NAPE Warns: MUN Reduces Social Worker Seats Amid Rising N.L. Demand

The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE) expressed deep concern over a recent decision by Memorial University (MUN) to reduce the number of seats in its School of Social Work. The university will decrease enrollment by 20%, despite an increasing demand for social workers in the province.

MUN’s Decision Amid Rising Demand for Social Workers

Jerry Earle, the president of NAPE, highlighted that this reduction comes at a time when the need for social workers is growing year by year. He emphasized that limiting seat availability will obstruct efforts to address the worsening situation in social services.

“We have significant issues in this province that remain unaddressed in health care. This decision will adversely affect social workers and the essential services they provide,” Earle stated during an interview.

Context of the Enrollment Change

Chad Pelley, a spokesperson for MUN, noted that the number of seats increased from 80 to 100 in 2022. However, he acknowledged that this expansion created challenges for academic staff. The decision to revert to 80 seats in fall 2025 was made to ensure compliance with academic guidelines and sustainability.

Pelley affirmed, “There is no intention to further reduce capacity in 2026. This adjustment should not be seen as a reduction in support for the profession.” Nonetheless, the impact of this decision is already being felt amid reports of a social worker shortage across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Social Worker Shortages and Turnover Rates

• The regional health authority has a social worker turnover rate of 6.9%.
• Labrador experiences a much higher turnover rate of 16.5%.

Most social workers in the province graduate from MUN, which adds another layer of complexity as other provinces also face similar shortages. This complicates recruitment efforts for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Call for Government Action

Earle emphasized the need for immediate attention from government officials. He has reached out to Health Minister Lela Evans and Minister of Social Supports and Well-Being Joedy Wall to discuss potential solutions.

In the House of Assembly, discussions surrounding the cuts continued. MHA for St. John’s East, Sheilagh O’Leary, raised these concerns, while Wall indicated that the province would advocate for an increase in available seats.

Paul Dinn, the MHA for Topsail–Paradise, and Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, expressed his willingness to discuss the issue with NAPE and highlighted that while seat numbers are critical, the focus should be on increasing graduate output.

Dinn remarked, “Between 2021 and 2025, there has been a 30% decrease in graduates, which needs to be addressed.” He promised continued discussions with MUN and other stakeholders to find viable solutions moving forward.