Government House Leader, the Honourable Joan Burke, said today that the spring session of the House of Assembly was very productive, yielding some significant achievements for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

"I am extremely pleased with what our government has accomplished during this session of the House of Assembly," said Minister Burke. "We have taken progressive measures towards ensuring a sustainable future for the people of the province. Budget 2008 delivered a clear vision for long-term prosperity, in a way that really allows the people of this province to benefit from our new found prosperity. The elimination of retail sales tax on insurance premiums and a further reduction in personal income taxes are just two examples of initiatives that will have meaningful benefits for our people. Record spending in social programs like health care and education are also tangible examples of how we are committed to making a better life for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians."

Thirty-seven pieces of legislation, including new acts and several amendments to existing legislation, were introduced and passed during this session of the House of Assembly. One particularly important amendment that was brought forward was to the Labour Standards Act to Provide For Leave For Reservists, to ensure that the jobs of individuals who leave to serve their country are protected and available to them upon their return. A new bill, An Act to Provide For The Protection Of Personal Health Information, was introduced to establish the rules that govern the collection, use, dissemination and disclosure of personal health information. Another significant piece of legislation was the Act to Amend The Energy Corporation Act, which will allow the energy corporation to operate in a competitive business environment and ensure that maximum benefits are obtained from the province�s resources. Chief Justice Clyde Wells gave Royal Assent to each of these bills.

"I thank my colleagues for their input, and for the constructive and worthwhile debate on the various bills," said Minister Burke. "For the first time in history, we are on the threshold of becoming a have province and the work that has been done during this session will help to further our vision for a sustainable and prosperous Newfoundland and Labrador."

Details on the legislation can be found at: //www.gov.nl.ca/hoa/business/

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Media contact:
Donna Ivey
Communications
House of Assembly
709-729-0898, 697-1424

2008 06 04                                                  5:05 p.m.