St. John’s, N.L. (November 19, 2024) –Tony Wakeham, Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party and MHA for Stephenville-Port au Port is raising the alarm over the Liberal government's handling of the Kenmount Crossing land deal.

Initially touted as a 10-acre land donation for the new St. Clare's Hospital, the deal has escalated to a 54-acre $23 million purchase with a new and surprising twist – the land is the same site the government previously announced for its new sports and well-being dome.

"The people of Newfoundland and Labrador deserve and expect accountability and transparency from their government," said Wakeham. "On November 4, the Liberal government announced a land donation for the new St. Clare's Hospital. Days later, that donation turned into significant land deal, which will cost taxpayers $23 million."

In the House of Assembly yesterday, Wakeham revealed that in August 2024, the government issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for design services for a sports and well-being dome. The RFP explicitly referenced the Kenmount Crossing site. This is the same land now earmarked for the replacement of St. Clare's. When asked whether the province owned the land at the time, Minister Fred Hutton admitted it did not.

"The Liberal government's handling of the Kenmount Crossing site is shrouded in secrecy," added Wakeham.

"The Liberals owe the people of this province an explanation. Has this site been part of a backroom deal all along? Why is the Liberal government hiding the details from the people of Newfoundland and Labrador?

It appears the fix has been in on this land since August and the government has yet to provide any clear answers. The people of the province deserve better."

Tony Wakeham and the Progressive Conservatives are committed to holding the Furey Liberal government accountable for its actions and ensuring that all decisions regarding taxpayers' dollars are made in their best interests.