April 8, 1998
(Works, Services and Transportation)


Collenette's decision on Marine Atlantic headquarters very disappointing

Speaking on behalf of Works, Services and Transportation Minister Lloyd Matthews, Art Reid today expressed government's surprise and disappointment with Federal Transportation Minister David Collenette's decision regarding Marine Atlantic headquarters.

"While we are happy that Port aux Basques will receive some additional jobs, we cannot understand the rationale for establishing most of the Marine Atlantic management in Nova Scotia. The Gulf service exists for the sole purpose of providing an essential transportation link between Newfoundland and the rest of Canada. It would be logical that the full service be managed from Newfoundland and Labrador."

Mr. Reid added: "The province received no advance notice of this decision, either from the minister responsible - Mr. Collenette - or from the regional minister, Fred Mifflin, whose responsibility it is to look out for this province's interests."

The minister said the government can not understand the timing either. "The House of Assembly is in recess. The release arrives at the end of the day. There is no advance notice. We certainly question the approach by the federal government on this matter."

"Since we do not understand - and have not been told the rationale - it is incumbent on the Transport Minister, Mr. Collenette, and on Fred Mifflin - to come to Newfoundland and explain this incomprehensible and unfair decision - a decision which we take as a slap in the face to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians."

Contact: Gary Callahan, (709) 729-3412.

1998 04 08 5:35 p.m.

 

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