The independent investigator, who has been looking into alleged “racist games” being played in emergency rooms across the province, is set to provide an update on her findings Thursday.
Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, a former Child and Youth Advocate, had been appointed by the BC Government to review serious allegations of “racist and abhorrent” practices occurring in the health care system, particularly towards Indigenous people.
Thursday’s update is scheduled for noon and a live stream will be available on CHEK’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.
According to Health Minister Adrian Dix, he was made aware that some emergency room staff in the province were being accused of playing a game where they attempted to guess the blood alcohol level of patients.
After Dix appointed Turpel-Lafond, he stated that she would “have the authority and power to investigate as she sees fit.”
Horgan also backed the investigation being pursued by both Dix and Turpel-Lafond, saying they have his “full support to ensure that the details of this case will be revealed and that the voices of anyone who has experienced this racist practice will be heard.”
At this time, the location(s) of these alleged practices have not been confirmed, however, a hospital on Vancouver Island seems to be at the centre of the issue.
The CBC is reported that the racist game was played by staff at Saanich Peninsula Hospital.
This story will be updated following Thursday’s announcement at noon.
Graham Cox
