Union's claims about Yukon group homes 'myths and inaccuracies', gov't says
Union says understaffed homes are posing risks to workers and residents
Yukon government officials are rejecting union claims that its residential group homes for youth are dangerously understaffed, calling those statements "myths and inaccuracies."
Last week, Yukon Employees Union president Steve Geick said group home staff and youth are regularly put at risk because those homes are not adequately staffed.
"I don't know where Steve Geick is getting his data or how he is drawing those conclusions," said Mike Healey, who manages the Residental Youth Treatment Services (RYTS).
"We currently employ a full complement of our staff, and actually we're quite pleased to announce that we have a full complement of staff right now."
Three years ago, the Yukon Workers' Compensation Health and Safety Board investigated the RYTS program, after there were 21 workplace injuries reported over an 18 month period.
Andrew Robulack of the board says that lead to a safety audit.
"One of the big outcomes of the safety audit was they did put a very comprehensive safety plan in place which they continue to follow," he said.
Robulack adds there is a new investigation now underway, into an injury report from a group home staff member.
Government officials say they are not aware of the investigation.
With files from Vic Istchenko