New contract ratified at seniors’ care facility in Gibsons

Contract provides stability during transition of ownership

Members of the B.C. Government and Service Employees’ Union working at Gibsons Garden Inn, a seniors’ care facility in Gibsons, voted to accept a new contract this week.

The two-year contract, which covers ten members at the long-term care facility, includes two percent wage increases each year while all other existing language is maintained.

“This is a good agreement that will provide security for workers at the facility in the coming years,” says BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

The facility has been sold to a new owner who will take ownership on November 1, 2010.

“The new owner is aware that the facility is unionized and that there is a contract in place for the next two years,” says Walker.

“We will work with the new management to ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible.”

Gibsons Garden Inn employs housekeeping staff, cooks, dietary aides, and maintenance staff who provide care for seniors from the area who live on site.