SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Chris Barton issued a statement following the announcement by Empire Health Services that they will reduce staff by 130 full-time equivalent positions:

"We are disappointed to hear Empire Health Services' announcement that worker layoffs may be necessary to strengthen their financial position.

"Our focus remains on providing safe, quality care for every patient that we see. We believe our patients and community are best served by having adequate numbers of healthcare staff who can ensure they receive individualized care.

"We remain committed to working with Empire Health Services on finding a solution that doesn't cut into the quality of patient care, and allows our healthcare staff to deliver the safest quality services for Spokane patients."