City responds to lack of ambulance coverage with upset ... and invoice
By Kyra Hoggan
Castlegar city council voted unanimously Tuesday night to invoice BC Ambulance Services (BCAS) for any costs incurred by the Castlegar Fire Department after a gap in ambulance coverage lasted through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as well as New Year’s Day.
City councillor Russ Hearne introduced the motion, arguing that he’s not wild about a precedent that sees the city essentially fending for itself – and footing the bill for the privilege. “We’re not going to get any money – it’s not about money, it’s about making a point,” he said. “Should someone have been in serious distress, where time was important … “What upsets me is that a decision was made, at some point, to just leave us without coverage,” he said. “How come 7-11 and Chevron were able to stay open and staffed on Christmas Day, but BCAS can’t design a holiday schedule? “That’s just scary.” Representatives from BCAS told The Source an investigation to determine what happened and why is currently under way.
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