Liberal cuts to nursing homes affecting resident care

HALIFAX – The Liberal government must admit their system of cuts to nursing homes in Nova Scotia is harming residents. The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home in Antigonish announced yesterday they would have to reduce staffing hours and change patient to staff ratios because of a budget deficit.

“It’s not surprising that since the Liberal government cut millions of dollars from nursing homes, facilities are now being forced to cut staff,” said NDP Leader Gary Burrill. “While the McNeil Liberals have said their cuts would not impact care for the residents of nursing homes, the evidence is clear that care is suffering as a result of these cuts.”

The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home reports its budget has been reduced by $140,000 since 2015. While the Liberals included money for food and recreation at nursing homes in last year’s budget, nursing home funding is still $5 million less than before the cuts. The new funding also does not address the need for funding to address staffing and operational costs.

“Minister Delorey is forcing nursing homes to make difficult decisions about providing care to residents because of budget cuts,” said Tammy Martin, NDP Health Spokesperson. “Our seniors deserve high-quality care. Instead, we have a Liberal government that is willing to cut staffing at nursing homes in our communities.”

– 30 –