Canada takes care of its nurses, encourages permanent residency

A number of recent initiatives by the Canadian federal government, provincial governments and nursing unions have boosted the profession. Increased wages, increased benefits and educational funding are among some of the changes.

Ontario has established this year probably one of the breakthrough programs. A $40 (CDN) million trust fund has been established to retain nurses in the province. The Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (RPNAO) and other nursing organizations negotiated the deal with the Ontario government, with assistance from the Canadian Auto Workers Union.

Hospitals can use money from the fund to pay for up to six months salary and benefits to cover education and training for nurses, and to assist in helping nurses move into and fill various clinical roles in hospitals. The fund was set up in response to nurses seeking work outside of Ontario.

Unions and organizations negotiated with the government to establish stable work places and benefits so that nurses could remain their careers.

In British Columbia, nurses and health care staff at 10 provincial jails are fighting for increased pay. Nurses are being asked to perform duties that pay $4 CND higher by other professionals who also have greater benefits, for example. They are asking that they not be given the extra duties or that they are paid at the same scale. They are in a strong bargaining position, and the government appears to be sympathetic toward the requests.

On Prince Edward Island, a collective agreement was reached that will increase wages by 8.75% for a three-year contract, retroactive to 01 April 2005. Various other benefits were enhanced, such as employment insurance for maternity and parental leave. This is especially beneficial to new, young nurses who can now stay home longer with their newborns while enjoying their salary, other benefits, and a secure job to return to.

Overall, Canada is one of the premium destinations these days for medical professionals, health care workers and nurses. With a strong surge in immigration over the past several years, Canada is aggressively recruiting many skilled professionals from around the world.

The governments, federal and provincial, have all taken the philosophy that increased diversity of the population is one of the strongest benefits for Canada's success. They are welcoming persons from all countries and cultures, and not just for temporary work. Most of the program enhancements are targeted to encourage permanent residency and immigrants to become Canadian citizens.

Canada also offers very generous assistance for relocation, such as cultural and language training for foreign-born residents.