:format(webp)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/tgam/AVN457NWXZNHDNQMFJF2Z3ZJAY.jpg)
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Quebec Premier Francois Legault chat over espresso in a espresso store in Montreal, on Dec. 20.Paul Chiasson/The Canadian Press
Quebec Premier Francois Legault says he’s “extra optimistic” about reaching a health-care funding cope with Ottawa after his assembly Tuesday with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
As pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms throughout the nation buckle below extreme pressure, Legault mentioned he sensed a “want to advance on the file” from Trudeau.
“I’m extra optimistic at the moment than earlier than,” Legault instructed reporters following the assembly at a espresso store in Previous Montreal. Trudeau didn’t take questions.
Provinces and territories have demanded a rise to the Canada Well being Switch – the primary supply of federal funds to provincial well being methods – however Trudeau has mentioned that may occur provided that the provinces conform to reform and enhance these methods. Provinces and territories wish to see Ottawa cowl 35 per cent of health-care prices throughout the nation, up from the present 22 per cent.
Legault mentioned Trudeau has been hesitant to convene a gathering with premiers with reference to well being care out of worry that the discussions wouldn’t finish positively.
“I perceive he doesn’t desire a failure,” Legault mentioned. “I feel we’re on course.”
The 2 leaders had deliberate a one-on-one final week, however dangerous climate pushed the assembly to Tuesday. Legault mentioned they mentioned a number of different subjects, together with immigration and the French language.
The premier mentioned Trudeau understands the significance of defending the French language, particularly in Montreal.
Legault added that Trudeau was additionally open to transferring extra asylum seekers from Quebec to different elements of the nation. About 36,000 individuals crossed irregularly into Quebec this yr to hunt refugee standing, Legault mentioned, including that Ottawa should do extra to assist home, educate and take care of these individuals whereas they wait for his or her purposes to be processed.
Regardless of the optimistic spin he placed on the talks, Legault admitted he acquired no agency commitments from Trudeau on probably the most contentious information – immigration and well being care.
“There are numerous good intentions, however we’re ready for motion,” Legault mentioned.
