Official opening of Petroleum Price Commissioner�s Office

The office of the Petroleum Price Commissioner was officially opened in Grand Falls-Windsor today. Premier Roger Grimes, Government Services and Lands Minister Walter Noel, Anna Thistle, MHA - Grand Falls-Buchans, Commissioner George Saunders and special guests from the area were on hand for the ceremony.

Premier Grimes said: "I would like to thank the commissioner and his staff for working to get this office running as quickly as they did. Their work is extremely important to the people of this province.

"In the past, we have seen substantial and frequent fluctuations in prices - often within days of each other - attributable to the volatility of the markets. Consumers were dissatisfied and lacked confidence in the way petroleum products were priced. People wanted a greater level of certainty and now, through this office, they have it."

Minister Noel, the minister responsible for the commissioner�s office and the minister responsible for consumer affairs, said he was delighted to join the premier, Mr. Saunders and special guests for the official opening.

Mr. Noel said: "The strength of any government depends on public understanding and public contribution to the decisions we make and this government has clearly demonstrated its intention to listen and respond to consumers. The opening of this office today is an example of that commitment.

"This office will establish more consistent prices, monitor the industry, and keep consumers well-informed."

The Office of the Petroleum Price Commissioner is located at 18 High Street in Grand Falls-Windsor.

Media contact: Rick Callahan, Director of Communications (709) 729-4860

2001 11 23            4:40 p.m.