Bethany Care Society Fatality Inquiry Response
Posted on
Monday, March 01, 2010
Response Statement
Public Fatality Inquiry
(Calgary, March 1, 2010) Today, Judge G. J. Gaschler of the Provincial Court of Alberta released the report of the fatality inquiry into the altercation on April 22, 2007, involving two residents of Bethany Calgary, both suffering from dementia. During this altercation, Mr. John Driscoll assaulted his roommate, Mr. James Cairns, who subsequently died of his injuries. Mr. Driscoll was found not criminally responsible in a criminal trial. In the days following the altercation, Bethany conducted a thorough investigation, as noted in the fatality inquiry, which resulted in changes to four of our practices which we continue to follow.
In our 65 years of serving Albertans, we have never faced such a tragic event. Bethany Care Society is made up of 1300 staff who work daily to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. We are committed to providing a safe environment for residents, staff and volunteers.
We will be implementing measures to respond to the recommendation brought forward by Judge Gaschler to take additional steps to identify and remove objects with the potential to inflict injuries. The Report noted that this was a “unique and unpredictable incident.” Nevertheless, we have learned a great deal from this sad chapter in our history. As we move forward, we will continue to respect the values of choice, quality of life, independence and community for those we serve.
Greer Black
President and CEO
Bethany Care Society
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