The PEI Health Coalition welcomed health coalition representatives from across Canada, union leaders, workers, and community advocates to Charlottetown to send a clear message to Canada's premiers: Protect public health care. Say no to two-tier health care.

The push toward privatization is no longer a distant concern. Alberta's Bill 11 introduces a dual-practice model that allows physicians to work in both the public and private systems, raising serious concerns about access to timely, publicly funded health care. Legal experts commissioned by the Canadian Health Coalition have concluded that the legislation is inconsistent with the Canada Health Act.

Weakening Canada's public health care system also creates opportunities for for-profit interests. Large private health care corporations and U.S.-based insurance companies are watching closely, ready to expand into Canada if governments continue down the path of privatization.

Public health care should be based on need, not on the ability to pay. Together, we are calling on Canada's premiers and the federal government to defend and strengthen our universal public health care system for everyone.

Thank you to the Canadian Health Coalition, health coalitions from across the country, our labour allies, community organizations, and everyone who stood together today in defence of public health care. Together, our voices are stronger.