The United Counties of Prescott-Russell council (UCPR) confirmed Éric Larocque as the new administrator for the long-term care residence during a special meeting August 10.
Larocque has been a UCPR employee for 21 years, including 13 years as superintendent and as emergency services deputy chief since 2019. He lobbied for several key projects in regional health care services, including distribution of defibrillators at various public buildings and recreational facilities in Prescott-Russell, coordination of regional emergency measures, and development of the Critical Incident Stress Management Team.
« With the construction of the new Residence currently underway, » stated UCPR Warden Daniel Lafleur, « the shortage of health care professionals, and the ongoing pandemic, the challenges ahead for Mr. Larocque are significant. However, Mr. Larocque’s extensive health care experience and his outstanding management skills make him the ideal candidate to maintain our residents’ safety and quality of life. »
Early in July Alexandre Gorman tendered his resignation as the facility’s administrator, citing personal reasons. Larocque became the interim administrator for the PR Residence while UCPR council and administration reviewed options for Gorman’s replacement.
« I would like to acknowledge Mr. Gorman’s remarkable professionalism, courage, and determination throughout his time at the UCPR, and, more specifically, during the pandemic, » stated Stéphane Parisien, UCPR chief administrator. « Despite his young age and extraordinary circumstances, he provided great leadership, led his troops, and ensured the safety of residents with success. We sincerely thank him for his exceptional work, and wish him all the best in his professional and personal endeavours. »