An MHA representing Cartwright – L’Anse au Clair says while healthcare is a challenge across the country, things are increasingly difficult in Labrador.

Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs says they’ve seen an increase in the number of vacancies in the past few years, especially in isolated communities.

She says they used to have retired health professionals visit and work in community clinics, but since the pandemic, retired workers weren’t willing to add an extra health risk to their life.

Labrador saw its first diversion of health services last month when obstetrical services in Happy Valley-Goose Bay were forced to divert to Labrador City due to nursing shortages.

Dempster says up to ten mothers were impacted by the diversion, including one of her constituents.

The mother from southern Labrador was anxious about the travel in the days leading up to her due date. Dempster says despite the diversion, the woman says she was provided excellent care by staff in Lab City and was able to return home with her baby after two days.