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Message from RNU President Yvette Coffey
March 11, 2025
As we move forward in 2025, we have a full agenda ahead of us. Our work is driven by your voices and priorities, and I want to take this opportunity to provide an update on some of the key initiatives underway. Resolutions passed at convention guide our efforts, we have an open call for proposals to help shape our collective bargaining strategy, and we have filled two regional Board of Directors positions to ensure effective representation. These are just a few examples of how member voices shape the direction of our union.
Raising the Profile of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners
As mandated by a resolution passed at our biennial convention, we are working with Stiff Communications to develop a clarity campaign aimed at raising the public profile of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners. This comprehensive campaign will utilize multiple media tactics to help educate the public and provide role clarity. Stiff Communications brings extensive experience working with other nursing unions and healthcare organizations, including the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions (CFNU) and the Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA). Their approach prioritizes clear messaging, accessible communication, and measurable outcomes to assess campaign effectiveness. With a strong understanding of the unique challenges facing nurses nationwide, Stiff Communications brings expertise in strategic communication and public engagement. We are excited to be partnering with a firm that is deeply committed to nursing and healthcare.
Election Strategies
A provincial election could be called anytime between now and the fall. We are preparing a strategic plan for this election to ensure nursing issues remain a priority. Our approach will include public advocacy, direct engagement with political leaders, and mobilizing our members to raise awareness about key healthcare priorities. We will also ask political parties to share their plans for public healthcare and nursing, focusing on securing commitments to safe staffing, fair compensation, and improved working conditions for nurses.
A federal election is also anticipated, likely to be called shortly after Parliament resumes. We are working closely with CFNU to highlight nursing priorities at the federal level and to develop a strategic approach for this election. Our efforts will focus on advocating for federal policies that support the nursing profession, enhance healthcare funding, and address workforce challenges across the country.
CFNU Convention
The 22nd Biennial CFNU Convention will be held from June 2-6, 2025, in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This convention is a key opportunity for nurses to engage with national colleagues, exchange best practices, and advocate for the profession. Discussions will focus on critical issues such as staffing shortages, workplace safety, and healthcare policy at both the provincial and national levels. In February, branch executives received registration details to facilitate timely coordination and participation.
Regional Representation
We welcome our new regional representatives, Vanessa Fewer (Region 1) and Mary Feltham (Region 9), who will be introduced and oriented at the March Board of Directors meetings.
Members can find information on all regions and branches, including details about their regional representatives on the Provincial Board of Directors and their Labour Relations Officers, by visiting MyRNU. Staying informed and engaged with your representatives is an essential method to stay connected with union activities.
Keep Your Information Updated
As we continue to ramp up our work, I encourage all members to ensure their contact information is up to date. This will ensure you receive the latest updates and opportunities to engage with your union. If you have any changes to your contact information, employment status, or union volunteer role, please email info@rnunl.ca to update your information.
Stay Connected
We are advancing multiple initiatives and achieving meaningful progress on key priorities. Please continue to follow MyRNU, our social media channels, and connect with your local branch to stay informed. Your involvement and advocacy are key to our success. Let’s continue to stand together and move forward.
In solidarity,
Yvette Coffey
President, Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador