Statement from PEI Union of Public Sector Employees regarding the resignation of CEO Dr. Michael Gardam
UPSE is not surprised by the announced resignation of Health PEI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Michael Gardam. There is a systemic issue within the health care system in PEI that has resulted in persons leaving at all levels. This resignation only reinforces the fact that there are retention issues within the organization that includes many of our members, which may be attributed to the poor morale and culture.
We are taking this opportunity, with the upcoming departure of Dr. Gardham, to express how important it is for the next CEO of Health PEI to consult with us on significant issues that impact our members. The leadership needs to ensure that communication will be open and honest and that they will seek input from UPSE on issues to ensure that our members are treated fairly. The leadership needs to address ongoing issues such as workplace violence and safety, adhere to collective agreement language, and its process to resolve these disputes, and it must be accountable to all levels of the Health PEI structure. It’s also key that there will not be any inequity of benefits, e.g., incentives for bargaining agents in Health and all bargaining unions will be respected.
Our members also, need to be respected for the vital role they play in the delivery of health care to Islanders every day. UPSE would like to extend best wishes to Dr. Gardam. We will continue to work collaboratively with Health PEI and the Department of Health and Wellness to ensure quality care for Islanders.
Karen Jackson,
UPSE President