Letter from South Cariboo Infant Development Program

October 7, 2009

Re. Potential closure of IDP Provincial Office


Dear Premier Campbell;

I am writing to express grave concerns about the decision not to renew the funding for the Provincial Office of the Infant Development Program.

This appears to be a misunderstanding of the role of the Provincial Office.

The Provincial Office is the “parent” to the 39 Infant Development Programs in B.C. Without the leadership and guidance of the Provincial Office, our separate programs will be left to fend for ourselves. This job is already complicated and difficult at the best of times, especially in a small community where we do not have other professional resources.

As a sole charge consultant, I rely heavily on the Provincial Office to guide me in this work, so that the families with young children at risk in our community receive the best possible services we can offer.

Please read my specific concerns (attached). I am sure that it is not the intention of the government to weaken successful programs, and that you will be able to clear up this serious misunderstanding.


Sincerely,


_______________
Kjerstin Dunk
Infant Development Consultant
100 Mile House, B.C.