DUNLOP ANNOUNCES $40M FOR SOLDIERS' MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
For Immediate Release
May 9, 2003

(Orillia) – Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop announced today that the Ernie Eves government will provide up to $40,568,170 to Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital for the completion of the hospital's redevelopment project.

"Making sure that this project moves forward has been my number one priority since I was elected in 1999," said Dunlop. "This milestone is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a hospital foundation, board and administration work closely with their MPP toward a common goal. It's the type of partnership that should be a model for other hospitals to follow."

"If it weren't for Garfield Dunlop"s tireless and persistent efforts, we wouldn't have this hospital redevelopment project," said Glen Penwarden, Executive Director, Orillia Soldiers" Memorial Hospital. "We truly appreciate Garfield's dedication and the commitment of Health and Long-Term Care Minister Tony Clement to our hospital."

The Eves government's investment in the Soldiers' redevelopment project was identified on page 19 of the recent Budget. On top of the $17 million mentioned in the Budget, a maximum grant of over $23 million was since approved to reflect the project"s cost increase.

"I am proud of our government's record on supporting hospitals in this community," said Dunlop. "Between 1999/00 and 2002/03 alone, the Eves government increased operating funding for our three hospitals by 21 percent, from $60 million to $76 million."

This year, the Eves government will invest $27.6 billion in health care, an increase of $10 billion since the government was first elected in 1995.

Contact:
Garfield Dunlop
(705) 327-4500 (cell)