In a continued effort to push for the inclusion of an MRI unit in the new Portage District General Hospital, Portage la Prairie MLA Jeff Bereza has scheduled a town hall meeting. He notes that many people from across the province have been asking for this opportunity.
"'Let’s ask the Minister to come out. Let’s ask the experts to come out.' I think it’s a great idea because it’ll give people a chance to ask questions. We want it to be an open mic so people can express their concerns. There’s a lot of information, but also a lot of rumours floating around. We’ve picked a date — October 22nd, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. — at Prairie Fusion Arts and Entertainment Centre, formerly the Glesby Centre."
Bereza says the venue was chosen for its size and comfort, adding that the event is of interest to more than just Portage residents.
"We’ve got petitions out in the school divisions. There’s a tremendous amount of interest in this. I encourage people to arrive early. For those with transportation issues, we’ll be providing rides to and from the event."
He stresses the importance of the town hall and encourages everyone interested to attend, noting all will have a chance to speak and get the facts.
"We haven’t formally sent out invitations yet, but they’ll go out soon. The Minister of Health will be invited, and we hope they can make time for this important event. We’ll also invite doctors, the City of Portage, the RM of Portage, the Chamber of Commerce, and several First Nations communities. I’ll be there, along with our Health Critic and the Portage Hospital Foundation."
Bereza notes that speakers will be limited to five to seven minutes, with the main focus being on hearing from the public so the government understands this is a people issue, not a political one.
"When people come to the hospital or my office with questions, we don’t ask which political party they support. There are 24,000 people waiting for MRIs right now. This is an opportunity for all of us — regardless of political affiliation — to do better and hear from the people."
He says professionals from various backgrounds will be present to speak on the importance of an MRI in Portage la Prairie.
"We’re excited to accommodate as many people as we can in the centre."
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