Hundreds of Dynacare workers are officially on strike. According to a social media post from the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professional (MAHCP), 350 lab technicians and technologists walked off the job as of 6 a.m. on Tuesday. This brings operations to a halt at all 22 of Dynacare’s laboratory and health services centres. According to the union, negotiations are centred on a “massive wage gap,” with workers currently earning 20 to 50 per cent less than those who work in public labs. “After mediation, conciliation, and months of bargaining, Dynacare had every opportunity to close the gap and avert a strike. It chose not to,” the post said. “Dynacare’s lab professionals perform 15 million tests for Manitobans every year. They deserve fair wages and a contract that recognizes their value.” Dynacare workers will be hitting the picket lines weekdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at locations in Winnipeg, Brandon, Winkler and Steinbach. In a previous statement, Dynacare said protecting access to its services is a top priority and that it’s taking every possible step to ensure continuity of care.
