(Montreal) The FIQ reports progress in its negotiations with Quebec thanks to the help of the present arbitrator. But no agreement is yet within reach. The discussions will therefore continue and there is no talk of further strike days for the time being.
Published at 9:49 am.
Lia Lévesque The Canadian Press
The media shutdown, which the arbitrator had asked the parties to abide by, ended on Monday in order to focus on negotiations rather than public statements.
In an interview with The Canadian Press on Monday, Interprofessional Health Federation (FIQ) President Julie Bouchard said there has been progress. The arbitrator was “a very valuable help” but not enough progress had been made to bring about the possibility of an agreement.
The negotiations will therefore continue in arbitration. And the FIQ does not provide an ultimatum or a precise timetable. Everything will depend on how the arbitration progresses.
In the meantime, there is no question of holding further strike days, “let alone” an indefinite general strike, assured Ms. Bouchard. “But we still have this mission,” she quickly clarifies.
The association represents 80,000 nurses, practical nurses, respiratory therapists and clinical perfusionists across Quebec.