Union wants probe of resident's death at striking seniors home

The union representing striking workers at an Edmonton retirement home is asking the province to investigate the death of a female resident after replacement staff allegedly ignored her requests for an ambulance.

CBC News learned that health problems for the elderly woman at Revera Riverbend Retirement Living began earlier this month.

Relatives of other residents say the woman began complaining about a sore throat and said she needed an ambulance. She confided to one source that she was having what she described as "mini-strokes."

The woman allegedly asked replacement staff at Revera to call an ambulance but CBC News was told that her request was denied. She was taken to hospital after another resident called 911. She died the next day.

About 80 licensed practical nurses, health care aides and support staff at Revera Riverbend have been on strike since June 5. They are represented by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, which has now filed a formal complaint with the provincial government about the woman's death. 

"We've asked for the Protection of Persons in Care Investigation Team to look into it," said AUPE president Guy Smith.

In a written statement, a Revera spokesman confirmed the woman's death, adding "Along with Alberta Health Services, we have reviewed the circumstances thoroughly. We believe the resident received appropriate and timely care."

The company says it will cooperate with any investigation.