LOCAL ACTION

Information for OPSEU members at regional centres in the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services

These are a few reasons why we are affected by the Rideau Regional Closure:

• 429 residents will be kicked out of their home
• This will cause a huge, devastating disruption in the quality of their lives.
• The average resident is 52 years old.
• 81% of residents have an IQ of less than 40. This means that they are severely handicapped.
• 283 residents have severe mobility problem.
• 80% are non-verbal.
• Over 70% have chronic, long-term physical disabilities.
• 40% are dually diagnosed with mental and emotional disabilities.
• The Rideau Regional Centre provides first-rate service with staff possessing over 20 years of experience on average.
• Residents will not receive this kind of needed service without the Centre. They will be losing their friends, as well. Many consider the staff as their family, as a speaker noted at the rally.