Medical staff protest proposed urban rule restricting demonstrations near hospital entrances in Ottawa

In a notable turn of events, a group of protesters, led by Jamie-Lynne Hunt, a registered practical nurse and lead steward for CUPE 1502, travelled from Pembroke to voice their concerns at Ottawa City Hall. The catalyst for their journey is a proposed "bubble zone" bylaw, which, if passed, would restrict demonstrations around certain buildings such as places of worship, schools, and hospitals.

The proposed bylaw aims to establish a protective distance of up to 80 metres around what the city deems as "vulnerable social infrastructure." However, the union leaders are expressing concern that this plan does not go far enough to protect freedom of speech.

Suzanne Pinel-Asselin, the francophone vice-president of OCHU, echoes these sentiments, stating that protests are one of the only tools hospital workers have to bring attention to underfunding and hallway healthcare. Michael Hurley, president of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU) of CUPE, also expressed a desire for the right to protest around matters of public policy.

City councillor Sean Devine shares these concerns, expressing apprehension that the proposed bylaw could restrict the only option hospital workers have to protest. The City of Ottawa, in response, is seeking public input on the proposed bylaw.

The group from Pembroke is not just supporting Ottawa hospital workers who may be affected by the proposed bylaw. They believe its effects may extend to other communities, and Jodi Julius, a national staff representative with the Canadian Union of Public Employees, has voiced similar concerns. She fears that the proposed bylaw could impact smaller communities if it silences hospital workers.

Legal experts have weighed in on the potential implications of such a bylaw. They warn that banning protests could take away a basic tool that unions use to push for change. Karin Galldin, an OCHU lawyer with Goldblatt Partners LPP, emphasises the importance of the right to strike in a unionized environment, stating that it is the final tool for unions to effect meaningful change on behalf of their members.

Hunt, the lead steward from Pembroke, reiterates the importance of the ability to speak up for what is right. She believes her own rights and freedoms are on the line due to the proposed bylaw. Hunt and her fellow protesters are advocating for the preservation of these rights, ensuring that their voices continue to be heard in the ongoing debate.