St. John’s, NL – The announcement by government to provide childcare access for healthcare professionals is welcome news for the members of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNU).
“Our members are pleased to see government make this investment to provide nurses and other healthcare professionals with increased access to childcare,” said Yvette Coffey, RNU President.
This project is a direct result of the Nursing Think Tank spearheaded by RNU. Coming out of the leadership of the Think Tank, a childcare steering committee was formed with the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Community Services. Working with other unions that represent allied health care professionals, a robust recommendation was provided to government that would benefit all members of the healthcare system.
“This represents a good step forward. It gives our casual and part-times nurses the ability to take advantage of additional shifts and opportunities,” said Coffey. “It could also mean a further stabilization of the healthcare system as the program gives all health professionals additional childcare options.”
The government’s announcement creates several sites across the province dedicated to healthcare professionals.
“We encourage our members to visit the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Child Care Demand Portal to register information about their child care needs. This information will assist the government to better focus where space is created and who benefits.”
RNU continues to advocate for the expansion of this program so all our members and all healthcare professionals can access the childcare they need wherever they are in the province.
The Child Care Demand Portal is located here:
https://apps.gov.nl.ca/edu-childcare/Form/Form/edit/?template_id=2706303
-30-
The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador represents more than 5,800 registered nurses and nurse practitioners working in acute care, long-term care, community, education, and research.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jonathan Hamel
Communications Specialist
Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador
Tel: (709) 691-6890
Email: jhamel@rnunl.ca