Editor:
I overwhelmingly agree with June 17 letters by Justin Glover (“Not a simple move”) and R.E. McInnis (“Real cost of privatization”) regarding the privatization of Totem Lodge and Shorncliffe. As the wife of a resident in one of these facilities, I am voicing some of my concerns.
The morale of the caregivers working in these facilities is at an all-time low. They work with our loved ones and, despite being short staffed and overworked, they do an incredible job looking after them.
Now they are faced with losing their jobs in two years with the possibility of being hired back at a lesser wage? This is not acceptable.
Regarding the residents, the majority of those living in Totem Lodge and Shorncliffe have worked hard throughout their lives; they have paid their taxes, did not collect welfare and avoided adding to our nation’s out-of-control credit card debt. Some of the conditions in which they live are not acceptable. Many of them have served our country in the Armed Forces and this is how they are treated for their remaining years?
Perhaps the decision-makers should volunteer to be restricted to a wheelchair and live for one week at Totem Lodge or Shorncliffe in order to really understand what’s needed to improve the residents’ and caregivers’ needs. Privatization is not the solution!
Lou Farrell, Sechelt
