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Opposition Leader Gerry Reid says government is not only unwilling to
release information through the Access to Information Act, but they are
refusing to answer questions placed on the Order Paper of the House of
Assembly. During this session of the House of Assembly, the Opposition
placed over 100 questions to government on the daily Order Paper. The
legislature closed yesterday evening with government refusing to answer a
single question.
"Once again, this government is demonstrating its lack of respect for the
democratic process and refuses to provide information to the people of this
province," said Mr. Reid. "We have already experienced the difficulty of
trying to get information out of this government through the Access to
Information Act and Question Period. Now we cannot get answers to questions
placed on the Order Paper of the House of Assembly.
"Everyday we hear the same rhetoric from government that they are open
and transparent. However, they refuse to answer questions, provide
information on decisions, and release important details related to issues in
our province.
"This government promised during the last election campaign to be open,
accountable and transparent. Almost three years into their mandate, they
have proven to be very secretive and heavy-handed, even going so far as
denying the release of information when ordered by the Information and
Privacy Commissioner.
"As the Official Opposition, we will continue to ask questions and
request information. To have an informed public debate, it is essential that
government not only release information when it suits their interests, but
whenever it is requested."
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