Orazietti clarifies his role in Algoma Public Health building funds

The following statement was issued today by Sault MPP David Orazietti, concerning allegations made in a lawsuit launched by Shaun Rootenberg, APH's former interim chief financial officer.

The following statement was issued today by Sault MPP David Orazietti, concerning allegations made in a lawsuit launched by Shaun Rootenberg, APH's former interim chief financial officer.

Rootenberg is suing APH Chair Lee Mason and the City of Sault Ste. Marie for alleged defamation, negligence, negligent misrepresentation, injurious falsehood and lost business opportunities.

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There are a number of inaccuracies related to this issue, however, I cannot comment on allegations made in an ongoing legal proceeding.

I am able to clarify the provincial government’s role in providing infrastructure funding for Algoma Public Health.

The provincial and federal governments each provided $7.33 million under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund toward what was estimated as a $22 million project.

The provincial and federal share of the project was a fixed amount and was not exceeded.

If the project exceeded the one-third share, expected to be provided by the applicant, that was not a decision made by the provincial government.

The criteria were determined, assessed and approved by the ministries responsible for infrastructure at the provincial and federal level before funding was awarded.

As MPP for Sault Ste. Marie I have strongly advocated for numerous community infrastructure projects which have helped to improve the quality of life for residents in our city.

Given the recent past events at Algoma Public Health, it was necessary for the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care to undertake a review and I am optimistic that as we move forward the reputation and integrity of the organization will be restored.

To the many employees of this organization who continue to work hard on behalf of the Sault and Algoma region I commend their on-going efforts to deliver quality public health services.

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