While it has yet to happen in this region, strikes have been rotating across the province and the threat looms.
About one hundred and twenty specialized health care professionals in the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region went on strike Tuesday morning and previously they were off the job in Prince Albert and Saskatoon.
Health Sciences Association President, Cathy Dickson says, "We are resuming strike action, because the Wall government and health care employers have refused once again to send our contract dispute to independent, binding arbitration.
"Responsibility for the resumption of strike action sits squarely at the feet of the government and health care employers. They had an opportunity to prevent further strike action and they passed on that opportunity," accuses Dickson.
A variety of health care professionals were off the job including:
Dietitians; EMT's and Paramedics from Regina EMS; Occupational Therapists; Pharmacists; Physical Therapists; Public Health Inspectors; Respiratory Therapists; and Speech Language Pathologists.
"How long Health Sciences members in the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region remain on strike, and where and when additional job action will be launched, will be announced by the union at a later time," Dickson says.
"The Wall government and health care employers claim they don't want to submit our contract dispute to independent, binding arbitration, because there is still hope for a negotiated settlement. That would be helpful if they actually had any plans to negotiate!
"Both the government and SAHO admit they have not changed the public sector mandate, and have nothing new to offer our members. What's to negotiate?" Dickson asked.
"What does the government suggest to finally bring an end to this contract dispute? They won't negotiate, and they refuse to consider independent, binding arbitration. Are they saying they want to see strike action continue indefinitely? Saskatchewan families will find that attitude completely unacceptable" Dickson concludes.
