Official Statement
For Immediate Release
City of Pickering Calls for Investigation into Orchard Villa and Long-Term Care Homes
Pickering, ON, May 14, 2020 – At yesterday’s Special Council meeting, the City of Pickering passed a unanimous motion asking the Federal and Provincial governments to conduct an investigation into the outbreaks and deaths at Orchard Villa.
The motion, introduced by Councillor Pickles and seconded by Councillor Cumming, asked that in addition to Orchard Villa, other affected long-term care homes, retirement homes, and other congregate facilities be part of the investigation. In addition, the motion asks that opportunities be provided for the impacted families to participate.
In the interim, the City will be lowering flags at all of its facilities for the remainder of the week. Also, it will plan for a memorial event that will encourage the community to come together, remember, and pay their respects to all of Pickering’s COVID-19 victims once the provincial emergency order is lifted.
Quote:
“Our community has paid far too great of a toll in the number of lives we lost to COVID-19. We must commit to ensuring that a tragedy of this magnitude never occurs again. That is why we are asking the senior levels of government to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into what has transpired at Orchard Villa and across the nation. Hopefully, the findings will lead to real and meaningful changes in how we care for and protect the residents of long-term care facilities.”
- Kevin Ashe, Deputy Mayor
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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 94,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.
Media Contact:
Mark Guinto
Manager, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications | Office of the Mayor
905.420.4660 ext. 2013
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