VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – The BC Nurses’ Union has endorsed a new contract that includes a wage hike and the hiring of more staff.

Union President Debra MacPherson says the deal, which still has to be ratified by members, will add 2,100 nurses to the system by 2016 and they’ll get higher pay.

“More importantly it features clear, enforceable provisions through to nurses workload, problems, improved patient care and patient safety.”

The two-year pact, which was reached last week, will see the wage hike take effect on April 1st.  It also means nurses will see their hours increased from 36 hours a week to 37.5 a week.

MacPherson calls the deal a good deal in tough economic times.

The ratification vote by 32,000 union members will happen on October 18th.