Editor:
I want to add my voice to the growing concern about the decision of Vancouver Coastal Health to close down the long-term care homes in Sechelt – Shorncliffe and Totem Lodge – and replace them with a privately run facility.
I can understand that a case may be made for replacing the aging facilities, but I believe the majority of seniors in our community are totally opposed to both the location and privatization of the essential service.
There is abundant evidence that for-profit facilities inevitably result in inferior care of the residents, largely because low pay results in more frequent turnover, qualifications, and consistency of staffing.
Furthermore, the location selected for the new facility is in an area of Sechelt remote from the village and services, making it more difficult for family and friends to visit, and for walking.
There is a precedent for the retention of public ownership of care home facilities in our region. A new publicly owned facility was recently opened in Powell River and is highly regarded for the level of care it provides. On top of that, the number of new beds proposed for the facility, at 20, is totally inadequate to the needs of our growing seniors population.
The decision by Vancouver Coast Health to partner with a private operator, and purchase the site, was taken with no consultation with the community, and is strongly opposed. We deserve the same level and type of service enjoyed by the people of Powell River.
Michael Siddall, Sechelt
