The back and forth between the Town of Deer Lake and the provincial government continues, with the town now saying it’s willing to work with government on the issue.
The two sides have been at odds over a health care facility in the community that was supposed to open just ahead of the fall season, but a dispute over left-hand turns on the Trans-Canada Highway and access to the facility have halted those plans.
Access to facility – which is not yet open – was blocked by the town.
Access to the Deer Lake Health Clinic, which is not yet open, has been blocked by the town (via Mike Goosney on Facebook)
In a statement late last night, Mayor Dean Ball indicated that while safety is important, the town needs the access to develop other business opportunities further and help the town grow.
Minister Barry Petten accuses the town of holding residents “at ransom” and “denying them access to healthcare”
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Barry Petten (VOCM News)
“I said it was shameful to be holding the people in that region ransom, denying them access to health care. Because by not allowing people to get to that health facility, that’s exactly what you’re doing,” he said in the House of Assembly.
“You’re putting the health facility in the middle of a disagreement between the province and the town. Something we can work on, something we’re offering many solutions for, and we continue to offer it.”
