Minister wants clarification from opposition

The Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Tom Lush wants the PC party to detail their plan for the future and to clarify what they see as their role as the opposition.

Minister Lush noted "PC Leader Danny Williams has stated two views in the past; one is to oppose and the other to offer constructive criticism while other caucus members hold a view contrary to their leader and that is to offer an alternative."

In the House of Assembly today Minister Lush challenged the opposition to clarify their position and outline their plans for the future.

Minister Lush stated "It�s time for the opposition to stop the negativity and reveal their plan for the future of Newfoundland and Labrador."

The minister wonders if the PC caucus are allowed to comment publicly on party policy. He said today, "I would like a commitment from Mr. Williams to allow members of his caucus to speak publicly on issues and policy instead of attempting to suppress freedom of speech. Given the events of the past few months, it appears Mr. Williams has imposed tight control over what his caucus and candidates can say publicly. As an example, some months ago a member of his caucus was asked by a member of the media to comment on an issue and he said he could not unless he had permission of the communications officer of the party."

Mr. Lush said, "The leader of the PC party should immediately let us know what plans his party has for the people of this province. And, given the current climate he should let us know if it is the plan of his party to enact policies that would curtail or eliminate the ability of his caucus to speak freely and to attempt to limit free speech in this province."

Media contact: Tom Hann, Communications, (709) 729-1341

2003 05 05                                     4:45 p.m.