Kelvin Parsons, Opposition Critic for Finance and Treasury Board, and MHA for the District of Burgeo Lapolie, says news that Newfoundland and Labrador will not be requiring equalization payments in the near future is an achievement as a province, but not the cure-all to address the many outstanding issues affecting our everyday life.

Parsons was reacting to the announcement this week that for the first time in our history we will be a “have” province within Canada because of our improved fiscal position.

“It is certainly a source of pride to have reached this milestone, however, this achievement needs to be put in perspective,” says Parsons. “First of all, we have come into this fortunate position as a result of many circumstances beyond the present government’s actions and the misfortunes of another province, namely Ontario .  Secondly, our enthusiasm needs to be balanced by the reality that have-not areas exist within our province which have been left unaddressed by the current administration despite its enhanced fiscal ability.

“The reality is that in this province many regions and people will not be benefiting directly from this improved status. Our province still has the highest food bank usage, our people still have to travel to Alberta to find work and our health care services are still largely inadequate.

Parsons points out that the Premier was characteristically quick to claim credit in this circumstance.  “This Premier was prompt to share the blame at the Cameron Inquiry with previous administrations; but not so quick to share the credit on this success with former premiers and administrations, including Peckford, Wells, Tobin and Grimes.

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