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News Release NLMA welcomes commitment on oil and gas revenues Media | Media Advisories | News Releases | Statements | Backgrounders | Graphics | Letters to Editor | June 7, 2004 Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association President Dr. Andrew Major today welcomed Prime Minister Paul Martin’s commitment to make this province the primary beneficiary of the Atlantic Accord. “The royalties from our offshore oil and gas should benefit the people of this province,” said Dr. Major. “These much needed revenues will provide government with additional resources for priority areas such as health care.” Dr. Major echoed Canadian Medical Association President Dr. Sunil Patel, who in his speech to the NLMA annual general meeting this past weekend in Gander, noted the “cruel irony” that most of the benefits of oil and gas are clawed back by the federal government, money that could be used to improve health care delivery. “The prime minister’s commitment rights that cruel irony,” said Dr. Major, adding that it is now up to the voters of Newfoundland and Labrador to hold the main federal parties to their promises. The NLMA is also calling on all of its members to encourage their patients to keep this issue at the forefront for the duration of the election campaign. “We must hold all candidates and all parties accountable for their commitment to this province to ensure promises are kept after June 28,” said Dr. Major. Dr. Major said the royalties from offshore oil would go a long way to address problems in health care such as the shortage of doctors and nurses, and wait times for critical diagnostic and treatment procedures. |
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