“Nurses are vital members of our health care system and to the health of Albertans. The United Nurses of Alberta and Alberta Health Services have been negotiating to delay bargaining until March 31, 2021 due to the increasing demands of COVID-19.
“Until today, these discussions have been focused on immediate pandemic supports, so healthcare workers could continue to fight the pandemic without distraction.
“I am disappointed that a deal could not be reached – delaying bargaining would have provided much needed stability for the healthcare system as we continue to focus on the pandemic and keeping Albertans safe.
“Alberta’s nurses are compensated approximately 8.1 per cent more than their Western Canadian peers.”