Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones is questioning why government is being so silent as it relates to the future of the Abitibi mill in Grand Falls-Windsor. The mill is expected to announce restructuring in the very near future that could result in layoffs, yet government has not made any significant public statements on the matter.

"Government’s silence on the future of the mill is of growing concern," said Ms. Jones. "I have to question how engaged government actually is on this file and whether their silence indicates approval for any planned restructuring that may take place. Neither the Premier, nor the Minister of Natural Resources have made any public comment about discussions or potential negotiations that may be taking place.

"Government should have learned a lesson from the Stephenville situation. Secret negotiations did not work in that circumstance, and government is again either negotiating in secret or not doing anything at all. Either way, their approach to this issue is unacceptable."

Jones noted that government is hyping a potential Hebron deal in the coming days, yet saying nothing about the downturn in the forestry industry and the impact it may have on the central region of the province. She says Hebron is obviously needed to compensate for the downturn in other industries that are not getting the same level of attention.

"We have already witnessed significant layoffs at the Come By Chance refinery and concrete companies on the west coast over the past few months that have resulted in hundreds of job losses. Government said very little then and they are again saying very little as it relates to the Abitibi mill in Grand Falls-Windsor. We do not know what the full impact of Abitibi’s restructuring will be on the employees of the mill and the economy of central Newfoundland, however, government has a responsibility to deal with these companies and protect the interest of the people. They should start this process immediately instead of standing by silently."

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