St. John’s, N.L. (November 7, 2024) – As the first week of the fall sitting of the House of Assembly comes to a close, Tony Wakeham, Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party and MHA for Stephenville – Port au Port, held the Liberal government to account for its heartless decisions in Newfoundland and Labrador’s strained healthcare system.

This week, Wakeham and PC Caucus members focused on the government’s failure to address the widespread healthcare challenges affecting Newfoundlanders and Labradorians every day.

Throughout the week, they pressed Premier Furey and his ministers on alarming issues, including patients left on stretchers in emergency room hallways, hours-long waits for ambulances; and the neglect of urgent access to critical specialists. The PCs also highlighted the unimaginable situation at the long-term care facility in Corner Brook, where the government moved to double up residents in rooms designed for single occupancy.

“We brought real stories from people across the province who are struggling in our broken healthcare system,” said Wakeham.

“After nine years of Liberal governance, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians face even greater obstacles in accessing the healthcare they need and deserve, particularly those in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Wakeham pointed to growing waitlists, the 163,000 residents without a family doctor, and the Liberal government’s repeated re-announcements and staged photo-ops as indicators of a failed leadership.

“When the government can't see what's wrong, nothing will change unless the government is changed. It’s time for Andrew Furey and his Liberal government to recognize the negative impact of their choices,” added Wakeham.

“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are fed up with the lack of action. They’re looking for real solutions. They deserve leaders who will step up to make their lives better. Better starts now.”