October 14 2022

Health workers from across the country urge the Prime Minister to implement a comprehensive regularization plan for all undocumented people without exception and permanent residence for all migrants, including those in low-wage jobs.

Ottawa (14 Oct. 2022) — Over 1,000 health providers, and nearly 60 organizations, are calling on the Prime Minister for full and permanent immigration status for all. The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is among the signatories to the open letter.

Status is a health care issue

“As frontline healthcare providers, members of the health community and community health organizations, we see the devastating health impacts when our patients do not have full and permanent immigration status,” reads the letter.

“Our goal is to protect and promote the individual and collective health of our patients and communities based on the best available medical evidence,” the signatories continue. “It is abundantly clear to us that full and permanent immigration status for all migrants is a critical policy that will keep our patients safe and healthy.”

Government needs to get it right

The federal government has committed to a regularization program, which would extend permanent resident status to undocumented people living and working in Canada. 

NUPGE, which represents many health care professionals across the country, has been part of the growing migrant-led movement calling on the government to get it right and for full and permanent immigration status for all without exclusions.

Health care workers raising their voices

“On behalf of health workers from across the country,” reads the letter, “we urge you to implement a comprehensive regularization plan for all undocumented people without exception and permanent residence for all migrants, including those in low-waged jobs.” 

“In addition, we call on all provinces and territories to provide healthcare for all, regardless of immigration status.”

View the full letter and signatories here.