Mr. Speaker, first of all I would like to draw the Member's attention to section 28 of the Medical Profession Act, which gives the board the power to take evidence in such manner as the board of inquiry considers proper. In other words, Mr. Speaker, it is not correct to assume that this will be what the Member described as an in camera or a closed door proceeding. That is not necessarily true at all. Mr. Speaker, because these matters affect the public interest and the public safety in that, obviously, the competence of a physician is a matter for public concern, I think the act of this Legislature on this subject suggests the matter should be dealt with as quickly as possible. I think in plain language that is what due dispatch means, as quickly as possible. There is a provision in the act for a period of two weeks notice to all interested parties, which obviously would mean a delay of some two weeks before the proceeding could be undertaken. There is a requirement to appoint members of the board of inquiry, in addition to Dr. Covert, which would take some time. I think due dispatch means as soon as possible. I can tell the Member that I was concerned about this matter myself, and I believe the inquiry could be expected to commence approximately by the end of this month, the end of September, if all goes well. Thank you.
Dennis Patterson on Question O720-12(2): Public Inquiry Into Fort Smith Health Care Centre
In the Legislative Assembly on September 9th, 1992. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question O720-12(2): Inquiry Into Fort Smith Health Centre
Question O720-12(2): Public Inquiry Into Fort Smith Health Care Centre
Item 5: Oral Questions
September 8th, 1992
Page 852
Dennis Patterson Iqaluit
See context to find out what was said next.