The Manitoba Nurses' Union believes that a recent Canadian Blood Services proposal to replace nurses with unlicensed workers will endanger Canada's blood supply. Since the 1997 Justice Krever inquiry following the tainted blood tragedy where more than 1,000 Canadians who received blood transfusions were infected with HIV and Hepatitis C, Canadian Blood Services has built their reputation as providers of safe blood.

One of the most critical elements to ensuring a safe blood supply is the careful screening and assessment of all potential blood donors.

 "The screening of potential donors has become even more expensive and intrusive," Justice Krever said in his report. "Careful screening is essential to maintain a safe blood supply and it must continue."

Currently, nurses are responsible for screening and assessing all potential donors. The proposal by Canadian Blood Services to replace nurses with unlicensed workers poses a serious threat to Canada's blood supply. Only nurses have the education and experience to deal with the many complexities of screening potential donors.

As professionals, nurses are accountable to the public through their licensing bodies. Unlicensed workers are not bound by any code of ethics or regulations.

The Manitoba Nurses' Union has started an online petition to reverse the decision. Please sign the petition at http://www.petitiononline.com/wpgnurse/ to show your support.