The Avalon Chapter of the Council of Canadians is raising concerns after they say government “managed to avoid any mention of Pharmacare” in the budget.

Pharmacare legislation was passed by Ottawa last fall. The provinces must negotiate their own deals with the federal government, and when that happens people will have full coverage for things like diabetes medications and equipment, and contraceptives.

The council argues that “substantial savings” would be realized by the province if they sign on to the deal, yet government has made no public comment on its implementation here despite it being a Health Accord recommendation.

Spokesperson Yvonne Jacobs says after working for so long on the legislation, people shouldn’t have to wait any longer for the benefits.

They are calling on the province to sign onto the plan immediately.