Home / Business and Economy / Nova Scotia Care Workers Strike for Living Wage
Nova Scotia Care Workers Strike for Living Wage
11 Apr
Summary
- Over 2,200 long-term care workers began striking on Monday.
- Workers are demanding a living wage, citing poverty among full-time staff.
- The strike impacts 25 homes, with potential for further job action.
More than 2,200 long-term care workers in Nova Scotia initiated job action on Monday, April 14, 2026, at 7 a.m. The strike, involving workers represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), initially affects 25 facilities across the province.
CUPE, representing over 5,000 long-term care staff in 56 homes, stated that more workers may issue strike notices. The core demand from these employees, including continuing care assistants and licensed practical nurses, is a living wage. Many full-time workers reportedly live in poverty, with current hourly wages for some roles falling below the estimated 2024 Halifax living wage of $28.30.
The provincial government has offered wage increases ranging from 12 to 24 percent, alongside a 70 percent boost to shift and weekend premiums, retroactive to 2023. However, CUPE has rejected this offer, with union representatives indicating that members trust their bargaining team to secure a better deal, potentially leveraging "me-too clauses" accepted by other unions.
Essential services agreements are in place to ensure critical support continues during the strike. Facilities like Shannex homes and St. Vincent's Nursing Home have informed residents and families about potential disruptions to non-essential services, including recreation programs, while confirming that family visitations will continue.
