News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

   

 

Parsons pleased government accepts two amendments on FPI legislation


May 25, 2006

Kelvin Parsons, Opposition House Leader and MHA for the District of Burgeo-Lapoile, says while he is disappointed that government didn’t accept all nine amendments brought forward by the Official Opposition to the Fishery Products International (FPI) Act, he is pleased that government did agree to two of those amendments.

Government accepted amendment number three, which would ensure FPI received government permission to dispose of assets outside the province, and amendment number four, which would include quotas as assets of the company requiring government permission to sell.

"By bringing forward fair and reasonable amendments, we felt we were helping government strengthen the FPI Act, and protecting the interests of the people of the province," said Mr. Parsons. "While we were pleased that government accepted two of our amendments, seven were still defeated.

"While we will be supporting the amendments brought forward by government, we felt our amendments were stronger and would be a valuable addition to strengthening the FPI Act. Unfortunately, for whatever reason, government did not feel it necessary to go any further in ensuring they have sufficient control over the decisions of FPI.

"I am hopeful that government will continue to evaluate the merit of our other seven amendments. Over the next several months, it may become apparent that these amendments should have been accepted. Should it be necessary, we are willing to return to the House of Assembly at anytime to make the additional legislative changes that will continue to strengthen the FPI Act."

 

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