Sask. premier not happy with feds healthcare funding offer
CTV
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he is disappointed with Ottawa’s new healthcare funding offer received on Tuesday.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he is disappointed with Ottawa’s new healthcare funding offer received on Tuesday. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered a $196 billion package that fell far short of the expectations of provincial and territorial leaders.
Saskatchewan’s premier said the federal government has had years to respond to the unanimous request from all provinces to become a full funding partner in health care. Scott Moe said Tuesday’s long-awaited meeting confirmed they have no interest in doing so.
“I think we need a couple of days to digest the offer and our teams to digest the detailed information,” Moe said.
The current offer amounts to a two per cent increase.
“We were looking for $28 billion up front to be able to meet our immediate needs,” Saskatchewan Minister of Health Paul Merriman said.
Meanwhile, the Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) welcomed the additional dollars.
“The SMA would like to see a significant amount invested in primary care reforms that address the access challenges patients are facing,” a statement said.
