The Quebec Interprofessional Health Federation (FIQ) is calling on the Ministry of Labor to appoint a mediator to negotiate with the government, deploring “the slow progress in the talks.”
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“After more than 75 negotiating sessions and more than a year at the negotiating table, we see that there are still very significant differences between us and the government,” complained Julie Bouchard, president of FIQ, in a press release.
Disagreements remain between the two parties, particularly regarding the administration of overtime, quotas and inconvenience compensation.
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▶️“After more than 75 sessions of #negos and more than a year at the negotiating table, we see that there are still very important differences between us and the government on fundamental issues…” -Julie Bouchard, Presidenthttps://t.co/47iKB5RYM8— FIQ Santé (@FIQSante) December 19, 2023
On these issues “we are still very far apart,” added Ms. Bouchard, who believes the appointment of an arbitrator “could contribute to progress toward an agreement.”
“The government remains stuck in its positions and refuses to compromise. “The government’s proposals do not respond in any way to the needs of healthcare professionals, particularly with regard to their need for stability and predictability in their work.”
The FIQ is calling for a mediator “as soon as possible” and says its negotiating committee will be operational during the holiday period.