(October 5, 2021) – David Brazil, PC Official Opposition Leader and MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, says it’s clear Health Minister Haggie has misled the people of Newfoundland and Labrador by stating he is taking our doctor shortage seriously.

Brazil’s comments come following an Access to Information request filed by the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association (NLMA), which showed the last government to have made a plan to address concerns in the healthcare system was a PC Government.

“The NLMA estimates 98,000 people are without a family doctor in Newfoundland and Labrador. The association’s Access to Information request reveals Minister Haggie doesn’t think this crisis requires renewed, specific action,” said Brazil.

“The Minister chose to mislead the public, according to the NLMA, instead of putting together a plan to address this crisis. It’s just another example of a healthcare system in crisis, which the Minister continues to ignore.”

Brazil says if Haggie won’t make a plan, then the Premier needs to take action.

“Premier Furey needs to issue a directive to Minister Haggie. If Minister Haggie refuses to address the province’s doctor shortage, then Premier Furey, himself, must address the issue. The crisis in our healthcare system is happening before our eyes and now it is evident the Liberals have no plan,” said Brazil.

“Premier Furey must direct Haggie to make the doctor shortage his number one priority and immediately implement a team to tackle the issue head on. The Liberal government is not taking healthcare seriously. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador deserve better.”

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca

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