The NDP is once again calling on the government to focus on retaining health care workers.

They say government data shows that the plan to replace St. Clare’s is deflecting from the province’s “failure to retain workers.”

The party references a Saltwire News report that outlines how Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facility Condition Index shows many other facilities, such as long term care homes, are in worse condition than St. Clare’s.

NDP Leader Jim Dinn says this report reveals how the announcement to replace St. Clare’s was used to deflect government’s “poor record” of recruiting and retaining workers in the health care system.

Dinn says these workers are left wondering how the new facility will be staffed.

He is appealing to government to listen to health care professionals and deal with staffing shortages facing the system.