While FIQ, Quebec’s largest nurses’ union, nor the hospital’s management would make a specific link between the suicides and working conditions, but FIQ has said that excessive overtime and staffing shortages are far too common in Quebec hospitals.

In reponse to media queries, MNU President Sandi Mowat talked about some of the difficulties faced by nurses today as they try to deliver quality care to patients.

"Nurses go above and beyond every single day to deliver the best care they possibly can in this province, and they're dedicated to the patients in this province," Mowat said."You're trying to deliver the highest… the best-possible care under less than adequate conditions, which adds to the stresses of an already stressful job."

To listen to the interview click here.