Quebec August 23, 2024* — A civil rights organization in Montreal has raised concerns about a Quebec government program designed to recruit and train nurses from francophone countries. The initiative, launched in 2022 with a $65-million budget, aimed to address severe nursing shortages in Quebec by training 1,000 nurses from West Africa and other francophone regions.
However, some recruits say the program has left them in dire financial situations after they were expelled for failing parts of the training. They report losing their weekly stipends and part-time jobs as orderlies, leaving them reliant on food banks.
One nurse, who asked to remain anonymous, shared his distress at a press conference on Thursday. He explained that after ten years of experience in his home country and relocating his family to Quebec, he now faces severe financial hardship following his expulsion.
The Quebec program, which includes training at local junior colleges and financial support for candidates, has faced criticism from Fo Niemi, general director of the Center for Research-Action on Race Relations. Niemi claims that at least 50 recruits have encountered bureaucratic barriers or discrimination, resulting in their expulsion and loss of support.
According to Niemi, expelled candidates face significant challenges. They cannot continue their studies at other institutions if their current college does not offer suitable courses in time, risking deportation. Additionally, they are prohibited from seeking other employment while awaiting re-enrollment.
Niemi also highlighted issues of discrimination, including allegations that some recruits were publicly humiliated for personal hygiene issues. The Quebec Immigration Department has not yet commented on these concerns.
The situation raises serious questions about the program’s implementation and support for international recruits. The Quebec human rights commission and provincial authorities are urged to investigate the matter further.
