Much is often made of the power of the people, to the point that it seems almost cliche. But Friday was a good example of what can happen when residents from all walks of life band together in a unified front. Health Minister Michael de Jong finally arrived to
announce capacity issues at Vernon Jubilee Hospital will be addressed
and additional beds will be opened. This only occurred because residents of the North
Okanagan held the feet of their elected officials to the fire, and the
lobbying was truly impressive. Hundreds of people showed up for rallies in front of
VJH on statutory holidays while the residents of Falkland gathered in
huge numbers to add their voice. Vernonite Peter Hill organized rallies
and petitions. Purple ribbons demanding action were worn as a badge of
honour. On top of this were the tireless efforts of physicians
and nurses, who have personally experienced first-hand the challenges of
having patients in the halls or surgeries cancelled. Virtually every
local municipal council also placed their support behind the campaign. Credit must also go to Vernon-Monashee MLA Eric Foster
who clearly understands what an elected representative is supposed to
do. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with his residents even when it was
his own government experiencing scrutiny. And this energy that crossed the region will continue
to be needed as planning for the new beds proceeds. We must remain
vigilant that the government fulfills its commitments. But for now, all
residents of the North Okanagan should celebrate the role they played in
ensuring their elected officials not only listened to them, but
actually responded.
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