RNAO has been particularly active in recent months addressing structural inequities that led to vulnerable populations suffering the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic. RNAO is adding its voice to a campaign launched in June supported by hundreds of progressive organizations in Canada calling for a just and sustainable recovery from COVID-19.

In a 27 August letter to the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers and federal party leaders, RNAO calls for action to address some of the profound inequities laid bare by COVID-19, which has exposed our collective failure to build a country that provides health, safety and security for all.

RNAO has raised the public profile of the Ontario government’s tabling of a staffing study in long-term care (LTC) due at the end of July under the recommendations of the 2019 Justice Eileen Gillese inquiry.

This is a question I have often asked from government officials. Following recent consultations, we are told a plan is on its way, soon to be released. The problem is, the full trust that nurses had at the outset of the first wave of COVID-19 was eroded by the anguish we, and other stakeholders, experienced as we moved for months at a snail’s pace to respond to emerging needs. This is why, as the CEO of the largest professional association in Ontario, and as an engaged leader, I feel it is my responsibility to share our thoughts and invite feedback.

RNAO’s push for family reunification continued this week by laying out a step-by-step process by which LTC homes can bring this about in a safe, humane and responsible way.

RNAO held a webinar on July 6 on Reuniting families and residents in LTC: What will it take? We heard from family members and discussed their urgent call to allow them to be with their loved ones.