Developmental services workers and people they support tell real story at Queen’s Park: OPSEU
OPSEU Developmental Services workers from across Ontario and many families of the people they support are at Queen’s Park on Wednesday, September 18. OPSEU President, Warren (Smokey) Thomas will also be present for this special meet and greet session with Members of Provincial Parliament, which will focus on the current crisis in Ontario’s underfunded Developmental Services.
WHAT: Developmental Services Meet, Greet and Eat
WHEN: Wednesday, September 18, 11:30 am to 1:00 pm
WHERE: Queen’s Park, Main Legislative Building, Toronto, Room 230
“There is a crisis in Ontario’s Developmental Services, which must be addressed immediately. We want to know when this government will put in place the promised all-party legislative committee and ensure this problem is dealt with properly,” said OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas.
“An important discussion needs to happen that includes developmental services workers as well as the people we support and their families. This event is an opportunity for Ontario’s MPPs and the media to hear first hand about the realities of working in the sector as well as what it is like to depend on the services provided,” said OPSEU Developmental Services Sector Chair, Patti Markland.
Growing waitlists are an indication of chronic sector underfunding. Meanwhile, there are empty beds in facilities across Ontario because the government won’t give them the necessary funds for services, programs and staff. This is all compounded by a lack of available services for families – especially those whose loved ones are dependent adults. And every year, the gap widens between the need for services and the supply.
OPSEU represents more than 10,000 Developmental Services workers across Ontario, who provide support to people with disabilities and their families.
For more information:
Emily Visser, OPSEU Communications: 416-557-7936
Patti Markland, OPSEU Developmental Services Sector Chair: 613-848-6016
September 12, 2013 OPSEU Developmental Services workers and the people they support will bring a strong message to MPPs at a special lobby day on September 18.
