Saskatchewan Issues New Provincial Emergency Order To Address Labour Mobility In Healthcare System
The Saskatchewan Government has issued a new Provincial Emergency Order to address health system labour mobility.
A previous letter of understanding (LOU) enabled the SHA to ensure the right staff were available at the right place and time to help in the COVID-19 response. That LOU expired earlier this year.
The new order puts in the same provisions as the previous letter of understanding that was in effect during the public health order, which the government says allows for greater flexibility in scheduling and redirecting health care workers to areas experiencing capacity pressures.
Given the urgent and immediate needs of the healthcare system, under the authority of The Emergency Planning Act and the declaration of emergency, the Premier has issued a Minister’s Order reinstating the previously negotiated LOU among the SHA, affiliates and unions. These unions include:
- Canadian Union of Public Employees
- Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan
- Saskatchewan Employees International Union – West
- Saskatchewan Government and General Employees’ Union
- Saskatchewan Union of Nurses
“We are grateful for the efforts of all health care providers and their commitment to patients, residents and clients especially during these unprecedented times. Their work is both valued and appreciated,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “We appreciate the leadership of the SHA, affiliates, unions and all health care workers and know they are all committed to continue problem solving and working together to meet the challenge of the pandemic.”
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