Mr. Speaker, I would advise you not to break your leg in New Brunswick on a Friday night. Chances are there will be nobody available to look after you. Federal government cutbacks have affected the ability of our provinces to provide adequate health care to our rural communities. There are no incentives for young physicians to set up practice in rural communities and the ever increasing workload hampers the abilities of these towns and villages to fill vacant spots.
There are over 20 medical positions available right now in my constituency and in the surrounding region from Sussex to St. Stephen. The town of Hampton which in 1976 had eight physicians for the town and the region, as of November 1 will be serviced by only three. The last time this area had only three doctors was back in World War II.
Health care cutbacks by this government are forcing Canadian families to give up their rural way of life because it is no longer safe. The situation is serious and must be addressed immediately.
I urge this government to come up with a plan to ensure rural health care is protected. Canadians deserve adequate rural health care. Canadians deserve better.