The PC candidate in the Baie Verte-Green Bay special election has come under fire after comments he made about hiring health care workers were interpreted by some as having racial overtones.
At a panel hosted by the Green Bay Chamber of Commerce, PC candidate Lynn Paddock was asked what she would do to attract doctors and nurses to the region. With 10 seconds left, Mr. Paddock finished his answer by suggesting that states should do more hiring in certain countries than others.
“We need to recruit people in areas that love the outdoors,” Paddock said. “It's a place like Germany, where people love the outdoors, and it's not the kind of place that brings people from India or Pakistan to Toronto.”
Minister for Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, Gerry Byrne
Gerry Byrne, Minister for Immigration and co-chair of the Cabinet Committee on Anti-Racism, said the comments were hurtful and completely wrong.
“We cannot explain why these comments were made based on facts or validity.”
Paddock apologized in a statement to VOCM News, saying his comments were poorly worded. He said his intention was to highlight the need for health care workers and that he welcomes professionals who want to work in the state, regardless of their origin.
“I would like to clarify my comments regarding health care workforce recruitment and retention. My intent is to highlight the need for effective recruitment strategies and retention of health care professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our goal is to retain these people and ensure they see a long-term future in our state.
I realize that my comments regarding recruiting from certain countries were not wordy enough, and I apologize if anyone was offended. I want to make clear that all health care workers, regardless of their national origin, are welcome, valued, and essential to our state. Having served in the Canadian Armed Forces with people from all over the world and earned their respect, I truly value diversity.
I will promote inclusive and respectful recruitment practices that welcome health professionals from all backgrounds to ensure Newfoundland and Labrador remains a diverse and vibrant place for everyone. I am working hard on this.
Thank you for your understanding. ”
-Lynn Paddock's full statement.
Source link
