The union representing nurses in New Brunswick says healthcare professionals are persevering under difficult circumstances, working in a temporary unit at a major hospital while construction continues. The situation highlights ongoing pressures within the provincial healthcare system.
Working in a Temporary Space
According to the New Brunswick Nurses Union, nursing staff at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton are currently operating from a makeshift unit. This interim setup is necessary because a new addition to the hospital facility is still under construction. The union spokesperson emphasized that the nurses are "doing the best they can" with the available resources and infrastructure.
The report, shared in early January 2026, did not specify the exact nature of the clinical services being delivered in the temporary space or how long nurses have been working there. However, it underscores a reality familiar in many Canadian regions: healthcare delivery often continues amid infrastructure upgrades and expansions, sometimes requiring adaptive and improvised solutions from staff.
Context of Hospital Expansion
The Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital, operated by Horizon Health Network, is undergoing a significant expansion project. While the construction aims to improve long-term capacity and modernize facilities, the immediate phase can create logistical challenges for daily operations. The union's comments bring attention to the working environment for frontline staff during this transitional period.
Such scenarios can involve navigating altered floor plans, using repurposed areas not originally designed for patient care, and managing potential disruptions from nearby construction activity. The nurses' adaptability is being called upon to ensure patient care remains uninterrupted.
Union Advocacy and System Pressures
By publicly stating that nurses are doing their best under the circumstances, the union is likely performing a dual role. First, it is acknowledging the dedication and professionalism of its members. Second, it is subtly drawing public and administrative attention to the less-than-ideal working conditions that can arise during major projects.
This situation occurs within the broader context of healthcare system strains in New Brunswick and across Canada, which include staffing shortages, patient backlogs, and infrastructure needs. The union's statement serves as a reminder that behind large-scale construction projects are individuals working to maintain care standards.
The coming months will be crucial as the hospital moves toward completing its new addition. The focus will likely shift from managing interim arrangements to successfully integrating the new space to alleviate pressures and improve the working environment for nurses and the care experience for patients.
