The provincial opposition is urging government to restore 24-hour service at the Dr. Hugh Twomey Centre in Botwood.

Pleaman Forsey, the MHA for Exploits, says the reduction in hours in 2016 has forced other hospitals to handle increased patient loads.

He mentioned that residents have reached out to him, expressing frustration over driving for hours in search of late-night health care options.

He says people now have to drive to the hospital in Grand Falls-Windsor.”

“In 2016, the Liberal government cut the 24-hour emergency service at the Dr. Hugh Twomey Centre in Botwood. Ever since then, I’ve gotten concerns from residents, especially on the lower end of the district, having to drive long distances now, after 8pm, to receive emergency services,” he said.

“That’s well needed and should be provided, but yet they can’t get it at the health care centre in Botwood.