Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. The Department of Health and Social Services, the various regional health boards and Stanton Hospital have made great progress in treating more northerners in the north. Not only does this save money in travel costs, but also allows northerners to receive their treatment closer to home and to feel more comfortable during what is often a difficult and stressful time for themselves and their families. The closure of the surgery unit, even if only temporary, may create a perception that Stanton is a second-class facility. I would not like to see this fine institution's reputation diminished because of this.

I understand that Stanton Hospital expects to reopen the surgery unit in August or September when a second general surgeon, a second orthopaedic surgeon and a second ear, nose and throat specialist will be hired. The hospital has also provided assurance that no patients are being diverted south because of the closure, that no one is being placed on a waiting list and the hospital can reopen the unit very quickly if patients require it. I appreciate those assurances. However, I still feel it necessary to express these concerns. I want to build both the usage of this fine facility and it's image. I would not want to see that image affected by this temporary measure. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.