The union representing workers at the Bethammi Nursing Home on Carrie Street isn’t surprised by the number of orders the facility is facing to follow government rules.
Back in March government inspectors noted St. Joseph’s Care Group, which runs the home, failed to comply in several areas.
Service Employees International Union official Corey Johnson is laying some of the blame on a lack of staff.
He says “almost every nursing home, retirement home, long term care home in the province is severely understaffed,” adding “right now there is a crisis in long term care when it comes to staffing.”
The union spokesperson also believes employee retention adds to the problem since many don’t want to work under the conditions that exist including low wages.
While he does note the province is partly to blame, he doesn’t let the nursing home off the hook.
Johnson says “they definitely could have more staff, and that’s on them.”
St. Joseph’s Care Group has until August 22nd to comply with a list of areas inspectors found to be lacking.
