The President of the province’s Muslim Association says it’s time to move on.

Dr. Mansoor Prizada says he does not understand the fuss surrounding images of Justin Trudeau in blackface and brownface makeup dating back to the 1990s and early 2000s.

He calls it a “non-issue” and says it’s time to discuss the real issues that matter, including seniors living in poverty, and the working poor.

Prizada says if you’re asked to dress up in costume, you don’t show up in a suit and tie. He says the Canada he knows is a “peacemaker” and humanitarian country.

He says Canada should be in the front row in dealing with serious issues facing areas like Palestine, Kashmir and Syria, not concerning itself with what he calls “petty issues” like who is painting their face one colour or another.

Meanwhile, Premier Dwight Ball admits he was disappointed after images of Justin Trudeau in black and brown face makeup started circulating in the media.

Ball told VOCM News that he’s subsequently heard what Trudeau had to say and is satisfied that people change.

He says it’s now time for voters to decide, not who has the worst past, but who can provide the best future for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.