January 27, 2000
(Health and Community Services)

Premier Tobin responds to Health Minister Allan Rock

Premier Brian Tobin says he is both encouraged and worried by recent statements by Health Minister Allan Rock. "I�m pleased to see that Minister Rock has clearly acknowledged that Canada�s health care system is in crisis, and I applaud his determination to do something about it. However, I am extremely worried about the notion that there will be no new money to address the health care crisis in this year�s federal budget."

"I believe all the premiers are prepared to work with Ottawa to stem the bleeding in the health care system, but the time to apply the tourniquet is now, not next year."

Mr. Tobin said: "The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is fully prepared to match Ottawa dollar for dollar on new health care investments, however, the proposal to talk another year before we act is not realistic. I believe Allan Rock wants to be part of the solution to a genuine Canadian health care crisis. He needs the authority to act now based on a re-injection of funds in this year�s federal budget."

Mr. Tobin said: "If this year�s proposed federal budget does not include an allocation for health care, it�s time to re-think the budget priorities."

Media contact: Heidi Bonnell, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3564.

2000 01 27                                                         10:15 a.m.