CUPE says timing couldn’t be worse
CBC News · Posted: Nov 15, 2012 10:54 AM AT | Last Updated: November 16, 2012
The union representing employees at a Fredericton addiction treatment centre is questioning the decision to close the facility over the Christmas holidays, saying that is when addicts need support the most.
Horizon Health Network officials confirmed they plan to close the Fredericton Addiction Services facility on Brunswick Street between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1.
Gordon Black, regional director of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, contends the Christmas season can be an emotional time for addicts, making them particularly vulnerable.
“Our members that work there, and most people, understand that that is one of the most troubling times for people that suffer from addiction. It becomes a depressing time if your family is at odds with you,” said Black. “That place saves lives.”
Horizon Health officials said in a written statement that the centre closed during the same period last year because of low demand.
There was only one person seeking the service during that time, they said, adding that demand increases after Jan. 1.
Other centres in the province will remain open, but Black argues that’s not a realistic option.
“What they’ve told me is they’ll basically put a sign up that says, `If you need help, call Moncton,'” said Black. “Well, people who are addicts — give me a break. They don’t have access to a vehicle. They don’t have no money. They have no way to even make a phone call,” he said.
“What value will it be to talk to someone in Moncton if you’re in a desperate situation in Fredericton?”
In a second statement, issued late Thursday afternoon, however, Horizon Health said there will not be any sign, as Black suggested.
Fredericton’s addiction outpatient services, also located in the Victoria Health Centre, will continue to operate during the holidays, so if anyone shows up for detox services, the receptionist will be able to refer them elsewhere, they said.
The cost of transportation to Moncton or Saint John will be covered if the client needs to go to the detox centres in those cities, officials said.
In addition, a mobile crisis team will continue to operate in Fredericton, they said.