For Immediate Release
February 27, 2009

McGuinty Government Boosts Health and Education in York West
York University receives funding to create student spaces while Humber River Regional Hospital increases bariatric surgeries

(YORK WEST) - The Ontario government is boosting funding for services in York West which will create 168 new graduate spaces at York University while Humber River Regional Hospital will enhance bariatric treatment by adding 330 more surgeries per year.

“Health and education are priorities in York West and across the province. The McGuinty government continues to understand this well and remain deeply committed to enhancing their services. This is great news for the students and patients in York West,” says MPP Mario Sergio.

As part of Ontario’s diabetes strategy, the province is increasing bariatric surgery capacity by 500% over the next three years. Ontario is investing $75 million to increase bariatric surgery capacity, also known as gastric bypass surgery, from 244 to 1,470 a year at four centres of excellence by 2011/2012. This initiative is part of the province’s comprehensive diabetes strategy that will invest $741 million over four years to prevent, manage and treat diabetes.

“High levels of obesity are leading to dramatic rises in serious chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and some cancers,” said David Caplan, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. “Bariatric surgery will help offset the costs of treating these obesity-related conditions, while reducing ER visits and hospitalizations.”

Funding for York University is part of a $51.6 million investment aimed at creating almost 3,300 new graduate spaces over the next three years. The new spaces will enable more students to study for careers in high-demand sectors such as engineering and environmental studies.

“Ontario’s highly skilled workforce is our province’s greatest asset,” said Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities John Milloy. “By helping more Ontarians pursue higher education, we can strengthen our economy and attract the kind of jobs and investment that will build prosperity for all Ontario families.”

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For more information:

Mario Sergio, MPP
York West
416-585-7007