Premier Andrew Furey has written each of the four main federal leaders asking for commitments on numerous issues important to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Furey penned the identical letters on April 8, asking for Bloc Quebecois leader Yves-Francois Blanchet, Liberal leader Mark Carney, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh to give their responses to questions on seven different issues.
(Marine Atlantic)
The first question is on Marine Atlantic, in which he asks if the leaders will commit to “eliminating” Marine Atlantic fees. In recent days Carney has committed to lower costs by “at least half,” Singh has also committed to lowering fees, while Poilievre has said he will look at the fee structure.
Next, Furey asks if the leaders will eliminate the proposed oil and gas emissions cap, and streamline the environmental assessment process.
(Equinor)
Under joint fisheries management, the Premier is requesting a “more collaborative, adaptable management structure that reflects the contemporary realities and needs of (the) people.”
Furey broaches the topic of equalization, which is the subject of a current challenge before the courts. He wants the next federal government to address what he calls “significant deficiencies” with that program.
Elsewhere, he wants commitments for a “substantial national infrastructure program,” the continuation of $10-a-day childcare and enhanced access to childcare spaces, and enhanced arctic security and sovereignty through investments in Labrador.
