Sask. nursing unions butting heads

REGINA – The unions representing licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) in Saskatchewan are butting heads.

The Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (SALPN) is working with the health ministry on bylaw changes to update current job descriptions. However, according to unions representing LPNs, the proposed changes are being met with resistance by the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses (SUN), which represents RNs.

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“The reaction that it poses a threat to the RN profession and jobs is knee jerk at best,” said Barbara Cape, president of SEIU-West, a union representing LPNs. “We see the recent allegations of SUN as turf protection.”

SEIU-West said the proposed bylaw changes only solidify the role LPNs are already doing.

“What they want to do is put in place the jobs, the work, that LPNs are currently doing within the health care system.”

SUN refused an interview Thursday but said the union is taking a step back to regroup.