News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

Parsons seeks clarification on Terms of Reference

Kelvin Parsons, Opposition Justice Critic and MHA for the District of Burgeo-Lapoile, says he is pleased government has released the Terms of Reference related to the judicial inquiry being conducted into the faulty estrogen and progesterone hormone receptor testing for breast cancer patients, but is seeking clarification related to the scope of the inquiry.

"After reviewing the Terms of Reference released by government this morning, it certainly appears that this inquiry will be very broad in scope," said Mr. Parsons. "However, I would like the premier to clarify what is meant by the phrase "responsible authorities" used throughout the Terms of Reference. We all know that three ministers of health were aware of problems that existed with these faulty hormone tests and refused to share that information with the general public. Will this inquiry also look at the actions or inaction of these ministers?

"While the actions of Eastern Health should certainly be reviewed, I believe the actions of government officials, including the ministers, should also be investigated to determine whether the proper due diligence was followed to ensure the best interests of the people of the province were protected. Anything less than a full review into all of these aspects would make this inquiry less than complete and I am asking the premier to clarify this concern immediately.

"I am certain that Madame Justice Cameron will do a thorough review of this issue as governed by the Terms of Reference. While it is normal for this type of inquiry not to place criminal or civil blame on any individual or individuals, I am certain Justice Cameron’s conclusions will be clear, concise and ensure that the problems that led to this unfortunate circumstance are addressed."

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477