"While I fully support the decision to put dialysis units in Carbonear and Gander, I also feel there is a dire need for the cancer clinic in central Newfoundland," said Ms. Thistle. "I don’t understand why this government doesn’t feel that this facility is a priority.

"The need for the cancer clinic has already been demonstrated through detailed studies commissioned over the past couple of years. Our government supported this project and the funding arrangement for its construction was already in place. If the minister is willing to move forward with other important projects before the budget is brought down in March, why does she not feel the cancer clinic for central Newfoundland is of equal importance, especially when funding was already budgeted?

"I assure the minister that I will continue to fight for this project until government understands its necessity. The people of central Newfoundland should not have to suffer for the right-wing agenda of this government."