We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Manitoba, including Premier Wab Kinew and Advanced Education Minister Renee Cable, to follow through on its commitment to create a faster and more accessible pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to become Registered Nurses (RNs).

During the last provincial election, the government discussed creating a faster and more flexible LPN to RN bridge program through Assiniboine College as part of addressing the nursing shortage in Manitoba. Many LPNs supported this commitment because it would allow experienced nurses to advance their education while continuing to work in the healthcare system.

Currently, LPNs who want to become RNs are often required to repeat a significant amount of education they have already completed, despite already having extensive nursing training and clinical experience. This creates unnecessary barriers and forces many nurses to put their careers and personal lives on hold for full-time schooling.

We understand that Assiniboine College submitted a proposal for this bridge program in 2024 and it is still waiting for government approval and funding. With the ongoing nursing shortage in Manitoba, delaying this program does not make sense when qualified nurses are ready and willing to advance their training.

LPNs already play a critical role in patient care across Manitoba. In many clinical settings, LPNs perform work very similar to RNs while being paid significantly less. A practical and accessible bridge program would allow experienced nurses to advance their qualifications while strengthening the healthcare system.

We call on the Government of Manitoba, including Premier Wab Kinew and Minister Renee Cable, to:

1.) Approve the proposed LPN to RN bridge program at Assiniboine College
2.) Provide the necessary funding to implement the program
3.) Establish a clear timeline for when the program will begin

Manitoba is facing a serious nursing shortage. Enabling experienced LPNs to become RNs is one of the most practical ways to strengthen the healthcare workforce.

The government made this commitment. Now it needs to follow through.