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Kelvin Parsons, MHA for Burgeo - La Poile District and
Opposition Justice Critic, is questioning the commitments to open and
consultative decision-making by the Williams government in wake of news this
week the Springdale Courthouse was closed without notification or
discussions being held with area leaders. "It is
obvious the Minister of Justice has little understanding about how the
political or justice systems work in this province," said Parsons. "The
minister has stated in response to criticism from the Deputy Mayor of
Springdale that his decision was based on information within the department
and consultation with area MHA Ray Hunter.
"I find it very strange that the minister would make a
decision based on consultations he claims took place between he and his
political allies but neglected to speak directly with those people being
affected in the Town of Springdale. Rather than come out and apologize to
the Deputy Mayor who was obviously upset with the lack of consultation, the
minister decided to shift blame to the area MHA. It is evident that this
minister does not understand his role as a Minister of the Crown to ensure
proper consultations and analysis of all decisions are completed before
moving forward in the decision-making process.
"It is actions like those of the Minister of Justice
that exemplify the approach of the Williams government. They are about power
and politics and not about people. Their non-consultative and dictatorial
approach resembles that of an 18th Century autocratic regime, not
that of a newly elected democratic government that has pledged to be open,
transparent and accountable." |