More opposition to privatization of homes for people with disabilities
EDMONTON – The Edmonton Public School Board has added its voice to the chorus of those opposing a plan by the Government of Alberta to privatize group-home care for people with developmental disabilities in Edmonton and Calgary.
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) has learned that the school board has written to Community and Social Services Minister Rajan Sawhney and Education Minister Adriana LaGrange to call on them not to change the way care is provided for children at Edmonton’s Rosecrest home.
The letter, a copy of which was obtained by AUPE, says: “These children are some of the most vulnerable in our society, and they and their families deserve all the support we can provide them. Our teacher and educational assistants at Rosecrest do a tremendous job supporting these students’ learning. These students are in the best position to learn when they consistently receive the medical and personal care they need from caring, trusted, qualified individuals. We are concerned about the impact a shift of care providers may have on Rosecrest residents.”
The letter, signed by board chair Trisha Eastabrooks, ends: “The current service delivery model at Rosecrest supports these medically fragile individuals and their families, and allows for quality instruction and learning. We support the continuation of this service model.”
AUPE vice-president Kevin Barry says: “It is time for Minister Sawhney to stop this ill-advised and dangerous plan to privatize care and perhaps tear these vulnerable Albertans from their homes.”
In June, the government informed AUPE that it was looking at a new delivery model for services provided at Rosecrest and Hardisty Home, and Calgary Region PDD Graduated Supports, which includes the Scenic Bow group home. A decision is expected in September.
“The families have spoken against it, the workers who love and care for the residents have spoken against it and now the Edmonton Public School Board has spoken against it. This process has caused immense stress and pain for family members and workers. It’s time for the minister to listen and back off,” says Barry, who is chair of AUPE’s anti-privatization committee.
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Kevin Barry is available for interviews.
For more information, contact Terry Inigo-Jones, communications officer, 403-831-4394.