Our politicians must lead by example

Re: Ontario should work to create health equity, Aug. 10

Not only Ontario, but all provinces have problems with equity in health care. Provincial and federal governments have institutionalized inequities in access to health care and services.

Public sector employees and retirees, including members of Parliament, senators and members of provincial parliaments, have access to complementary health care plans with premiums partially paid by public funds. This amounts to a two-tier health care system subsidized by taxpayers; it does not respect the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and is not in line with the basic principles of the Canada Health Act.

The solution is simple: Require all public sector employees to pay the full cost of the premium of complementary health plans. Politicians must lead by example and walk the talk.

Pierre Drouin, Orléans