What did we learn from Florence Girard's homicide?

In 2018, Florence Girard - a B.C. woman with Down Syndrome - starved to death under the care of a government-funded home share provider. After a B.C. Coroner's Inquest ruled Florence's death a homicide, This is VANCOLOUR host Mo Amir asks inquest witness Tamara Taggart (Down Syndrome BC) about what we learned. What changes need to be made to protect people with disabilities under government care? Recorded: January 27, 2025.

Comments

Webcast of Supreme Court of Nova Scotia Proceeding

Video from the courtroom of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court (Halifax) in case SH-514712 — Isai Estey, by his litigation guardian E. Anne MacRae, v. the Attorney General of Nova Scotia (His Majesty the King in Right of Nova Scotia). This is a class action on behalf of people with disabilities who, for years, were denied or underpaid benefits under the provincial ESIA/Disability Support system. The court has recently approved a settlement totaling approximately $32–34 million, with the proviso that these payments will not be treated as income for recipients. The Courts of Nova Scotia, case SH-514712

Developmental Services Waitlist Class Action

Ontario has been negligent and breached duties it owes to the class members under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, by virtue of these waitlists, some of which can last for years at a time as a result of the broken system. The issue of waitlists for desperately needed services has been a repeatedly identified issue for years, which Ontario has continued to ignore and failed to act upon in any reasonable manner. This action has been certified by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Amended Statement of Claim https://kmlaw.ca/cases/ontario-support-services-waitlist-class-action/

Reimagining Home Share Caregiving: A Path to Career and Fulfillment 💜 It’s time to rethink what home share caregiving really means — not just as a placement or a lifestyle choice, but as a vital career that deserves recognition, fair compensation, and respect. Families and caregivers provide essential support that allows people with disabilities to live meaningful lives in their communities. Yet too often, they’re undervalued, underpaid, and left out of the conversation. This document explores: How we can strengthen recruitment and retention by valuing caregivers as professionals The financial realities families face and why equal support matters The impact of housing costs, lack of respect, and weak accountability Practical solutions — from fair pay and benefits to housing supports and independent oversight We can build a system that values caregivers, strengthens relationships, and ensures stability for the people we support. Let’s start that conversation together.

Search This Blog