Manitoba challenges federal government with web / social media campaign

In the on-going battle between the Manitoba Government and the Government of Canada over health care funding the province today announced a social media campaign aimed at putting pressure on their federal counterparts.

“Health care is the single largest budget item for provinces and territories, each of which is responsible for the delivery of quality health services for Canadians,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Kelvin Goertzen.  “The federal government’s unilateral approach and refusal to engage in a discussion around the importance of a long-term and sustainable partnership on health care funding should be of concern to every Manitoban.”

The federal government had proposed a change to the funding structure that would reduce federal responsibility to annual increases of 3% as opposed to the current 6%. They also proposed increasing funding for mental health care and well as home care.

At a meeting late last year Premier Brian Pallister refused to sign the deal instead opting to take on the feds and stand with other provinces wanting a better deal.  

Medicare as it was originally called was created in the 1960’s and at the time the health care costs were shared 50/50 between provincial and federal governments. Over time the provinces have had to pay more of the costs and now pay more than 75% of health care funding.

Thoughtful discussion is needed to lead to a long-term health funding agreement in Canada. #sharethehealthcanada https://t.co/W1TYf8OncJ pic.twitter.com/JxxcTDkYmr

— Manitoba Government (@MBGov) January 26, 2017

The province is encouraging Manitobans to reach out through social media using the hashtag #sharethehealthcanada and by contacting their members of Parliament directly about their concerns regarding health care.

You can visit the website here

-News4 Staff-