Today, the Conservative Government voted down a Private Members’ Resolution (PMR) brought forward by the Official Opposition calling on the government to immediately stop using public health care funds to pay for political staff within the Premier’s Office.
The PMR introduced in the House of Assembly urged the government to end the use of Medical Care Plan (MCP) funds for political purposes, following reports that $275,000 per year is being used to pay a political advisor in the Premier’s Office. The PMR also notes that health care administrators are different from political staff, a fact that the Conservative Government alarmingly does not acknowledge.
The Official Opposition has gained access to information further confirming that Dr. Desmond Whalen, hired as a Political Support Staff member in the Premier’s Office, is not solely providing political advice on healthcare. In addition to being included on briefing notes for the meeting with the Portuguese Ambassador to Canada and Council of the Federation meeting prior to his official start date, Dr. Whalen’s calendar provides greater clarity to the scope of his work.
Dr. Whalen’s calendar shows he’s included in meetings with the Departments of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Forestry and Agriculture, Government Services, Housing and more.
“MCP funding exists for one reason: to deliver healthcare services to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador and it should never be used to pay political staff, regardless of their background,” says Leader of the Official Opposition, John Hogan.
This raises serious concerns about transparency, priorities, and the appropriate use of public funds.
“There is a clear and important distinction between healthcare administration and political advice,” says Health Critic Lisa Dempster. “At a time when our health care system is under considerable strain, every dollar should be focused on patient care, not politics. Full stop.”
The Opposition points out that $275,000 could instead fund critical frontline resources, including additional nurses, paramedics, or diagnostic staff, or provide direct support to hundreds of seniors through existing programs.
The Official Opposition demands the Conservative government immediately stop this practice and ensure that MCP funds are used strictly for their intended purpose, delivering insured health services.
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