March 03 2003
Figures for January show there are only 687 rpns and rns employed in the Public Service. UPN’s total membership in January was 950 of which 565 (60%) were employed in the Public Service and 385 in the health sector. Riverview’s is down to 288 members.
An up to date history of UPN, from its break away from the BCGEA, through the mass resignation, Operation Solidarity, up through the fight to represent rpns in the health sector, has been completed. It is available at
Participate in one of the largest surveys of Canadian nurses ever. Building the Future is the first study led and endorsed by all nursing stakeholders (unions, employers, three regulated nursing professions, provincial/federal governments, etc.) The survey of 24,000 randomly-selected Canadian nurses will be mailed out this Spring. If you get one, please fill it out and return it. They need to hear your voice. For more information, visit
Net pay is to be calculated by averaging the net take home pay received by the injured employee in the 26 pay periods prior to the date of injury. An exception will be made where there was a change of status, a leave of absence without pay, etc. during the one year period. Also, statutory holidays do not accrue during the WCB leave period after 20 days.
Nominations are sought for the positions of President, Vice-President, Treasurer and two Directors. Nominations must be in by early April. Elections will be held at the 2003 Convention.
Dwight Wenham has retired after 37 years as the Director of Labour Relations, with the PNABC, RPNABC, and then the Union since its founding. He was bid farewell at a special gathering of friends, coworkers and employers, past and present, on February 15th. His last day was February 28th. The staff position has been changed to Director of Operations and Member Services. Doug McLaren takes over the staff duties as of today.
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