Vernon health care workers laid off

A new diagnostic centre will cost nearly 50 Vernon health care workers their jobs.

The Alexander wing, located beside Vernon Jubilee Hospital, will be torn down by June, putting 49 employees out of work.

Program administrator for Interior Health residential and palliative services, Donna Lommer, says six month lay off notice has been given to the affected staff.

She says she is certain they will be able to find other jobs.

The Hospital Employees Union says the closure will put more pressure on the acute care beds at VJH.

Some of the residents at Alexander will move into the new Creekside senior home starting in May.