News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

Foote questions cost of public relations campaign for new brand

October 16, 2006

"If our new provincial brand is so great, why is government spending so much money on a public relations campaign trying to convince our own people of its merit?" asked Ms. Foote. "This branding initiative is suppose to attract people, investment and recognition from outside our province. If government is having such a difficult time explaining the new brand to our own people, it is obvious it is not having the desired effect.

"Everyday we are seeing ads on television and in newspapers, and receiving brochures in our mailboxes. This approach from a government who stated emphatically that they would not waste taxpayers money on public relations activities. I question how much money government has budgeted to sell this message here at home. With over $1 million being spent only on the development of the brand, it certainly appears that the public relations blitz is going to cost much more.

"From the numerous calls, letters and e-mails we have received in our office, I feel this new brand has already been given a thumbs down by the people of the province. If you have to educate your own people on their brand, it certainly will not have the desired impact worldwide. It is unfortunate that so much money was invested in this project without any public consultation or input before it was released.

"In the spirit of openness and transparency, I am calling on government to release the figures related to the public relations campaign for this new brand. The people of the province can then make up their own minds whether this new brand is worth the money that is being spent."

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477