January 29, 2021
Province Announces Improvement in Community Inclusion for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities in Portage la Prairie
– – –Community Living Supports Inclusiveness and Engagement: Squires
PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE—The Manitoba government is taking another step to enhance the quality of life and community inclusiveness for adults with intellectual disabilities, by transitioning residents of Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) in Portage la Prairie to community living over the next three years, Families Minister Rochelle Squires announced here today.
“In Canada and around the world, there is a trend away from institutional care toward community living and inclusion, where individuals with intellectual disabilities live as members of their communities, and are valued for their abilities and uniqueness,” said Squires. “This gives them choice and control over their lives, and provides opportunities for engagement in their communities. As a result, their lives are enhanced and enriched.”
In Portage la Prairie, the minister provided an overview of the transition plan with key stakeholders including Mayor Irvine Ferris.
“The city has been working collaboratively with the province for many years on the future of MDC and understand the need for this change,” said Mayor Irvine Ferris, City of Portage la Prairie. “We look forward to continuing this working relationship as we find valuable alternative uses for the property that will create a meaningful economic impact and ensure Portage la Prairie voices are heard.”
The province will continue to reach out to families, as well as other key stakeholders, agencies and advocates, as the 133 residents of MDC make the transition to supportive community living over the next three years. There will be no immediate changes for MDC staff, the minister said.
“We recognize the excellent work of staff at MDC and their special relationship with the residents who rely on their care, professionalism and expertise,” said Squires. “We will share information about next steps regularly as we continue to move through this process.”
The minister noted that experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted additional factors supporting the decision to make this change including increased risks associated with institutional settings and the capacity that community agencies have demonstrated to adapt quickly.
“Today, we congratulate the Province of Manitoba for having the courage to do the right thing for people with intellectual disabilities living in institutions,” said Janet Forbes, executive director, Inclusion Winnipeg Inc. “The closure of the Manitoba Developmental Centre is the first step in abolishing institutional care. As a society, we must guarantee future generations of people with intellectual disabilities, and their families, that we will never create institutions again.”
In recent years, the province has made a number of significant investments to support Portage la Prairie and the surrounding areas, and planning is underway to build and expand homes in the region to support community living and ongoing economic development.
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