Smith says hospital funding isn't going anywhere - urges patience
MPP Graydon Smith released a statement on social media expressing concern and calling on all parties to work together to come to a consensus on hospital redevelopment plans.
Smith says that as Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare plans new hospital developments funded by the provincial government for two new acute care sites for Muskoka and Almaguin, he says “ he funding for these projects is not going anywhere.”
He added that “there have been attempts by some parties or groups to politicize, for partisan gain, what remains a community-level planning process. They thrive on pitting people against one another, one town against the other; the south against the north and vice versa.”
“The fact remains that a viable plan which ensures long-term success cannot be achieved when one half of the catchment area remains deeply unsupportive. Whether it is the north or the south, there must be more acceptance of the plan to assure long-term viability,” he added.
Addressing regional divides, he stressed the need for consensus to ensure long-term success and urges patience for a balanced solution. He reaffirms government's dedication to getting the redevelopment right from the outset, emphasizing community support as pivotal.
