VICTORIA - Gordon Campbell's stubborn and arrogant stonewalling on the Supreme Court's Bill 29 ruling has given a green light for more health care layoffs, New Democrat Leader Carole James said today.

"Another 30 health care workers were given pink slips yesterday, taking the total number of fired health care staff to 700 in the last six week," said James. "Gordon Campbell is responsible for these layoffs and the serious impact they will have on patients and their families. He is actively undermining the important work care-aids and nurses do and undermining the care that our seniors receive."

The latest round of health care layoffs occurred yesterday afternoon at MSA Manor, a long-term care facility in Abbottsford. Despite the ruling of the Supreme Court of Canada against provisions in Bill 29, the Premier has refused to place a moratorium on further layoffs.

"The Premier's arrogance is shining through," said James. "The Supreme Court of Canada has said sections of Bill 29 were illegal. We have repeatedly called on the Premier to place a moratorium on further layoffs. His refusal to do so puts seniors, patient care and the public purse at risk. His arrogant decision to push ahead with an unconstitutional law may end up costing the province more in the long run."

New Democrat Health Critic Adrian Dix said that by ruling out a moratorium on layoffs the Premier has become personally responsible for the continuing fiasco facing health care workers and seniors.

"It is a signal of disrespect for seniors and staff and contempt for the law," said Dix. "Even though the Court gave the Premier a year to resolve this issue, it is not a year of freedom for a final campaign against health care workers and seniors."