THE City of Delta says it is seeking to work with Fraser Health to ensure that Delta Hospice enjoys a secure and stable future.

In a letter to Fraser Health Authority Board Chair, Jim Sinclair, and President and CEO, Dr. Victoria Lee, regarding Delta Hospice Society, on January 28, Delta Mayor George V. Harvie wrote:

“With the Delta Hospice Society service agreement soon to be terminated, Fraser Health Authority is now in a position to require the Irene Thomas Hospice and the Harold and Veronica Savage Centre for Supportive Care buildings to be vacated by the Society. On behalf of Delta Council and our community, we would urge you to hold firm in your commitment to terminate the lease with the Delta Hospice Society for both the hospice building and other facilities on the hospice campus. This step is important to move forward with the best chance for continuing hospice services in this location, in a manner that fully complies with provincial legislation, guidelines and policies. 

“To this end, we would also appreciate the opportunity to discuss with Fraser Health Authority the option for the City of Delta to become the lease holder of the Harold and Veronica Savage Centre for Supportive Care building. Delta would subsequently sublease the building to the Society with a new Board in place to ensure harmonization of service delivery by the Hospice consistent with Fraser Health Authority requirements and ensure that this asset remains whole to deliver vital services to the community. In addition to continuity of services, it is our goal to retain the existing staff and volunteers of the supportive care centre that have made the hospice a centre of excellence in this community, to the greatest possible extent. 

“We are close to seeing this long and difficult chapter in the management of the Delta Hospice finally resolved. Let us work together to ensure that the hospice enjoys a secure and stable future in Delta.

“At the appropriate time, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the above­mentioned option for the City of Delta to lease the Harold and Veronica Savage Centre for Supportive Care.”