(January 25, 2021) – A PC government led by Ches Crosbie will ensure local workers will be first in line for jobs on government projects – not big companies or elite special interests from out-of-province.

Crosbie says a PC government will require a local benefits policy when public funds are spent on infrastructure to ensure Newfoundlanders and Labradorians receive maximum benefits and jobs. According to Crosbie, special consideration will be given to underrepresented groups, such as women. Indigenous persons, and apprentices.

“The Liberals have refused to put our workers first and it’s cost our province much-needed jobs,” said Crosbie.

“As Premier, I will ensure that when our taxpayer dollars fund projects, it will be our taxpayers who reap the benefits. It’s another part of our comprehensive plan to bring back jobs and get our economy working again.”

In addition to implementing a local benefits policy, Crosbie says a PC government will:

• Ensure a percentage of new hires on work the province pays for are apprentices, so they can gain experience and work in their field;

• Apply a “local first” policy to procurement, ensuring the public sector supports local businesses whenever possible;

• Help Newfoundland and Labrador businesses become bulk suppliers nationally, so they can access new markets;

• Showcase local brands outside the province wherever possible; and

• Expand supply chains that support local economic development, so Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are the principal beneficiaries of all our province’s resources.

“For too long, the Liberal government has taken care of others at the expense of looking out for our own,” said Crosbie. “A PC government will put local first, so we can together grow our way out of our fiscal crisis.”
 

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Communications

(p) (709) 769-2216

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