David Shepherd, NDP Opposition Critic for Health, made the following statement regarding HALO services in southeast Alberta:

“HALO and other non-profit rescue helicopter organizations provide crucial emergency services to rural Albertans. I’m proud that Rachel Notley’s government provided $1 million in funding to help HALO increase its capacity with a BK-117 helicopter.

“Jason Kenney and Tyler Shandro have created a crisis in rural healthcare through their war on doctors, and if they do nothing to help keep HALO operating, that crisis will deepen and put lives at risk.

“I know that MLA Drew Barnes has received a reply from Shandro’s staff that ‘there will be no gaps in service.’ Doctors in Medicine Hat and surrounding communities can tell you how little a promise from Tyler Shandro is worth. 

“I call on Premier Kenney to direct Tyler Shandro to provide the necessary support to keep HALO flying and saving lives.”