It was with amazement that I read the lead story in the June 7 Advocate stating that a FOIP request for Alberta government documents totalling 130 pages, requested by friends, families and guardians, dealing with the relocation of 125 Michener Centre residents, were 80 per cent redacted!
If the legal public or private guardians are not able to ensure proper placement of their individuals, they are being actively denied their legal right and responsibility to ensure proper placement and services for their individuals.
Given that 50 of the affected residents at Michener Centre are deemed medically fragile, and given the closure of three long-term care facilities over the past number of years by the province, and the further loss of contract beds with a private care facility in the city, there will be a direct impact on speedy placement in appropriate settings for those affected and will further impact other citizens waiting for long-term care placement, who already face long waits.
One can only hope that the representatives and guardians of the Michener Centre residents will be actively involved in planning for and placement in appropriate care facilities.
Perhaps it is time that the elected provincial government remembers who it serves and at whose pleasure!
Sheila Stangier
Red Deer