April 4, 2005

from:
Beverlee McIntosh,  Chair, 
Health Committee
Ottawa Council of Women


I am disappointed that the report did not look at professional services other than nurses when analysing the effects of "seamless" change over of contracts to the lowest bidder.

In Ottawa there was a 100% lay off of professionals ( Occupational therapists, Physio, social workers, dieticians etc) when the unionized company lost its bid to non-union agencies(VON and COTA)  about 20% of professionals lost their jobs and the rest had to re-apply to the successful bidders for jobs they had been doing for years.  They were re-hired by these union busting agencies at a 30% pay cut which included lower wages, drastic cut in benefits and holidays and no seniority.  Professionals have lost heart and feel that this most challenging  of professional work places (in clients homes) is now under paid and not appreciated. Long time experienced workers are leaving and newer professionals look on this work as entry level jobs until they can find something with more stability. 

Your report has ignored the smaller but significant group of allied health professionals and the impact which competitive bidding process has had on this service which shortens patient stay in hospital and keeps people in their own homes by providing maintenance in the community through CCAC referrals.


Beverlee McIntosh,  Chair,  Health Committee

Ottawa Council of Women