Government must listen to the people of
Lewisporte and Flower’s Cove
Two demonstrations yesterday should serve as a
warning to government that the removal of x-ray and laboratory services at
local health care facilities will not be tolerated, says Opposition Leader
Yvonne Jones.
Jones attended the rally in Lewisporte yesterday to
voice her support for the people in the region. She challenged
government’s attempt to downgrade health care services in rural
Newfoundland and Labrador and warned other communities that they could be
next unless they stand united in protest against these current attacks on
rural health care.
“I saw first-hand the anger and frustration of
local residents as they protested these cuts to their local health
facilities,” said Ms. Jones. “It is obvious that this decision will
create more hardship for patients who will be forced to bypass their local
facility and travel longer distances to access basic health care services.
The removal of x-ray and lab services will impact dozens of communities
and thousands of people in these regions and I am certain the people will
not allow it to happen without a significant fight.
“Our province has an aging population and these
people should not be forced to travel hundreds of kilometers to receive
basic health care services. It is very disappointing that this government
continues to ignore the needs of rural Newfoundland and Labrador instead
of making small investments that will help these communities survive for
the long-term. I can assure the people of Lewisporte and Flower’s Cove
that this issue will be brought to the floor of the House of Assembly next
week and government will be held accountable for their actions.”
