On this day in 1907, King Edward VII granted the province of Alberta its coat of arms. Ummm … That’s it.
The Conservative Party of Canada may have decided at its policy convention in Vancouver that Canadians should be allowed to marry whomever they wish – even if came to this conclusion a decade later than almost everyone else. But while media focused on the story of the Tories’ resolution to redefine marriage for policy purposes, it has almost completely ignored the party’s renewed attack on the rights of working people to bargain collectively. The convention passed a series of resolutions to continue pushing for legal measures that would make it very difficult for labour unions, especially public sector unions like UNA, to do their jobs. Among them, so-called “right to work” legislation based on laws in the Cotton Belt of the United States. In other words, while the media paints a picture of a party that has changed in fundamental ways, not a lot has really changed.
Alberta to investigate Copeman Clinic practices
A special investigation unit within the Alberta government has been asked to probe the Copeman Clinic in Calgary. The move follows allegations of over-testing patients at the private clinic, as well as billing practices that pass costs on to both the provincial and federal governments. Health Minister Sarah Hoffmann said in the Legislature last week that Alberta will not permit “excessive billing practices that undermine Albertans’ access to universal public health care.”
AHS approaches Fort Mac return with caution
Fort McMurray evacuees ready to go home are also trying to figure out whether home is ready for them. Many are concerned their health concerns and the availability of services could delay their return home.
Doctor-assisted death law still unconstitutional: conference view
If necessary, the federal government should go past its deadline to fix its doctor-assisted death legislation because it provides less access to dying than current provisions in place, according to academics at a meeting in Calgary.
Counsellors edge toward regulatory status
Counsellors and psychotherapists have taken a first step toward regulation – a move they say will improve access to mental health services and better protect vulnerable Albertans. The newly established Federation of Counselling Therapists in Alberta – an alliance of 13 professional counselling associations from across the province – launched its website. According to Nicole Imgrund, a member of the federation’s steering committee, this is the most important step toward regulating the practice of counselling.
Cancer treatment inspires nursing career
A University of Calgary student’s cancer treatment has inspired him to switch to a nursing career. This video tells the story. I can’t tell if this is supposed to be journalism, or something else.
Nursing Care Act and Home Care Act open houses coming up
Don’t forget that the Department of Health is reviewing and updating the legislation that governs the Nursing Home Act and Home Care in Alberta. As part of this review the government is seeking feedback from nurses, clients, families, care providers and community stakeholders on the policy issues related to these laws. A series of open houses will be held in communities across the province. For times and places, starting today, read UNA’s website story.
David Climenhaga
Communications Advisor
United Nurses of Alberta
780-425-1025 (Office)
780-717-2943 (Cellular)
www.una.ab.ca
UNA Local 1 