FMCS Statement on Tentative Agreement Between Brigham and Women's Hospital and the Massachusetts Nurses Association

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Allison Beck, Director of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), issued the following statement today on the announcement that a tentative agreement had been reached in negotiations between Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) in Boston, MA and the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), averting a strike by approximately 3,300 care-givers at the hospital planned for Monday, June 27. 

"These were difficult and very lengthy negotiations for the hospital and union representatives, involving a number of very complex issues. Thanks to the perseverance and hard work of the negotiating teams, it appears that an historic work stoppage has been averted at this vital health care facility and operations will resume on Monday without disruption," Ms. Beck stated.

In addition to recognizing the work of the negotiating teams, Ms. Beck also commended FMCS Commissioner Martin Callaghan for his role in assisting the parties.  "With only a few days remaining before their deadline, Commissioner Callaghan engaged the parties in an intensified, successful mediation effort.  It was clear that both sides were looking for a way to bridge the differences but needed help.  Commissioner Callaghan devoted himself through many days, long hours and late night sessions assisting the parties in the efforts to find common ground.   I commend Commissioner Callaghan for his extraordinary work, and we extend our thanks to the parties for their cooperation with the FMCS."

The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, created in 1947, is an independent U.S. government agency whose mission is to preserve and promote labor-management peace and cooperation. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 10 regional offices and more than 60 field offices, the agency provides mediation and conflict resolution services to industry, government agencies and communities.

Website: www.fmcs.gov  

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SOURCE Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service