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Opposition Leader Gerry Reid says he is very pleased with the number of
people who have come forward to run for the nomination to become the Liberal
candidate in the upcoming byelection in Exploits District. Nominations
closed at 12:00pm today for those who wanted to represent the Liberal Party
in the June 23rd byelection in Exploits District. Four candidates
have come forward and will be running for the nomination on Monday. The
candidates include Linda Mullett, Lisa Pretty, George Saunders and Shawn
Witcher.
"I am very encouraged by the level of interest being shown in the Liberal
Party of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Mr. Reid. "Having several
candidates of such high caliber bodes well for the Liberal Party and the
people of Exploits District. Our caucus is very happy to see the number of
qualified and capable people who have decided to come forward and challenge
the Williams Government on their rural policies over the past 18 months.
"Now is the time for the people of Exploits to elect a strong individual
who will be able to speak on behalf of their district and their
constituents. The people of the province have already witnessed the approach
of the Premier and his caucus in dealing with issues. This is not the
approach of our caucus or our party. The Liberal Party is inclusive,
consultative, and most importantly, our caucus members are permitted to
speak out on issues without fear of repercussion.
"All of the candidates running for the Liberal nomination in Exploits
District would be excellent representatives in the House of Assembly. Each
of these individuals would be a strong voice who would stand up to the
Williams Government and challenge their decisions. An Opposition Member
would challenge public sector layoffs and teacher cuts, the closure of the
transportation depot in Northern Arm, the closure of the courthouse and the
Human Resources, Labour and Employment office in Botwood, the plans to
downsize and close schools in Leading Tickles and Bishop’s Falls. An
Opposition Member would oppose the heavy-handed approach used by government
in the crab fishery and in dealing with the province’s unions, fight for an
increased roads budget, and hold this government accountable for their
decisions related to Abitibi.
"To realize the importance of electing a strong member, the people of
Exploits District only need look at the actions of Anna Thistle, the Member
for Grand Falls-Buchans. I ask this question, would money have been
allocated for a cancer clinic in Grand Falls-Windsor without her
intervention?"
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