Smith says Conservatives are fear mongering over health scare

Conservative MPP John Yakabuski (Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke) turned the current health scare in North Bay into a political ploy Thursday when he accused Nipissing MPP Monique Smith of displaying poor leadership in the wake of the health crises.

"Our thoughts are with those that are ill. We are hopeful that we will soon see the outbreak recede and we commend the front line health workers, the Mayor and city council, and the residents of North Bay for their efforts during this difficult time. Unfortunately we cannot say the same for the local MPP, Ms. Smith, who has been noticeably absent during this entire ordeal," Yakabuski notes in a news release.

He went on to say that Smith should have been out informing constituents of the facts to avoid any confusion and at the same time telling the province and the world that it is safe to come to the Bay.

"North Bay is a wonderful city and a great tourism destination and we encourage residents from across Ontario to come visit. North Bay is safe, beautiful and very much open for business. We also encourage local residents to continue to go out for dinner, to continue to help the local businesses and restaurants that rely so much on their patronage."

Smith says she is very disappointed that the Conservative MPP would sink to such a low level and question the process in place and the good work of the health unit team.

"I am shocked and saddened that the Conservatives would choose to play politics with such a serious issue," states Smith.

"While members of my community are working hard with our public health professionals to bring this outbreak under control and working together to ensure that the long term effects are minimized, Mr Yakabusky, who has no connection to our community, is fear mongering."

"It is just plain wrong to play politics with a health scare".