"They are using tactics to mute the voices of the people of this province," said Sweeney. "I stood to present a petition on behalf of the residents of my district and the government sat me down with an iron fist.

"People in my district are very concerned about the status of a long term care facility that is badly needed. The petition was intended to remind government that Conception Bay North was a recommended site for a new long term care facility and ask that consideration be given immediately to moving forward with that project. This was not a politically motivated petition, simply the conveyance of a message from the people of Carbonear - Harbour Grace District."

The Liberal MHA was shocked that the Conservative government would use such heavy handed tactics to limit him from raising legitimate issues. Mr. Sweeney has presented just one other petition to the House of Assembly this session and says he will not be sat down for long.

"I will stand and present this and any other petition to the House of Assembly to represent my constituents to the best of my abilities. The government should be ashamed of themselves today for again compromising the democratic process."