ALL ISLANDERS: here is some more information in regards to the Victoria SPCA branch .. remember I posted what you can do from your area to help **SENT ON BEHALF OF CORY BOND** Speaking Out My reason for speaking out is prompted by the repeated, public comments of “no changes” to the Friendly Neighbour fund, by Provincial Office BCSPCA representatives in response to the recent departures of Marty, Penny and I, and the concerns expressed following our respective departures. Let me state the following: • October 12, 2012 memo titled “ Procedures for the Friendly Neighbour Fund” from Bob Busch that was recently circulated by Provincial Office. New procedures and protocols identified. No discussion or input from Shelter Managers. That’s a change • Subsequent meetings and conversations between Victoria Shelter Managers and Provincial office incorporating the monthly medical budget into the Friendly Neighbour Fund ( “FNF”) That’s a change • July 8th, 2013 written directive to Penny Stone ( of which I was a witness and received a copy at the time ), stating…” budget for 2013 is $219,600 and Penny needs to reduce medical expenses to come in on target.” That’s a change. Past practice had always allowed for funds to be derived from FNF when over monthly medical budget. • My resignation was prompted over the last written directive when we were advised medical costs needed to be reduced, regardless of our request to trigger the use of funds from FNF. Several days later, there was verbal acknowledgement to me from Regional Manager Graeme Wright that there had been a “mistake”. On July 18th, 2013 several meetings were held with representatives from Provincial Office, volunteers, Graeme Wright and myself. It was stated that in the interim, the medical budget for the remainder of the year will reflect what was spent in the previous year. That’s a change. • An email from Graeme Wright to volunteers and staff dated July 23rd, to reflect meetings held July 18th further indicates…” Through the next months, Penny, Finance, Fundraising and I will work together on defining what is considered medical expenses as part of regular budget and what should be covered by FNF”. Penny was terminated August 13th. So, “moving forward”… I am a passionate supporter of the current and future animals in the Victoria shelter. My opinion is that now is the time for the BCSPCA to acknowledge there were changes; mistakes were made ; and that verbal reassurances at this point are not suffice. Actions speak louder than words – I need to see demonstrated, continued action of emergency medical care being provided to animals- long term. Please come to our public demonstration tomorrow ( Sunday ) pm outside the shelter at the entrance of the Galloping Goose trail, off Burnside Rd. W. – on public property. We want accountability, transparency and honesty ! Cory
Posted on: Sun, 18 Aug 2013 05:26:29 +0000