HSAA Statement on AHS Firing Pressure
Update on Allegations of Political Pressure Against Health Workers
Your Union will always stand up for your right to do your jobs free from political interference or intimidation.
This week, more details have emerged about the government’s firing of former AHS CEO (read our explainer to catch up).
Serious allegations emerged that staff in the Premier’s Office pressured Alberta Health Services (AHS) leadership to terminate an HSAA member over their public criticism of government policies. The claim, made as part of a legal filing by former AHS CEO Athana Mentzelopoulos, suggests that senior political officials attempted to use their influence to suggest the termination of healthcare workers for expressing their views publicly.
The claim has not been proven in court and HSAA does not assert that the allegations are true. However, on behalf of all members, we must take this very seriously. That’s why we made the following comments to the media.
“HSAA represents more than 30,000 dedicated health professionals who work hard every day to care for Albertans. They deserve respect, not intimidation.
“HSAA cannot comment on labour relations matters involving individual members. However, the allegations that the Premier’s Office pressured the former CEO of Alberta Health Services to terminate health workers for simply expressing their views are deeply disturbing.
“If true, this is a blatant and discriminatory attack on free speech and the rights of HSAA members. Worse, it sets a dangerous precedent. No government should ever use its power to silence or punish health workers for speaking out, whether about patient safety, privatization, or the impact of political decisions on our health system.”
Why We Are Speaking Out
No government, under any circumstances, should wield its power to silence or punish its citizens, including healthcare workers speaking out about patient safety, privatization, or the impact of political decisions on our health system
While there are rules and processes to follow for whistleblowing as a public sector employee, no one should fear losing their job for telling the truth about health care. If you respect patient confidentiality and the terms of your employment, your job as a health care worker in no way impedes your rights to participate in political discussions and seek accountability from politicians.
Your Union will not stand for any attempts to punish or remove frontline health workers for participating in public discussions.
Our Policy on Speaking Publicly Regarding Individual Labour Relations Matters
HSAA is committed to protecting the privacy and rights of all members. As such, it is our policy that we do not comment on individual labour relations cases when asked by members of the media or public. Full-stop.
However, the charges in this case are serious enough that we must defend your right to work in an environment free from political interference or intimidation.
If you are an HSAA member facing similar issues or have concerns about your workplace rights or professional independence, please contact your LRO or the Member Resource Center.
Your Union will continue to advocate for a strong, public health care system that values its frontline workers—and protects them from retaliation for speaking their mind in public.