Editor: A parking violation or problem should be the least of concerns for patients and visitors using 91原创 Memorial Hospital.
At present, it is a poor system, offering no thought or service to its patrons.
The majority of folks using this parking lot are patients coming for hospital care, which includes seniors, the infirm, visitors (who may be seeing a loved one for the last time), folks on walkers, canes, wheelchairs, etc.
Why, in one of the richest countries in the world, are we accepting outdoor, unsheltered coin-operated machines in the worst of inclement weather and thinking this is the best the parking authority can offer?
Nonsense.
This is not some cash-strapped Third World country 鈥� this is Canada and we deserve better than this.
On site, there are warning signs that the system is under 24-hour surveillance.
That being the case, then put that person back into a toll booth, which gives you a parking stub when you enter, pay when you leave.
That used to be what the hospital provided and when they discarded that system it was strictly for profit 鈥� not for the comfort of its patrons.
This is not nickel and dime operation and some organization is making a hefty profit at the expense of the patrons.
There is no reason why a canopy running the central length of the parking lot across the roadway up to the entrance shouldn鈥檛 also be provided. If Vancouver airport can provide sheltered service so can 91原创 hospital.
So the next time 91原创 Memorial Hospital puts out an appeal for public support, let鈥檚 ask them first to remember they are a caring organization and it starts here 鈥� fix this outdated parking system to one of caring for all who use it.
Terry Shannon,
91原创
