For Immediate Release
April 27, 2007

John Baird Teams Up with Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario to Promote Clean Air

(OTTAWA) – John Baird paid a visit to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) today to promote the importance of protecting our two most precious resources, the environment and children.

John Baird, Member of Parliament for Ottawa West-Nepean and federal Minister of the Environment, enjoyed a crafts session in CHEO’s playroom with children suffering from respiratory illnesses.

“We owe it to our children and their health to reduce air pollution and clean our air. That is why Canada’s New Government is turning a corner when it comes to the environment; we want to keep kids out of hospitals,” said Baird.

Mr. Baird also met with Dr. Ian MacLusky, a respiratory physician. The two discussed the effects of pollution on the health of Canadians, in particular, the health of young children. “CHEO is firmly committed to keeping kids healthy and active in our community, and sound environmental practices will go a long way towards achieving our common goal,” said Dr. MacLusky.

CHEO believes so strongly in keeping kids healthy that it has created an advocacy initiative. “Let’s Keep Kids Out of Hospitals” aims to address the causes of preventable diseases in children. Baird commended CHEO for taking the steps to educate the public on preventable diseases in children.

Photo: John Baird, MP (Ottawa West-Nepean), and CHEO patients in the 5th floor playroom at CHEO.

Office of John Baird, MP
Ottawa West-Nepean
613-996-0984