Health Coalition welcomes SEIU Canada as a new member

By Pat Van Horne, USW member of the CHC Board of Directors

The Canadian Health Coalition (CHC) has gained an important new ally with the decision by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Canada to become a member of the coalition.

“I am proud to welcome SEIU into the Canadian Health Coalition,” said CHC Chairperson Pauline Worsfold. “Everywhere in Canada SEIU members are an essential part of the team that ensures Canadians get the best health care possible.”

SEIU represents more than 115,000 frontline health care workers in Canada

SEIU represents more than 115,000 frontline health care workers in Canada. SEIU members work in hospitals, long-term care facilities and home care across Canada. Their skills include clerical support, dietary assistance, housekeeping, laboratory technology, maintenance, paramedic services and nursing and social workers.

“Our members support the goals of the Canadian Health Coalition in its vital efforts to defend and expand the public health care system,” said SEIU International Vice President Sharleen Stewart. “SEIU Canada is pleased to join the CHC’s membership of frontline healthcare workers, community groups and experts.”

SEIU-West President Barb Cape said the decision to join the CHC means greater influence for workers in the fight to defend and expand Canada’s public health care system. Cape will represent SEIU Canada on the CHC Board of Directors.

As a representative of SEIU members in Western Canada, Cape said defending Canada’s public health care system is more important now than ever before. “Our voice will only strengthen the work of the CHC,” she said.