Whistle-blowing care aide suspended, NDP raising questions

The NDP Opposition is asking the government pointed questions about how a health worker who raised concerns about seniors care came to be suspended.

According to the NDP, Saskatoon care aide Peter Bowden was suspended after he visited the legislature in March to identify concerns about the health of seniors.

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The government responded Tuesday to say no one is disciplined for coming forward with concerns.

"The several allegations are from staff submitting written complaints to management and range from alleged patient care concerns to harassment of other staff and residents," a government official told media in reference to Bowden.

The NDP's Trent Wotherspoon said the government's response suggests Bowden's situation is not being kept confidential.

"What we see from the premier's office is a big concern around breach of privacy and really seems to be nothing more than an attempt to discredit this person," Wotherspoon said.

Bowden works the night shift on the dementia ward at Oliver Lodge in Saskatoon. He brought his concerns to media saying his duties include caring for more than 30 residents for three hours every night. He said the means many residents who require turning or changing are left unattended for hours.

Saskatchewan's health minister said Bowden's employer, the Saskatoon Health Region, has assured him the allegations relating toBowden have nothing to do with his attendance at the legislature earlier this session.