NORWALK, Conn. — A potential strike has been called off, as the union representing Norwalk Hospital’s food service workers reached an agreement with Morrison Healthcare, their employer.
The development was announced on Friday by the CHCA District 1199, NUHHCE union, which describes the agreement as groundbreaking. The contract reportedly secures unprecedented gains for the workers, who were previously underpaid. The union says it also represents a significant victory in their fight for economic equity and workplace dignity.
Under the new contract, average pay has risen 22% for all food service workers. The union says the 15 most underpaid workers will receive immediate increases ranging from 40% to 70%. According to the union, the pay adjustments address years of stagnation and inequity for workers who previously barely made more than minimum wage.
“This agreement is nothing short of historic,” Dave Hannon, president of CHCA District 1199, NUHHCE, said. “These workers stood together in solidarity and refused to accept the disrespect and broken promises that have defined their experience. Today, they have secured a brighter future for themselves and their families.”
As part of the agreement, there will be significant reductions in health benefit costs and a new employer match for retirement contributions. There will also be overtime protections to ensure overtime pay after eight hours of work in a single day.
Workers will also benefit from increased paid-time off and more vacation time during holidays. Workplace improvements include additional benefits meant to promote fairness and stability. The contract also establishes just cause as the standard for disciplinary actions.
The union notes that while the agreement addresses the demands of the workers, the unfair labor charge against Morrison Healthcare has not been resolved. However, the contract represents a real momentum shift for the Norwalk Hospital food service workers, who voted to unionize in August 2023 and have been advocating for a fair first contract since.
“These workers have inspired their community and shown what is possible when people stand together against injustice,” Hannon said. “We thank our elected leaders, community members and all those who supported these works during this fight.”
Hannon says CHCA District 1199, NUHHCE will remain committed to protecting and promoting the rights of all healthcare workers. The union is also proud to stand with the Norwalk Hospital food service workers as they fight for workplace justice.
The CHCA District 1199, NUHHCE union was founded in 1976 and represents around 3,000 healthcare workers across Connecticut.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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