(February 6, 2023, St. John’s) – David Brazil, PC Official Opposition Leader and MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, today is setting out his expectations for the much anticipated healthcare meeting of the Prime Minister and First Ministers tomorrow in Ottawa.

It is widely believed that a healthcare funding deal between the provinces and the federal government could be reached, in part, during this meeting tomorrow.

“If a deal is going to be reached, it must take into account the geography, demographic profile, and unique health needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Previous healthcare funding arrangements have been tied to per-capita funding, and we need to ensure this deal is tailor-made for the people of our province,” said Brazil.

Newfoundland and Labrador has the lowest population density of any province, has the highest median age, and some of the highest rates of chronic disease.

“The unique challenges facing Newfoundland and Labrador’s healthcare system need unique solutions. Imposing a system that works in downtown Toronto on the people of our province will simply not work. We need a deal that reflects the realities on the ground in our province,” said Brazil.

“We will be watching the events unfold tomorrow very closely. Any deal that doesn’t take into account our specific issues is simply unacceptable. This particular government has been reactive, rather than proactive, since day one and the people of the province are running out of patience.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca