FIQ Nurses Demand Immediate Action on Pay and Seniority Delays

Nurses represented by the **Fédération interprofessionnelle de la santé** (FIQ) are facing significant challenges as delays in the payment of premiums and recognition of seniority persist. These issues have emerged following the collective agreement signed on **December 5, 2024**, which was intended to improve conditions for nurses across the province.

The Quebec government initiated the creation of a unified seniority list aimed at encouraging agency nurses to transition back into the public healthcare system. This list would recognize years of service and allow nurses who changed employers within the public network to recover their lost seniority. However, the implementation of this process, known as **PURA** (Processus unique de reconnaissance de l’ancienneté), has not progressed as expected, echoing the ongoing delays in premium payments.

During a recent hearing at the **Administrative Labour Tribunal**, FIQ adviser **Jonathan Houle** emphasized the critical nature of seniority for union members. He outlined how seniority influences vacation selection, job postings, replacements, and the order of position abolishment. The delays in both premium payments and seniority recognition have raised concerns among nurses, who rely on these factors for their job security and working conditions.

In addition to addressing the premium payment issues, the FIQ is contesting the delays in seniority recognition in its complaint against **Santé Québec** and various network institutions. The union argues that swift action is necessary to uphold the terms of the collective agreement and ensure fair treatment of its members.

The ongoing situation has prompted frustration among nurses who feel their contributions to the healthcare system are not being adequately acknowledged. With the healthcare sector already under strain, timely resolution of these issues is essential to retain skilled professionals and maintain quality patient care.

As the FIQ continues to advocate for its members, the importance of addressing these delays cannot be overstated. Nurses are vital to the healthcare system, and their recognition and compensation are fundamental to ensuring a robust public health sector in Quebec.

This report has been prepared based on information from **The Canadian Press**, initially published in French on **August 28, 2025**.