"After a month of asking questions and demanding answers, I have finally been able to put this issue to rest," said Sweeney. "I am convinced that the government did have plans to pull this office out of Grand Falls - Windsor and it is only through the pressure exerted by the Official Opposition and concerned citizens that prevented it.

"As usual with this government, I was unable to get any further answers on the status of Commissioner George Saunders. Mr. Saunders’ contract expires in two weeks time and government has not announced an extension or advertised the position for a replacement. With extremely high fuel prices in the marketplace today, there is no excuse for the government to be stalling on this. Consumers need to be assured that prices are being scrutinized and that it will continue uninterrupted."

Grand Falls - Buchans MHA Anna Thistle is pleased that the Office of the Petroleum Products Pricing Commission will remain in her district. Government actions over the past number of months have left great uncertainty to the economy in Central Newfoundland.

"I am pleased that government is leaving the office in Grand Falls - Windsor, even if the announcement is several months later than it needed to be," said Ms. Thistle. "I must now ask what government plans to do with Health, Education, Transportation and HRLE offices in Central Newfoundland. The uncertainty is causing undue hardship to the individuals involved and casting a negative light on the economy."