Editor:
I have tried very hard to sit on my hands and stay out of this debate, but I really feel that the opinions put forward thus far are rather short-sighted.
Currently we have the two public facilities in Sechelt and one not-for-profit home in Gibsons. I agree with the protesters that the proposed new facility should not replace two. Shorncliffe seems the one that could remain on a short run. Totem Lodge has had considerable money spent on it “trying to make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.” Please don’t tell me that if I need care in the future I am going to be happy to leave my comfortable home to go into a four-bed room at Totem with one bathroom. I want to have a choice and this is what I believe the private sector can offer. I know from my experience that most people would not choose to stay in a Motel 6 if they could afford a Holiday Inn.
I’m not saying we don’t need publicly funded care, but there should be no reason why people can’t pay extra for an environment that offers comfort, privacy and some amenities.
Meeting the needs of people in care is priority one. I also believe you get what you pay for. I’m sorry if jobs are lost, but this is the reality of a changing world. Some may need to retire and some may need to do other jobs. The best will be hired and I would like the best to be looking after you or me.
I would join a push for keeping Shorncliffe and perhaps adding an expansion to Christenson Village.
There, we have choices! And, maybe more staff will be needed.
Think positively!
Lynne Rempel, Gibsons
