Union postpones strike by Absolute Care workers

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — The union representing workers at four local Absolut Care nursing homes announced it is postponing a planned strike.

“Absolut Care/RCA Management came to the table with some moves on Wednesday,” 1199SEIU reported that evening. “In an effort to reach a tentative agreement, the union has postponed strikes at four Absolut Care nursing homes in Allegany, East Aurora, Orchard Park and Westfield.”

Initially, more than 300 workers from the four factories were scheduled to strike on Thursday after their contracts expired on April 30. Their union alleges that the workers were subject to the following conditions:

• “threats of reprisals against trade unionists who plan to strike”
• “anti-unionism by not rehiring vacant bargaining unit positions”
• “negotiating in bad faith by implementing their last best offer without making a move at the table”

Affected workers include, among others, licensed practical nurses, home health aides, cooks and medical technicians.

It comes as another local nursing home reached a tentative agreement with the union last week. 1199SEIU reported Monday that a potential one-year deal had been reached with Schoellkopf Health Center in Niagara Falls.

Negotiations regarding the four Absolut Care establishments began at the beginning of February. News 4 will provide any updates as they become available.