The MPP for Kiiwetinoong does not think the Ford government is doing enough to address the healthcare problems in the province’s remote communities.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation declared a health state of emergency two weeks ago, adding to one announced in 2016.

Speaking in the legislature, Sol Mamakwa says the healthcare in the region has huge challenges and is short hundreds of doctors while people get sicker.

“This government doesn’t have the courtesy to respond when emergencies get declared,” says Mamakwa. “Northern healthcare should not operate in a state of emergency.”

Health Minister Sylvia Jones insists her ministry has taken action.

“Our Minister of Indigenous Affairs, our Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and myself have all actively engaged in conversations and offered solutions and assistance to the people of northern Ontario.

Jones says it has included an expansion of primary care health teams designed to increase access to a family physician.

“We will always be there with our partners to make sure that we assist, but these expansions are something that I very much hope that you and your party will support when we put it in our budget,” says Jones in her response.