December 5th, 2022

Ford missing in action on health care crisis as Red Cross steps in to help CHEO: NDP

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP MPP Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West-Nepean) said it’s disturbing that Doug Ford’s government is refusing to address the health care crisis, even after the Canadian Red Cross announced it will be sending a team of health care workers to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario to support with staffing.

“Parents in Ottawa shouldn’t have to hold their breath and hope their little ones don’t need urgent care right now,” said Pasma. “While we are grateful to the Red Cross for stepping in to help, Doug Ford never should have let the health care crisis get to this point at one of the province’s largest children’s hospital.”

In the first half of this year alone, the government shortchanged the health care sector by $900 million, according to the most recent FAO report.

“Mr. Ford is refusing to invest in tackling the health care crisis, and Ottawa families are paying the price. Instead of giving nurses competitive wages and benefits, Mr. Ford is waving goodbye as they leave in droves because they feel disrespected by his wage-capping legislation.”

Last week an Ontario court struck down Bill 124, restoring the right of public sector workers like nurses to free collective bargaining. However, the Ford government has said it will appeal the decision.

“The NDP is urging Mr. Ford and his Health Minister to acknowledge the crisis in our hospitals and immediately give nurses, parents and kids the help they need," said Pasma.