New Region 2 VP: “When we unite, change is possible”

Muir, who was elected to the Board of Directors last fall by members in Region 2, has a rich history of union involvement, having served as the ONA83 Local Coordinator and Bargaining Unit President for The Ottawa Hospital, one of our largest Bargaining Units, for the past four years. During that time, she demanded better working conditions, fair wages and safe staffing ratios and was instrumental in supporting a strong bargaining action committee to stop the hospital’s plan to bring unregulated care providers into the operating rooms across campuses.  

“Nurses came together and educated their colleagues, getting them to sign a petition they presented to the Chief Nursing Officer demanding the cancellation of this dangerous plan,” she says. “They were successful and continue to fight for safe staffing levels that include the right skill and knowledge mixes. Together, we showed that when we unite, change is possible. 

“I also witnessed the Ford government pit union against union, union member against union member with draconian, misogynistic Bills such 124 and 128. They did not prevail. ONA came together and along with the health-care unions of the province, we proved we can’t be divided, that together we are strong, powerful, united and trusted.”

As Region 2 Vice-President, Muir plans to continue that advocacy, noting she wants to have a larger impact by bringing the unique needs and concerns of Region 2 members to the Board of Directors. She is also committed to learning about their unique working environments in all sectors, along with the challenges and obstacles they face so she can be their voice on the Board.

“I look forward to continuing to grow the cooperation and respect we see within our union and with our health-care union brothers and sisters, not only in Ottawa, but across the region, as we collectively hold our employers accountable for the devastation they have wrought, and continue to wreak, on our health-care system. Together we must stop the underfunding, devaluing and undermining of our professions, cutting our workforce, and forcing us into untenable situations that put our health and the health of the patients we care for at risk.”

Muir has also responded to these issues by becoming an active member of the Ontario Health Coalition, speaking at meetings and rallies, talking to local media at every opportunity, and establishing relationships with MPPs and MPs to put forward ONA solutions to rebuild health human resources and our publicly owned and operated health-care system. 

And as the holder of the occupational health and safety portfolio, Muir said she is equally committed to supporting all members in the prevention of injuries and illnesses by demanding safer workplaces from exposures, falls, musculoskeletal injuries, and violence and harassment using all tools available, including Joint Health and Safety Committees, to hold our employers accountable.

“ONA is a powerful, empowered and visible professional organization that listens to your voices and acts. It’s imperative that we continue on this path of empowerment and strength, transparency and communication.”