Health care emerged as a common theme throughout a variety of topics covered in Wednesday’s Parry Sound-Muskoka provincial election candidates’ debate.
The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce teamed up with YourTV for the event.
Questions revolved around the commitment to build two new hospitals in Muskoka, solving healthcare shortages and wait times, the need for more mental health supports, affordable housing, infrastructure and much more.
Three of the candidates from the four parties that have seats at Queen’s Park took part, including the Green Party’s Matt Richter, PC incumbent Graydon Smith and the NDP’s Jim Ronholm.
Liberal David Innes was invited but didn’t attend.
Regarding the hospitals, Ronholm said he’d talk to residents and doctors to create a design that works for the community and make sure the project doesn’t get derailed. Smith reiterated his involvement in getting $1 billion commitment to begin with and vowed to continue prioritizing the project. Richter said he looks forward to continuing the fight to bring proper healthcare to the region.
Brandon Nicksy of the New Blue Party provided a video statement. Organizers said the Ontario Party’s Helen Kroeker was offered the chance to submit a video, but did not.
You can watch the full debate here:
Election Day is Feb. 27.
