July 14, 2026
The Hon. David Eby
Premier of British Columbia
Subject: Canada’s nurses are watching
Dear Premier Eby,
On behalf of the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions (CFNU), representing 250,000 frontline unionized nurses and nursing students in every sector of health across Canada and, in this instance, nurses across the country more broadly, we are once again looking towards British Columbia and your government to show leadership in making health as a key priority in government spending.
In 2023, you made history as the first premier in Canada to support the implementation of nurse-patient ratios. Over the years, we have supported your leadership and congratulated your government on this important progress. However, addressing the harm experienced by nurses working in British Columbia will require more than ratios alone. It also requires meaningful action at the bargaining table. Your government has taken an important first step by appointing a mediator, but, as you know, achieving a fair agreement will also require a new bargaining mandate.
BCNU is participating in mediation in good faith, and nurses across Canada are watching closely. The central challenge is to retain the nurses already working in British Columbia while recruiting more into the province, a challenge shared by every province and territory. By reaching a fair agreement that supports both retention and recruitment, all parties can advance the goal shared by every government: ensuring timely access to safe high-quality care for everyone.
Sincerely wishing you and your team the strength to do the right thing,
Linda Silas
President, CFNU
