News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

 

 

Opposition still concerned about drastic health cuts

Premier and Finance Minister should hear concerns of people

February 27, 2005

Opposition Health and Community Services Critic Yvonne Jones says she is still very concerned that drastic cuts to the health care system may come as a result of recommendations made by a group of consultants hired by government.

The Liberal MHA says she is still concerned about possible clinic closures in her own district despite assurances from the Minister of Health and Community Services that clinic closures on the coast of Labrador will not happen. "This is the same Minister who stated as Education Minister that there would not be any School Board restructuring just weeks before the restructuring was announced. He is either out of the loop in terms of decision making or has decisions made for him by the Finance Minister and the Premier at the last minute. Either way, I will continue to ask questions on this matter and impress upon government the importance of having quality health care available in all areas of the province."

The Hay Group Reports on the Grenfell Regional Health Service Board and the Western Health Care Corporation were released earlier this week after the Liberal Critic issued a news release which contained information correctly identifying recommendations contained in one of the reports.

"Despite the drastic increase in health care funding from the federal government and the improved financial position, I would not be surprised if this government tried to cut health care services to rural areas of this province. This is a government that is out of touch with what is happening in rural areas of the province."

 

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477