While the Ministry of Children and Family Development is restructuring its operations in Penticton and Summerland, the changes are not expected to affect those who use the ministry’s services.
“All ministry intake calls for Penticton and Summerland will be handled through the Penticton office, using a single contact number,” a statement from the ministry said. “These changes are being made to provide more streamlined service delivery for the ministry and will have no impact on staffing levels or the services provided to the area.”
In a letter sent to municipal council earlier, ministry officials said the changes were needed to reduce gaps and overlaps in services.
Restructuring plans have been in the works since 2010, after a review of the ministry’s services.
Earlier, members of municipal council expressed concern about the changes, which will take effect on Jan. 2.
Council invited ministry staff to meet with council to discuss the effects of the changes.
The meeting between council and the community service manager for the South Okanagan will be held on Jan. 14.