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Kelvin Parsons, Opposition Natural Resources Critic and
MHA for the District of Burgeo-La Poile, is concerned with comments made in
the House of Assembly today by Government House Leader Ed Byrne regarding
negotiations with Ottawa to get a better deal on our resources.
"The relationship that existed between the Premier and
Ottawa has obviously broken down with the comments made by Minister Ed Byrne
today," said Parsons. "The Premier had previously committed to not becoming
directly involved with the Federal Election because he might jeopardize any
future relations.
"For Minister Byrne to publicly state in the
Legislature today that the provincial PC Party will do everything in it’s
power to defeat the Federal Liberals, it is obvious that no immediate
changes to our place in Canada are forthcoming. The people had been
expecting changes to equalization, the transfer of Hibernia shares, a
commitment on the development of the Lower Churchill and progress in
changing the Atlantic Accord. It is now crystal clear that the Premier’s
attempts at change have been a dismal failure. The government put up the
white flag today."
The Opposition House Leader believes these comments
today confirm the fact the Williams government has been unsuccessful in
presenting Newfoundland and Labrador’s case for change to the Prime Minister
in Ottawa.
"We have said all along that the Premier has failed to
make a proper case. Having a good personal relationship is one thing, but
having a working relationship that results in a positive impact on people is
another. This province has lost an important opportunity to change the
present injustices that have kept us from getting ahead and leaving behind
our dependence on Ottawa.
"The Premier should immediately take steps to repair
this damage and make our case to Prime Minister Martin before the election
is over. Once June 28th arrives, the Premier will have no
negotiating power and his relationship with Ottawa has been compromised with
this one comment from Ed Byrne." |