Inquest into Lisa Gibson tragedy likely to be called

WINNIPEG — Family of Lisa Gibson say the 32-year-old mom sought treatment for postpartum depression in the days leading up to the deaths of her two children, Nicholas and Anna.

It is unclear exactly what kind of treatment she received but Manitoba Health Minister Theresa Oswald said a review shows the proper steps were taken by health-care professionals following the births of both of Gibson’s children.

“Public health nurses follow a protocol that involves assessing the home, the wellness of the mom and the family and assessing any potential risks for mental-health issues,” said Oswald.

Oswald said there does not appear to be any deviation from the regular protocols in this case.

The chief medical examiner could not be reached for comment; however, according to the Fatality Inquiries Act, an investigation appears likely.

Under the Act, the CME is mandated to investigate any time a child dies.

An investigation must also happen whenever a death occurs as a result of a homicide, suicide and/or any deaths during or after a pregnancy.

The tragic deaths came just two months after Winnipeg opened a “first of its kind in Canada” Mental Health Crisis Response Centre.

It’s expected 10,000 will make their way through the centre each and every year. However, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority could not provide the number of patients who have been seen or treated at the centre since its opening.

Winnipeg paramedics are raising a red flag with the newly opened centre.

The Paramedics Association of Manitoba told Global News that paramedics and ambulances are barred from dropping off patients at the centre .

The association said it’s a problem that leaves mental-health patients in the province “grossly underserved.”

Oswald said the province has already amended existing legislation to allow paramedics to drop patients off at urgent care centres and it is currently reviewing the issues brought up surrounding the crisis centre.