St. John’s, N.L. (October 29, 2024) – Pleaman Forsey, PC Shadow Minister of Forestry and Agrifoods and MHA for Exploits expressed grave concern following recent, troubling revelations from the Auditor General’s report. Forsey agrees with the Auditor General’s assessment, which raises “serious concerns with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture’s ability to effectively manage Crown Lands administration.”
Forsey is particularly disturbed by findings highlighting inconsistencies across regions and poor management practices, which may have led to potential fraud. He is deeply concerned that decisions could have been influenced by conflicts of interest and that outdated policies have negatively impacted the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.
“I am appalled by the report’s findings, particularly that government registries are not even reconciled, leading to inconsistent and outdated information across systems. The Land Use Atlas is out of date, and the division doesn’t take complaints seriously,” said Forsey.
“The Liberals’ gross mismanagement of Crown Lands raises serious doubts about their ability to deliver the meaningful legislation they’ve promised. The issues identified by the Auditor General go far deeper than the changes proposed by Minister Gerry Byrne.”
“Families who have lived on their land for generations now find themselves in the heartbreaking position of having to prove ownership. They deserve clarity and answers. Given the Liberal government’s mismanagement of Crown Lands, I am demanding that Minister Byrne release his proposed legislation today, allowing residents and their legal counsel to thoroughly review it before the House of Assembly opens,” Forsey continued.
“Critical questions remain unanswered: What documentation will be required to obtain a quitclaim? How much will people have to pay? How simple will the process be?
Will those with pending applications be able to reapply under the new quitclaim process? Will agricultural land be included? The public needs access to the proposed legislation, as there is little confidence that a Liberal Minister who has allowed such mismanagement can bring about these necessary changes,” Forsey declared.
“Amendments to the Crown Lands legislation for a quitclaim process are urgently needed, but a comprehensive overhaul of Crown Lands management is equally critical. Our residents deserve better.”