Newfoundland's premier urges federal action on pharmacare, citing inequities and lack of funding.

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham has urged Prime Minister Mark Carney to address a fragmented federal pharmacare approach, warning it creates inequities in medication access. In a February 5, 2026, letter, Wakeham cited unique health challenges, including high diabetes rates, and expressed willingness to resume negotiations, noting only four provinces and territories have secured agreements. He criticized the lack of new funding in the latest federal budget and federal inaction. Other provincial leaders, including New Brunswick’s Susan Holt and Ontario’s Doug Ford, echoed concerns, while the federal Health Ministry said it continues talks with all provinces. The future of national pharmacare remains uncertain.