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December 15, 1997
(Minister Responsible for Labrador)

The following statement was issued today by Ernie McLean, Minister Responsible for Labrador. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Government's response to the crisis in Black Tickle

In recent weeks people from all parts of Newfoundland and Labrador have become aware of the economic crisis facing the community of Black Tickle on Labrador's south coast. The problems in our economy over the past decade, compounded by the cod moratorium, have affected every community in this province but none to the extent of Black Tickle.

The exceptional issues facing Black Tickle require an exceptional response. Once apprised of the situation the Premier established as special committee of Cabinet to fast track government's response to the crisis. Today, the Premier and the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture are in Black Tickle with the Member for Cartwright L'Anse au Claire to report directly to the people of the community on the progress of this committee.

I am pleased this afternoon to report to this Honourable House that the provincial government has approved additional initiatives under the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs Job Creation Program for the community of Black Tickle. First, $65,000 in funding will be provided to employ 23 people to upgrade the fishplant. Tomorrow, the Premier will be meeting with officials of HB Dawe, owners of the plant. The company will be paying for three positions and have pledged to match any materials provided by government. Next week $20,000 worth of supplies for the project will be shipped to the community by the Coast Guard.

Thirty-two thousand dollars in funding will be provided for a Literacy Outreach Program which will employ 13 people to train workers to do needs assessment, compile curriculum for tutoring and provide the basis for an ongoing community learning project. This project is one identified by the community and is similar to other projects along the coast.

Fifty-two thousand dollars will also be provided and 23 people employed to upgrade the community centre. This work will include repairs to the roof and foundation and provide for an extension to the building. This work will provide facilities to assist with the provision of the school lunch and breakfast program which was previously announced.

The response around Newfoundland and Labrador to the crisis in Black Tickle is a tribute to the people of this province. The general public through Operation Angel have responded with a food drive supported by corporate citizens such as Air Labrador, and Day and Ross. Just today the Premier, while in Black Tickle, received a commitment from Vince Withers and Newtel to approve the community's application for Internet access - regardless of cost.

The cooperation between the provincial government, the community and the private sector along with the initiative of others around the province have shown how working together the people of Newfoundland and Labrador have the drive, concern and ability to meet the challenges facing our people. It is the same drive and ability that will ensure the long-term viability of all our rural communities.