"Ever since the day the Premier took office and appointed a Cabinet without representation from Labrador, we’ve been at a disadvantage," said Jones. "The government shut down two HRE offices in my district yesterday alone. The loss of the services provided in Cartwright and Forteau and the associated jobs will negatively impact rural communities."

During the budgetary process, the government cut back on high school athletic funding that had been allocated on an annual basis. "I fought hard to have that funding increased over the past number of years. After just six months in office, the government is hurting the opportunities of these students by slashing $10,000 from the annual grant.

"The actions of this government will hurt tourism, economic development and the very fabric that holds our communities together. It is uncomprehensible why this government would move forward with such important decisions without any consultations or analysis of the impact on communities."

The Liberal MHA is also very concerned with the failure of the government to address Hydro issues following the most recent PUB decision. Rates in Labrador were already the highest in the province and will therefore realize the highest increases.

"I have fought for a rate freeze to bring rural electricity rates in line with other areas. Again government chose to ignore the pleadings of Labrador residents and raise rates in an area that pays the highest rate for gas, electricity, food, transportation and other services."