News Release
Office of the Official Opposition
 

Foote seeks details on CHC Composites deal

September 16th, 2004

Judy Foote, Opposition Innovation, Trade and Rural Development Critic and MHA for Grand Bank District, is calling on the Conservative government to allow public scrutiny of any deal to sell Canadian Helicopter Corporation’s (CHC) Composites plant in Gander.

"At this time, I have no reason to believe this business arrangement between CHC and it’s potential buyer is not in the best interests of the people of the province and the Town of Gander," said Foote. "I have initial concerns, however, that the company has entered an arrangement that has not been disclosed to the employees of the plant, the people of Gander or the taxpayers of the province who have subsidized this operation several times in the past number of years.

"It is imperative that, before any decision is made by government regarding this pending sale, the public is informed of the details of the transaction and the impact on the province. The Town of Gander and the employees at the company should be told the name of the potential buyer, what their long-term plans will be for the site and the impact of the sale on the community and the workers."

The Liberal MHA is also concerned about what might happen with the monetary investment put into CHC Composites by government through grants. "I believe the grants given to the company in the past were a good investment for Gander and the provincial economy. Government must ensure this investment remains in Gander for the long-term good of the economy. It is not acceptable for a deal to take place that may see assets moving outside the province. I expect the new investor would be required to adhere to the same conditions attached to the initial funding regarding the number of employees and time frame.

"It is my hope that a new investor in the company will bring new business and new partnerships that will allow the operations to grow and prosper in Gander. I look forward to full disclosure and the ability for public input before any final decisions are made."

Media Contact:
Jeff Mackey
Caucus Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6427