Title: E. Coli Outbreak in Calgary Drives Calls for Public Inquiry into Child-Care Services
Calgary, Canada – In the wake of an E. coli outbreak that has affected hundreds of children in Calgary, there are mounting demands for a public inquiry into the city’s child-care services. Despite calls from the Official Opposition’s New Democratic Party and child-care advocates across the country, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has not committed to such an investigation. The lack of definitive action has left many questioning the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis and restoring public trust in child-care services.
Premier Smith has repeatedly stated her intention to review the circumstances surrounding the outbreak; however, she remains uncertain about the form this review will take. When asked directly whether she would hold a public inquiry to thoroughly investigate the outbreak and establish recommendations to prevent future crises, she responded, I have committed to do a review. I am not quite sure what form that will take just yet. The government’s current focus is on managing the immediate crisis before considering a more in-depth investigation or potential legislative changes.
As of the latest update from Alberta Health Services (AHS), there have been nearly 350 confirmed cases of E. coli, predominantly among children. The outbreak was initially declared on September 4th, linked to six Fueling Brains Academy daycares in Calgary and six other sites sharing a common kitchen. Since then, an additional six daycares have been affected, with 27 secondary cases confirmed. Currently, nine patients remain hospitalized, three of whom are receiving dialysis due to the development of hemolytic uremic syndrome.
The outbreak has shed light on various issues surrounding child-care facilities and their adherence to regulations. Fueling Minds, the catering kitchen believed to be the epicenter of the outbreak, shares ownership similarities with Fueling Brains. Inspections conducted by AHS since July 2021 have uncovered multiple violations on-site, including the presence of cockroaches, improper food storage equipment, and the detection of a sewer gas smell. These infractions have sparked frustration among parents and guardians, who had placed their trust in both the daycare facility and the government’s regulatory measures.
In response to concerns raised by parents, Premier Smith announced that the government is currently reviewing all shared kitchens serving child-care centers. If necessary, changes to the Public Health Act regulations will be implemented. She is hopeful that recommendations will be proposed by the end of the year. Furthermore, as part of the panel reviewing Alberta’s COVID-19 response, Premier Smith has enlisted the help of conservative stalwart Preston Manning to assess the Public Health Act in relation to the outbreak. Manning’s previous criticisms of public-health measures, including vaccine mandates during the pandemic, have raised doubts among some about his suitability for the role.
Child-care advocates and the New Democratic Party are calling for an immediate and independent public inquiry into the outbreak. They argue that anything short of a comprehensive investigation led by an impartial figure will fail to restore public trust and provide the answers that Albertans deserve. The NDP’s child care and children and family services critic, Diana Batten, stated, We need to ensure transparency and accountability, and the final results of the investigation need to restore public trust that has been so greatly shattered during this crisis. Batten also expressed concerns about Manning’s ability to conduct a fair assessment due to his history of anti-science rhetoric.
As the investigation into the E. coli outbreak continues, there is a growing sense of urgency from parents, guardians, and child-care advocates who seek answers and assurances that the necessary measures will be taken to prevent similar crises in the future. The realization that trust in child-care services has been compromised has prompted widespread calls for a thorough public inquiry to shed light on the outbreak’s origins and guide future improvements.
Sources:
– The Globe and Mail: Child-care advocates call for public inquiry following E. coli outbreak
– The Globe and Mail: Additional daycares close amid Calgary E. coli outbreak
– The Globe and Mail: Parents write open letter to Danielle Smith demanding action
