"Moose hunters in this province usually have their licenses confirmed and delivered by this time of year," said Mr. Joyce. "I have already spoken to several hunters who have not received any information as to when they will actually receive their license and be able to go hunting. This is a very frustrating experience for hunters who have already made their hunting plans for this fall.

"I have spoken to government officials who have confirmed that there is a delay in the processing of licenses this year due to cutbacks. I have been advised that many of these licenses are processed during the summer months by post-secondary students who are hired by government to undertake this task. In past years, approximately eight students have been hired to complete this process. This year, government hired two students to undertake this task, both of whom have now returned to school.

"As a result of these cutbacks, staff are now trying to clear a backlog of moose hunting licenses in addition to their regular duties. I have been advised that it could take weeks, or possibly even months to have this process finished. This government continues to state that their cutbacks are having little impact on the quality of service provided to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This is just another example of how everyday services are suffering under this government.

"I call upon the minister to assign extra staff to clear up this backlog so hunters in this province can continue with a tradition they have enjoyed for decades. I hope government also realizes the impact that even a small cutback can have on the services provided to the people of the province. I hope the minister will learn from this mistake and return staffing to normal levels for the next moose hunting season."