The leader of the provincial NDP is urging his colleagues in Ottawa to participate in the upcoming budget vote as the federal NDP deliberates on their stance.

Federal NDP leader Don Davies has indicated that some members of his caucus may consider abstaining from the vote, which raises concerns for NL NDP Leader Jim Dinn.

Dinn stresses the importance of addressing potential job cuts and the lack of affordable housing in the budget.

“I would hope that it’s not a case of abstention, but voting one way or the other. It’s no different than what we face with regards to the MOU here. We’re paid to make a decision, and make a decision we should,” he said.