Sante Quebec extends transition period for dual-job health care workers
CTV
Facing criticism for requiring health care workers with two jobs within the public system to choose one to comply with labour laws, Santé Québec has announced a one-year extension to the transition period.
Facing criticism for requiring health care workers with two jobs within the public system to choose one to comply with labour laws, Santé Québec has announced a one-year extension to the transition period.
Initially, the 1,307 employees affected by the measure—those whose combined working hours exceed 40 hours per week—had until Dec. 1 to decide which job to keep. That date coincides with the rollout of the province's health care overhaul.
The Act respecting labour standards in Quebec prohibits employees from working more than 40 hours a week.
“I made a commitment to avoid one-size-fits-all solutions,” said Geneviève Biron, President and CEO of Santé Québec, in a press release.
“In the last few days, I've heard the outcry from a number of employees in dual employment situations. I want us to take the time to support them and find solutions that will benefit both users and staff.”
As part of the health care restructuring, all establishments in the system will come under the control of Santé Québec, meaning employees with jobs at two establishments will now have a single employer.
On Tuesday, Health Minister Christian Dubé, who created the new agency, said he would ensure “the best possible transition” for affected employees but noted they still needed to make a decision by Dec. 1.
