Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones says today’s revelations from the Cameron Inquiry show that Health Minister Ross Wiseman inappropriately used his political role and pressured officials of the Canadian Cancer Society to remain silent on the faulty ER/PR breast cancer testing issue.

Peter Dawe, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Cancer Society, testified earlier today that Minister Wiseman and other senior government officials pressured him to remain silent on the faulty breast cancer testing when problems were found.

"Today’s revelations are another example as to why Minister Wiseman must be removed from cabinet," said Ms. Jones. "It is totally inappropriate for elected officials to apply pressure on individuals and interest groups in an effort to avoid public criticism. This amounts to nothing more than intimidation and is unbecoming of a Minister of the Crown."

Jones says today’s events are more proof that Minister Wiseman has been derelict in his duties as minister, and his actions in this process were inappropriate, misguided and ill-prepared.

"The minister’s approach to health care delivery in this province is less than adequate. He has allowed our entire health care system to spiral into crisis under his watch, and seems totally disinterested in finding solutions to the many problems that are being faced. Women’s health is particularly impacted as three gynecologic oncologists have resigned and will be leaving in a few weeks without action. If there is any hope in restoring confidence to our health care system, the Premier must remove Minister Wiseman from this portfolio immediately."

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