Premier announces date for Placentia & St. Mary�s by-election

Premier Danny Williams today announced that the by-election for the district of Placentia & St. Mary�s will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2006.

"I am pleased today to announce that the people of Placentia & St. Mary�s will have the opportunity to select their Member of the House of Assembly on February 21," said Premier Williams. "Our government has amended the House of Assembly Act to ensure there is not a prolonged period during which a seat is vacant in the House of Assembly. It is absolutely critical to call by-elections in a timely manner so that all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are fairly represented."

In 2004, the Williams government introduced an amendment to the House of Assembly Act which requires the calling of by-elections within 60 days of vacancy. This was a commitment of the Blueprint and a previous by-election has already been conducted under these regulations.

"Selecting an MHA is an important task and I encourage all residents of the district of Placentia & St. Mary�s to participate and have their voice heard in the legislature," added Premier Williams. "We look forward to welcoming a new MHA to the House of Assembly to represent the constituents of Placentia & St. Mary�s."

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960 or 690-5500 elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca

2006 01 30                                                         3:40 p.m.