Calgary Care Home Wages: The 1.1% Offer That Fell Flat

CALGARY, AB — A Calgary care home's proposal for a 1.1% annual wage increase is drawing sharp criticism as healthcare workers across Alberta secure significantly higher settlements.

The offer, reported February 10, stands in stark contrast to recent provincial agreements. Licensed Practical Nurses and Health Care Aides in continuing care secured 23.81% and 17.05% wage increases respectively over four years through their December 2025 ratified deal with Alberta Health Services. General Support Services members reached a tentative agreement in January featuring 3% annual raises through 2027.

The Math Doesn't Add Up

Alberta's inflation rate sits at 2.1%. A 1.1% raise amounts to a real wage cut before workers clock in for their next shift. The proposal falls well below the province's frozen $15/hour minimum wage, which hasn't budged since 2018.

At Millrise care home, management's February 11 offer of 2.5% for 2026 was rejected as "unacceptable" by AUPE. The Calgary facility's 1.1% proposal goes even lower.

Provincial Pattern, Local Exception

Budget 2025 allocated $28 billion for healthcare operating expenses, a 5.4% increase. Continuing care received $750 million specifically for expanding spaces and modernizing facilities. Registered Nurses secured approximately 20% increases by 2028 through their April 2025 agreement.

The pattern across Alberta's healthcare sector points one direction: significant wage growth to retain workers in a strained system. This Calgary care home is moving the other way.

For frontline staff changing linens, administering medications, and providing daily care, the message reads clear. While provincial agreements recognize the real cost of keeping experienced workers, this facility is betting they'll stay for pennies on the dollar.