Infant-development advisers and the way forward
Vancouver Sun
Nov 2 2009
Letters By: Judie Sahadeo, Langley

Re: Children's ministry funding cuts may prove short-sighted and harmful, by Hillel Goelman and Mari Pighini, Oct. 28

I recently retired from working with both the Infant Development Program and the Aboriginal Infant Development program. I am aware of huge distress coming from the medical community -- especially B.C.'s Children's Hospital and public health authorities -- over these ill-advised cuts to the provincial advisers' roles. I hope Children and Families Minister Mary Polak and Deputy Minister Lesley du Toit are listening.

We would all like to think that when the B.C. government funds programs, there is a dedication to excellence. The provincial advisers have provided the means by which workers in these programs are supported and informed about new resources and best practices.

If ministry staff attempt to fill their functions, we will see the costs soar and quality decline. These offices are cost-efficient as they are and absolutely necessary for families in this province. Please, please, reconsider this decision and don't let down the parents and children who need these services.