Syosset and Plainview hospital nurses reach tentative agreement with Northwell Health
There’s still potential for a strike at Huntington and Syosset hospitals if an agreement isn’t reached by Monday.
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Nurses at both Syosset Hospital and Plainview Hospital came to a tentative contract agreement with Northwell Health on Friday.
Negotiators have been pushing for changes to staffing, pensions, benefits and pay.
Union members still need to discuss the proposal and vote on it sometime next week.
“Relieved, because it's very stressful for members with the threat of a strike,” said Kristine Miceli, a nurse at Plainview Hospital. “And we're doing our best to obtain the best contract without compromising patient care. And we're hopeful that our members are happy with the contract we obtained.”
There’s still potential for a strike at Huntington Hospital if an agreement isn’t reached by Monday.
Northwell officials say they have already hired temporary nurses to prepare for the potential strike.
They also say they don’t anticipate any disruptions, and the hospitals will remain fully operational.
News 12 tried to ask Gov. Kathy Hochul about the contract negotiations, but she refused to answer. However, she released a video statement Friday afternoon sharing her support and concerns over the looming strike.
"I support your right to negotiate for fair wages better working conditions and benefits,” Hochul said. “But also I want to ensure, and hear it from me New Yorkers, I will do everything in my power to ensure, that if you need it you will have a nurse at your bedside."
