This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information.
“A focus on inclusive child care for children with disabilities is very welcome news.” — Val Avery, HSABC President
Victoria (21 Feb. 2018) — Health Sciences Association of B.C. (HSABC/NUPGE) says that the provincial budget makes critical social investments that will strengthen public services and make life more affordable for all British Columbians.
HSABC/NUPGE represents 18,000 highly trained specialists working in diagnostic MRI, sonography and lab testing, physiotherapy, social work, radiation therapy, pharmacy, early childhood development and many other health science and social service professions.
Child care receives $1B injection over 3 years
“HSABC/NUPGE members across our province are faced with rising housing and child care costs,” said Val Avery, HSABC President. “This budget takes action on pressing challenges facing all British Columbians. We are very encouraged to see investments in our public health care system and a fair plan for replacing revenue from the elimination of medical services plan premiums.”
The union has advocated for provincial action to address long wait times for families trying to access early childhood intervention services, including occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language pathology.
“HSABC/NUPGE members see the effects of inadequate funding and the lack of health human resources planning,” Avery said. “Recruitment and retention for health science professionals is a big challenge — and means that families and children can face long waits accessing publicly funded care.”
The new B.C. child care program — a $1 billion investment over 3 years — builds a strong foundation for early childhood development that meets the needs of all families and children.
“A focus on inclusive child care for children with disabilities is very welcome news,” Avery said.