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Opposition Leader Gerry Reid says he is shocked to learn that Fishery
Products International (FPI) has been shipping fish out of the province for
processing without the permission of the provincial government for the past
several months.
"I was very surprised to learn that FPI was shipping our fish to China
for processing without the permission of government," said Mr. Reid. "I was
even more shocked to discover that Fisheries Minister Tom Rideout knew
nothing about these shipments. Most people in the fishing industry knew this
was happening, why didn’t the current minister and government?
"In light of the information provided today by Minister Rideout that FPI
has broken the laws of this province by shipping out fish without
permission, and the recent announcement by the company to layoff several
hundred workers on the Burin Peninsula, we are requesting action to ensure
due diligence is undertaken to protect FPI workers in this province. In the
House of Assembly earlier today, we asked government to make amendments to
strengthen the FPI Act, convene an emergency debate in the legislature and
launch a public inquiry into the company. For reasons unknown, government
appears reluctant to act on any of these suggestions.
"With government’s handling of the situation to date, it does not inspire
confidence. Last June this government was willing to weaken FPI, dilute the
FPI Act and allow the company to sell off its most valuable marketing arm in
the United States. Fortunately, this legislation was not proclaimed. It is
obvious that another internal government investigation will not suffice.
There must be an independent public inquiry to ensure all details are made
public and the people of this province have insight into the future of FPI
in their communities. Government has taken a hands-off approach long enough,
it is time for the people to have their say."
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