"Earlier in the year the Premier publicly stated that he had made progress in saving the base in Goose Bay," said Andersen. "Unfortunately, his travels through Europe and meetings with officials in Labrador and Ottawa have been unsuccessful and the Royal Air Force has decided to remove it’s permanent presence.

"When John Hickey, the MHA for Lake Melville, tabled a Private Members Motion in the House of Assembly on April 14, 2004, concerning the future of 5 Wing Goose Bay, I proposed an amendment that would have seen the creation of an all-party committee. The amendment passed, but unfortunately the government has not acted on the motion to date.

"A stakeholders group was also formed in Goose Bay some time ago to discuss the issues and provide a common voice to Ottawa and international military and government personnel. Unfortunately, government proceeded with a trip to Europe and follow-up activities without including these people.

"Now that government is obviously not having the desired impact that will benefit the future of the base or the Town of Happy Valley - Goose Bay, I am calling on government to revisit the option of an all-party committee I proposed earlier this year."

The Liberal MHA would also like to know what representation has been made to the Federal Government since the June election. "There is a new minister in Ottawa following the defeat of David Pratt. I hope that the Premier and his representatives have spoken with Minister Graham and put forth our position on the future of 5 Wing Goose Bay. As soon as the Premier is ready, I would like to join him in an all-party meeting with the new minister to discuss the issues of great importance to the future of Labrador."