N.S. long-term care workers union says they’ve reached ‘impasse’ with government

A Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) flag during an education support workers rally outside of the Saskatchewan Legislative Building in Regina, Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025.

Thousands of long-term care workers in Nova Scotia could go on strike after their union said they’ve reached an “impasse” with the provincial government during a final conciliation meeting.

More than 40 long-term care facilities in the province have approved strike mandates in the last few months leading up to negotiations with the government. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) represents members at 52 facilities in Nova Scotia.

CUPE and the province had their final scheduled conciliation meeting on Tuesday and the union said they did not reach a deal.

“I’m disappointed but I can’t say I’m surprised,” said CUPE long term care coordinator Tammy Martin in a news release. “At every turn, this government has tried to force us to sign the same deal, and this time was no different. For the fifth time, they presented us with essentially the same deal and expected us to take it. And, like every time before, we said no. Our members deserve better.”

Martin noted they have to serve a 48-hours notice before going on strike. She said they will speak with their members on Wednesday before moving forward

“We’re not making this decision lightly,” she said.

CTV News Atlantic has reached out to the provincial government for comment.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page