March 13, 2018

Dear members,

Your FIQ-SPSSODIM union is very concerned about the situation that you are currently experiencing at CIUSSS ODIM. The significant staff shortage has lead to health care professionals having the obligation to work mandatory overtime more than ever.  We cannot provide safe care to our patients with the immense workload that we assume daily. We are very conscious of your fatigue that is wearing you down, both physically and mentally.

Last January 31st, some thirty health care professionals of the Lakeshore General Hospital demonstrated their strength and broke the silence. They attended the board of directors and expressed the distress they are experiencing. They spoke of the heavy workload, hopelessness and feeling that they are unable to offer quality care to the patients. Following their denunciation, there have been meetings between the union and the employer to explore possible solutions.

The time has come to no longer feel intimated to denounce our sad reality. Mandatory overtime is a managerial style that has been developed over recent years. The threats of certain employer representatives are commonplace at the CIUSSS ODIM and union representatives should be informed of these situations.
Don’t forget MO (mandatory overtime) = GRIEVANCE!

We are in constant communication with the representatives of the Human Resources to discuss each situation and find solutions. Rest assured that we are denouncing the problems and reinforcing your message on each occasion that we meet with the employer.

We are currently waiting for the employer’s response to certain short-term solutions proposed by the union. Don’t hesitate to contact the local union representatives if you experience an unacceptable situation.

We are there for you!

Johanne Riendeau
President
FIQ-SPSSODIM