AUPE launches rally in Calgary to fight for continuing care workers

Continuing care workers are protesting the province's changes to Alberta Health Services. Hannah Lepine has more.

Continuing care workers will rally in Calgary Monday, to fight for better care and working conditions.

Earlier this month, the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) launched its continuing care campaign.

It claims the provincial government’s decision to dismantle Alberta Health Services is forcing people with complex medical needs out of hospitals, and into continuing care faculties that are already under-resourced.

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AUPE members say they’re seeing more seniors who can’t afford the level of care they require and want the government to do a better job of accounting for provincial dollars given to privately-operated facilities.

They’re calling for better wages and working conditions, mandated minimum staffing and care hours, and patients with complex needs sent to facilities that can properly accommodate them.

The rallies will take place at the following locations and times:

• 11 a.m. to noon, Carewest Dr. Vernon Fanning, 722 16 Ave. N.E.;
• Noon to 1 p.m., Carewest Colonel Belcher, 1939 Veteran’s Way N.W.; and
• 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Carewest Glenmore Park, 6909 14 St. S.W.

CTV News has reached out to the province for comment.