Union Workers Picket In Opposition Of Privatizing The VA Health System

CHARLOTTE, NC– Union workers who don’t want to privatize health care for veterans picketed in Southwest Charlotte today.

Members of the Salisbury Chapter of the American Federation of Government Employees gathered outside the VA Health Care Center on West Tyvola Road.They were joined by Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham.

Organizers say despite complaints about long wait times, there are benefits to keeping the VA.

“They don’t have to wait behind a car accident in the community. They don’t have to wait behind a gun shot wound, any other community emergency. They have their own hospital. Their own emergency room.” said Essie Hogue of the AFGE Local 1738.

Supporters of privatizing VA services say it would give vets more choices and better treatment.