January 9, 1998
(Government Services and Lands)

Minister releases Report on Gasoline Pricing

Ernie McLean, Minister of Government Services and Lands, today released a report entitled: Gasoline Prices and the Public Interest - The Consumer Advocate's Report on Gasoline Prices in the Province Newfoundland and Labrador.

The report was written by Dennis Browne QC, a St. John's lawyer appointed to investigate variations in the retail prices of gasoline in different parts of the province.

The terms of reference for Mr. Browne's assignment directed him:

• to examine the reasons for the differences in the price of gasoline in various parts of the province;

• to determine whether regulation of gasoline prices would be in the public interest, and if so;

• to determine what the options were, given the experience in other jurisdictions.

Mr. Browne met with consumers, the petroleum retail industry, and other interested parties in all regions of the province as a part of his review.

Mr. Browne's appointment was announced on July 17, 1997 by Premier Tobin, Mr. McLean and Anna Thistle, MHA - Grand Falls-Buchans. During 1997 concerns about gas prices were expressed by many residents, especially those in the central Newfoundland area.

Mr. McLean said arrangements are now being made to enable the public to respond to the recommendations in Mr. Browne's report. The minister said he expects government's official response to the report to be prepared before the end of March.

NOTE TO EDITORS: A copy of the report is available from Communications and Consultations Branch, (709) 729-3610. The report will also be available on government's Internet site at / under Publications.

Contact: Rick Callahan, (709) 729-4860.