Butler union offered lower wages than previous hospital proposal in bargaining

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Contract negotiations resumed Wednesday between Butler Hospital and striking union employees.

For the first time in nearly a month, both sides came to the negotiation table Wednesday but they remain far from a deal.

Union workers continued their strike as their team worked to negotiate a new deal with Care New England for the first time since May 7.

Employees said they’re looking for better pay and safety improvements, among other provisions.

In an update from union delegate, and registered nurse, Dawn Williams, the union said, in the 10-hour meeting, Butler Hospital’s team offered a set of proposals that had lower wages than the proposals previously discussed.

Meanwhile, Butler hospital President and Chief Operating Officer Mary Marran, released a statement expressing disappointment with the union’s, quote, “lack of advanced preparation” for the session, accusing the union of not focusing on the right matters, like wages and healthcare.

President Marran’s statement added that the offer the union considered remains Butler’s “last, best, and final offer,” and did in fact feature a “reduced” economic proposal, due to the duration of the strike, but said the proposals are still higher than the expired contracts.

Negotiations between the SEIU union workers and Butler will resume Thursday at 10 a.m. as will the strike.