Federal aid ends at CHSLDs in Quebec

Catherine Levsk
The Canadian Press

In April 2020, the first soldiers arrived reinforced in long-term care centers in Quebec. Staff from the Canadian Red Cross were gradually taking their place. Their target expires on March 31, 2021, without Quebec seeking an additional extension.

Finally, the Canadian Armed Forces will deploy staff to 47 long-term care centers from April to June 2020. From July 2020 to the end of March 2021 there will be a Red Cross at 89 sites.

In a press release, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair welcomed the end of the mission.

“I salute the Red Cross Frontline staff, support workers and volunteers who worked tirelessly and touched many lives in this epidemic. On behalf of the Government of Canada, thank you all for your dedication and commitment to the care of Canadians,” he said.

Pablo Rodriguez, a political lieutenant in the Trudeau government in Quebec, also wanted to add two cents.

“Today we want to express our gratitude to the men and women who came to help the Red Cross and the frontline workers in need of back-up. […] From the bottom of my heart, thank you, ”he said.