Debates of November 28, 2007 (day 4)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Over the last couple of months I have had the opportunity to speak to a number of my constituents as well as residents of Yellowknife and the North. A recurring theme and an area of concern which has been raised is the limited space available at the Stanton Territorial Hospital and how it affects both staff and patients. The cramped conditions are clearly felt by both hard-working and dedicated staff, as well as the patients who are receiving assessment, treatment, and ongoing care within the building.

A large number of staff in tight quarters, such as in the physiotherapy unit or the surgical day care unit, can cause frustration, which may lead to poor morale. This adversely affects the quality of care and the treatment received by the public. Similarly, the tight conditions cause stress to patients. For example, patients going to Stanton for cancer treatments or other procedures had to be fit in. By "fit in," I mean put in stress test rooms filled with staff clothing, treadmills, and other assorted items. This is not a positive environment or experience for northern residents already going through difficult times in their lives.

Mr. Speaker, later this afternoon I’ll be asking the Minister of Health and Social Services on space and physical working conditions within Stanton Territorial Hospital. Thank you.

---Applause