The following statement was issued today by Ernie McLean, Minister of Government Services and Lands, and Minister Responsible for Labrador. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise today in my capacity as Minister Responsible for Labrador in the government to update this Honourable House of Assembly on issues of great importance to Labrador and the people who live there.

Since the election, the people of Labrador have voiced their frustration over outstanding issues, broken promises and the perceived disinterest of past governments in addressing their concerns. Issues such as the Trans Labrador Highway, health care and the delivery of basic government services remain deep and abiding concerns in Labrador. This government is committed to resolving them.

To that end, our government has been working under my direction and with the support of the Premier, to focus efforts on resolving the inequities facing the people of Labrador.

As Minister of Government Services and Lands, my first priority is improved delivery of efficient and effective services to rural areas, in particular, to Labrador. This morning, for example, my colleague from Labrador West announced, on my behalf, the provision of full motor vehicle registration services for the citizens of Labrador West. The lack of these basic services in Labrador City and Wabush has been a concern of residents for many years.

As well, my colleague, the Honourable Minister of Works, Services and Transportation is committed to a vision of a paved Trans Labrador Highway becoming a reality within 10 years. The Honourable Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods is actively pursuing forestry development in southern Labrador and addressing the many issues associated with management of Labrador's wildlife resources. The Honourable Minister of Health has assured me the health needs of all the residents of Labrador will be given the same priority as any other citizen in this province. As Minister Responsible for Labrador, I am confident that this government is sensitive to these concerns.

In the weeks and months to come, this government will continue to show its commitment to Labrador through action, not words. With the cooperation of my Cabinet colleagues and my colleagues from Labrador West and Torngat Mountains, the interests of the people of Labrador will be well represented within government.

The people of this province, both on the island and in Labrador, recognize the great contributions of the Big Land and the spirit of the proud people who call it home. It is clear to me, as a man whose family has lived in Labrador for generations, that Labradorians don't want out of the province, they want in. They want to be treated as full partners as we move forward into a promising future. I am fully committed to this goal, the premier is fully committed to this goal and this government is fully committed to this goal.