There is no acceptable explanation for why the Provincial Government waited until all these COVID-19 related deaths happened in long-term care homes to finally acknowledge something that they were made aware of many times before. While I will give kudos to Premier Ford for his pledge to move forward with change, we can only hope that this is not yet again another exercise in lip-service. If substantive change is expected to occur, it must be done without needless delay. Although the oversight of long-term care homes may fall under provincial responsibility, the federal government can also provide leadership in encouraging a common system of standards and oversight throughout Canada. As all levels of government may be required to provide a financial contribution, it needs to be void of the usual back and forth about affordability and responsibility. Just get it done.
