Barry Petten says "No department is larger, spends more money, impacts people's lives more profoundly, or faces a greater crisis than Health. It simply cannot function – even for a few weeks – without a full-time minister's constant, undivided attention.”
The opposition’s shadow Health Minister is demanding government appoint a full time health Minister. Barry Petten says “it was shocking to see Premier Furey tag the Justice and Public Safety Minister with overseeing it in his spare time. He says "No department is larger, spends more money, impacts people's lives more profoundly, or faces a greater crisis than Health. It simply cannot function – even for a few weeks – without a full-time minister's constant, undivided attention.” Petten also noted that the Justice and Public Safety portfolio is exceptionally demanding, covering areas such as corrections, the planned new penitentiary, policing amidst rising crime rates, public safety, and the significant impacts of untreated addictions. This leaves little time for the acting Minister to get up to speed on critical health files.
41-year-old Matthew Delaney charged with two counts of murder in St. John's
UPDATE: Team on site to bring back cell service after damage to a Bell Aliant tower in the La Scie area
Mill City Mavericks, Broadway Blues Band and Tammy Dutcher perform in Stephenville tomorrow night
60th annual Lions Club Santa Claus Parade is tomorrow "60 Seasons of Christmas Magic!"
Blow Me Down Ski Trails to open tomorrow, a month earlier than last year
