Possible closure of public health labs, including Sault's, 'short-sighted and dangerous'

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article originally appeared on The Trillium, a Village Media website devoted to covering provincial politics at Queen’s Park.

The concerns over the possible closures stem in part from the auditor general's annual report in December, which included a value-for-money audit on Public Health Ontario . The agency provides scientific and technical advice and operates 11 public health labs. "Upon receipt of ministry approval to proceed, Public Health Ontario will commence the phased implementation of the plan. We will work closely with our stakeholders throughout the implementation process to communicate changes in service delivery and minimize service disruptions," the agency wrote in a response that was included in the auditor general's report.

"When you're talking about areas that rely on well water and people who are on fixed incomes, or people who make minimum wage, or people in precarious work, when they're not able to have easy access to free testing of their water, they make choices where they don't have a test," said West. "And the outcomes of this are you're going to end up with people being sick, and unfortunately, if it's like Walkerton, people dying. We can't afford to have this happen.

Asked about the possibility of cutting such testing, Health Minister Sylvia Jones said in the legislature on Tuesday and Wednesday that "there is no one in the province of Ontario or in this legislature who believes that putting well water testing at risk is on the table. I want to be very clear on that matter."

Two byelections are set for May 2 in Milton and Lambton—Kent—Middlesex to replace two former Progressive Conservative ministers.

Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Sault College Digital Film Production professor looks forward to free 10th anniversary screening at Galaxy CinemaApproximately 50 seats open to general public; program’s grads have started their own companies or work for big city studios says Candice Day, film program’s lead professor
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »

Sault firefighters hit the ice this weekend for hockey marathonNow in its 16th year, fundraiser organizers are looking for teams to play and community businesses to sponsor ice time in support of charity effort
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »

Future of Sault YMCA uncertain as building put up for saleSault Ste. Marie employees were advised today that the charity's landmark recreation centre at 235 McNabb St. is being listed for sale
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »

Sault College digital film prof looking forward to 10th anniversary screeningApproximately 50 seats open to general public for screening at Galaxy Cinema; program’s grads have started their own companies or work for big city studios
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »

Sault man speeding down Hwy 17 with open booze in vehicle: OPPPolice say vehicle was seen speeding near Pine Shores Road early Saturday morning
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »

Running club takes strides to hear from community at town hallSault Stryders hosting meeting at Holiday Inn Express on Bay Street on April 24
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »