For Immediate Release
July 11, 2024
NDP Leader, Jim Dinn (St. John’s Centre) provided the following statement on the release of the OrgCode shelter standards for government today:
“I was pleased to see today that the OrgCode shelter standards that were due on June 3rd was finally released today by the Minister. While these standards should have been released years ago when we discovered the conditions vulnerable people were living in, it is better late than never.
“At first glance, the standards show the recognition of the issues this government has failed to address throughout all shelters, both public and private. However, I have questions concerning how far these standards actually reach, and how they will be enforced.
“One of the main questions that come to mind is if this report will be subject to enforcement for all individuals who obtain government money to house people, including rent subsidies. The specifics of exactly who will be subject to these necessary standards are not clearly defined in the report.
“It is wonderful to see so many rules surrounding the health and safety of people living in these shelters, but also for the workers and operators. The rules include the necessary staff training, medical and personal items to be well stocked and available to residents of the shelters. Will these supports be clearly defined and accessible through the Department of Housing, or will the operators be responsible for paying for these resources themselves?
“I look forward to diving deeper into the specifics of the standards report and consulting with groups on the ground and individuals who I have worked with over the years as the MHA for St. John’s Centre.
“The main outcome of these standards should be to ensure that all people living and working within the shelter system receive the supports they need in order to move out of the shelter system; and the respect and compassion they deserve.”
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For further information, contact Stephanie Curran, Media Relations Manager, NDP Caucus at 330-0328 (o), or stephaniecurran@gov.nl.ca
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