Quebec Pledges $700M for Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Expansion

0:00It's April 23rd, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Canada News Today, your AI-powered local news. Quebec's new premier Christine Frischette just dropped big news for Maisonouve Rosemont Hospital in Eastern Montreal. She's committing over $700 million to expand and modernize the aging spot, announced Thursday alongside Health Minister Sonia Baylander. This funding kicks off prep work, land buys, and final planning to get first patients in. In 2006, the project has dragged on for years amid leaks, rodents, and constant complaints from folks relying on it for care. Earlier, the province chipped in $85 million for a new parking garage as a starter step toward the full revamp. Doctors and advocacy groups, like the HMR Coalition, have been pushing hard for a solid timeline and steady cash. The hospital handles a huge chunk of Eastern Montreal's health needs, so the decay sparked real public frustration and calls for action from leaders.

1:00Health pros are feeling cautiously hopeful. Respirologist Dr. Marpersowe called it a true sign of commitment, saying it'll speed things into the build phase, no matter who's in power next. Belanger says bids drop in weeks, so momentum's building fast. This could finally turn the tide for better care in the east end.