The NDP’s Health critic Mike Farnworth says the Premier’s announcement to begin the rebuilding process for Penticton’s aging hospital lacks a few important details.

Farnworth says Premier Christy Clark neglected to include any real money or a specific timeline. Calling it, “pure electioneering”, Farnworth says we need to have a comprehensive facilities plan, capital plan, for health care right across the Province which takes into account the key priorities in each of the health authorities.

“My understanding is that today the Government said they would make sure a business plan is completed.” Farnworth says all Clark is doing now is using false hope to try and shore up votes.

from CKNW

Dick Cannings, the NDP candidate for Penticton,  said it is yet another example of a  Liberal candidate putting campaigning ahead of governing.

“The business case should have been in progress long ago, and we could be a lot further down the road to upgrades needed to our hospital,” he said.  “Yet no action was taken until voters signaled that they were fed up with how they have been treated, and we’re considering a change. I think that is reason enough for voters to choose change this election.”

Janice Perrino,  executive director of the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation,  said everybody is going to be a little skeptical, but she sees it as good news, a step in the right direction.

“I think even if the Liberals lose, the NDP will be honour bound to come forward with the Liberal’s commitment, no matter what.”

from Castanet