NEWS RELEASE

                                                                                       Office of the Official Opposition

October 22, 2009
For Immediate Release

Government’s reversal on lab and x-ray demonstrates the ineffectiveness of Tory MHAs

Government’s decision to finally reinstate lab and x-ray services at Flower’s Cove, plead ignorance and apologize for their mistake sheds light on how decisions are made within the Williams government, says Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones.

Earlier today, Health and Community Services Minister Jerome Kennedy announced on open line that lab and x-ray services would be staying at the health facility in Flower’s Cove. The Premier stated in media interviews that they made a mistake and he did not realize the impact that cutting the service would have on the region’s population.

“It’s about time that government recognized this was the wrong decision, even if it did take the resignation of two cabinet ministers and a by-election to reach this conclusion,” said Ms. Jones. “I was surprised that the premier stated that he didn’t understand the impact this decision would have on the region, especially when his MHAs have continuously stated that they were providing information on behalf of their constituents. This obviously shows how ineffective government members are in the Williams administration and whether the premier and cabinet even listen to them.

“While everyone knows that this decision was reversed because of the by-election, it is unfortunate that government only gave something back to the people when they were looking for something in return. If appropriate consultation and due diligence was completed earlier, the people would not have been forced through such turmoil and uncertainty.”

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