News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

   

 

Reid congratulates George Saunders on Exploits nomination

Opposition Leader campaigning in district today

June 7, 2005

Opposition Leader Gerry Reid today congratulated George Saunders on his victory in last night’s Liberal nomination in Exploits District. Reid also congratulated the other three Liberal nominees, Linda Mullett, Lisa Pretty and Shawn Witcher, who fought a hard nomination battle over the past number of days.

"I was very pleased to meet with Mr. Saunders and the three other Liberal nominees this morning to discuss issues of importance to the people of Exploits District," said Mr. Reid. "Mr. Saunders and I will spend today campaigning throughout the district, listening first hand to the concerns of the people and community leaders who have been negatively impacted by the decisions of the Williams government over the past 18 months.

"This is an opportune time for the people of Exploits to elect a strong individual who will have their voice heard in the House of Assembly. Instead of electing a silent government backbencher, they can elect a member who will stand up, be heard and fight for their constituents. A Liberal member will not sit silently while government services and infrastructure are stripped from the communities and people in Exploits District.

"Mr. Saunders 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. Mr. Saunders 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.

"The people of this province must send a strong message to this government that it is not acceptable to continue the cutbacks that are taking place in rural areas of this province. The Premier needs to understand that he must invest in rural communities, not remove important services and infrastructure."

 

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477