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Government blowing a double standard on Labrador wind energy
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Opposition Natural Resources Critic and MHA for the District of Cartwright-L=Anse au Clair, Yvonne Jones, charges that government is applying a double standard with its uncooperative approach to a huge wind energy proposal in Labrador compared to similar projects on the island. Jones informed the House of Assembly in question period today that a joint partnership agreement between the Labrador Metis Nation and Ventus Energy is prepared to invest $2.5 billon in a wind energy project in Labrador. Proponents have indicated they will give the province a 25 per cent equity share in this project which would generate 1000 megawatts of power. "This is a tremendous project and would involve a massive investment, yet government refuses to even hear their case for energy development in Labrador,@ said Jones. AThis is another shining example of this government=s inability to communicate properly with private sector companies and to get projects moving. Danny Williams= approach to development is arbitrary and illogical; and it=s no wonder that he is not attracting business development and why thousands of people have had to leave this province." The Liberal MHA says she understands that due process has to be followed on a project of this nature. Still, she considers the way the government is treating this proponent as offensive, when they should be encouraging a project of this magnitude, which is equivalent to the Atlantic Accord. "Surely, they can allow the company to move forward and carry out an environmental assessment. This would give them a head start if the project is approved.@ Jones says what makes this case especially frustrating is that projects on the island are being encouraged and are proceeding, while those in Labrador are being shunned. AStill, the minister will stand in the House of Assembly and mindlessly defend government=s non-action on this file, based on a phathom energy plan that has been stalled for years." The Liberal MHA points to the premier=s controversial negotiating style as the real block to this proposal. AWe have seen this with each and every project he is involved in and it really has become a liability to this province as people are beginning to see. We all want the best deal, but the premier has to learn what a real great leader, John F. Kennedy, once said - you cannot negotiate out of fear, but you can never be afraid to negotiate. I think that is where the premier falls down on his job and why this province=s economic development is suffering under his leadership.@ - 30 -
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