Statement on Incident at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre

Grand Council Treaty #3 is deeply concerned with the recent treatment received by a Treaty #3 citizen when accessing services at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre (TBRHSC) in which the patient was left unattended on a hallway floor. This incident highlights an unacceptable approach to care by TBRHSC and is reflective of the ongoing failure of the colonial healthcare system to uphold our treaty right to health and well-being.

Our Elders are the keepers of our knowledge, culture, and traditions. They deserve to be honoured, especially in times of vulnerability. The incident highlights the systemic neglect our people face daily within essential services like healthcare. We must do better for those seeking health services and supports, and ensure they are cared for in a respectful and dignified manner.

We ask those within health systems to reflect on their roles in upholding and delivering better standards of care. True reconciliation requires systemic change and accountability, where a commitment to equitable treatment drives the development of policies and protocols that protect our citizens accessing health services.

Grand Council Treaty #3 will continue to work with all partners to ensure the family receives the answers they deserve pending an investigation into the incident.

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For more information, please contact: Daniel Morriseau, Political Advisor – (807) 464-2647 or by email daniel.morriseau@treaty3.ca

PDF – September 19, 2024 – Statement on Incident at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre