Urgent Relocation of CLSC Sparks Outrage in Lachine-Dorval

UPDATE: The relocation of the CLSC serving Lachine and Dorval to LaSalle has ignited significant community backlash. Residents are voicing strong concerns about accessibility to essential health services, claiming the new location creates a health-care “desert.”

Just three weeks ago, the West-Island Health Board (CIUSSS) confirmed the closure of the CLSC on Notre-Dame Street in Lachine, stating that the existing facilities are no longer adequate for quality care. “We had to relocate the CLSC Dorval-Lachine because the existing facilities are no longer up to standard to offer quality care and services,” said Helene Bergeron-Gamache of the West-Island CIUSSS. Most services have now been moved several kilometers away to the LaSalle CLSC on Newman Boulevard, raising alarm among local leaders.

Local representatives are deeply unhappy with this decision. “The need hasn’t gone away. It’s just going to be harder for those people to get the services they need. Will they be back at a new location in Lachine? Are they going to have to take the bus to LaSalle? It’s not very clear what we’re going to do,” expressed Dorval Mayor Marc Doret. In addition, some services have been transferred to an older building on Third Avenue, which residents deem inadequate as well.

Community activist Bernard Blanchet raised serious concerns about transportation barriers. “People don’t necessarily have a way to get there. If they don’t have a car… public transit has never been very good,” he lamented. He fears that moving essential services could result in a permanent loss for the community.

Residents of Lachine are already feeling the impact of this change, with many saying they will miss the convenience of having health services nearby. Patient care activist Paul Brunet has filed a complaint with the health board’s ombudsman, arguing that “the challenges of transportation and moving can be just as difficult as the care they need.”

Adding to the mounting criticism, Enrico Ciccone, the local Liberal member of the National Assembly, stated, “I find this move unacceptable. I’m tired of seeing my constituents insecure about health care. Many don’t have a car and have to walk.”

Mayor Doret revealed that he had previously offered the health board two alternative locations for a new CLSC nearby, but those proposals fell through due to funding issues. He now fears this move to LaSalle could become a permanent fixture, leaving the community without essential health services.

As tensions rise, residents and local leaders alike are urging the health board to reconsider this decision and address the transportation and accessibility issues facing vulnerable populations. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated as community members rally for their right to accessible health care.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.