Contract Disputes Spur Nurses’ Strike at Michigan Hospital
Outside a hospital near Flint, Michigan, the sound of chanting fills the air as hundreds of nurses stand firm on the picket line. This action, emerging from stalled contract negotiations, sees the nurses of Henry Ford Genesys Hospital in Grand Blanc taking a stand on Labor Day.
Dan Glass, the Union Local President, addressed a rally on Thursday. He emphasized the nurses’ commitment to their cause, stating, “We’re all here fighting for everything you deserve that this hospital is trying to take away from you,” which elicited cheers from the gathered crowd of nurses and union supporters.
In response, Henry Ford Health issued a statement asserting that their proposal to the nurses’ union is both fair and competitive. They expressed eagerness to resume talks with the Teamsters, expressing hope that the nurses would soon return to their duties in Genesee County. “In the meantime, Henry Ford Genesys Hospital continues to provide the safe, seamless, high-quality care our community deserves, thanks to our dedicated team members and contract nurses,” the statement read.
The hospital system explained that Henry Ford Genesys Hospital has faced significant financial challenges, with annual losses averaging around $50 million over several years. The hospital’s acquisition by Henry Ford in a merger with Ascension has positioned it as the second-largest hospital system in Michigan.
Both parties are set to reconvene for negotiations next week, as they seek a resolution to the ongoing dispute.
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