Opposition Leader Douglas Parnell has called for Premier Hon. Washington Misick and Minister of Health and Human Services Hon. Kyle Knowles to be stripped of their portfolios. Speaking at a press conference on September 22, 2026, Parnell alleged the government failed to disclose the full financial risks regarding its ongoing dispute with hospital operator InterHealth Canada.
Parnell claims the government withheld payments for two financial years and misled Parliament regarding potential liabilities. He estimates the territory could face $200 million in costs, including legal fees and employment claims, though the government has not confirmed this figure. In response to the allegations, a government statement noted that commercial and contractual matters are currently subject to legal proceedings and declined to address the substance of the dispute publicly to protect its legal position.
The opposition leader raised concerns about the transition of hospital operations, questioning who will employ current staff, whether salaries will be preserved, and how service contracts will be managed. Parnell stressed that the government must prepare for the handover, stating, “The hospitals must work.” While he remains willing to meet with the government to discuss the transition, he noted that previous attempts to contact the Premier by telephone were unsuccessful.