RI Hospital UNAP members voted overwhelmingly today by 876 to 14 to reject a Lifespan proposal to reduce wages and benefits.  The proposed givebacks have already been imposed on non-union employees throughout the Lifespan system. 

At the five membership meetings held throughout the day, UNAP members repeatedly voiced their disapproval of the Lifespan proposals.  Nurses, respiratory therapists, diagnostic imaging techs and others expressed skepticism about the need for permanent cuts in wages and benefits, noting the fact that Lifespan hospitals are the wealthiest and most profitable in Rhode Island.  Union members also expressed anger about CEO salary increases and recent bonuses paid to Lifespan executives.

Union President, Linda McDonald, RN noted during the meeting that “our members contribute to RI Hospital every day – working very hard to take care of very sick patients.  In addition, we have done our part in the past by making some concessions during our contract negotiations.”  But, she added, “a contract is a contract, and both sides must live with its terms.” 

Linda expressed her gratitude and respect to UNAP members for taking an active interest in their job and their union.  Union members, in turn, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to voice their opinion through a democratic process that included membership meetings and a secret ballot vote. 

As a result of today’s vote, the RI Hospital UNAP contract will remain in effect without any of the changes proposed by Lifespan.  The contract expires June 30, 2011.

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