The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jay Neville as its new Director of Labour Relations.

Jay brings over two decades of legal experience to the role, with an extensive background in labour and employment law. He began his career with the St. John’s law firm Benson Myles, where he practiced from 2002 to 2007. For the past 17 years, Jay served with Eastern Health and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS), advancing from Solicitor IV (HR Legals) to Director of HR Legals, providing province-wide legal services on human resources issues.

Jay holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and certificates in Criminology, Public Administration, and Business Administration from Memorial University of Newfoundland, as well as a Law Degree from Dalhousie Law School (2002). He was called to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 2003.

Throughout his legal career, Jay has developed a strong reputation for professionalism, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the healthcare sector. Having worked closely with union representatives over the years, he says he was often impressed by RNU’s advocacy, professionalism, and commitment to improving healthcare in the province.

“We’re excited to welcome Jay to the RNU team,” said Yvette Coffey, President of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador. “His experience and leadership will be an asset as we continue advancing the interests of registered nurses and nurse practitioners across Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Jay is equally enthusiastic about the new opportunity. “For most of my 23-year legal career, I’ve represented employers. I’m very excited now to be advocating for and representing registered nurses and nurse practitioners who remain at the core of our public healthcare system.”

A lifelong resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, Jay is deeply involved in the province’s soccer community. He and his wife have four daughters—two of whom have represented the province at the Canada Games—and the family has long been active in coaching, team management, and volunteer leadership.

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About the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador

The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador represents over 5,800 registered nurses and nurse practitioners across the province, advocating for quality health care, safe working conditions, and respect for the nursing profession.

For more information, please contact:

Jonathan Hamel
Director of Communications
Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador
Tel: (709) 691-6890
Email: jhamel@rnunl.ca