Government must bring forward their action plan for implementing the 60 recommendations contained in Justice Margaret Cameron’s report into the breast cancer testing scandal, says Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones. The Cameron Report and its implementation were the first series of questions to open the spring session of the House of Assembly.

Justice Margaret Cameron’s report into faulty breast cancer testing was presented earlier this month and was a damning overview of the problems that can occur when the appropriate leadership, oversight and accountability are not present in our health care system. 

“Justice Cameron has brought forward proactive recommendations to improve breast cancer testing in our province, now we need to see an action plan from government,” said Ms. Jones. “Neither the Minister of Health, nor the Minister of Justice were prepared to outline those plans today related to improvements in the system or expected legislative changes. Government certainly needs to provide more answers in the coming weeks, including what investments will be made in this year’s budget.”

Jones also questioned government’s commitment to compensating patients and their families. While Eastern Health’s insurance company is willing to compensate some patients, they will not compensate all. Patients have argued that their mental anguish alone should include them in any potential settlements.

“This government continuously states that patients should be compensated, but they are unwilling to intervene in the process. Again today, Premier Williams would not commit to providing any compensation to affected patients and families while the legal process is ongoing, nor would he commit to providing compensation to those excluded from the lawsuit. Hopefully, this attitude will change in the coming months.