Seniors care in spotlight at legislature as politicians wrap for summer

Saskatchewan's political leaders spent the last day of the spring sitting of the provincial legislature debating how the government has handled issues relating to the quality of care received by seniors in nursing homes.

On Wednesday, the provincial ombudsman released a report that found seniors' care in the province is " a system under strain".

The reported highlighted the importance of people with concerns being able to speak out.

• Ombudsman's report on care at Regina nursing home

On Thursday, Simone Lepage expressed support for people who speak out. Lepage's mother is in long-term care.

"If you don't talk about it these things will never get worked out.They won't get changed," she said, adding it is important for health care workers to be able to share any concerns.

"I think it's very important that someone is there to listen to them and to not have that fear of getting reprimanded or laid off or fired," she said.

Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall said Thursday he is committing to ensuring people can feel safe speaking out.

"People need to feel comfortable coming forward," Wall said. "Come through the Opposition if that's their comfort level. Ask questions or have their questions asked in Question Period or contact us directly. Whatever they're most comfortable with."

Cam Broten, leader of the NDP Opposition, said he believes Wall has played a role in cultivating fear. According to Broten, the premier was behind a recent episode involving the release of information about Peter Bowden, a care aide who spoke out at the legislature.

Bowden was suspended and the matter is under investigation by the province's Privacy Commissioner.

• Whistle-blowing care aide suspended, NDP raising questions

• Whistle-blower's case against Wall now with privacy commissioner

"The premier made the personal decision to direct the release of confidential and questionable information about the care aide who came forward, the only care aide who came forward publicly," Broten said. "I've talked to many health care workers who talk about a chill. [They] talk about that example."

The ombudsman, in her report on nursing homes, recommended the Ministry of Health change its guidelines for handling concerns, so matters are dealt with fairly and in a timely manner.