A push to improve 911 service in Ontario is now before a legislative committee at Queen’s Park.
A private member’s bill from the NDP’s France Gelinas received second reading last week.
She says her inbox is full of tragic stories related to the current system.
“They come from all over the province, from low communities, and local services board, to health care groups, to seniors, to industry, to 911 operators.”
President of Asthma Canada Vanessa Foran is supportive.
“We believe the suggested changes to Ontario’s 911 services will improve health outcomes for all Ontarians who can’t communicate during an emergency call due to breathing difficulties, or due to any other reason.”
Gelinas’ bill comes out of recent Coroner’s inquests, two involving people who had asthma and were unable to communicate with 911 operators.
She adds her bill is three-fold.
“The 1st one is to do away with the 1-800 numbers, in case of emergency, and migrates to 911 everywhere in Ontario.”
Gelinas also wants recommendations pertaining to 911 service from recent Coroner’s inquests implemented and giving the Ombudsman power to investigate complaints.
