VIHA HEAD'S LETTER IS OUT OF TOUCH

Howard Waldner, the Vancouver Island Health Authority's chief
executive officer, defends the health authority's record with classic
ivory-tower explanations.

Waldner denies what Dr. Anthony Barale and others working in the
front lines of mental health and addiction services have to say about
their frustrations in helping those who are mentally ill, those who
are addicted and those who have a combination of both, many of these
people being homeless and transient.

I have worked for VIHA for more than 12 years and have felt the
frustration over the disconnect between those at the top levels of
VIHA bureaucracy and those at the front lines. Get switched on, Mr.
Waldner. Start by listening to what's really happening. Your
defensive letter tells me you're not.

Seamus McGlynn, RN, MHSc,

Retired team leader,

Mental Health and Addictions,

Nanaimo.