NDP Critic for Health and Long-Term Care France Gélinas demanded the McGuinty Liberals improve accountability and transparency in long-term care homes after report shows high number of infractions.

“There are two simple ways the McGuinty Liberals can restore Ontarians’ confidence in our long-term care homes: ensure funding goes directly into increased hands-on care and allow Ombudsman oversight. Our seniors deserve nothing less,” said Gélinas, MPP for Nickel Belt.

Today, an investigation by the Canadian Press revealed that long-term care homes across Ontario are failing to meet provincial standards.

“Too many loved-ones in long-term care are being denied the basic care they need. Dalton McGuinty promised a revolution in long-term care. Five years later, the needs of Ontario's seniors have been ignored,” said Gélinas.

On May 8, 2008, the Ontario Health Coalition released a report showing that the McGuinty Liberals’ failure to ensure accountability in long-term care homes has resulted in hands-on care levels remaining stagnant and below recommended standards - despite government funding increases.

According to the Ombudsman Andre Marin’s office, five other provinces and territories allow Ombudsman jurisdiction of long-term care homes. Despite Ontario barring Ombudsman oversight, Marin’s office receives many serious complaints every year that cannot be investigated. A total of 276 complaints about hospitals and long-term care homes were received in 2007-2008.

“The McGuinty Liberals must ensure accountability and transparency in Ontario’s long-term care homes by tying funding to increased hands-on care and allowing Ombudsman oversight. After a lifetime of building our province and caring for their families, our seniors deserve better,” said Gélinas.