Political life a 'noble calling', says surgeon Andrew Furey

Andrew Furey, theSt. John's doctor best known for his humanitarianwork in Haiti, is leaving the door open to a future in politics,the passion of several members of his family.

• N.L. doctors treat burns, stabbings and newborns in Haiti

Furey, a leader of Team Broken Earth,said his experience providing medical assistance tothousands of Haitians has opened his eyes to the rewards of helpingothers.

"It left me with a want and desire to do more," he said during an interview with On Point.

"It's changed me on a level that I didn't know existed before I went."

Furey, whose father George Fureyis a member of the Senateand whose uncle, Chuck Furey,is a former cabinet minister, said he's always looked at politics in a positive light.

"I've got a great deal of respect for politicians and public service, the call to public service is incredibly noble," he said.

"It's easy to criticize politicians but they have a tremendous job. They help direct society, they help shape the policies that will eventually shape our children and our children's children."

'A huge task'

Dr. Furey, who is the federal co-chair ofNewfoundland and Labrador'sLiberals, said his current work with Team Broken Earth takes up most of his time right now.

"It occupies 50 per cent of my time," he said.

"It changed me on an emotional level.I think i'm a better surgeon for it, I think I'm a better father for it, and ultimately hope I'm a better person for what we do down there."

When asked if he has any plans to throw his hat in the political ring, Furey said he doesn't see it happening in the immediate future.

"It's a huge job and a huge task," he said.

"Right now, my life is pretty full with my family, with my job and my commitment to my volunteer work at this particular point in time."

While he is currently committed to his work, he still thinks a life in politics is justas important for helping others as what he is currently doing.

"I think they're different not more or less significant," he said.

"To be given an opportunity to shape Newfoundland and Labrador, and to progress Newfoundland and Labrador forward and make it a better place for my child, your child, to live, that's a pretty important job, a noble calling."

• Click here to see Dr. Furey's interview on this week's On Point.