Students graduate from training program PAGE 8
Attawapiskat under state of emergency PAGE 3
DFC posts hockey tourney wins PAGE 19
April 16, 2009
www.wawataynews.ca Vol. 36 #08
9,300 copies distributed $1.50 Northern Ontario’s First Nation Voice since 1974
Nursing changes concern Kash leaders
Watching with intent
James Thom
Wawatay News
Health Canada’s new increased requirements for nursing qualification have caused major problems in Kashechewan, say community and regional leaders. In September, 2008, Health Canada changed its policy to require nurses to own a university nursing bachelor’s degree rather than a college diploma. “Health Canada is enhancing the skills and training level required by agency nurses contracted to work in First Nations communities to better align with the provincial standard and to address quality assurance concerns raised by communities in the past,” said Christelle Legault, media relations officer in the Public Affairs, Consultation and Regions branch of Health Canada. “By addressing this change in policy, Health Canada is bridging a specific gap between federal and provincial standards in response to community concerns on quality of nursing care.” This decision was made without consultation to the First Nations. “While (the changes are) commendable, Health Canada did not adequately consult with our community nor did it ensure a proper transition in place to ensure the health of my community is not jeopardized,” said Kashechewan Chief Jonathon Solomon. While he agreed improving health care for First Natins is a good thing, Mushkegowuk Council Grand Chief Stan Louttit disagreed with the way the changes were carried out. “I can see where Health Canada is coming from,” Louttit said. “Increasing qualifications for the people to receive improved health car is good. But where is the planning and transition?” Kashechewan health director Conredge Solomon found it unacceptable it was mid-March before the community found out about the new requirements. see KASHECHEWAN page 17
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK Send your comments to: editor@wawatay.on.ca or send to: Wawatay News 16-5th Avenue North P.O. Box 1180 Sioux Lookout ON P8T 1B7
Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
National Chief Phil Fontaine said Adam Beach, centre, “is a terrific role model for our community,” during the Matawa First Nations’ Community Governance and Economic Development Conference Gala Dinner March 31 at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay. Fontaine and Beach both spoke during the Gala Dinner, which was attended by many of Thunder Bay’s leaders.
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