DEER RIVER — Striking workers at Essentia Health-Deer River announced that the Service Employees International Union and Essentia leaders will meet at the negotiating table later this month as the strike reaches its 40th day.
Negotiations with a mediator are set to resume on Jan. 22 and 23.
In a news release, union leaders stated they “look forward to returning to the bargaining table in an effort to reach an agreement that recognizes SEIU members' great work and supports quality health care in Deer River."
An informational picket is planned outside of Essentia St. Mary’s in Duluth between 4 and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
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Contributed/SEIU via FacebookService Employees International Union members have been on strike for a month and say Essentia Health is at fault for the lack of resolution. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEEssentia Health and SEIU members blame each other for the lack of negotiation. The two sides remain distant on wages and disagree on the nature of the others' proposals. -
Lorie ShaullThe two sides have been bargaining since August and remain distant on multiple issues. If no agreement is reached before Dec. 9, 2024, the union will strike for a second time. -
Lorie ShaullThe biggest disconnect between Essentia Health and the SEIU members is wages, though SEIU also points to differences in PTO or shift bonuses and holiday pay. -
Contributed/Essentia HealthIf the strike goes on, emergency services, surgical care, outpatient clinic care and long-term care would continue. But some hospital inpatient services would be suspended.
