FREDERICTON -- The New Brunswick government will continue to help multiple sclerosis patients pay for a controversial treatment that's not offered in Canada.

Finance Minister Blaine Higgs says $75,000 has been budgeted this year for people seeking the so-called liberation treatment.

The government has allotted $475,000 over three years, but interest in applying for funding has fallen short of expectations.

Higgs says only $210,000 has been spent so far.

Eighty-four people who wanted the treatment that widens constricted veins in the neck have been approved for payments of $2,500 each.

While some people who have undergone the procedure say it has improved their lives, there have been numerous studies that say the treatment is not effective.

While other provinces are studying clinical trials, New Brunswick is the only province that provides funds to help MS patients get the treatment.