Brigham and Women’s nurses issue strike notice after rejecting contract offer

Nurses at Brigham and Women’s Hospital have issued a 10-day notice for an open-ended strike, the Massachusetts Nurses Association announced.

The strike is set to begin on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 7 a.m. after rejecting the hospital’s “last, best, and final” contract offer.

“We are ready to strike but are equally prepared to negotiate a fair contract that protects patient care, respects nurses, and averts the strike,” said Kelly Morgan, RN, a labor and delivery nurse and Chair of the BWH MNA Bargaining Committee. “Brigham nurses are resolved to fight for as long as it takes for patient safety and the professional respect we deserve.”

Nurses at MGB have been seeking across-the-board pay increases, citing inflation and the cost of living.

The nurses held a one-day strike in July, followed by a four-day hospital lockout.

Nurses will return to negotiations with MGB on Monday, Nov. 9.

Brigham and Women’s Hospital shared the following statement with Boston 25:

“On Sunday, Nov. 1, we received notice from the MNA of an open-ended strike beginning Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 a.m. While we had hoped to avoid another strike, we are prepared to continue providing safe, high-quality care throughout any work stoppage, building on our experience and extensive contingency planning.

We deeply value and respect our Brigham nurses and remain committed to reaching a fair and responsible agreement. Our latest offer provides market-leading compensation and competitive benefits while recognizing our responsibility to our patients, our entire workforce and the long-term financial sustainability of Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

The remaining issues at the bargaining table relate to compensation and benefits, including wages and health insurance. No patient or workplace safety proposals remain unresolved. Negotiations with the MNA are scheduled to resume Monday, Nov. 9.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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