CNA News Room

CNA launches its 2021 federal election priorities

  
https://www.cna-aiic.ca/fr/blogs/ic-contenu/2021/08/16/laiic-etablit-ses-priorites-electorales-federales

August 16, 2021 — With the 44th federal election now underway, the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) today released its election platform, titled Charting a Course for a Healthier Nation [PDF, 1.3 MB], and is calling on all federal parties and candidates to commit to implementing measures that will address critical issues within Canada’s health system.

“Even before COVID-19, we knew about the systemic problems that exist in our health-care system. The pandemic and the terrible injustices that vulnerable and marginalized communities endured have brought to the forefront many problems within the health system and how systemic racism and health inequities continue to plague Canada,” said Tim Guest, president of CNA. “This federal election comes at a critical time where comprehensive health system transformation is urgently needed,” said Guest.

CNA’s recommendations are intended to guide federal election candidates toward action that will improve the health and well-being of people in Canada. To address the priorities identified by nurses, CNA has grouped its recommendations into four pillars and is urging all political parties to commit to:

  • Support health workers
  • Expand access to virtual care
  • Meet the needs of Canada’s older adults
  • Fight racism and discrimination

For more details, please see the full election platform [PDF, 1.3 MB].

Canada’s 440,000 nurses have been playing a critical role and have carried out tremendous work in precarious settings to keep Canadians safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. “One in every 85 people living in Canada is a nurse and they are an influential force. Made up mostly of women, nurses are the largest health workforce and among the most trusted professionals in Canada. Nurses have the knowledge and expertise to help guide political leaders in addressing critical issues within Canada’s health system,” said Michael Villeneuve, CEO of CNA.

CNA is finalizing and will soon launch its election website where nurses will be able to find important information on the federal election and on how to engage and mobilize on critical health issues. We are looking forward to sharing our election toolkit and resources with nurses, as well as engaging with them throughout the election period.

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About the Canadian Nurses Association
The Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) is the national and global professional voice of Canadian nursing. We represent registered nurses, nurse practitioners, licensed and registered practical nurses, registered psychiatric nurses and retired nurses across all 13 provinces and territories.

For more information, please contact:
Eve Johnston
Media and Communications Advisor
Canadian Nurses Association
Cell: 613-282-7859
Email: ejohnston@cna-aiic.ca


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