During the call, Matthew and Andrew
attempted to explain the discussions the CNIB Board had had with the government
about funding, discussions that had led to the closures of subsidiary offices
and sales rooms and reduction of CNIB staff. Andrew agreed that the media
interpretation of the decisions was not clear. Our group suggested that a
written news release might have solved any initial confusion. Andrew agreed and
our small group was pleased to learn that in the early part of this year, we
could anticipate a regular newsletter to the facilitators of the various peer support
groups in Alberta. This newsletter will apparently give updates on any
happenings in CNIB which might affect clients.
The two CEO’s attempted to explain the
division between VLR (Vision Loss Rehabilitation) and CNIB Foundations. Basically
VLR is responsible for essential health services to persons with vision loss while
CNIB Foundations is the larger umbrella of the organization and covers the
charitable end of things.
While the conference call was a good one
and did answer some of our questions and concerns, there is still a long road
ahead. Primarily we will look forward to a communications network which will
inform us of future changes. Will there eventually be a newsletter? Will there
be access to vision loss aides and devices? Will there be a mobility training unit?
We recognize the economic climate of the
times but we also look forward to an agency with the needs of CNIB clients as
its primary focus. Thank you to Matthew
and Andrew for addressing some of our concerns in this week’s conference call.
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