Nova Scotia Government Collective Agreement: What You Need to Know

The Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU) and the Government of Nova Scotia have recently reached a new collective agreement. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of employment for approximately 7,600 employees in the civil service, school boards, and hospitals.

If you are an employee in the Nova Scotia government or healthcare sector, it is essential to understand the implications of this collective agreement on your employment. In this article, we will examine key elements of the agreement and how they might affect you.

Salary Increases

One of the most significant changes brought about by the new collective agreement is salary increases for government employees. Over the next three years, employees will see an increase of 3%, 1.5%, and 1.5%, respectively.

It is important to note that these increases are not automatic. They will be awarded based on merit and performance, as determined by each employee`s supervisor. This means that employees who perform well can expect to receive a larger salary increase than those who do not meet expectations.

Vacation Time

Under the new collective agreement, employees will also see an increase in their vacation time. Starting in 2022, all employees will be entitled to four weeks of paid vacation per year.

Currently, employees receive varying amounts of vacation time depending on their level of seniority. This change will ensure that all employees receive the same amount of vacation time, regardless of their position within the organization.

Job Security

Another important aspect of the new collective agreement is job security. In the past, government employees have faced uncertainty when it comes to layoffs and job security.

Under the new agreement, employees can expect greater job security. The government has committed to offering buyouts to employees who are affected by layoffs, and there are provisions in place to protect employees who are near retirement.

Benefits

Finally, the new collective agreement includes changes to employee benefits. Starting in 2022, employees will have access to a new mental health benefit, which will provide coverage for psychological services.

The agreement also includes provisions for dental and vision care, as well as life insurance and disability coverage. These benefits are designed to ensure that employees have access to the support they need to maintain their physical and mental health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the new Nova Scotia Government Collective Agreement brings significant changes to the terms and conditions of employment for government employees. Salary increases, vacation time, job security, and benefits are just a few of the changes that will affect employees moving forward.

If you are a Nova Scotia government employee, it is essential to understand the implications of these changes on your employment. By familiarizing yourself with the details of the collective agreement, you can ensure that you are receiving fair compensation and benefits for your hard work.