NEWS RELEASE
Office of the Official Opposition
For Immediate Release
Government must listen to the people of Lewisporte and Flower’s Cove
Two demonstrations yesterday should serve as a warning to government that the removal of x-ray and laboratory services at local health care facilities will not be tolerated, says Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones.
Jones attended the rally in Lewisporte yesterday to voice her support for the people in the region. She challenged government’s attempt to downgrade health care services in rural Newfoundland and Labrador and warned other communities that they could be next unless they stand united in protest against these current attacks on rural health care.
“I saw first-hand the anger and frustration of local residents as they protested these cuts to their local health facilities,” said Ms. Jones. “It is obvious that this decision will create more hardship for patients who will be forced to bypass their local facility and travel longer distances to access basic health care services. The removal of x-ray and lab services will impact dozens of communities and thousands of people in these regions and I am certain the people will not allow it to happen without a significant fight.
“Our province has an aging population and these people should not be forced to travel hundreds of kilometers to receive basic health care services. It is very disappointing that this government continues to ignore the needs of rural Newfoundland and Labrador instead of making small investments that will help these communities survive for the long-term. I can assure the people of Lewisporte and Flower’s Cove that this issue will be brought to the floor of the House of Assembly next week and government will be held accountable for their actions.”- 30 -
Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
Tel: (709) 729-6151 or (709) 687-0477