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Jones says rate stabilization for isolated communities doesn't address long-term needs December 8, 2006 Yvonne Jones, Opposition Labrador Affairs Critic and MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, says while she welcomes government’s announcement of a rate stabilization for isolated diesel communities, the lack of a long-term plan to address this issue is a concern. She also questions whether this is simply an attempt to silence criticism during an election year. "Today’s announcement appears to be nothing more than a damage control exercise to address a growing and contentious issue," says Ms. Jones. "While I am pleased there will be a minimal rate increase for isolated diesel customers in 2007, there is no identified long-term plan to deal with this growing problem. I firmly believe this is only an attempt to push this issue past the 2007 election, as there is no commitment to have this issue addressed in 2008 and beyond. "People using the diesel system in our province are paying the highest electricity rates in the province, and in some cases the country. These communities are waiting for a long-term plan from government to alleviate the extra pressures that are placed on residents. Our rates are increasing every year and there is no plan to address this issue. "In addition, the residents on the coast of Labrador are questioning the lack of any commitment to provide Lower Churchill power to isolated diesel communities. Labrador communities must see the benefits of any potential deal on this resource. To date, there has been no commitment to provide low cost and affordable power to these regions of Labrador. "While today’s announcement is positive news, I suspect this investment is more political than a true commitment from this government. I warn consumers to lobby government to get a long-term commitment on lowering power rates past the next election. Otherwise, I fear our residents will once again be left out in the cold."
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