During the long-running anger about the Haldi Road Northern Supportive Recovery Centre for Women I have often been tempted to write this letter to assure the neighbourhood that, from our experience with Iris Place, they have no need to be concerned.
Today I am finally writing this letter to support the letter published today by our friend and neighbour, Rod Duncan.
When Iris Place, a residence for severely mentally handicapped patients, was established
over a decade ago without any consultation with the neighbours, we were concerned. There has not been one negative incident in all that time.
The residents (I refuse to call them inmates) are monitored in a firm but gentle manner. I could say that we are on a first name basis with the residents except that Joan (not her real name) has to ask me on a regular basis what my name is.
I, too, support Shari Green's stand on the centre. I consider my vote for Shari as a vote against Dan Rogers, under whose leadership the pursuit of Brian Skakun can only be termed vicious and vindictive. I consider Brian Skakun a man of integrity.
Blaine Rowe
Prince George
