I’m very pleased to see that Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) and the concerned physicians of South Muskoka met recently and continue to work towards a future hospital design solution that benefits all of Muskoka and Almaguin.
Since last winter, I have been actively meeting with the leadership of MAHC, the doctors from across Muskoka, municipal leaders and many members of the public in an effort to find common ground and, ultimately, come to a plan that creates a win-win scenario for the future of the area.
I wish to reiterate what I said when the original proposal was presented. I called on MAHC to slow down and take the opportunity to absorb what the community had said. I know there have been plan modifications and communication with different groups. I was encouraged this week when the meeting with municipalities, MAHC and some South Muskoka doctors took place. My understanding is the meeting was productive.
Muskoka and Almaguin have been presented with an historic investment from the current provincial government. No other area similar in population size in the province has received this level of financial commitment for hospital redevelopment. It’s critical that MAHC and the community at large make the most of this multi-generational opportunity to provide the residents of Muskoka and Almaguin with two, state of the art, acute care hospitals.
I want to thank Mayor Maloney for his efforts in facilitating this week’s meeting. I also wish to acknowledge the physicians and representatives from MAHC who attended the meeting in good faith and with open ears and minds.
I will continue to do my best to bring people together and find common ground on which to develop a plan that best serves our entire riding for many decades to come.
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Cathey Goodwin says
It is interesting to read these comments from Graydon-Smith this morning after hearing completely opposing views from nurses, paramedics, the Green Party, and concerned members of the community at the
well-attended rally in Memorial Park yesterday. Although apparently invited, missing from the line-up of speakers was Graydon-Smith, Mayor Maloney, representatives from MAHC, and local elected politicians. What the large crowd did learn was that the hospital has a shortage of staff and beds NOW and the proposed plan will reduce what we do have; adequate transport and a break-down of costs has not been worked out,; and doctors who oppose the plan have been silenced. The Ford government has no trouble breaking a contract with LCBO one year early that will cost taxpayers millions, or building a road that nobody wants, yet underfunds health care. Is the ultimate goal for Bracebridge to have a micro hospital in a new building that can eventually be privatized? One wonders…
Jim Stewart says
Smiths absence did not go unnoticed! This riding will go green in the next election.
Dave brown says
As the wind blows so goes Graydon. Silence from local mayors should be noted and remembered come election time. Heidi take note your time as mayor is in peril. Ten thousand people signed a petition and are being ignored. The hospital board should resign with their heads held down in shame as they are just incompetent as well as arrogant.