Union members ratify new labor agreement terms at Schoellkopf Health Center

Employees at the Schoellkopf Health Center have approved a two-year wage and benefit agreement covering licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, unit clerks and laundry aides.

The 113 employees covered by the agreement are members of 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

The agreement includes 4 percent in wage increases over a two-year period and increased employer pension contributions and contributions to the union's training and upgrading education fund, which enables workers to continue their education.

The contract, which takes effect immediately and is effective through April 30, 2014, is the result of bargaining by employee and management negotiating committees.

"These are difficult economic times, but we came out of this with a fair settlement," said Licensed Practical Nurse Tina Black, a nine-year Schoellkopf Health Center employee.

The 120-bed Schoellkopf Health Center is a skilled nursing facility operated by Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center on its downtown Niagara Falls campus.