(February 2, 2022) – Joedy Wall, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and MHA for Cape St. Francis, is urging the Liberal government to move on latest report on regionalization in Newfoundland and Labrador – but urges caution on increased administrative burden and expenses in regionalized approach.

“Regional government has to work for everyone. The report outlines how shared services, joint councils, and regional service boards can help improve public services while spreading the burden throughout a region. These are good measures, but I urge the Minister caution on pushing taxes ever higher for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians,” said Wall.

“Newfoundland and Labrador needs a modern approach to governance, which will benefit every resident of our province. However, where is the breakdown of anticipated costs to residents? This question is crucial as the province moves ahead with a regional government plan, so residents and businesses can fully understand the road ahead.”

Wall says the report also notes just how many reports have gathered dust on the question of regional government since the 1950’s. He’s urging government to not let this report meet the same fate.

“The Premier’s Greene Report recommends the elimination of Local Service Districts and mandatory taxes for everyone in the province. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador need to understand Greene’s influence on this report and what cost increases could be faced by the people and business community in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Wall.

“There’s no question regionalization is a complicated process, with every single resident of our province being a stakeholder. I encourage the Minister to move on this plan, while being transparent about potential costs or cost savings to residents resulting from regional governance.”

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca