Our mission at ONA is to defend the rights of and advocate for nurses and health-care professionals who care for the health of Ontarians.
We are powered by our members — 68,000 nurses and health-care professionals, as well as 18,000 nursing student affiliates — who provide care in hospitals, long-term care, public health, the community, clinics, and industry.
Organized into more than 540 Bargaining Units and 60 Locals across Ontario, our members elect executives and representatives to work hand-inhand with ONA’s provincial staff. Every day, these executives and representatives step up to help their fellow members raise issues with their employer concerning their rights, entitlements, and ability to provide professional, high-quality care in a safe and equitable environment. Every few years, our Bargaining Unit representatives also undertake collective bargaining with employers in order to establish contracts for our members.
ONA staff provide a range of support to Local executives and Bargaining Unit representatives so that they can serve members effectively. ONA staff also provide several direct member services. As Ontario’s largest health-care union, we also undertake legal challenges and engage in advocacy towards the public and the government on behalf of our members, as well as workers, patients, and residents throughout Ontario.
ONA’s work is overseen, guided, and supported by an elected Board of Directors made up of experienced and passionate member leaders.