Smith announces more money for the region

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith
News Release

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The McGuinty government is providing $182,498 to the Nipissing District Social Services Administration Board to strengthen land ambulance services that provide crucial care to patients in this area, Hon. Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing and Minister of Revenue announced today.

“With this planned investment, we are meeting our commitment to strengthen the existing levels of land ambulance services announced in 2006, by moving towards 50/50 funding by 2008,” said Smith. “This brings the total additional investment for these services across Ontario since 2006 to just over $300 million. We are meeting our commitment to our land ambulance services providers which will help improve ambulance services for patients.”

“This is great news for our municipal members as this funding will bring our Ministry of Health partner to a full 50/50 cost sharing of the Nipissing District’s ambulance service. This funding will help address some of the projected 2008 cost increases and provide resources to meet the growing needs for Emergency Medical Services,” stated Bill White, Chief Administrative Officer of the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board.

“Our government is determined to work in partnership with Ontario’s municipalities in delivering quality ambulance services,” said Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “We are building a relationship with municipalities nurtured by consultation and co-operation. In recent years our relationship has fostered significant investments and achievements.”

“We’re proud to be able to deliver this additional funding for the province’s ambulance services,” said Minister of Health and Long-Term Care George Smitherman. “People depend on these crucial services in emergency situations so we must do everything we can to support them.”

The funding announced today will assist municipalities and designated delivery agents who are responsible for providing land ambulance services. Under the Ambulance Act, municipalities are responsible for the cost and provision of land ambulance services within their jurisdiction. Provincial funding to assist with these costs is provided through land ambulance services grants.

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