Some say it is a person outstanding in his field. He may be so far out in his field, so far removed from reality, that he cannot make wise decisions. There are no experts - only people with opinions, often biased in their beliefs.

Dr. Jack Kitts may be a good doctor but it is clear that he is not qualified to make judgements on urban or municipal planning, demographics, business administration, human resources, or, for that matter, on human rights. All weigh heavily on the operation of our health services. He has rubber stamped, the Sevenpifer, Shragg, Souter plan with only one meaningless minor change. As it stands we will lose our hospital.

The NHS information flyer sent out to all homes to convince people that their "improvement plan" will benefit all Niagarans, is riddled with holes. They claim that 95 per cent of all emergency visits at Fort Erie and Port Colborne are not emergencies. Would the percentages not be the same for the larger hospitals? And who knows how many of those DMH visits could become major problems if not examined by a qualified doctor. Their plan would require ambulance attendants to determine the severity of a case and where patients will go, by passing DMH and Port.

One of their statements, if this was not such a critical issue, would be laughable. They say that in the event that the QEW is closed due to a severe storm "ambulances would still be allowed to travel on the highway" or "alternative routes" could be used. Which routes? A "lake effect storm" blocks all roads in the southern tier.

The whole NHS proposal is an example of poor planning and weak arguments. It is ill conceived and will have horrendous consequence down the line, if implemented. The first time someone dies because they cannot get to an emergency room within the critical period of time there will be a lawsuit directed at those responsible for the plan.

We have been asked to pay a premium for "timely care" which we are about to lose. The provincial government cannot sidestep on this issue.

The Ministry of Health and Dalton McGuinty are ultimately responsible for what happens on our doorstep.

Charles Davies, Fort Erie