(September 18, 2023, St. John’s) – Craig Pardy, PC Opposition Critic for Fisheries and MHA for Bonavista, today questioned the continued absence of the federal and provincial Liberals in the latest crisis facing the province.

Pardy was responding to recent changes in the Employment Insurance program that has made it harder for seasonal workers to qualify, will pay them less benefits and for a shorter period of time. The FFAW has estimated some 20,000 residents will be impacted, mostly in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. The NL Federation of Labour has also spoken out about this issue and its impact on seasonal workers.

“Where are our six federal MPs who sat in a Liberal Government that allowed this to happen? Where is the Provincial Government who have always touted their ability to work with their federal cousins in Ottawa to get things done?” said Pardy.

“Seasonal workers, including those in the fishery are already reeling from a disastrous 2023 season. This is yet another slap in the face. Why are the federal and provincial liberals content on inflicting economic hardship on seasonal workers?”

Pardy says the changes to EI coming from Ottawa do not meet the needs of seasonal workers in our province, especially in rural communities.

“It is time for our federal and provincial representatives to step up and represent the interests of their constituents – not stand by idly and watch this situation unfold.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca