The First Vice President of the NSGEU says free parking at Nova Scotia hospitals, although a step in the right direction, leaves healthcare workers behind.
Hugh Gills tells our newsroom the provincial initiative is positive but misleading.
“The problem is, healthcare workers are not permitted to park at the QEII during peak times through the week, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., so there are designated sites off in a different location,” says Gillis.
The QEII is undergoing a major expansion that required the Robie Street parkade to be demolished, leaving alternative solutions for staff to leave their vehicle.
Gillis says those sites fill up quickly and early.
“By 7 o’clock, they’re filled in the morning. We have healthcare workers arriving for a shift at 8 o’clock with nowhere to park. So, the expectation is certainly not being met and they’re extremely frustrated,” adds Gillis.
Free parking at hospitals and healthcare facilities across the province was a campaign promise made good by Premier Tim Houston.
What it looks like varies from location to location with some that require validation.
Gillis says parking outside of the busy sites, has been positive, but the issue is mainly at the QEII which is the busiest site.
“Our staff are so frustrated, they’re looking at their options. This is a retention and recruitment issue. If they can’t park, they’re going to go somewhere else,” adds Gillis.
It is still unclear exactly what would be a solution to solve the parking issue for staff, but Gillis says, the province must “work harder” to figure it out for staff at the QEII.
He adds, some staff don’t feel comfortable parking at certain times of the day.
“Not all healthcare workers have the ability to take the bus into town. There are childcare issues. The needs of healthcare workers are not being met with regards to parking,” says Gillis.
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