Investigation into the demise of a care worker in Calgary suggests implementing changes in the provincial laws
In Calgary five years ago, the tragic stabbing death of care worker Deborah Onwu shook the community. Brandon Newman, an 18-year-old individual with a documented history of violent behavior, cognitive challenges, and complex mental health needs, was convicted for the crime in 2023.
Deborah Onwu was highly respected within her community and had been working at Woods Homes Community Care Facility the night she was killed. On that fateful evening, Brandon Newman, who had previously seriously injured a staff member at another care facility while under the care of child and family services, returned to the program reportedly under the influence of drugs.
A downstairs co-worker rushed to help after hearing a loud commotion and Onwu screaming, "Why are you doing this to me?" Sadly, Deborah Onwu succumbed to her injuries, having sustained 19 stab wounds that left her dead on the facility's front lawn.
The Ministry of Child and Family Services has vowed to review any recommendations to determine whether changes to current policies and practices are needed to help prevent similar deaths. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has published a report on Deborah Onwu's death, advocating for legislative reforms and four key recommendations for urgent legislative changes to prevent similar tragedies.
One of the key recommendations is the mandating of the sharing of critical information between agencies and workers. This history, which was never disclosed to Deborah Onwu or the Woods Homes care facility, could have potentially saved her life.
Troy Winters, a CUPE health and safety expert, stated that the information not being shared was a huge problem during the inquest. Raj Uppal, CUPE Alberta President, added that if Deborah Onwu had certain protections, she might still be alive.
Since 2020, the UCP government has consistently weakened protections for workers to reduce red tape and administrative burdens. Critics suggest that these changes are needed and should be mandated sector-wide.
In response to the tragedy, the society made statements acknowledging Deborah Onwu as a highly respected member and their efforts to champion systemic changes and implement higher standards to advance health and safety. The CUPE's report and the calls for change continue to echo in the community, as the memory of Deborah Onwu serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting care workers and ensuring their safety.
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