Finance Minister Craig Pardy says the provincial government is open to the concept of a publicly-owned grocery store if it means helping Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with affordability.

The concept has been raised by federal NDP Leader Avi Lewis and provincial party leader Jim Dinn wanted to know in the House of Assembly whether it was something the provincial government might take under advisement.

Minister Pardy says “anything that reduces poverty in Newfoundland and Labrador, this government will consider.”