Carney dodges opportunity to defend Medicare
The Canadian Health Coalition reacted with deep concern to Liberal Leader Mark Carney’s disappointing response to a question today regarding the dangerous privatization of public health care by provinces and territories that exposes patients to unfair charges and fees.
“Mr. Carney failed to address Canadians’ concerns over the increased role of private, for-profit companies in providing medically necessary health services,” said Steven Staples, National Policy Director of the Canadian Health Coalition. “Anyone who wants to be Prime Minister can never dodge their responsibility to explicitly and clearly commit themselves to defending universal public health care and the Canada Health Act.”
At a press conference in Calgary today, Mr. Carney was asked how he would enforce the Canada Health Act when Alberta’s government is promoting and funding more private health options and other provinces are skirting the rules. Mr. Carney responded weakly that he is “a believer in working with provinces,” and he will, “work to ensure that all Albertans’ rights… Canadians’ rights are fully respected.”
You can listen to Mr. Carney’s comments below:
