Unions Demand Safety Improvements at Quebec City Hospital Following Staff Injuries

Unions representing psychiatric emergency department workers gathered outside the Centre hospitalier de l'Université Laval in Quebec City to demand safety improvements. They argue that staff have faced dangerous situations since the specialized security intervention worker position was cut in November 2024. Frédéric Saint-Hilaire, a union agent, noted that a hospital porter was hit by a psychiatric patient two weeks prior to the protest. Julie Tremblay, vice-president of workplace health and security, stated that an employee was injured on the job on August 17 and continues to suffer consequences.

The union claims that the lack of resources has left workers without the means to safely intervene or assist patients who pose a danger to themselves or others. The protest highlights operational risks within the hospital and the healthcare system in Quebec City.