Randy Edmunds, Opposition MHA responsible for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs, says Government is again failing to consider the impact of service fees on the people of Labrador, as it applies to landings at airstrips in the region.
Yesterday in the House of Assembly, Edmunds asked why there was no consultation with the airlines or the passengers who use the service.
“Government has implemented a $40 landing fee for all landings at airstrips in Labrador, it is just one of over 160 fee increases announced in the budget last week. This is a classic case of tax now, consult later,” said Edmunds.
“Instead of looking at the impact the fees would have on passengers and businesses, the PC Government implemented a regressive tax without any advance public notice.”
The MHA for Torngat Mountains questioned the rationale behind the new fee, adding that the Minister for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs has stated publicly that the decision to create a new airstrip landing fee was under review.
Yet the Minister of Transportation and Works denied the same, saying a review is not being considered.
“Once again this Government is nickel and diming taxpayers into paying for their financial mistakes.”
“Budget 2015 introduced a slew of new and increased user fees which will dip directly into the pockets of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians,” said Edmunds.
“Passengers will feel the impact of the new airstrip landing fees as airlines struggle to cover the increased costs.”
Edmunds added that a Liberal Government would work hard to reduce the fees imposed by the PC Government, with a focus to putting money back into the pockets of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
“Budget 2015 is another example of a failure to plan and a failure to consult by the PC Government.” said Edmunds.
“Fee increases will hurt the economy and hit people directly in their wallets.”
According to Edmunds, “It’s time for Government to repeal the landing fee on Labrador airstrips and reverse the negative impact which will be felt throughout the province.”