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Now more than Ever
July 2, 2025
Staffing shortages. Workplace violence. Widespread burnout.
These aren’t new problems — but for many nurses, the crisis has reached an unbearable point. Despite years of warnings, the healthcare system continues to ask more of fewer people, and the consequences are being felt by nurses, patients, and communities alike.
Across Newfoundland and Labrador, nurses are reporting unsafe workloads, patient care delays, and rising incidents of workplace violence. Even departments with fewer vacancies are feeling the strain.
“There are not enough nurses. There’s not enough support staff,” said one frontline nurse. “We’re promoting care at home, but we can’t do that without resources.”
The Time for Band-Aid Solutions Is Over
RNUNL President Yvette Coffey says we need action — not promises — to protect nurses and rebuild public healthcare.
“The challenges facing Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners are urgent and have been building for years,” said Coffey. “We need action on a Nurse Practitioner funding model, safe hours of work, safe staffing levels and nurse-patient ratios, a province-wide travel locum program for our nurses, an independent Health Sector Safety Council, and the completion of the NP Job Evaluation System project.”
“These are real solutions that will make a big difference for nurses, patients, and the entire public healthcare system. They will also help with nurse retention, bringing much-needed stability and resilience.”
Safety Must Be Non-Negotiable
Workplace safety remains a top concern for the union — and with good reason. Nurses continue to face verbal and physical assaults on the job, often with little support or systemic follow-up.
“We know what needs to happen: safe staffing, acuity-based models, and real support,” said one nurse. “It’s not just about care for patients — it’s about safety for those delivering it.”
RNUNL is renewing its call for the creation of an independent Health Sector Safety Council — a permanent, expert body to address violence and safety through a system-wide lens. Despite repeated appeals, this crucial step remains unaddressed by government.
A New Premier. A Critical Opportunity.
With Premier John Hogan officially sworn in and preparing to lead the province into a general election, RNUNL is urging swift, meaningful action. The union’s current collective agreement expires in just over a year, and the path forward must include real investments — not more delays.
“This is a pivotal moment,” said Coffey. “It’s time for leadership that listens, engages, and delivers results.”
Add Your Voice
RNUNL is calling on members to share their stories — to shine a light on what’s happening in the system and help push for real, lasting change.
📩 Email communications@rnunl.ca to share your experience and add your voice.
Together, we can demand the action our public healthcare system so urgently needs.