The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNUNL) is troubled and disheartened by disparaging remarks made in the House of Assembly yesterday. During question period, a government Member of the House of Assembly (MHA) was overheard making dismissive comments towards Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in response to calls for better treatment and support of NPs, mocking their concerns with remarks such as “poor NPs.”
“These comments are highly inappropriate, especially as we celebrate National Nurse Practitioner Week,” said Yvette Coffey, President of RNUNL. “Nurse Practitioners are dedicated health professionals who provide essential care to our communities, often filling critical gaps in our public healthcare system. No NP—whether in the public or private sector—deserves this kind of disrespect, especially not from an elected member of the People’s House.”
Nurse Practitioners work tirelessly to deliver high-quality care to patients across Newfoundland and Labrador. They often take on complex and demanding roles, providing a wide range of healthcare services and addressing the significant gaps in access to primary healthcare. At a time when our healthcare system is in crisis, it is unacceptable that NPs are met with disrespect instead of the support and recognition they deserve.
Coffey further called for accountability from government members: “These remarks send a message that undermines the incredible contributions of Nurse Practitioners. We expect more from our elected officials. We call on the government to take this matter seriously, and we demand a public apology from the MHA who made these offensive comments.”
RNUNL will continue to stand up for the respect and fair treatment of all nurses.
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About the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador:
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. The Union is committed to advocating for safe, ethical, and high-quality healthcare for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Media Contact:
Jonathan Hamel
Director of Communications
Phone: (709) 691-6890
Email: jhamel@rnunl.ca