Posted February 12, 2026.
A message to MAHCP members from President Jason Linklater
Health care is among the most dangerous sectors in which to work, according to reports of injuries, violent incidents, and time lost to injuries. Your employer is responsible for ensuring your safety, but it’s clear they still aren’t doing enough. The only actions MAHCP has seen to date are the direct result of significant pressure unions have put on them in reaction to serious safety lapses and shocking assaults on workers.
Due to your employers’ continued failure to ensure your safety, and the Manitoba Government’s failure to enforce the Workplace Safety and Health Act, MAHCP filed an application to the Court of King’s Bench on February 9, 2026 to compel government to enforce the Act through the Workplace Safety & Health Branch, and thereby force employers to fulfill their statutory responsibilities to protect you.
Your employer has failed to investigate instances of violence against workers, prepare a report on what happened and take steps to prevent further incidents. MAHCP has spent two years asking for healthcare employers to produce an annual report on violence, which is required by the Workplace Safety and Health Act, and that hasn’t happened, nor have there been other efforts to reduce violent incidents.
While we are unable to provide further detail on a matter that is before the courts, we believe our members understand why this unprecedented step is necessary. Many of you experience risks and safety violations on a frequent basis. All of you know of someone who has experienced preventable harm.
Government and employers must take urgent action to address all safety concerns. Further, they must both be held to account for failing to take that action previously. We have come to the conclusion through repeated good-faith attempts that legal action is the only way to achieve these ends.
We will keep you informed as this case progresses. Stay safe and continue to advise your employer and your MAHCP labour relations officer of any safety hazards or incidents.
In solidarity,
Jason Linklater, MAHCP President