Press release

The government rejects compromise with FMSQ

Montreal, November 29, 2006 – The Federation of Medical Specialists of Quebec (the FMSQ) made a significant gesture today by suggesting a compromise to the government. This action had a dual purpose: 1) to re-establish confidence between medical specialists and the government, and 2) to comply with both financial and negotiating restrictions. The government rejected the proposal outright.

“The FMSQ was prepared to stop its pressure tactics, and that is why we made this proposal. But far from being as conciliatory as it would have people believe, the government dismissed it out of hand,” stated Dr. Gaétan Barrette, the FMSQ President.

Called before the Essential Services Commission (Conseil des services essentiels) today, the FMSQ was ready to enter into a compromise. The proposal presented was that the government’s financial parameters would be observed, but that the timeline should be modified– i.e. rather than a 15% catch-up period from 2004-2014, the FMSQ suggested a 20% correction over the period 2007-2010. This was a major concession on the part of the FMSQ when weighed against the 44% initially demanded. The FMSQ also agreed to enter into mediation using a formula that would be closely binding on both parties yet allow the government full freedom with regard to negotiations.

The FMSQ also requested reimbursement of the $50 million penalty unjustly imposed on medical specialists by the Minister under Bill 37, and wanted this investment to be specifically allocated to the remuneration of teaching and medico-administrative duties carried out by physicians in university hospitals.
The FMSQ believes that such action would have enabled a return to social peace. It now vigorously denounces the government’s total refusal to consider the proposal made.

The Federation of Medical Specialists numbers more than 8,000 members in Quebec, representing 34 specialties.

The sole agency recognized by government to negotiate collective agreements on behalf of medical specialists, the FMSQ is also consulted on every aspect of the organization of medical care in Quebec.

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