New Brunswick nurses will receive another $5,000 retention payment as the province continues efforts to address staffing shortages in the healthcare system.
The government has reached an agreement with the union representing nurses in regional health authorities and Extra-Mural/Ambulance New Brunswick for the second payment, which includes a one-year service commitment requirement.
“Every day, hard-working nurses show up and perform the critical role of caring for New Brunswickers in our health-care and long-term care systems,” said Premier Susan Holt.
Officials are currently finalizing similar agreements for nurses and licensed practical nurses employed in nursing homes.
Building on previous efforts
The first retention payment was distributed in late 2024 to approximately 11,000 permanent full-time and part-time nurses across the province.
Eligibility requirements for the second payment remain the same as the previous round, with the addition of the return-of-service agreement.
Nearly 11,000 nurses work throughout New Brunswick’s healthcare network, including regional health authorities, Extra-Mural/Ambulance New Brunswick, and nursing homes.
Broader healthcare strategy
The government presented the retention payments as part of a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare in the province.
“The retention payments are part of a larger strategy to improve working conditions, support wellness and build a health-care system that ensures New Brunswickers can get access to care where and when they need it,” said Holt.
The announcement comes during National Nursing Week, timing the premier acknowledged was intentional to show appreciation for healthcare workers.
