Public Health Nurses Rally for Fair Wages

In a powerful display of solidarity, approximately 50 members of the Ontario Nurses’ Association and their supporters took to the streets of Woodstock on Wednesday. The protest was driven by frustrations over stalled collective bargaining with Southwestern public health.

Leading the march from the Southwestern public health building to Woodstock's city hall was Erin Ariss, the president of the Ontario Nurses’ Association, who traveled from Toronto to add her voice to the cause. "It’s integral for me to be here. I’m the leader of the union, and these nurses are probably the most important asset to this community, especially right now," Ariss stated. She emphasized the critical role of nurses during times of public health crises, particularly as the community faces outbreaks like measles.

The Ontario Nurses' Association represents approximately 68,000 registered nurses and health-care professionals across the province. With its members serving in hospitals, long-term care facilities, public health agencies, community clinics, and various sectors of the healthcare industry, the association plays a vital role in maintaining health standards in communities.

During the protest, Ariss highlighted the dissatisfaction among union members regarding several key negotiation points, particularly annual pay increases. "In the past five years, our wages have barely surpassed one percent, while the CEO's salary has ballooned by a staggering 45 percent," she exclaimed, calling on the health board to "pay your workers" and demonstrate respect for their essential contributions.

Darbie Iles, president of bargaining unit 36, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that nurses face the same inflationary pressures as the general public but receive scant financial recognition from their employer. "I am appalled that our nurses are facing such disrespect from our employer, who freely hands out outrageous increases to board members, yet stonewalls those of us who carry out crucial work on the front lines," Iles stated.

In response to the outcry, Bernia Martin, chair of Southwestern public health, maintained that the organization respects the negotiation process. "We value the important contributions of nursing staff, but out of respect for the ongoing negotiations, we cannot comment further at this time. Our focus remains on reaching a fair resolution while continuing to serve our communities," she said.

The protest drew supportive honks from passing motorists and participation from representatives of the Oxford Coalition for Social Justice, showcasing community backing for the nurses' cause. Ariss noted the importance of public support but reiterated that the biggest change must come from the health board.

"It would be nice if the board of health boosted their morale," she said. "There’s not a huge supply of nurses, many have left because of working conditions, so value the ones you have and entice others to come into the profession. Come to the table fairly, and do what is required."

As the negotiations head toward conciliation, the hope among the protestors is that their voices will lead to meaningful change and recognition of their crucial role in the community's health and well-being.