January 12, 2000
(Health and Community Services)

Government announces amendments to Motor Carrier regulations

Government today announced amendments to the Motor Carrier regulations which clarify the roles of the Department of Health and Community Services and the Public Utilities Board (PUB) with respect to compensation for ambulance operators.

"The Department of Health and Community Services has notified the three ambulance associations of the change to the regulations and has invited them to participate in discussions with the department and Treasury Board," said Minister Joan Marie Aylward. "Government recognizes a new direction is required for the provision of ambulance services in the province and that additional funding will be required."

The Department of Health and Community Services will issue notification letters today regarding the regulation change to all operators. The Department of Justice has also notified the PUB of the regulation change. This action was necessary to avoid the prolonged debate over jurisdiction and the added time and expense all parties were investing as a result of continued litigation on this issue.

Media contact: Glenn Bruce, Director of Communications, (709)729-1377.

2000 01 12                                                 1:25 p.m.