5 per hour over four years.
The agreement covers patient care attendants, tradespeople, food service workers, environmental services workers and administrative support employees working for regional health authorities and Extra-Mural/Ambulance New Brunswick.
Workers will see their hourly wages rise by $1 in the first year, $1.10 in the second year, $1.30 in the third year and $1.60 in the fourth year. The increases are retroactive to July 1, 2024.
“These committed professionals are essential to our health-care system, providing valuable services that improve the health outcomes of many residents in New Brunswick,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy.
The minister thanked negotiators from both sides for reaching what he called “a fair and well-deserved deal.”
Additional compensation measures
Beyond the base wage increases, the agreement includes incentives and premiums aimed at addressing recognition and retention challenges in the health-care sector. The deal also boosts standby rates and shift premiums.
The union represents workers across New Brunswick’s health-care system, including those providing direct patient care and essential support services. The agreement affects employees in multiple health authorities throughout the province.
The four-year contract addresses ongoing labour challenges in New Brunswick’s health-care sector, where recruitment and retention of workers has been a persistent concern for administrators and government officials.
