June 7 will mark the end of an era in nursing. The Mack school of nursing alumni association is closing with a 150-year history of advancing their profession in Niagara and beyond. Originally inspired by the techniques of Florence Nightingale, Mack nurses pioneered nursing standards that transcended the St. Catharines-based school itself.

During the school’s operation from 1874 to 1974, the Mack name was well known. When the school itself closed, Canada’s oldest alumni association decided to give back to their profession in a meaningful way. In partnership with Brock University and Niagara College, the nursing alumni started a scholarship fund to help aspiring nurses pay their tuitions. The money came from the alumni’s own membership fees and donations that they collected personally.

With the closure of the alumni association this year, Brock and Niagara College have agreed to enshrine the Mack name and offer their scholarship under the original title on an ongoing basis. As a former Niagara hospital worker, it fills my heart to see Mack nursing’s legacy carried on. At a time when we need nurses more than ever, they have helped the next generation to get their start. My sincere thanks to the Mack Alumni Association for 150 years of dedication to nursing. It is advocates like you who bring the term “health care heroes” to life.

I have the honour to introduce a few guests this morning. I would like to welcome to the House Carol Dueck, executive of Mack Schools of Nursing Alumni Association. Also, I have the distinct honour to welcome a good friend, St. Catharines fire chief Dave Upper, and deputy fire chief Andrea DeJong from the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs. I’m looking forward to your meeting. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Thank you, Speaker. I have a point of order, actually. I want to correct the record.

Interjection.

Either one of the members opposite can answer this. It’s actually three in one. What specific plans does the government have to ensure that inspections are both thorough and unannounced, including night visits when children are at home? And are you able to provide clear answers to communities and families across Ontario on how many inspectors will be added to the current roster? As well, how will their training be enhanced to detect and address issues proactively?