Opposition leader John Hogan says “MCP exists for medical care. Full stop,” in response to recent ATIPP information showing that a physician hired to advise the premier is being paid through the Medical Care Plan.
Hogan says the salary makes Dr. Whelan the highest paid member of the Premier’s Office, and well above that laid out in policies for political pay scales.
Hogan wants to know if government changed the policy or is simply ignoring it.
Hogan claims government has added special advisors, many with PC ties, including former candidates, cabinet ministers and long-time staffers, “while insisting that they are spending responsibly.”
The Opposition says Whelan is in a political role, providing political advice, and “he should be paid like one.”
The Premier’s Office is defending the move, saying that Dr. Whalen is not directing the minister of health, the deputy minister or NL Health Services.
