For Immediate Release:

(Oak Ridge, TN)  SEIU Local 205  and Methodist Medical Center agreed to a contract extension lasting through November 15, 2017.  The current contracts covering over 800 workers at the hospital were set to expire.

“There are still a number of key issues on the table and this extension will give both sides time to hopefully work through our differences and find common ground,”  said Shanella Hawkins, RN. “Our goal is to reach an agreement that is good for patients, the community and our members.”  The parties have been utilizing a Federal Mediator  to help facilitate contract talks.

On Sunday, around 150 people braved the weather to protest the current state of negotiations.  “Our members have never been more united and determined,” said Sondra Bryant, RN. "We will keep going until we get a good contract."

“Having so many of our members and supporters be willing to stand out in the pouring rain to voice our concerns and show our solidarity should send MMC a clear message,” said  Kristi Byrge, CT Technologist.

“The community support we have received has been great, and we will keep building and expanding those ties too,” said Sarah Engelhardt, LPN.