On December 6, the United Nurses of Alberta Local 196 joins in observing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, marking the tragic events of December 6, 1989, when 14 women were killed at the École Polytechnique in Montreal simply because they were women. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing epidemic of gender-based violence that women continue to face in our society.
For Local 196, this day is not only a time to honour the lives lost but also to reflect on the progress made in raising awareness around violence against women. Over the years, public understanding of this violence has evolved, with increasing attention given to issues like domestic abuse, sexual violence, and harassment. Thanks to the tireless work of advocates, survivors, and organizations, the reporting of such incidents has grown, and many women now feel more empowered to speak out and seek support.
Yet, despite these advancements, much work remains. We must continue to advocate for systemic change, stronger protections, and comprehensive support systems for all those affected by violence. By coming together on this day, we not only remember the victims but also reaffirm our commitment to fighting for a future where gender-based violence is no longer tolerated and where women can live without fear of violence in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
As we reflect on the progress made, we also recognize our responsibility to create a culture of respect, support, and accountability. Together, we can continue to take action and work toward a world where all women are free from violence.
Click HERE for the new spotlight on Alberta’s Political and Policy landscape.
The Alberta government is implementing several controversial policies raising concerns about workers’ rights, healthcare, and transparency.
Key issues include:
Freeze on the minimum wage despite rising inflation.
Restrictions on public sector wage bargaining and measures could limit workers’ ability to strike.
Potential privatization of services, including the takeover of rural hospitals by Covenant Health and the shifting of funding to private clinics for surgical backlogs.
Removal of minimum care standards for Continuing Care.
New legislation around parental rights and healthcare access.
The Local newsletter was sent via MailChimp with updated member contact information from the Provincial UNA Office. It was sent to personal email addresses only. If you did not receive our newsletter, please update your contact information in UNA’s DMS system and email local196exec@una.ca to be added to our subscribers list. You don’t want to miss out!
Dr. Ameeta Singh is a Clinical Professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Alberta (Edmonton). She has worked as an adult infectious diseases physician at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and maintained an HIV/STI outpatient practice at the Edmonton STI Clinic since 1998. She has also served as the Territorial Consultant for STBBI in Nunavut since July 2017. She was the Alberta provincial consultant for STBBI from 1998 to 2008 and the Medical Director of the Edmonton STI Clinic from 1998 to 2014. Dr. Singh’s research areas of interest are bacterial STIs, HIV Biomedical Prevention and rapid tests for syphilis and HIV.
If you have registered and can no longer attend, please cancel your registration in DMS or email Local196Education@una.ca before the registration deadline.
If the deadline has passed and you wish to be placed on the waitlist, please emailLocal196Education@una.ca
If interested in any elected positions, please complete theNomination Form.
Make sure forms are filled out in their entirety, or they will not be accepted. Nomination forms must be received by December 3, 2024, at 1659h. Email forms to Local196exec@una.ca
Interview with Chris Gallaway from Friends of Medicare
By Rachel Steel
ClickHEREto listen to our newest podcast. Joining us in this episode is Chris Gallaway, a passionate advocate for public healthcare and a key voice at Friends of Medicare. Chris has dedicated his career to promoting equitable access to healthcare for all Albertans, and he brings a wealth of knowledge on the implications of privatization in our system.
Members of United Nurses of Alberta employed by Alberta Health Services, Recovery Alberta, Covenant Health, Lamont Health Care Centre, and The Bethany Group (Camrose) voted on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, on whether to accept the Mediator’s Recommendations for a new Provincial Collective Agreement.
To be ratified, both a majority of members and a majority of locals must approve.
The results of the vote are:
Total Voting Locals:Yes: 60.48% No: 39.52%
Total Voting Members: Yes: 38.88% No: 61.12%
The Mediator’s Recommendations are therefore rejected.
Turnout: 100% of Locals and 75.23% of members voted.
Thank you to all UNA members who participated in this vote. UNA will soon share more information about the next steps in the bargaining process atwww.una.ca.
If UNA has your email on file, you will receive an email from ElectionBuddy with a direct link to your ballot; you can click the link to vote. You will need your Member ID and PIN. This can all be found on your Membership Card; you can request your card here:
United Nurses of Alberta, Local 196 
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