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New Brunswick’s Liberals are promising to cover the cost of one round of in vitro fertilization treatment for people trying to start a family.

Leader Susan Holt told a news conference Friday that the province usually covers about $5,000, which she says is far below the total price for the treatment.

She said wealthy couples shouldn’t be the only ones who have access to the procedure.

“It’s not just the wealthy who should have access to a family,” Holt said. “We want to give this opportunity to everyone. It’s something that exists in other provinces. A lot of other provinces pay for the first cycle of in vitro fertilization.”

The party says the election promise will cost about $2.64 million per year, with an estimated 240 people expected to be funded.

Progressive Conservative Leader Blaine Higgs did not have public events scheduled Friday, leading the Liberal leader to highlight her rival’s low profile on the campaign trail.

“He does no promotion for the future of the province, he doesn’t talk about how he will fix the health system, when in the last six years it has been worse than ever,” she said. “And he wants four more years without presenting a vision for the health system. Blaine Higgs is absent from this campaign and absent for New Brunswickers.”

Meanwhile, Green Leader David Coon said Friday he would improve senior care if his party is elected Oct. 21.

“Our aging population deserves to age with dignity and receive quality care right in their communities,” he said. “A Green government will make investments to ensure seniors receive the care they need, where they need it and when they need it.”

Among the measures would be an increase in the amount of care provided to long-term care residents, to reach an average of 4.1 hours a day, and an increase in the allowance given to residents to purchase personal items.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 11, 2024.