Top execs at Niagara Health call hospital protests ‘irresponsible, dangerous’
Published September 14, 2021 at 1:26 pm
Two of Niagara Health’s top executives released a joint statement criticizing the numerous protests at Ontario Hospitals.
Lynn Guerriero, President and CEO, and Dr. Johan Viljoen, Chief of Staff, Executive Vice President of Medical Affairs, said that it “has been extremely concerning to witness protests targeting hospitals across the country in response to COVID-19.”
They continued, “While we respect the right to peacefully protest, protesting at hospitals is irresponsible and can be dangerous. These protests are putting vulnerable people at risk by obstructing access to care, often in emergency situations.”
So far, no Niagara hospitals have been targeted for protest. However, they said it still affects regional health staff.
“These protests are demoralizing for our teams and healthcare workers everywhere who have so dutifully and compassionately put patients and their families first since the pandemic began.”
Dr. Karim Ali, Niagara Health’s Director, Division of Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Stewardship Program and Pandemic Preparedness Lead, agreed, posting a video of Liberal leader Justin Trudeau, condemning the hospital protests.
“Agreed,” said Ali of Trudeau’s comments. “This is so important. Thank you for standing up and speaking against this. Protests are okay. But targeting hospitals and patients And healthcare workers is not okay! Thanks PM Justin Trudeau!”
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