04/09/2026
An Important Message to Our Families, Residents, and Community
We have been informed that the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing approximately 105 staff at Bay Side Home will commence a legal strike effective Monday, April 13th, at 7:00 a.m.
Bay Side Home is one of 20 long-term care homes across Nova Scotia where a labour disruption is expected to take place.
First and foremost, we want to acknowledge the dedication and compassion that our team members bring to work every single day. The care they provide for our residents is deeply valued, and we are grateful for their commitment.
The current labour dispute reflects an ongoing negotiation between CUPE and the funder, the NS Government. The collective agreement expired in 2023, and The Province has put forward an offer representing a cumulative wage increase of approximately 12% over the contract period in addition to improvements to evening and weekend premiums. While it’s our understanding that CUPE and its members are seeking additional improvements to wages.
We respect the collective bargaining process and hope a mutually agreeable resolution is reached as soon as possible.
Essential services will continue. The health, safety, and well-being of our residents remain our absolute top priority. During the strike period, CUPE employees will continue to work under our Essential Services Agreement at a reduced staffing level, supported by non-striking employees, non-unionized staff, and the leadership team.
Families should be aware of the following temporary changes during this period:
• Menus will be adjusted. Meals will continue to be provided to all residents, and medical dietary requirements will be maintained. We appreciate your patience and understanding as our dietary team adapts.
• Non-essential programs and activities — including recreation and social programming will be temporarily paused. We know how much these mean to our residents and look forward to resuming them as soon as possible.
Visitors are always welcome; families are encouraged to continue to visit and spend time with their loved one. Your presence makes a real difference. We kindly ask, however, that visitors limit their assistance to their own family members and refrain from providing care or assistance to other residents in order to protect everyone's privacy and safety and to respect the essential services agreement we have with CUPE Union.
Yes, you may bring your loved one home to stay during this period, If you choose to, please coordinate in advance with the nurse in charge of your loved ones neighborhood.
Employees may be present with picket signs around the entrance to the property and also in the community. Access to the facility for visitors and families will remain open at all times as usual. We appreciate your understanding, patience, and continued support as we navigate this period together. We will provide updates as the situation evolves.
Respectfully,
Paula Hatfield
Administrator
