By WPRO News
Following a strike and contract negotiations that resumed on Wednesday, Rhode Island Hospital and the union representing many of its employees have filed unfair labor practice claims against each other. The hospital and the United Nurses and Allied Professionals (UNAP) filed their claims with the National Labor Relations Board.
The hospital said the union has been bargaining in “bad faith.” A statement from a hospital spokesperson accused UNAP of reneging on an agreement to support a tentative memorandum of agreement reached last month, regressing in bargaining to purposely “frustrate” possible agreements, striking over issues not on the table, and making new proposals after a strike notice.
“Based on the unfair and disingenuous approach being taken by UNAP leadership, it may be challenging to reach a formal agreement, despite Rhode Island Hospital’s demonstrated willingness to address key issues – including most recently immediately agreeing to a labor management agreement designed to address issues related to staffing and supplies,” said Anthony D. Rizzotti, Rhode Island Hospital’s outside counsel. “We believe it is critical that both parties engage in a good faith effort to resolve this contract, to ensure that our community continues to have uninterrupted access to the high-quality care Rhode Island Hospital provides.”
UNAP argued the hospital made changes to workplace conditions that were subject to collective bargaining.