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Yvonne Jones, MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair and
Opposition Health Critic, says she fears that government may try to cut
funding for the Children’s Dental Program as a cost saving measure and she
is calling on government to do a comprehensive study of the program rather
than make cuts. "This government has a record of heartless social cuts
that make absolutely no sense," said Ms. Jones. "You need only look at what
they are doing in relation to social assistance recipients to get an idea of
what they are capable of doing. I fear that they are only looking at ways
they can take money out of the children’s dental program and not taking into
account the long term implications of such cuts.
"Maybe there are ways this program can be reorganized to make it more
effective in meeting the needs of children in our province. By making an
investment at the early stages in prevention we are saving money in the
long-term. This is a program that benefits the working poor and the Minister
of Health should commit to maintain funding for the program."
The Liberal Health critic pointed out that dental problems can lead to
other health and learning problems which in the long run could cost
government more and all these factors need to be taken into account before
quick reckless decisions are made. |