Press Release: Durham MPP Calls for Protection of Seniors from the Increasing Cost of Pharmacy Services

Durham MPP Calls on McGuinty Government to Promise Senior Citizens Would Not Pay More for Pharmacy Services

 

QUEEN’S PARK – Durham MPP John O’Toole today pressed Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long-Term Care to avoid community pharmacy cutbacks that will be especially devastating for seniors in Ontario.

  “This means fewer services for patients, loss of jobs and the possible closure of many small community pharmacies,” Mr. O’Toole warned during Question Period. He was describing the impact of the McGuinty government’s proposed cutbacks in funding for pharmacies under Bill 16.

 The Durham MPP asked the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care to consult with consumers and with pharmacists, rather than imposing the cutbacks to health services.

 “Whether it is the Harmonized Sales Tax or the approval of industrial wind farms, this government has shown a shocking inability to seek the advice and input from Ontario citizens,” Mr. O’Toole said. “It’s time for the McGuinty government to realize it’s working for the people of Ontario. Fiascos like e-health have proven big governments and big bureaucracies just don’t have all the answers.”

 The Durham MPP said he is disappointed that the McGuinty government appears to be intent on imposing its new pharmacy policy against the best advice of citizens and healthcare professionals.

 QUOTE:

“Whether it is the Harmonized Sales Tax or the construction of industrial wind farms, this government has shown a shocking inability to seek the advice and input from Ontario citizens. It’s time for the McGuinty government to realize it’s working for the people of Ontario. Fiascos like e-health have proven big governments and big bureaucracies just don’t have all the answers.”  – John R. O’Toole, MPP- Durham

 QUICK FACTS:

  • In addition to the potential for reduced services at Ontario pharmacies due to government cutbacks, Ontario seniors will be hard hit by the McGuinty government’s $3 billion HST tax grab and higher prices for electricity under the “Smart Meter” plan.

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 For further information please contact:

John O’Toole, MPP – Durham (905) 697-1501 / 1-800-661-2433