N.L. minister softens stance toward MDs

Newfoundland and Labrador Health Minister Jerome Kennedy adopted a more conciliatory tone toward the province's doctors Thursday as he reacted to a dire warning from some medical specialists.

A panel of specialists in general internal medicine met with reporters Wednesday to talk about their ongoing contract dispute with the provincial government. The internists said higher wages are needed in the province to attract more practitioners, a shortage of which has put patient safety at risk.

Kennedy said Thursday he agrees that doctors need to be well paid, and that the government "certainly appreciates their concerns."

"We're saying to the doctors of this province we appreciate what you've done for us and what you're doing for us. However, there has to be a recognition of fiscal limits," the health minister said. "And right now we're probably the only province, or one of the only provinces, that are offering the kinds of raises that we're seeing on the table."

Kennedy had previously adopted a tougher stance, saying physicians' wage demands were too high and rejecting a call for binding arbitration.

Doctors thought the stiff words meant contract talks were off, but Kennedy said Thursday he's "confident that a deal can be reached."

Physicians will continue to hold public sessions across the province as part of their campaign for a better contract. The next one is scheduled for April 12, when emergency room doctors will outline their concerns.