Nurses could be eligible for a retention bonus of up to $5,000
The Ontario government has announced a $763 million investment in the nursing sector – with nurses being eligible for a retention bonus of up to $5,000.
“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic nurses have stayed on the front lines with remarkable dedication and selflessness as they care for our sick and most vulnerable Ontarians, and we know that a strong nursing workforce is crucial to supporting the province’s recovery in the months and years ahead,” added Christine Elliott, deputy premier and minister of health. “As we continue to build up our nursing workforce, this investment will support the nurses we currently have so that Ontarians continue to have access to the care they need during the COVID-19 pandemic and into the future.”
These bonuses should help stem the Great Resignation in Ontario – stabilizing the current workforce during this critical time. Nurses in line to receive the bonus include those that work in;
- Hospitals
- Long-term care and retirement homes
- Home and community care
- Primary care
- Mental health and addictions
- Emergency services
- Corrections
- Developmental services including youth justice
To receive the first payment, nurses must be employed as of March 31 and to receive the second payment nurses must be employed on September 1.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly challenging for home care nurses and for all nurses from every sector,” added Maureen Charlebois, chief nursing and clinical officer at Bayshore HealthCare.
“I would sincerely like to thank every nurse and health care provider for their dedication, commitment, professionalism, and all the personal sacrifices they make every day to care for others, especially during these past two years. This investment in nurses by the Ontario government is a welcome recognition of the outstanding knowledge, skills and professionalism of nurses and it will help ensure the continuity of safe, high-quality care for patients in their homes and communities across Canada."
