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Kelvin Parsons, Opposition Natural Resources Critic and MHA for the District
of Burgeo-Lapoile, says it is time for government to be open and transparent
with the people of the province and release the details of the Lower
Churchill project. Earlier today, Premier Williams and Natural Resources
Minister Ed Byrne announced that the province would be moving forward as
lead developer of the Lower Churchill project. Similar to the breakdown of
the Hebron/Ben Nevis negotiations, government appears unwilling to release
details related to the project.
"Today in the House of Assembly, I asked the Premier several
straightforward questions regarding the decision of the province to be the
lead developer of the Lower Churchill," said Mr. Parsons. "While the Premier
touted this as the best possible option for development, he could not answer
several questions. He could not answer whether there is a long-term customer
for the power; he could not answer the level of federal participation in the
project; he could not answer who would provide up-front financing for the
project; nor could he confirm if other companies or provinces would be part
of the project.
"With the few details released today, it appears this was nothing more
than a public relations exercise to deflect attention away from the other
issues he is failing to deal with in the province, including Fishery
Products International (FPI). In addition, he has continuously stated that
no energy projects will be announced or approved until the energy plan is
completed. Today’s announcement seems to be contradictory to those
statements. We are also on the eve of another polling period and we all know
the Premier likes to portray good news during these polling periods.
"It is very difficult for the Opposition and the people of the province
to make educated and informed decisions regarding a project of this
magnitude without all of the details. If the Premier wants the best deal
possible, I suggest he begin by answering questions and providing
information. Let’s see all of the options on the table and have an open
debate."
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