"If this were to happen it would have a major impact on government employees," said Barrett. "I think it is important that the Premier be up front with people in relation to what his plans actually are. The civil service of this province has been faced with many challenges over the past number of years. It is not fair to put these people on edge, wondering if they will have a job on a day-to-day basis.

"This government is driven by a right-wing agenda that believes in limiting the role of government in society. I would not be surprised to hear that the government is currently exploring which government operations can be privatized."

In his state of the province address, the Premier said he would be looking at all options, including the possibility of privatizing government services.

"I would like to know what services Mr. Williams feels are not adequately provided by government employees. Will NLHC be privatized? The Liquor Corporation? Snowclearing operations? Hydro? Engineering services?

"It is time for the Premier to be honest with the people. Following a campaign full of promises, Williams has already broken the trust of most Newfoundlanders and Labradorians using a smokescreen of fiscal restraint. We must speak out before this government decimates the entire civil service and the programs they provide."