Three groups ask Sask. gov't to close Valley View Centre in Moose Jaw

Three advocacy groups for people with intellectual disabilities have signed an agreement that unites them in asking the government of Saskatchewan to close Valley View Centre in Moose Jaw.
In May, Valley View Family Group, the Saskatchewan Association for Community Living (SACL) and People First Saskatchewan signed the agreement at the annual general meeting of the SACL in Moose Jaw.
Valley View centre houses about 240 residents with intellectual disabilities. The SACL is committed to, according to a press release, "ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities experience inclusion in all aspects of our communities."
Wilda Wallace, president of the SACL, said in the release: "It is our hope that we will work in unison with the Saskatchewan government in developing a closure plan with clear processes for supporting each individual and the development of personal transition plans into the community."
However, the province currently doesn't have any plans for the closure of Valley View Centre, said Jeff Redekop, executive director of the Community Living division with the Ministry of Social Services.
"It's a priority for the ministry to continue to provide high-quality services that are responsive to the needs of people who are living there," he said.
"Should there be any future closure plans, the ministry will engage in consultation and planning with individuals who live at the centre as well as their families and of course staff."
- with files from the Saskatchewan News Network