While government is reiterating the need for a fixed link from the island to mainland Canada, an Independent MHA says more factors need to be considered.

Paul Lane says while establishing a connection to mainland Canada may sound like a wonderful thing to do in terms of economic activity, job opportunities, tourism and the movement of goods to and from Newfoundland – a number of factors need to be considered, like the province’s finances.

Lane claims that the costs associated with such a project go well beyond the construction of the link itself as there is significant capital investment that would be needed into the highway systems both here and in Quebec.

He says there is a significant travel distance to drive from Newfoundland to the urban centers of Quebec, not including the potential challenges during winter months.

Lane believes private sector investment would also be required for amenities along the Labrador and Quebec North Shore route.

The Independent member says if the federal government wants to partner with the private sector to establish the fixed link, the province should accept the offer.

However, the taxpayers of the province cannot be on the hook for yet another legacy project and any efforts from the province and the feds at this time would be better channeled into rate mitigation efforts.