Nursing staff at for-profit long-term care homes across Ontario have taken to the pickets in protest of corporate policies that prioritize profits over quality care. Over 370 members of the Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA) organized the demonstrations, calling on nursing home corporations to prioritize resident care above all else.
ONA President Erin Ariss spoke out against the challenges of providing adequate care with current staffing levels, emphasizing the importance of investing in staffing and wages for improved quality of care. She specifically called out companies like Extendicare for prioritizing profit over patient needs.
The union is determined to fight for residents’ dignity and quality care, as well as stronger long-term care systems in communities. With over 68,000 registered nurses and health-care professionals, along with 18,000 nursing student affiliates, ONA represents a significant force in healthcare advocacy. They are committed to advocating for better working conditions for nursing staff and ensuring that they are fairly compensated for their work.
