(October 20, 2021) – David Brazil, PC Official Opposition Leader and MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, says while the PC Official Opposition is standing up for healthcare in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Liberals are quibbling over whether all or some of Newfoundland and Labrador is facing a healthcare crisis.

The PC Official Opposition introduced a Private Members Resolution calling on the Liberals to recognize our healthcare crisis.

Instead, the Liberals chose to amend the motion from “all” to “some” people who are facing a crisis.

“The Liberals are more interested in protecting themselves from political pushback than recognizing and addressing Newfoundland and Labrador’s healthcare crisis,” said Brazil.

“The Health Accord’s most recent presentation specifically stated there is a healthcare crisis in Newfoundland and Labrador in the very first bullet point of the very first slide of the presentation. Yet, the Minister of Health and Liberal caucus refuse to acknowledge the situation. It is shameful.”

Minister John Abbott, a former Deputy Minister of Health and Community Services, spoke during debate downplaying the significance of the family doctor shortage and said there is no crisis – despite almost 100,000 people without a family doctor in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Why is healthcare in crisis? Look no further than the comments made by Minister Abbott. To be in denial, despite direct experience in the healthcare system is an embarrassment for Minister Abbott and to everyone struggling to have their healthcare needs met in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Brazil.

“This government is tone-deaf. They refuse to see the evidence before their eyes and the cries for help from patients and healthcare professionals alike. You can’t diagnose until you acknowledge. It’s time for the Liberals to wake up and listen to the people of the province: we are facing a crisis and we need the government to take action.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca