"I asked the minister to provide information to the people about the $2500 deductible they announced last week," said Sweeney. "I asked the minister to tell the public where the idea for this deductible came from, where it has been successfully used in other jurisdictions and why they retreated from their promise to impose a cap on pain and suffering.

"Rather than get the real answer from the minister, the premier interjected, standing on his feet to deflect the question several times. I call on the Minister of Government Services to advise us where she came up with the idea of the deductible, and inform us today why insurance companies and lawyers are happy with her announcement, saying their businesses will not suffer. She needs to explain why consumers are the ones who must continue to suffer while she facilitates a massive industry for big business and lawyers. It is unfortunate that the premier would not allow the minister answer this question and instead we received his response that told us absolutely nothing."

The Liberal MHA believes the insurance reform proposal outlined by the Conservatives on August 27, 2003, and reiterated in the Blue Book should have been implemented. It promised to reduce rates by 20 per cent within 120 days and eliminate discrimination due to age, sex and marital status.

"The people of this province expected to get savings from this government when they elected them last fall. A 15 per cent reduction in rates that have already increased since last year is of little comfort to consumers. I will continue to lobby the minister and the premier until they agree to deal with this important issue."