The Province is working in partnership with the BC Nurses’ Union (BCNU) to create over 1,600 additional regular nursing positions to the B.C. health system, to improve care for patients and better support nurses on the frontlines of health care.

“Nurses are important, highly-skilled members of health care teams throughout British Columbia, and today’s announcement acknowledges their integral role in the health system,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “Over the past year, we have been working closely with nurses to make health care improvements that benefit both patients and staff. We are confident this spirit of partnership will continue as we work together on a new collective agreement that meets the goals of nurses, health authorities and the Province.”

The Ministry of Health, along with health authorities, the Health Employers Association of BC (HEABC) and BCNU have jointly committed to work together to create 1,643 regular nursing positions by March 31, 2016.

“To nurses who are trying to provide safe patient care while working short in ERs and operating rooms and nurses who cope with overwhelming workloads, this agreement means that relief is on the way,” said Gayle Duteil, president of the BCNU.

“I urge nurses who are working casual and who want a permanent position to send an email today to: hireanurse@bcnu.org. BCNU is supporting the hiring process by providing a first point of contact for all qualified nurses.”