A cluster of travel nurses has voiced concerns about not receiving payment for several months, citing a lack of communication from their employing agency. Shalu, an emergency room nurse on contract at the Parkland Integrated Health Centre in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan, shared her frustration with CBC, emphasizing the need for proper compensation. Hired through EZCare, an Ontario-based staffing firm, Shalu revealed that she and approximately 20 other nurses were informed about payment delays due to an alleged “agency transition.” Despite this notification, the anticipated company change did not materialize, leading to outstanding payments for Shalu and her colleagues.
Shalu disclosed that she is owed around $50,000 for services rendered between June 14 and August 4, inclusive of living expenses, as per her contract terms. The delay in payment has left her disheartened, highlighting the financial strain caused by the situation. Attempts to reach EZCare for clarification have been unsuccessful, leaving the affected nurses in limbo.
In a related incident, Esther Nagaga, also working at the same facility, reported missing wages totaling approximately $20,000 for two weeks of work. Nagaga echoed Shalu’s sentiments, expressing disappointment over the lack of compensation for their hard work and dedication. The non-payment issue prompted Shalu, Nagaga, and their peers to temporarily cease work, creating staffing challenges and operational disruptions at the hospital.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) acknowledged the payment discrepancies between EZCare and its nurses but clarified that intervening in contractual matters was beyond its purview. The SHA, having engaged EZCare through a competitive bidding process, emphasized its decision to discontinue future contracts with the agency. The unresolved payment disputes have left the affected nurses grappling with financial uncertainty, underscoring the need for resolution and fair treatment within the healthcare system.
As the situation unfolds, the nurses are advocating for direct payments from the SHA to address the outstanding dues. They have returned to work through an alternate agency, hopeful that the SHA will facilitate the overdue payments for their services.
