Threats to WECHU staff 'increased significantly' over past few weeks:CEO

Windsor, Ont. -

The CEO of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit says they have received a significant increase in the number of threats to staff over the past few weeks.

CEO Nicole Dupuis says they are sending a message to the community that frustration is something they understand, but threats won’t be tolerated.

“It’s really in the past few weeks in particular related to vaccination and some of the public health measures that we’re seeing, it’s increased significantly and the level of discourse and the way in which individuals may be expressing those feelings in a threatening or abusive manor,” says Dupuis. “We’ve seen that increase over the past few weeks.”

The Ontario government’s COVID-19 vaccine receipt policy went into effect on Sept. 22. Dupuis says they were anticipating an increase in communication from the public.

“Any time there’s changes in mandates or public health measures, we do see an increase in communication and public discourse,” said Dupuis.

While a statement from Dupuis said the WECHU encourages a public discourse and respects the rights of people to speak out and express their feelings about any actions they do not agree with, it is not appropriate when they escalate to abusive, threatening or violent language.

“The WECHU deplores any act of violence or threatening behavior towards others and supports the right of our staff to a safe work environment free from violence and harassment,” the statement said.

Dupuis says in some cases police were involved, but she can’t comment on if there were charges.

“We should all stand united and speak against violent behavior and remember to respond with empathy and kindness towards each other as we navigate this pandemic together,” she said.

WECHU has shut down comments on social media and put messaging on their website about how to communicate frustrations properly.

“Please remember that the public health staff that you interact with are fulfilling their duties and are doing so in the interest of the health of our community,” Dupuis said. “Our staff are here to listen, to answer questions, and to provide care and support.”