Thanks Steve.  What a great day for the people of this region!

I grew up learning about Royal Victoria Hospital from my grandmother Edna, because she volunteered at the old RVH for close to 30 years. 

She always said that RVH was at the very core of Barrie.   That there is something very special about our hospital.

I don’t think my grandmother’s affection for RVH is unique.  I believe it is the standard opinion in this City.  We adore our hospital.  We believe in our hospital.

During my last year as a city councilor in 2005, RVH first asked the City of Barrie for a financial commitment of over 50-million dollars.  Despite that significant request, I have never seen the community so united in its expression to city hall that  “Yes” we should,  and “yes” we can stand tall in our support for RVH. 

In my 9 years of public service, I have yet to see such outstanding support for a community institution as I have for the RVH "I Believe” campaign.

The legions of blue coats like my grandmother recognize the warmth of this institution.   The thousands of donors of all ages and walks of life recognize the dedication of health care professionals who work beyond the call of duty every single day. 

Whether it is an emerg nurse like Kim Sweeney working an extra night shift,   or a doctor like Dave Boushy chipping in to help recruit doctors.  The staff at RVH make this hospital second to none.

 I think this is why this hospital has received such unparalleled community and governmental support.  Because our hospital has a legacy of warmth and integrity.

Today is an historic new chapter for our community and it is an honour to be with you today to share in this special moment and bring best wishes from our Federal Government. 

Kudos to Dave Blenkarn, Steve Blanchet and Janice Skot for seeing this expansion project become a reality.

Congratulations Barrie, for believing.

Thank you.