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OPSEU President calls on Ford to reinvest in front line health care

Toronto – OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas says the Ford government’s move to slash management-level health care jobs must be followed up by putting the money saved into front line services.

Premier Doug Ford announced the management cuts late Wednesday as part of his government’s plan to merge 20 provincial health agencies into one so-called health care “super agency.” It is unclear how many management positions will be cut or when the layoffs will take effect. 

“Having a manager for every five workers is ridiculous,” Thomas said. “I’m glad to see Ford is looking to reduce management, but he must follow up by hiring more front line workers who deliver critical services to Ontarians.”

Ford promised during last year’s provincial election campaign that he wouldn’t cut a single job. Thomas pointed out that Ford has already broken his promise long before Wednesday’s announcement because last year’s hiring freeze resulted in public sector jobs not being filled.

“I’ve said repeatedly that not filling a job is really a job cut so like every one of Ford’s promises you have to read the fine print,” Thomas said. 

“It’s nice to see he is listening to us about looking for efficiencies in management, but he should be sitting down with us and listening to what we have to say about putting those savings into improving front line services.”

For more information: Warren (Smokey) Thomas, 613-329-1931