FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“What is different from yesterday, or a month ago, or several months ago? This is clearly political — every other jurisdiction in North America has already hired back workers. British Columbians should not have to wait for an election to have our healthcare workers hired back.” - John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia
July 26, Vancouver, BC: John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia, is slamming David Eby and the NDP for their prolonged delay in removing COVID-19 vaccine mandates for healthcare workers. This overdue decision comes after sustained pressure from the Conservative Party of British Columbia and highlights the NDP’s failure to act in the best interests of healthcare professionals and the public.
NDP’s Delayed Response: A Failure of Leadership
The NDP government’s reluctance to lift the vaccine mandates for healthcare workers left British Columbia as the only province in the country still enforcing these outdated restrictions. For months, healthcare professionals have been advocating for the removal of these mandates, pointing out the strain on staffing levels and the unnecessary pressure on an already overburdened system.
“The NDP’s delayed response to lift these mandates is a clear example of their failure to listen to the concerns of our healthcare workers,” said John Rustad. “David Eby and his government have shown a blatant disregard for the wellbeing of those on the front lines, only taking action when political pressure from our party made it unavoidable.”
Political Pressure and Election Timing
The timing of the NDP’s decision to finally lift the mandates is telling. It comes just as the election season is heating up, indicating that the move was driven more by political calculations than by genuine concern for healthcare workers and public health. The Conservative Party of British Columbia has been at the forefront, demanding an end to these mandates and advocating for the rights of healthcare workers.
“It’s clear that the NDP only acted because they felt the heat of the upcoming election and the relentless pressure from the Conservative Party,” Rustad continued. “They are now trying to take credit for a decision that should have been made months ago, a decision that would have alleviated much of the unnecessary stress and staffing shortages faced by our healthcare system.”
Staffing Shortages and ER Closures: A Healthcare Crisis
In 2024 alone, British Columbia witnessed the closure of 188 emergency rooms due to staffing shortages, with rural areas being hit the hardest. This is a direct consequence of the NDP’s failure to address the needs of healthcare workers and their delayed response in lifting vaccine mandates. The healthcare system is in crisis, and the NDP’s lack of timely action has exacerbated the situation.
“Our healthcare professionals are stretched to their limits, and rural communities are suffering the most,” Rustad said. “The NDP’s inaction has led to unprecedented ER closures and a healthcare system that is failing its patients.”
Conservative Party’s Commitment to Healthcare Workers
The Conservative Party of British Columbia has consistently advocated for policies that respect the rights of individuals and support the healthcare system’s needs. Rustad reiterated his commitment to working with healthcare professionals to ensure that policies are based on science, respect individual freedoms, and prioritize the effective functioning of the healthcare system.
Patients First Healthcare Reform
John Rustad emphasized that the Conservative Party’s “Patients First” healthcare reform announcement is central to addressing these issues. The plan focuses on putting patients at the heart of healthcare decisions, ensuring timely access to services, and supporting healthcare professionals with the resources they need.
“The Conservative Party is committed to a ‘Patients First’ approach, prioritizing the needs of those who rely on our healthcare system and those who work within it,” said Rustad. “British Columbians deserve better, and our plan will deliver the reliable, effective healthcare they need.”
Holding the NDP Accountable
“What is different from yesterday, or a month ago, or several months ago? This is clearly political,” Rustad emphasized. “Every other jurisdiction in North America has already hired back workers. British Columbians should not have to wait for an election to have our healthcare workers hired back.”
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