New security officers are coming to Manitoba hospitals

WINNIPEG –

Manitoba's largest hospital is slated to have new security staff Monday in an effort to reduce violence.

Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara said security staff at the Health Sciences Center in Winnipeg have been armed with pepper gel and will be installed at other health facilities in the province later.

Health workers have complained of increased violence from people under the influence of drugs or with mental health problems.

The Manitoba Nurses Union filed a complaint, saying its members were not in a safe workplace.

Asagwara said the security personnel were trained in de-escalation tactics and other skills.

Darlene Jackson, president of the nurses union, said she welcomes the new officers, but isn't sure if they will keep everyone safe.

This Canadian Press report was first published on April 10, 2024