(February 8, 2021) – PC Party candidates are extending heartfelt words of support and best wishes to all those impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Our first thoughts must always be for those who have been infected and their families,” said PC Leader Ches Crosbie.

“This is a time for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to support our fellow citizens as we renew our
collective fight against this horrible virus.”

Crosbie says the voters are outraged at Premier Andrew Furey for his cynical, self-serving decision to call the provincial election during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Andrew Furey had a choice. He could have waited and held this election during the summer months or after more people had been vaccinated,” said Crosbie. “Instead, he put his political interests ahead of the
health and safety of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s wrong.”

Crosbie says he’s concerned that many voters – especially seniors and those with pre-existing health conditions – will now feel forced to choose between exercising their democratic right and staying safe.

“What’s happening today is an act of voter suppression, plain and simple,” said Crosbie. “The Premier tried to stack the deck in his favour and now his selfishness has resulted in potentially thousands of voters being
unable to cast a ballot for their candidate of choice. This is a dark day for democracy in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Crosbie is urging the province’s election officials to explore ways to keep voting safe, including extending polling hours, or moving to voting locations that can better accommodate physical distancing.

Crosbie says PC candidates will continue to heed the advice of public health officials as they share with voters the details of their plan to Bring Back Jobs and get Newfoundland and Labrador working again.

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Communications

(p) (709) 769-2216

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