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The former boss of Alberta Health Services is alleging MLAs helped patients jump the queue. Stephen Duckett made the comments while speaking at the University of Toronto in May, but failed to mention names or provide evidence, leaving many wanting more information.

Duckett says he was told that MLAs had go-to-guys in the system who could slide people up to the top of the list for treatment.


"I'm told my predecessor had designated go-to-guys for discreet waiting room adjustments at the request of MLAs. It's a practice I discontinued," he said.

The health minister dismisses the allegations.

"Something that someone may have told somebody somewhere in the past doesn't hold much steam in my opinion," said Gene Zwozdesky.

But now the NDP is renewing its calls for a public inquiry.

"To have privileged access that allow only conservative MLAs to jump the queue is completely wrong. And I believe Albertans will find it unacceptable," said NDP Leader Brian Mason.

Friends of Medicare is also weighing in saying queue jumping is also illegal.

"This goes against our sense of fairness, probably against federal and provincial law and criminal law," said Friends of Medicare executive director David Eggen.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is not contacting Duckett for more clarification. Alberta Health Services told CTV News Duckett was referring to a system before AHS was created.

Zwozdesky also says he won't be making any calls adding accusations such as this frequently go nowhere.

But Friends of Medicare wants the federal health minister to investigate saying if the allegations are true, it is a contravention of the Canada Health Act and possibly is criminal in nature as a breach of trust.
With files from Serena Mah