NLIS 5
January 21, 2002
(Fisheries and Aquaculture)

 

Minister responds to opposition request to reconvene House of Assembly

Gerry Reid, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today responded to statements made by Danny Williams, Leader of the Opposition, regarding issues surrounding Fishery Products International (FPI) Ltd.

"Last week, I invited the opposition parties to join with government in an All Party Committee, to travel around the province for public consultations regarding the FPI Act," said Reid. "Through these consultations, we intend to clarify the intent of the 15 per cent share restriction, to honour the spirit and intent of the legislation. The method of clarification will be subject to the public consultation process."

Mr. Williams suggested that the people of the province had made their views clear on this issue, and there was no need for public consultations on the matter. On that basis, he requested that the premier reconvene the House of Assembly for an emergency debate.

"This issue is of utmost importance to Newfoundland and Labrador, and unlike Mr. Williams, I would not want to presume what the opinions of the people of the province would be," added Reid. "These consultations will provide an opportunity for fair and open debate on a number of issues. Specifically, we will discuss the 15 per cent share restriction, and the impact of amending that portion of the legislation. Changing this share restriction would have a significant impact on the company and could also impact future investment prospects, not only for FPI as a company, but for the entire business community of the province. As such, it is important that we pursue public discussion on this issue, so as to fully debate and understand the ramifications of such a move in the legislature. Once this process is complete, we will determine if it is necessary to reconvene the House of Assembly."

Mr. Williams also expressed concern over the timing of the public consultations, which he feared would not be completed in time to influence the proposed acquisition of Clearwater Fine Foods. However, Mr. Reid indicated that the FPI Board of Directors are fully aware of the upcoming consultations, and of government�s willingness to revise the share restriction in the legislature if necessary.

"It is our understanding that we will have ample time to conduct these public consultations and report back to government, prior to the completion of this acquisition," said Reid. "All things considered, it would be premature to reopen the House of Assembly, prior to receiving input from the public through these consultations."

Mr. Williams also criticized the make-up of the All Party Committee, which will include representatives from the three parties currently in the House of Assembly.

"It is standard procedure that the make-up of an All Party Committees, is based upon proportional representation of the House of Assembly," added Reid. "Mr. Harris of the New Democratic Party has accepted our invitation to join the All Party Committee, and we look forward to a prompt and positive response from the PC party as well, so as to get this process under way immediately."

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, (709) 729-3733, or (709) 727-3438.

2002 01 21                         3:35 p.m.


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