November 3, 2025
RED FM news Desk
Alberta’s licensed practical nurses (LPNs), healthcare aides (HCAs), pharmacy technicians, and other healthcare professionals will conclude voting Monday on whether to authorize a strike.
The Alberta Union of Public Employees (AUPE) — representing Locals 041, 043, 044, 045, and 046 under Alberta Health Services Nursing Care — is urging members to vote “yes” in support of strike action.
Voting began Thursday and will remain open until 4:30 p.m. Monday. If members grant a strike mandate, the union could call a walkout anytime within the next 120 days, with the earliest possible date being November 17, according to a recent labour board ruling.
AUPE has narrowed its bargaining priorities to five key demands: fair wage increases, improved work-life balance, enhanced benefits, better professional development and licensing support, and compensation for mileage and parking.
The union is seeking to bring LPN wages up to 84 per cent of the registered nurse (RN) rate, noting that LPNs’ maximum hourly pay ranked fifth nationally when negotiations began.
“Inflation has significantly impacted everyone’s ability to afford the basics, and our wages have fallen behind,” AUPE said in a statement.
To address work-life balance, AUPE is calling for scheduling reforms, including two consecutive full days off without on-call duties, a cap of six consecutive working days, and an increase in on-call pay to $7 per hour.
The union is also pressing for comprehensive prescription coverage — including diabetic supplies — and higher annual spending limits for massage therapy and other health benefits.
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