Speech from the Throne Outlines a Sustainable Future for Newfoundland and Labrador

The Government of Newfoundland Labrador’s 2013 Speech from the Throne was delivered today by His Honour, the Honourable Frank Fagan, Lieutenant Governor. This year’s Speech from the Throne focused on setting a sustainable course for the Provincial Government going forward.

“Today’s Speech from the Throne highlighted the tremendous progress our government has made over the last 10 years to bring this province to where it is today,” said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. “We will continue to take a responsible approach, protecting the progress we have made to date, providing for the present and building on our unprecedented decade of progress for future generations.”

The Speech from the Throne highlighted government’s commitment to a balanced plan and sustainable approach for the future of the province. It explained that there are two core reasons why a clear plan for the future is needed. The first is that the province’s primary source of new revenue is oil, a nonrenewable resource which is subject to large and unpredictable price fluctuations on the world market. The second is that Newfoundland and Labrador’s public sector costs are greater than the economy can sustain.

“My government will maintain that same steady hand of sound management, executing our plan to ensure the province continues to thrive and prosper. We will not slip back into the tax and spend ways of our past,” said Premier Dunderdale. “My government has a plan to get us past the challenges that face us on the horizon and sustain us into the future. To do nothing is not an option.”

The Speech from the Throne outlined plans for a number of sound investments which help maintain a sustainable future for Newfoundland and Labrador. Diversifying the economy, investing in business attraction and focusing on innovation, research, development, and trade will help grow the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador for future generations. Particularly, the development of projects such as Muskrat Falls, Hebron, the Hibernia South extension and White Rose will help ensure a secure future for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

The 2013 Speech from the Throne also highlighted areas of priority for the Government of Newfoundland Labrador, including families, education and the future. These priority areas have been reflected in recent pre-budget announcements including an investment in a new regional acute care health facility in Corner Brook and an investment in a new task force of the RNC and RCMP to investigate organized and serious crimes, such as illegal drug activity and child exploitation. These announcements demonstrate a clear commitment to the safety, security and well-being of families and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Our government recognizes what is important and continues to invest in priority areas accordingly,” said Premier Dunderdale. “We have a vision for this province. A vision that acknowledges just how far we have come and sets out a clear and defined course for our future.”

In the coming days, the Government of Newfoundland Labrador will outline a plan that will provide long-term sustainability and will secure the province’s future through investments in families, people and the economy.

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2013 03 25                             4:35 p.m.