Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For many years the community of Tsiigehtchic has been asking for a full-time nurse. The request made it into the Health and Social Services 2010-2011 Business Plan; however, the Minister of Health reneged on that commitment.
Also in this House, in February of 2013 another promise was made, but we are still awaiting action, Mr. Speaker.
The lack of housing has been mentioned as a barrier but this is no longer a problem, for the community has set aside housing specifically for a nurse.
Imagine the feeling of insecurity not to have a health care practitioner close by. Imagine having to travel to Inuvik and, in the process, spending precious income on travel, meals and accommodations. Worse still, imagine forgoing treatment altogether because you can’t afford to travel. These are the realities in Tsiigehtchic. Honestly, it is a shameful situation. It is plain old-fashioned discrimination against people in the small communities. This government has to do better.
The Minister of Health would become famous in the Mackenzie Delta if he were to find a way to station a permanent nurse or licenced practical nurse in Tsiigehtchic. I ask the government to respond this time with a firm commitment, by weighing in the minimal financial costs against the obvious social and moral benefits.
This issue is a test of this government’s principles and priorities. If this government is serious about enhancing primary care in small communities, there will be a year-round licenced practical nurse in Tsiigehtchic. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Blake. The honourable Member for Nahendeh, Mr. Menicoche.
