The following is being distributed at the request of Ed Byrne, Government House Leader:

Government House Leader proclaims inaugural legislative session very successful:
the longest session in 10 years

The Government House Leader and Natural Resources Minister Ed Byrne says government�s inaugural session of the House of Assembly was a very successful one.

"I am very pleased with the volume of work we accomplished within this session. Prior to the election we told voters that we would be a working government and I believe we have proven that with our first session being the longest legislative session in 10 years, with the House of Assembly being open for a total of 43 days."

The House of Assembly opened March 18, 2004 and closes today June 8, 2004. During this period, government passed more than 30 bills, with the first being the Student Financial Assistance Act and more recently the Automobile Insurance Act.

"As soon as we entered office, we committed to the people of the province that we would implement auto insurance reform in order to achieve meaningful savings for consumers," said Minister Byrne. "Bill 30 represents the first step in that process, which will result in savings for consumers of up to 20 per cent. We look forward to a full public hearing in the fall to determine if further reforms are required."

Government also passed Budget 2004, the first budget of the Williams� administration. The budget contained a responsible two-pronged approach for managing the province�s deficit and beginning to restore the fiscal well being of the province, while at the same time making strategic investments intended to grow Newfoundland and Labrador�s economy. Budget 2004 also announced several initiatives and funding announcements which were reflective of government�s strong social responsibility.

"During this session, we have brought forth meaningful legislation that will improve the lives of people of this province, including an amendment to the Income Tax Act which will provide a personal tax reduction for low-income earners," added the minister. "I would like to thank both opposition parties for their cooperation and I look forward to the next session where we can build upon our achievements and continue to deliver our agenda for the benefit of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador."

For a complete list of legislation go to www.gov.nl.ca/hoa/business

For further information: Ken Morrissey, (709) 729-0931

2004 06 08                                         4:05 p.m.