Sweeney wants public consultations on any proposed changes prior to implementation. "This government has left the people of Newfoundland and Labrador in limbo since they took office 10 months ago. On Friday she told the public that government will be reducing the number of boards, but that no real plans have been put in place and the uncertainty would continue. We don’t know what this means for the Carbonear Hospital or other services in the area and it is incumbent on the minister to release details of her plans and allow for public input.

"It is unfortunate they made this announcement without implementing any real plans. We now have even more questions than we had before. The hospital administration does not know what services could be closed or moved and it is the patients and staff who are left in limbo. What is really disappointing is government took this action not knowing if there will be any efficiencies experienced or money saved that could be put back into the system. Such blind actions are irresponsible."

Butler says he has concerns about what such a large board will mean for health care delivery in Conception Bay North. "We will be a very small part of a board that services almost 300,000 people. Government should have left the Avalon Board intact to service those areas outside the greater St. John’s region. The Carbonear Hospital itself services a large area in Conception, Trinity and Placentia Bays.

"I have serious concerns that this reorganization is simply about money and not about people or the delivery of health care," said Butler. "With the uncertainty and lack of positive leadership within the health care system since the Conservative government took office, something has to change soon. We are dealing with real people who have legitimate concerns about how the health system will exist in the future."

The Liberal MHAs are calling on government through Minister Marshall to show the level of accountability they promised during the election. This is possible through releasing details of proposed changes and only implementing reforms if they are approved through a comprehensive consultation process. They believe people deserve a say in the most important public service offered by government.