Patricia Lajoie

Dear colleagues,

A nurse since 1998, I became involved in the union movement early, during the 1999 strike. Since then, I have held several union positions, whether at the CHU, the regional union or at the CIUSSS. This diversity of settings has enabled me to gain an overview of our network and the issues it faces.

I have been back from the “floor” for one year now. Having experienced the current conditions has rekindled my determination to fight with even greater conviction. I’ve come back with a fresh perspective, but above all with my fighting spirit intact. Being back at the heart of the action has reminded me of the urgent need to defend our rights with strength and clarity.

With my background in various unions, I believe that my overall understanding helps me to better grasp the concrete repercussions of the decisions made. My open-mindedness and experience allow me to envisage new ways of making the FIQ shine. It’s time to tackle labour relations differently: continuing to use the same methods leads to the same results, which are all too often unsatisfactory.

I’m convinced that the status of women, the FIQ’s cross-cutting pillar, and mobilization, the real driving force behind our action, must remain at the heart of our concerns. As the joint officer for labour relations, I want to be actively involved to improve our stagnant or deteriorating conditions. Today’s members are not those of yesterday. The FIQ must evolve and our approach to labour relations must adapt to today’s reality.

We must be close to the members, as they are the experts in the field.

We need to embody our values, which are the foundations of our convictions. The EC must be the roots, the delegation the trunk, and the members the branches: together, we form a living, united whole.

You, the delegates, are the beacon that will guide my actions. You are in the best position to raise concerns in the field and to convey the vision of our members.

Let’s stop being afraid of offending. Let’s fight our battles to the end, because we know they are right.

Let’s be unwavering in the face of challenges.

Lajoie to represent you.

Seconded by:

Caroline Gravel, FIQ – SPS de la Capitale-Nationale

Stavros Birbatakos, FIQ – SPS du Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal