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Opposition Leader Gerry Reid is questioning the purpose of the premier’s
press conference held last week with Bill Barry announcing a solution to the
situation facing the people of Harbour Breton. After hearing comments from
the new federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans last evening, it appears
last week’s press conference was held without any plan being in place,
similar to the circumstance that unfolded in Stephenville regarding their
mill. "I was shocked to learn that neither the premier, nor Bill Barry
have forwarded a plan to the federal government regarding their proposal for
Harbour Breton," said Mr. Reid. "Last week’s press conference was touted as
the solution for that community, however, there appears to be nothing on
paper. At the press conference, the premier and Mr. Barry were clear to
point out that this proposal depends on the federal government. It makes no
sense that the federal minister was not part of this process.
"This situation appears very similar to that which unfolded in
Stephenville. A press conference was held, a plan announced, yet the other
parties involved were not included in the process. In Stephenville,
government tried to deflect from their inability to find a solution by
placing fault with the union and Abitibi. Now, it appears the premier is
setting up Loyola Hearn to be the person responsible for Harbour Breton. If
Premier Williams was serious about this proposal, he would have consulted
the federal government for their input and ensured a concrete plan was in
place before holding a major press conference.
"It appears the premier is once again playing a game of chess, and this
time he is using the people of Harbour Breton as its political pawns. It is
a dangerous game that has already failed the people of Stephenville. Knowing
the trend of this premier, it is not surprising that this press conference
was held during a by-election and on the verge of a polling period."
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