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Opposition Leader Gerry Reid is questioning how members of the PC caucus
feel regarding the premier’s suggestion that Fishery Products International
(FPI) workers in the province should accept a wage rollback. Last night on
CBC news, Bonavista South MHA Roger Fitzgerald stated that he did not agree
with the position of the premier and does not support FPI plant workers
accepting a wage rollback. In the same story, Burin-Placentia West MHA Clyde
Jackman did not stand with his constituents and instead appeared more
interested in supporting the premier’s stance.
"I was pleased to see that Roger Fitzgerald recognizes that the premier’s
business approach to the FPI issue does nothing to help workers in this
province," said Mr. Reid. "Instead of cowering and worrying about being
thrown out of the PC caucus, he stood up for what he believes and this is
what MHAs are supposed to do for the people they represent. Unfortunately,
Minister Jackman was more concerned about remaining in the premier’s good
books and keeping his cabinet post than representing the people of his
district.
"Now that we know there is a division within the PC caucus on this issue,
I am asking where other members stand. Both Windsor-Springdale MHA Ray
Hunter and St. Barbe MHA Wally Young have FPI plants in their districts. Do
they support a wage rollback for FPI workers?
"While government members may have aspirations of becoming cabinet
ministers, this should not be more important that representing their
constituents. I am pleased that Mr. Fitzgerald has spoken out publicly. I
now hope the premier’s wrath does not provide him with the same fate of his
former colleague, Fabian Manning."
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