By Kyra Hoggan
Castlegar city council voted unanimously Tuesday night to invoice BC Ambulance Services (BCAS) for any costs incurred by the Castlegar Fire Department after a gap in ambulance coverage lasted through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as well as New Year’s Day.
City councillor Russ Hearne introduced the motion, arguing that he’s not wild about a precedent that sees the city essentially fending for itself – and footing the bill for the privilege.
“We’re not going to get any money – it’s not about money, it’s about making a point,” he said. “Should someone have been in serious distress, where time was important …
“What upsets me is that a decision was made, at some point, to just leave us without coverage,” he said. “How come 7-11 and Chevron were able to stay open and staffed on Christmas Day, but BCAS can’t design a holiday schedule?
“That’s just scary.”
Representatives from BCAS told The Source an investigation to determine what happened and why is currently under way.
