May 13th, 2021

On National Nurses Week the Ford government must show nurses the respect they deserve: Gates

QUEEN’S PARK – Thursday in question period, NDP MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) called on the government to reserve course, withdraw Bill 124 and listen to the issues affecting nurses.

“For 14 months we have seen the incredible strength, courage and commitment that nurses have for caring for our communities, these heroes have answered the call,” said Gates. “Unfortunately, it seems this government doesn’t feel the same way. Nurses in Niagara are clear; they feel a complete lack of respect from this government.”

As nurses continue to fight COVID-19 in hospitals and long-term care homes, the Ford government refuses to walk back their wage suppression legislation, Bill 124. Under the current legislation, nurses and other health care professionals will be stripped of their ability to freely negotiate fair wage increases.

“The premier won’t repeal bill 124, which sends a signal that nurses aren’t valued by this government. In Niagara and across Ontario they deserve better,” said Gates. “When will this government stop denying nurses the support they need? Stop calling them heroes while disrespecting them. When will the premier and this government answer their call?”

Nurses have also called for 10 universal paid sick days and an improvement to current staffing ratios —both ignored by this government.