The leaders of the province’s three political parties sparred over some of the biggest issues facing Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during a 90 minute debate last night, including the controversial MOU with Quebec.

PC leader Tony Wakeham accused Liberal leader John Hogan of rushing the deal, saying his is “refusing” to send it for an independent assessment.

Hogan quipped back, saying the public doesn’t know where Wakeham stands on the deal, noting that the entire PC caucus chose not to vote during the January debate.

“The PCs decided not to do their job, and not to tell Newfoundlanders and Labradorians where they stand on this. And they still haven’t told people where they are, is it a good MOU, or is it a bad MOU?”

Wakeham argues they have been “quite clear” on their position.

“We will sign no deal until it has gone through an independent review outside of that. And once we have that, we will turn around and send it to the people.”

Meanwhile, NDP leader Jim Dinn, who voted in support of the MOU on the condition that an independent oversight panel be set up, wants the resignation letter of former panel member Michael Wilson released.

“Let’s make sure there has been no political interference…there can be no partisan politics in this. We have been clear from the beginning, in trying to be the adult in the room, that this has to be based on its economic merits.”

Meanwhile, Hogan reaffirmed that the final agreements will go to the House of Assembly for debate, and says his caucus will be given a free vote on the issue, meaning they will not be expected to tow the party line.