NDP Leader Andrea Horwath is slamming Premier Dalton McGuinty’s claims that front-line health service cuts haven’t negatively affected Hamilton patients.

During today’s Question Period, she pointed out that patients beg to differ with the Premier and added that hospitals agree with patients.

“Make no mistake about it, health care cuts are hurting access to services,” said Horwath.

Referencing cuts recently announced by Hamilton Health Services (HHS), Horwath reminded McGuinty that HHS is on the record as stating that, in spite of being recognized as one of the most efficient hospitals in the province, it is being forced to make changes that will impact patient care. In 2010-2011, HHS will do 1,200 fewer surgical procedures.

“Some Hamilton area residents are asking why they are paying more to the Ontario government by way of the ‘Ontario Health Premium’ only to have less service than ever before,” said Horwath.

Drawing a parallel between the cuts and corporate tax giveaways, she reminded McGuinty that, “Hamilton families didn't choose to give away billions of dollars to Bay Street in the form of tax cuts. The Premier did. Now he’s asking people to pay more for health services. To make matters worse, instead of investing that money in their healthcare he’s giving it away.”

Horwath lamented the fact that the Premier seems intent on putting corporate tax cuts ahead of health care for families in Hamilton and elsewhere across Ontario.