February 9, 2024
Dear Premier Ford and Minister Sylvia Jones,
Two years ago, an independent expert panel, selected Whitby as the site for the construction of a much-needed Hospital in Durham region.
On behalf of the undersigned RESIDENTS OF WHITBY, I am writing to you both to underscore the critical importance of moving forward on the long-overdue Whitby Hospital and express the need for action now.
As you know, the Federal Government and the Provincial Government have signed a bi-lateral healthcare agreement that flows $3.1 billion MORE DOLLARS to Ontario for healthcare over the next three years. This is money that Ontario will get in addition to the $77 billion that will be transferred as part of the Canada Health Transfer.
It is abundantly clear, the Ontario Government has the means to prioritize essential healthcare initiatives like the Whitby Hospital, and our community deserves nothing less.
Durham residents deserve access to quality healthcare right here in our backyard. Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and the federal government has acknowledged this commitment through increased health transfers to Ontario. It is now imperative for the Province of Ontario to invest in the Whitby Hospital without further delay.
Any excuse for postponing is no longer valid. With this additional federal support, Ontario can afford to make the Whitby Hospital a reality. This facility is not a luxury; it’s a fundamental necessity for the well-being of our community, and our family members deserve access to the highest quality care.
We urge you to take immediate action, transfer the land, allocate the necessary funding, and expedite the construction of the Whitby Hospital. The exhaustive, independent site selection process was not in vain; it was a meticulous effort to secure the best possible site for the most underserved areas of Durham region.
Together, with federal support and a provincial commitment, we can ensure the health and well-being of our community. The time for delay has passed. The Whitby Hospital is a necessity we can and must afford.
Now is the time for the Province to keep its commitment by:
1) Releasing the land (at the intersection of Highways 407 and 7) which is owned by the Ministry of Transportation, and,
2) Providing the funding for the planning process which will move this long overdue project forward
The Federal Government, the Town of Whitby, and Lakeridge Health have done their part, now it’s time for you to do yours!
The delivery of healthcare is a provincial responsibility, and our community is counting on you to follow through on your commitment to build a Whitby Hospital.
Respectfully,
Ryan Turnbull
Member of Parliament for Whitby
400 Dundas Street West,
Whitby ON L1N 2M7
(905) 665-8182
ryan.turnbull@parl.gc.ca
