Those who rely on Home Care were shocked when it was revealed that St. Joseph’s and the VON, who currently provide services, are not even allowed to bid on the new Hamilton home care contract. That means patients will lose the home care providers they know and trust.

The Liberals flawed, costly and confusing “cutthroat bidding” system will pit agencies against one another to provide the cheapest, most profitable home care. “ I believe what we are facing here is worse then what the Tories ever did ,” said OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas, “ LHINS will be dismantling health care as we know it and the CCAC will be the vehicle they use in the community.    I believe we can turn this around."

The contract with VON and St. Joseph’s expires and the end of April 2008.