"This is an outright attack on rural areas and there is no other way that government can disguise it," said Sweeney. "To close these offices in 21 different communities to save just $100,000 is irresponsible. Government must not understand the impact this will have on the people who need to avail of services.

"For example, by closing the offices in Twillingate, Fogo and Change Islands, government is requiring people to travel by ferry to the mainland and then drive to Lewisporte to get a driver’s licence. By closing the Burgeo office, residents will travel several hours to Stephenville in an area where weather conditions can vary. There is no logic in these decisions.

The Liberal MHA explained that the Department of Government Services and Lands was first created in 1996 for the purpose of delivering high quality, front line services to all areas of the province.

"The Department of Government Services is falling apart under the leadership of Premier Williams and his government. Our roads will not be safe with the closure of weigh scales, elevators are not being inspected, food establishments are not being inspected on time, user fees have increased dramatically and now driver examinations will require a drive of several hours for many residents of the province.

"I call upon the government to immediately reverse these decisions that will decimate rural Newfoundland and Labrador. Contrary to the view of the provincial cabinet, the business of government cannot be conducted from the Premier’s office in St. John’s."