"Last week, Minister Marshall stated that he did not meet with Corner Brook City Council and did not know how much they requested or their priorities for capital works funding," said Mr. Joyce. "I have since learned that the city council had previously met with the Premier and officials of the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs. After the meeting with the Premier, the city forwarded him with a list of priorities and funding requirements.

"Capital works funding is usually discussed and approved by cabinet. Unfortunately, it appears in this circumstance that cabinet did not feel that Corner Brook’s request was a priority and did not approve the requested funding. While Minister Marshall is claiming that he knew nothing about the city’s request for funding, he is a member of cabinet that made this decision. Did he voice any concerns to his colleagues that Corner Brook was not receiving the funding that they were seeking? Did he accept this decision? If so, how can he now state he knew nothing about this request when it is obvious that he played a major role in the decision. The Premier also had in his possession a list of these priorities. It appears this minister is once again misleading his constituents to cover up his lack of interest for their infrastructure needs.

"I suggest Minister Marshall come forward and be up front with the people of Corner Brook. What really happened around the cabinet table and why did he agree to provide the city less money for capital works projects than they were seeking? Now that Minister Jack Byrne has today announced major funding for capital works projects, I ask the Premier and Minister Marshall to fulfill their duties as Corner Brook representatives and have government reconsider the funding for the city’s capital works program. I am hopeful that if this extra effort is made, the people of Corner Brook could actually see an increase in capital works initiatives this year."