The Opposition has released a series of documents acquired through Access to Information, that outline a long list of deficiencies identified in the construction of two long-term care facilities in Gander and Grand Falls-Windsor.
Health Minister John Haggie revealed in response to Opposition questions in the House of Assembly last month that the facilities, built through a public-private partnership, had not yet been transferred to government because of deficiencies that had to be addressed.
Opposition critic for Transportation and Infrastructure Barry Petten today released documents from Central Health that show the kitchen range hood was not installed to meet cooking requirements at the facilities, even though it was identified in the project agreement.
In essence, the ventilation system which runs through three levels of the building, passes through resident living spaces and continues on to the roof.
It was identified as a “major concern,” as grease laden vapors produced could become a fire hazard, requiring the proper installation of a different type of hood and ventilation system.
Meanwhile, Petten called a media availability today, asking how the Liberal government could allow that many “substantive issues” from going unaddressed.
The facilities were built by a consortium known as the NL Healthcare Partners Team, made up of a variety of companies under the leadership of Fengate Capital Management of Ontario and SEC Pomerleau of Quebec.
