Op Ed: The pandemic has taken a heavy toll on our dedicated nurses. To retain them, we need to offer fair compensation

Of late, there has a been a common and recurring theme to my conversation with nurses. Quite a few are seriously considering leaving the profession, and others are feeling burnt out, frustrated and undervalued. It’s understandable given the heartbreak and pressure nurses have faced. COVID-19 was a reality-check for Ontario’s health system, particularly its long-term care (LTC) sector.

WeRPN Statement on Bill 124

WeRPN joins our health care partners in urging the government to exempt health care workers from Bill 124. Read our statement

WeRPN responds to latest extension of PSW wage enhancement

WeRPN is very disappointed that the Ontario government has extended the temporary wage increase for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) without providing additional supports for Registered Practical Nurses (RPN), who work alongside them. While we agree that PSWs should be paid more, the government must also recognize the vital contributions of RPNs with a similar wage increase. Read our statement.

Opinion: Ontario’s registered practical nurses deserve ‘fair compensation’

Read our CEO's opinion piece about why RPNs deserve to be fairly compensated and recognized for the valuable care they provide.

WeRPN welcomes commitments to recruit and retain nurses in long-term care and retirement homes but disappointed by limited direct support for RPNs in 2021 Budget

Today, the Ontario government released its annual Budget, Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy that further builds on the commitments outlined by its COVID-19 Action Plan to Protect, Support and Recover. Read our full statement

WeRPN responds to Ontario nurses participating in DC rally

WeRPN has issued the following statement in response to news that two Ontario nurses travelled to Washington DC to participate in a rally promoting misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic.

WeRPN applauds Government Investment and Plan for Long-Term Care

Today, the government released further details about their plan to ensure Ontario seniors receive a minimum of four hours of direct care. This ambitious plan includes a historic investment of $1.9B annually to recruit and educate over 27,000 new PSWs, RPNs and RNs to care for LTC residents. In response to today's announcement, WeRPN issued the following statement.

As New Modelling Confirms ICU Cases Climbing Toward Devastating Levels, Health Organizations Re-issue Plea for Tougher Government Restrictions and Help from Each Ontarian

Given the alarming projected rise in hospitalizations outlined in today's modelling, and as the holiday season approaches, the association representing Ontario's hospitals and the professional associations representing the province's nurses, physicians and respiratory therapists are re-issuing our joint statement from earlier this week calling for immediate action.

RPNs join health partners in urging Ontarians to have a safe holiday season

As COVID-19 cases reach record highs and the pressure on our health system grows, RPNs and health colleagues are urging Ontarians to do their part and celebrate the holidays safely this year.

WeRPN Responds to the 2020 Ontario Budget

The Ontario Government 2020 Budget outlined investments and policies to respond to the ongoing pandemic and support the government’s recovery over the coming months. In response, WeRPN has issued the following statement: