How do I become a BCNU member?

When can LPNs join BCNU?

LPNs can start signing BCNU membership applications this year from September 1 until November 29.

Once a majority of LPNs sign their BCNU memberships we will apply to the Labour Board to hold a representational vote.

Prior to that, it’s anticipated that HEU, BCGEU and other non-nursing unions will try to create fear to keep LPNs in their current unions.

How do LPNs join BCNU?

LPNs can get BCNU membership applications online or by calling their regional representative.

BCNU memberships signed in 2009 have expired and you must sign a new one between September 1 and November 29 this year.

Why do LPNs want to join BCNU?

BCNU is one of the most successful nursing organizations in North America. We provide strong advocacy, excellent collective agreements and quality representation. It’s only natural LPNs want to be part of that success.

As nurses, LPNs know they have much more in common with RNs and RPNs than with other members of their current unions, who are not licensed professionals.

LPNs are members of nurses’ unions in Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Quebec. In those provinces LPNs and RNs work together, learn together and build strong unions together. It should be that way in BC too.

Is it legal for LPNs to join a nurses’ union?

Yes, it’s perfectly legal for LPNs to leave non-nursing unions and join the BC Nurses’ Union. Section 19 of the BC Labour Code allows employees to change unions. In 2010, nine different employee groups changed unions.

HEU acknowledges that employees have a right to change unions. In 2011 HEU published materials saying “a member of one union can sign a membership card of another union.” *
[*HEU publication “How to support LPNs and respond to BCNU’s raid activity”]