EX-LTC worker in Red Deer charged with failing to isolate

Federal Quarantine Act used against man who returned from trip to U.S. in the fall

A former Red Deer long-term care employee has been charged with failing to isolate after returning from the U.S. in the fall.

Red Deer RCMP said in a news release Thursday the charge was laid under the federal Quarantine Act following an investigation conducted in collaboration with Alberta Health Services.

The health-care aide worked for the Extendicare Michener Hill long-term care home, according to Mounties. The worker's employment was terminated more than eight weeks ago following a probe by the operator.

Extendicare informed the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) that the employee failed to isolate after travelling to the U.S., “in an effort to ensure the safety of the residents in their care,” according to RCMP.

PHAC then contacted police Oct. 19, prompting the RCMP investigation.

“A comprehensive investigation was conducted, which included witness evidence and judicial authorizations to obtain records,” RCMP stated.

“A charge has now been supported, and the accused has been served with a summons to appear in Red Deer Court on Jan. 26, 2021.”

Everyone entering Canada must isolate for 14 days under federal rules, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Violating those rules could result in penalties of up to $750,000 in fines and six months in prison.

“A staff member's employment was terminated following an internal investigation, prompted by allegations that clear COVID-19 safety restrictions regarding travel were not followed,” an Extendicare spokesperson said in a statement.

“The issue was quickly reported to the authorities and Extendicare Michener Hill has co-operated fully with the RCMP in its investigation. The safety of our residents and staff is paramount and we take our responsibility to them, and their families, incredibly seriously. Any disregard for the rules in place to protect the people we care for will be met with a swift and severe response.”