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“We have seen decisions made by previous governments based on an ideological commitment to privatization without evidence to back up that it was in the best interests of Albertans,” — Mike Parker, HSAA President
Edmonton (06 Oct. 2016) — The plan to bring laboratory services for the Edmonton zone back into the public sector will bring stability for Albertans who rely on these vital services and for the workers who provide them, says the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE).
Privatization based on ideology not evidence
“There has been far too much uncertainty in recent years on how best to provide lab services in the Edmonton area. We have seen decisions made by previous governments based on an ideological commitment to privatization without evidence to back up that it was in the best interests of Albertans,” said Mike Parker, HSAA President, which represents the lab workers currently employed by DynaLIFEDx.
”We are pleased that Health Minister Sarah Hoffmann has done her due diligence, studied the facts and determined that a public service, which is a vital part of health care, needs to be publicly delivered to get the best results. We are also pleased to have received assurances from Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Alberta government that there will be no job losses for existing front-line employees of DynaLIFEDx at any of their work sites or among lab workers currently employed by AHS,” he said.
HSAA/NUPGE members will continue to provide high-quality work
“Our members have performed to the highest standards while working for DynaLIFEDx and will continue to do so during the transition period and after the transition is complete. With this announcement from AHS, they can stop worrying about their employment future and continue to focus on the job.”
The details of how laboratory services will be transitioned and the exact nature of the new system are still being worked out.
All lab services should be part of Alberta Health Services
“HSAA will continue to push for all members employed by DynaLIFEDx to be taken in by AHS, rather than spun off into a new entity. This will make for a better integration with lab services across the province, so it's a win for Albertans. It will also ensure fairness and equity for all lab workers, so employees doing the same work get the same wages, benefits and pensions,” said Parker.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 360,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE