Premier Andrew Furey says he understands where the public is coming from in regards to recent outrage targeted at two Liberal fundraisers held this week.

The First was held by Health Minister Dr. John Haggie at the Bally Haly Golf Course in St. John’s. Haggie has since apologized, calling the decision to hold the gathering “unwise.” The second was an event held by Minister Lisa Dempster at a private residence in St. John’s. 25 people attended, and the minister says all guidelines were followed under the special measures orders set out by the province.

The gatherings were met with widespread criticism from the public, and Furey says he understands the outrage being expressed.

According to the Premier, even though the standards were followed they are being held to higher ones. In retrospect, he says the timing of the events “wasn’t great.” He attests that the province will do better and that it won’t happen again.

Premier Encouraged by Positive Employment Figures

Meanwhile, Newfoundland and Labrador’s ability to contain the spread of COVID-19 appears to be reflected in the latest employment figures.

Statistics Canada say employment in this province has rebounded, but the Premier’s response is muted.

Furey calls the numbers “a biopsy” or snapshot in time.

While encouraging, he says the government is working hard toward maintaining a positive trend.

Newfoundland and Labrador lead the country in the recovery, exceeding its pre-COVID-19 employment levels. Alberta lags behind with five per cent lower employment than in February of this year.

With today's jobs report, here's how the employment recovery is proceeding across provinces. NL now exceeds its pre-COVID level while AB is furthest behind with 5% lower employment. https://t.co/UCzfDbTqvr #cdnecon pic.twitter.com/zzL8hKhIqE

— Trevor Tombe (@trevortombe) December 4, 2020