Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Regional Hospice of Quinte Employees Secure Wage and Benefits Gains in First Collective Agreement

BELLEVILLE, ON—Health care workers at the Regional Hospice of Quinte, a hospice care provider in Belleville, Ontario, unanimously ratified their first collective agreement, securing wage increases, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections.

The employees are represented by Health Care and Service Workers Union, CLAC Local 304, which has represented the organization’s workforce since November 2025.

The group, which includes registered nurses (RNs), registered practical nurses (RPNs), personal support workers (PSWs), and custodial staff, voted 100 percent in favour of the agreement. The new contract introduces a structured wage grid with three percent increases in each year, along with overtime provisions after standard daily and biweekly hours.

Additional improvements include shift premiums of $1.25 per hour for nights and weekends and $1.00 per hour for mentoring, employer-paid benefits for full-time and part-time employees, and an RRSP matching program. The agreement also strengthens workplace conditions with paid holidays, additional float days, paid sick leave, and a minimum three-hour pay guarantee when reporting to work.

“This first agreement is about fairness, respect, and setting a strong foundation moving forward,” says Jennifer Kennedy, CLAC representative. “Our members came together, stayed engaged throughout the process, and achieved real gains that will make a meaningful difference in their day-to-day work and lives. A 100 percent ratification vote speaks to both the strength of this agreement and the unity of the membership.”

The Regional Hospice of Quinte provides palliative and end-of-life care services to patients and families in Belleville and the surrounding region.

Regional Hospice of Quinte Employees Secure Wage and Benefits Gains in First Collective Agreement

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