Press release

FMSQ: 40 Years of Service!

Montreal, November 17, 2005 – Today marks the 40th anniversary of the Federation of Medical Specialists of Quebec (FMSQ).  The first four Presidents of the Federation have been invited to come and celebrate the changing face of the Federation over these 40 years, in company with Dr. Yves Dugré, the current President, and the 34 Presidents of the associations that make up the FMSQ.

Defence and development of economic and social interests

"I take pride in noting that the original mission of the FMSQ remains our leitmotiv, and that it is even more relevant today than previously," stated Dr. Yves Dugré.  When the Federation was created immediately following the organization of the present health system, the Act stipulated that its purpose was the study, defence and development of the social, moral and professional interests of members of the affiliated associations.

Truer than ever before

• 1965: The FMSQ negotiates with the government to defend its place in the new health system. There is a question of fair compensation.
• 2005: 40 years later, the same issues are again to the fore.  In negotiations now ongoing with the government, the FMSQ is insisting upon interprovincial equality of compensation for medical specialists.
• 1965: The FMSQ is at the heart of a debate on a public health system to replace the one then in place.
• 2005: Society and medical specialists find themselves confronted with the same issue once again.

"The FMSQ intends to safeguard its position as a leading participant in debates that affect society, so that it can continue its mission at the service of the population and its own members.  To do this, we will use all the tools at our disposal to achieve our objective and develop services to our members via our subsidiaries," concluded Dr. Dugré.

The Federation of Medical Specialists of Quebec numbers more than 8,000 members, representing 34 associations. The sole agency recognized by government to negotiate collective agreements for medical specialists, the FMSQ is also consulted on every aspect of the organization of medical care in Quebec.

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