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Yvonne Jones, Opposition Labrador Affairs Critic and MHA for the District of
Cartwright - L’Anse au Clair, says she agrees with residents on the south
coast of Labrador who want government to reopen the Trans Labrador Highway
between Red Bay and Lodge Bay. "The snow levels in southern Labrador are
quite low for this time of year, there are very few blockages in the rock
cuts and it would not be difficult to reopen the road," said Jones.
"Yesterday, I participated in a conference call with a group of 30 concerned
citizens who feel government should act immediately to open up the road to
traffic.
"Residents have taken pictures and made representation to officials in
the Department of Transportation and Works, so the Minister is well aware of
the situation. It is my understanding that, using just two snowblowers, it
would be relatively easy to reopen the entire stretch of highway in just two
or three days. There has been very little snowfall since the road closed on
March 2nd and there is no reason why government should not take
measures to reopen the road."
Jones says she has made representation to government over the past three
weeks to have the road reopened. "It is unfortunate that the Minister
continues to be stubborn on this issue and refuses to act in the interest of
the people in this area. Supplies are running low at gas stations and
residents need access to air service, fresh fruit and vegetables and other
services.
"I am calling on government to clear the road between Red Bay and Lodge
Bay immediately so normal business can resume on the south coast of
Labrador." |