Online petition calls for free staff parking at Sudbury's Health Sciences North

An online petition calling for free staff parking at the Sudbury, Ont. hospital had garnered more than 1,100 signatures as of Wednesday afternoon.

"The cost of living is constantly on the rise, and parking fees can add an unnecessary financial burden to our hardworking healthcare professionals," the petition reads.

"It is unfair to expect our nurses, doctors, and support staff to pay for parking while they work long hours to care for the community."

The petition goes on to say that free parking would improve staff morale, leading to better patient care and outcomes.

In an email to CBC News, Health Sciences North spokesperson Jason Turnbull said parking rates for staff have not increased since 2010.

The hospital charges a monthly parking rate of $95 for patients and visitors, but the staff rate is $80 per month.

"Hospitals in Ontario do not receive funding from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care for any costs related to parking lots," Turnbull said in the email.

"Those operating costs include security, equipment and maintenance such as snow removal service, parking equipment and software."

He added net parking revenue at the hospital helps support health care research through the Health Sciences North Research Institute.

In February the hospital increased parking rates for patients and visitors, but the monthly staff rate remained unchanged.

Hourly rates were set at $4 for the first hour, $3 for the second and $2 for the third hour. Hourly rates are capped at  $11.50 for a day pass.