News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

Liberal Party commits to addressing aging Western Memorial Hospital

Gerry Reid, Leader of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced a third policy component of the Liberal Party’s election platform for the October 9^th provincial general election continuing with his theme of New Liberalism, putting people first in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

In previous policy announcements, Reid announced the elimination of the provincial portion of the HST on all types of home heating, decreasing the cost of motor vehicle registrations, reducing the provincial gas tax and eliminating the 15 per cent insurance tax.  

“Hospital infrastructure in our province is a vital necessity in keeping our people healthy,” said Mr. Reid. “Our New Liberalism plan puts the needs of people first to ensure that all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians benefit from our policies. That is why I am putting a focus on health care investment that will be part of our strategic long-term plan.  

“Western Memorial Regional Hospital has grown over the past 50 years to become one of the largest hospitals in our province. For people living in western Newfoundland, the services at this hospital are used on a daily basis. While the importance and stress placed on this aging facility have grown, infrastructure and space concerns have not been addressed. Sections of Western Memorial Regional Hospital are more than 50 years old and in desperate need of replacement. This building is one of the oldest secondary health care service sites in the province and has had very little renovation over the years. Parking for the hospital is not sufficient, nor is the current space availability. In fact, certain procedures and doctors offices are located outside the hospital because of these constraints.  

“That is why we are announcing today that a Liberal Government will complete a cost analysis, needs analysis, site preparation and design work for a new, or significantly renovated regional hospital for Corner Brook. Construction of the hospital, costs and timelimes will be outlined once all analyses are completed.   

“The people of Newfoundland and Labrador deserve first-class health care facilities and our government will act to address these needs. Today’s announcement is only one small piece of our overall health plan, but these projects must be done to improve our health care system. Our Party feels that the needs and interests of people dealing with ordinary, day-to-day issues have been forgotten by the PC government and that is the reason why the Liberal Party is putting the needs of people first.” 

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer