The cancer clinic was given approval to proceed in July after detailed study by the former administration. The existing cancer treatment facility is not adequate and a decision was made to improve this vital service.

"The decision to put this very important project on hold is very disturbing to all citizens of the central region of our province," said Ms. Thistle. "I have fought very hard to secure this facility for the residents of our area, and I will not stand by and watch the current government take these vital services from our people. Cancer treatment periods are very difficult for patients, families and friends, and it is not acceptable to once again ask people to go through further hardship.

"For political reasons, government would have everyone believe that the current financial situation of the province is far worse than it actually will be. They continue to use their external audit as an excuse not to honour commitments. We have an Auditor General and a Department of Finance who is fully aware of the financial situation of our province. Our cancer clinic should be constructed in the spring, and government should stop making excuses for their anticipated cuts and realize that people have to come first.

"I want to send a clear message to the current government that the people of central Newfoundland will not tolerate their lack of social conscience. I call upon the Health Minister to state clearly that the cancer clinic at the Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre will remain a top priority for her department."