New Brunswick health minister accused of dishonesty

A patient advocate in New Brunswick is accusing the province's health minister of dishonesty regarding a dismissed neurologist. Stacey Quigley Cormier advocates for patients who suffer from a mysterious neurological illness. Her stepdaughter, Gabrielle, has faced severe health issues since her diagnosis. Gabrielle spends around 16 hours a day sleeping and relies on a wheelchair and cane. In February 2022, the previous government halted the investigation into this illness after many residents reported neurological symptoms. They claimed a team of experts found no evidence of a new disease. Quigley Cormier felt hopeful when incoming Premier Susan Holt announced a new scientific review in late 2024. However, she now feels disillusioned about the investigation’s direction. Dr. Allier Marrero, a neurologist who raised concerns about the disease, was dismissed from the Mind Clinic in the summer of 2022. Quigley Cormier recently met with Health Minister Dr. John Dornan, asking if he had a role in Marrero's dismissal. She claims Dornan denied any involvement, but a letter from July 2022 indicates he signed off on Marrero's removal. Quigley Cormier and other advocates are requesting that the Premier allow the Public Health Agency of Canada to oversee the investigation. In response, Dornan stated he forgot he sent the letter regarding Marrero's dismissal but emphasized his responsibility as health minister.