Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The association contends that many of the recommendations made in the report do not differ significantly from those made in previous reports and studies commissioned and/ or written by members of the Department of Health and Social Services.
In fact, many of the recommendations and much of the text reflects an approval of health care reforms already proposed and initiated by the department. The Medical Association contends that most of the analyses and recommendations could have been derived and in many cases have been made prior to this report. The overall sense by the association is that the report provides little new input to the discussion and process of health care reform. That association states that on reviewing the report, many of the same concerns remain and are unresolved. It is the opinion of the association that the report does not represent good value for money. The cost of the contract was a reported $500,000 and $250,000 in expenses. This is done at a time when health care expenditures are being curtailed and cut. Therefore, such a large sum of money for a report requires close examination. In the spring, I expressed concern in this House how this project was awarded. Dr. Butcher has similar concerns with the overall cost of the report, given the current fiscal climate and health care cuts. What is important is where we go from here. Later today, I will ask some questions in that regard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause