A new poll conducted by Corporate Research Associates has found 74 per cent of New Brunswickers surveyed want to keep all current hospitals opened.
One-quarter of people surveyed say New Brunswick would be better served with fewer hospitals and enhancing the services offered by large nearby regional hospitals.
There are currently 21 hospitals and 2 other community health centres serving a population of over 747,000 in New Brunswick. Many smaller hospitals are having a tough time recruiting doctors and keeping their emergency rooms open.
The provincial Liberals have accused Opposition leader Blaine Higgs of wanting to close smaller hospitals in rural areas and are expected to make that a campaign issue next September.
