NFMMC, 1199 SEIU reach agreement

Employees at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center approved a three-year wage and benefit agreement covering 725 service and maintenance workers, registered and licensed practical nurses, technicians and professionals represented by 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

The announcement was made Wednesday.

“Today our members have successfully ratified a contract that will provide general wage increases, increase pension contributions, additional employer cost share for health care, and stronger language to improve working conditions,” said union representative Ann Davis, R.N.

Reached as a result of bargaining by employee and management negotiating committees, the contract takes effect immediately and will be in effect through June 1, 2022. Memorial Medical Center had been engaged in collective bargaining negotiations with 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East since late March.

“Our discussions throughout the process were constructive and productive as both sides bargained in good faith,” said Memorial President and CEO Joseph A. Ruffolo. “We value our relationship with 1199 SEIU and we’re glad we were able to reach an agreement that supports our valued employees and enables us to continue delivering innovative, high-quality health care while addressing the ongoing financial challenges facing our industry.”