Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the role of regional health boards should be reviewed during this reorganization process. These organizations are closer to the people and can better reflect the health and social service needs of the community. However, they require more certain plans and a better definition of their function. The government must also realize that different boards face different challenges and opportunities in their own communities. Individual boards operate at different levels of expertise. They also differ in terms of their experience and to the degree to which they can or wish to assume greater responsibility. Legislation and memorandum of agreement should reflect these facts. Individual boards should then have the right to determine the plans and programs which best meet the needs of their region.
The agreements being developed by government and board officials should reflect these concerns.