OTTAWA, May 26 (Reuters) – Canadian soldiers helping to manage the coronavirus outbreak at senior residences have witnessed some “deeply disturbing” scenes, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Tuesday, adding he was shocked and angry.
Nursing homes are responsible for around 80% of all deaths from the new coronavirus in Canada. The situation is particularly bad in Ontario and Quebec, the two most populous provinces, where around 1,400 soldiers are deployed.
Trudeau said at a daily briefing that the armed forces had prepared a report of their observations in Ontario.
“It’s deeply disturbing. There are things there that are extremely worrying and we need to take action,” he said.
Trudeau gave no details but said he forwarded the report to Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who is scheduled to speak to reporters later in the day.
“I was sad, I was shocked, I was disappointed, I was angry,” Trudeau said, reiterating that Canada needs to take much better care of its elderly population.
Both Quebec and Ontario have requested that soldiers remain deployed longer than originally planned, and the federal government is likely to agree, Trudeau said.
Earlier this month, Trudeau referred to “heartbreaking tragedies” at long-term care facilities, mentioning overworked staff and understaffed homes.
Ottawa and the ten provinces — which are responsible for health care — have already agreed to increase wages for essential workers, such as dorm workers.
Trudeau also said Canada has signed a deal with General Motors Co. to produce 10 million face masks. Healthcare providers across the country have repeatedly complained about shortages of personal protective equipment. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
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