More than 9,000 nurses in New Brunswick have a new contract that includes pay raises and higher shift premiums.

The New Brunswick Nurses Union represents registered nurses, nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses.

Members work in hospitals, community health programs, Ambulance NB and extra‑mural programs across the province.

The agreement provides a 12.5 per cent wage increase over four years, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2024.

Premiums for evening, night and weekend shifts were also raised, effective the same date.

Premier Susan Holt said the agreement is meant to show respect and appreciation for nurses.

“We are excited to follow through on our promise to sign a new collective agreement with over 9,000 nurses in the province. I want to thank every nurse in the province for their contribution to our health‑care system,” Holt said.

She added in a social media message that the contract recognizes the work nurses do every day for people in the province.

The contract also creates a working group to review staffing levels and nurse‑to‑patient ratios, with the goal of improving conditions.

Finance Minister René Legacy said both sides worked hard to reach a deal that reflects the vital role nurses play in health and long‑term care.