Statement from Minister McPhee on International Nurses Day and Week

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“Today, the Government of Yukon proudly celebrates International Nurses Day observed each year on May 12 – the birthday of nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale.

“This year’s global theme, Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens health systems and economies, highlights the essential role nurses play in our communities and health care system. Introduced by the International Council of Nurses, this theme calls on governments and health leaders to prioritize the health and wellbeing of nurses, to support their wellbeing and in so doing strengthen and sustain health care systems around the world.

“International Nurses Day is the focal point of International Nurses Week, which runs from May 6 to 12. The Canadian Nurses Association’s National Nursing Week continues from May 12 to 18 and focuses on ’The Power of Nurses to Transform Health’. This theme celebrates the profound impact nurses have in shaping health care, driving innovation and advocating for patient-centred care.

“Nurses are at the centre of health care in the Yukon. From childbirth to end-of-life care, managing chronic illnesses to providing mental health support and leading vaccination efforts, their work touches every community in the territory.

“Our government remains committed to supporting the safety, health and wellbeing of nurses in the Yukon. Guided by our Health Human Resources Strategy, we are working to ensure every Yukoner has access to care by intensifying recruitment, retention and education efforts for health care professionals across the territory.  Our priority is to continue improving health care across the territory in a way that acknowledges the unique needs and contributions of every health care professional. 

"We know that a healthy and secure nursing workforce is crucial to the overall functioning and transformation of our health care system. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all nurses in the Yukon for your tireless service, compassion and commitment to care. 

“This International Nurses Day I encourage all Yukoners to take a moment to recognize and thank the nurses in their lives. To all Yukon nurses – thank you for everything you do and the care you give to us all.”