The FIQ and its members have had enough of these ministerial orders!
Once again, the government is attempting to tie up the ends of its new fast-tracked training program for beneficiary attendants (PAB). While backup is needed, the Fédération interprofessionnelle de la santé du Québec – FIQ and its members clearly stated, on all platforms, that the government has to stop using ministerial orders. The FIQ, once again, calls for constructive collaboration.
The arrival of new Minister of Health and Social Services Christian Dubé could be an opportunity to start a new chapter in the health network. In Monday’s press conference, the Minister stated that “all of these premiums are temporary and what we would prefer is an overall agreement.” If so, it’s time for the government to turn its words into actions.
“It’s another sign that this program is poorly put together. The arrival of the new large cohort of PABs is very good news and we must absolutely set up conditions to ensure their success. But instead of imposing a new ministerial order on healthcare professionals, who feel insulted by this way of doing things, it would have been better to take the time to have a discussion and agree on solutions. We have specific demands, with measures that would resolve the situation. The government needs to quickly transition from orders to negotiations,” said Nancy Bédard, FIQ President.
As part of their new fast-tracked training program, students will be observing in clinical settings. Guidance during work shifts could be done by pairing students with a nurse or licensed practical nurse. Staff who accompany the future PABs will receive $5 per day or $2.50 per half day.
“As if that wasn’t enough, the amount of the premium is laughable! At a time when healthcare professionals have a permanent work overload, this just shows once again that there’s a total lack of respect and recognition! Nurses and licensed practical nurses who work in CHSLDs already have conditions set out in their work contract for accompaniment, orientation, training and supervision. The FIQ demands that these conditions be applied, and would have of course been open to enhancing them, given the context,” concluded Ms. Bédard.