The Association of Allied Health Professionals has signed the collective agreement it recently reached with the provincial government.

AAHP president Gord Piercey says they’re pleased the process is finally done and the focus now can shift to making sure the commitments made are followed through in a timely manner.

The deal includes a pay rise that exceeds the average in Atlantic Canada, and in some cases puts members’ salaries at the top.

Members will also get a $2,000 signing bonus and a 2 per cent increase in salary in each year of the four-year contract.

Members will also get a long-term service premium that recognizes years of service, something Piercey calls a “great retention incentive.”

He says government must continue to concentrate on retention strategies so allied health professionals get the support and resources they need.