AUPE rallying Tuesday, June 8 to oppose closing of Red Deer seniors’ homes

RED DEER – Alberta Union of Provincial Employees members have planned a noon-hour rally to take place June 8 at the Red Deer Nursing Home in opposition to Alberta Health Services' plan to close the seniors' health care facility this fall.

Alberta Health Services also plans to close the Valley Park Manor. Together, the two nursing homes provide long-term care beds for 216 senior citizens.

"We want to raise the profile of this issue and help people in Red Deer pressure Alberta Health Services to do the right thing. We welcome anyone who supports proper health care for our seniors to join us," said AUPEPresident Guy Smith.

"When more than 200 seniors are regularly waiting for long-term care in Central Alberta, it's baffling that Alberta Health Services would close one long-term care bed, let alone 216," he added.

The rally will take place outside of the Red Deer Nursing Home (4736 – 30 Street), beginning at 11:30 a.m. and ending at 12:30 p.m.

Smith will be at the rally and available for media interviews. All AUPEmembers and concerned citizens in Red Deer are invited to take part in the rally.

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For more information:

Guy Smith, President, AUPE – 780-930-3301 or 780-265-2294 (cellular)

Mark Wells, Communications Officer, AUPE – 780-930-3406