The provinces and territories have joined in calling on the federal government to increase its share of health care costs from 22 per cent to 35 per cent. Federal Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos is in Vancouver for two days of talks with his provincial and territorial counterparts and is expected to speak later Tuesday once the meetings are complete. Speaking to reporters Monday, Duclos said that while Ottawa is ready to commit to increased health funding for the provinces and territories, it must in turn commit to expanding the use of common core health indicators and creating a “world class”. health data system. WATCHES | “The federal government will step up with more money for health care” — Trudeau
“The federal government will step up with more money for health care” — Trudeau
As the second day of meetings between the federal government and provincial health leaders ended, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed the federal government will expand health transfers to provinces. But in a statement issued Tuesday afternoon, the premiers said the talks had gone nowhere and requested a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “Canadians should be able to receive high-quality health care now and into the future. It’s time for the premier to honor his commitment and come to the table,” Manitoba Premier Heather Stephenson said in the statement. In an unrelated press conference earlier Tuesday, Trudeau suggested the provinces have been slow to improve health services. “If the provinces continue to fail to improve their health care delivery services, it’s no surprise that Canadians are becoming increasingly frustrated,” he said. “It’s not just about money. It’s about creating a stronger, more robust health care system across the country.”
