Final Report of the Romanow Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada
Statement by Rex G. Guy, FSNA National President
The Federal Superannuates National Association congratulates Mr. Romanow for having listened to all Canadians and for correctly interpreting the clear message of the overwhelming majority of them who want the protection and enhancement of a publicly funded and administered health care system.
Although FSNA feels that the final report released yesterday by the Commission does not go far enough in certain areas, such as pharmacare and long-term home care, we are pleased to see that it addresses all of the recommendations made by the Association (PDF) when it appeared before the Romanow Commission, in April.
Those who oppose the major thrust of the report, including certain politicians, are not in tune with what Canadians want. These politicians are again reminded that the principles of the health care system are cherished by a vast majority of Canadians. Politics must not hinder improvements to the health care system. Canadians pay all taxes and value heath care far more than “turf wars”.
All FSNA members are asked to openly support the recommendations and advocate immediate action. At the national level, FSNA will work with the other 11 groups of the Congress of National Seniors Organizations to ensure that the Prime Minister and the federal Minister of Health live up to their recent commitments relating to the recommendations of the Romanow Commission. The Congress will also develop a strategy to ensure that all politicians are aware that the 2 million older Canadians who are members of these organizations will not accept anything else than the viable and expanded health care system outlined in Mr. Romanow’s report.
