(December 8, 2022, St. John’s) – David Brazil, PC Official Opposition Leader and MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, says the people of Gander and the surrounding region need answers from the Liberal Government on their plans for Obstetrics services at the James Paton Memorial Health Centre.

“The people of Gander and the surrounding region have reason to be concerned about the future of healthcare under the Liberal Government. The regular closure of emergency departments throughout the region caused by the failure to recruit healthcare professionals to the region does not give reason for confidence in government’s approach,” said Brazil.

“Now, the residents of Gander and surrounding region are expressing their concern about a Health Accord recommendation to remove obstetrician services from the James Paton Memorial Health Centre. For months, the community has been left in the dark about the plans for the future of the services – which has led to anxiety for new and expectant families throughout the region.”

Brazil says Premier Furey needs to end the speculation and make clear his plans for the future of the Obstetrics unit.

“Gander is a growing town and has been for more than two decades, with a large surrounding area of communities from New Wes Valley to Twilingate who will be effected by changes in healthcare services. There are fair questions to be asked about this recommendation – and it’s time for government to come out and be forthright with the people of the region,” said Brazil.

“After six months of silence, the Liberal Government needs to inform the people of the province of their plans for the recommendations of the Health Accord. No one is more invested in the future of healthcare than the people who call our province home. It’s time to answer their questions.”

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Contacts: David

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca