Editor:
Re: Doctor sounding alarm over hospital cutbacks, Oct. 17
The article brings back memories and cries out for the need for a Delta Hospital advocacy group separate from the Fraser Health Authority.
An advocacy group would look after the interests of Delta and the Tsawwassen First Nation and could speak freely without threat of dismissal or cancellation of funding.
The Delta Hospital Auxiliary and the Delta Hospital Foundation, with the support of corporations and individuals, are the backbone of the hospital and can be relied upon to continue to raise money for equipment and specialized services.
Despite the cutbacks, the doctors and nurses have served the people of Delta well. Those like Dr. Robert Shaw who speak up are rare because there is always that threat of dismissal or being unable to work at Delta Hospital. They must be listened to and supported. I understand both our MLAs, Vicki Huntington from Delta South and Scott Hamilton from Delta North, support Shaw's concerns.
This attitude can only be changed if, with the support of our MLAs and Delta council, we create our own advocacy authority that will have a greater voice in the present and future needs of an even bigger hospital.
Douglas George Massey
