“The Spotlight” by Local 196

This episode focuses on Bill 11 , the Health Statutes Amendment Act, and the growing debate around two-tier health care in Alberta . Critics warn that the legislation could open the door to expanded private payment for medical services, potentially allowing those who can afford it to access faster care while others face longer waits in the public system. To help unpack what this could mean for pat...

This episode features a live recording from the February 19, 2026, Local Education Event, “Privatization in Healthcare and Education,” held at the Alberta Teachers Association (ATA) Building in Edmonton. Organized by the Local 196 Education Committee, the panel discussed the growing role of privatization in Alberta’s public systems. Participants wore red in solidarity with public education and wro...

In this episode, Gerri Logan—member of United Nurses of Alberta Local 196’s Advocacy & Engagement Committee—sits down with Janet Eremenko, Alberta’s NDP Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Addiction , to unpack the politics and human impact behind Alberta’s growing opioid crisis. From the ongoing debate around decriminalization to the intersection between housing, stigma, and public health,...

In this episode, Geri Ruston sits down with Dr. Bob Barnetson to examine the state of Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) in Canadian workplaces, with a focus on Alberta and the realities faced by nurses. The conversation covers: The true number of workplace injuries each year—likely double the official statistics—and why underreporting is so common. The role of the Workers’ Compensation Boa...

Rachel, Gerri, and Geri take listeners on an unforgettable journey through the life and legacy of Mary “Mother” Jones — the labour organizer once dubbed “the most dangerous woman in America.” From famine-stricken Ireland to the sweatshops and coalfields of the United States, the podcast traces how grief and injustice forged her into a tireless champion for worker safety and dignity. But this isn’t...

In this episode of The Spotlight , we’re joined by Cori Longo , Secretary-Treasurer of the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) , for an engaging and inspiring conversation about the power of activism and the importance of labour solidarity in Alberta. Cori takes us through her unique journey—from her first unionized job as a teenager to her time as a postal worker and registered nurse, and eventual...

In this episode, hosts Rachel Steel and Gerri Logan explore the urgent need for presumptive legislation to protect nurses from psychological injuries such as PTSD and burnout. They are joined by Heather Murray and Katrina Stephenson, two passionate advocates fighting for policy changes recognizing mental health struggles as a workplace hazard for nurses. The discussion begins with a breakdown of p...

In this episode of The Spotlight , host Geri Ruston dives deep into the ongoing labour disputes in Alberta, where public sector unions like UNA are negotiating new collective agreements amidst increasing challenges. Joined by Rick Brick, Associate Executive Professor at the University of Alberta with over 30 years in HR and management, the discussion explores the complexities of labour negotiation...

In this insightful episode, Local 196 A&E Committee member Gerri Logan sat down with the 2nd Vice President of the United Nurses of Alberta (UNA), Karen Kuprys, for an in-depth discussion about her career journey, focusing on her previous role as Secretary-Treasurer of the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) from 2021 to 2024 and how it shaped her current position at UNA. She delved into the co...

This episode features an interview between Geri Ruston and Jason Foster. Jason Foster is a director, researcher and policy analyst with the Parkland Institute. With a focus on labour rights and public sector issues, Foster has contributed to several reports examining government interference in public sector bargaining. His recent work addresses Alberta’s Bill 5 (PSEA), legislation that limits work...

Joining us in this episode is Chris Gallaway, a passionate advocate for public healthcare and a key voice at Friends of Medicare. Chris has dedicated his career to promoting equitable access to healthcare for all Albertans, and he brings a wealth of knowledge on the implications of privatization in our system.  Please note, the information, opinions, and recommendations expressed by guests and hos...

Gerri Logan interviews Pam Spurvey, a Recovery Alberta Indigenous Cultural Support Worker from Henwood, about " How to be culturally inclusive in the workplace.” Please note, the information, opinions, and recommendations expressed by guests and hosts in this Podcast are their own those don’t necessarily reflect the views of Local 196 or United Nurses of Alberta.    If you have enjoyed the co...

Meet our Local 196 President, Joy Arntzen, as interviewed by A&E committee member Geri Ruston.   Please note, the information, opinions, and recommendations expressed by guests and hosts in this Podcast are their own those don’t necessarily reflect the views of Local 196 or United Nurses of Alberta.    If you have enjoyed the content of this podcast or have any suggestions for improvement, ple...

The second episode of the Spotlight features Winston Gereluk. Winston was invited to discuss the history of Nursing in Alberta. *Interview was conducted on video and the audio extracted. Attempts were made to clean up the audio but listeners may  have to adjust the volume, especially where the audio is poor. Our apologies* Winston Gereluk is the Vice-President at Alberta Labour History Institute (...

Greg joined a political party at 13 but soon realised that politics alone isn’t enough. He enrolled in university and spent 7 years there, studying philosophy and political science. In the end, it became clear to Greg that change doesn’t come from universities. Change comes from those who pursue it. Greg has been invited to discuss the Politics of Healthcare in Alberta .  Please note, the informat...