Saskatchewan health‑care workers set to vote on strike action in September

The Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 5430, representing about 7,000 Saskatchewan health‑care workers, will hold a strike‑vote from Sept 8‑14. Negotiations with the provincial government have stalled since the contract expired in March 2023.

Union president Bashir Jalloh said the biggest disputes are wages, the use of contract staff and rules allowing worker relocations. The union wants salaries to match the western‑Canada average, calling the government's offer “way, way, way below.” Workers complain that contract employees are paid two‑ to three‑times more than regular staff and can be brought in without union consultation.

If no agreement is reached, Jalloh warned the government could move to negotiate essential‑service provisions, leading to job actions. He cautioned that prolonged talks could cause burnout, more sick calls and longer patient wait times.