In the beginning, this networking initiative caused a lot of suspicion among the provinces and territories. Of course, the provinces’ fear was that the federal government would spend a little money, then withdraw and forget about the project completely. When this happens, the provinces find themselves having to deal with the high expectations of the communities.
The list that I have before me shows that at least half of the provinces and territories see this as a positive initiative. In Manitoba, for example, the cabinet adopted a ruling indicating that it wanted the people to consult the local community network before doing anything affecting the administration of health care to Francophones.
I think the networks are exciting. They have brought the communities and provinces closer together. I attended a provincial-federal conference two years ago. The provincial and territorial MPs talked to the Health Department very positively about the work that is being accomplished thanks to these investments. It is clear that everything that is being achieved is being done with the support of the provinces. Because of the networks, the provinces now have the confidence that they will be able to greatly improve their health care services. Next year’s evaluation will provide more proof that this is happening.