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News
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Foote accepts premier's apology October 6, 2006 |
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Judy Foote, Opposition Business Critic and MHA for the District of Grand
Bank, says she has accepted Premier Danny Williams apology, but says MHAs
and individuals should not have to worry about personal attacks by the
premier when speaking publicly about issues in Newfoundland and Labrador. On VOCM Open Line earlier this week in response to criticism of the new branding strategy for the province, Premier Danny Williams said that Judy Foote would not be satisfied even if her grandchild’s photo was on the logo. "Yesterday, the premier apologized for his remark and stated that he didn’t intend to offend anyone and I accept that statement. According to the premier he just referenced my granddaughter to make a point. He admitted it was a poor choice of words, however, under no circumstances should family members of individuals who offer themselves for public office be referenced to make a point, especially by someone in the premier’s position," said Ms. Foote. "While I accept the premier’s apology for referencing my 11 month old granddaughter in an interview, I should not have to worry about my family being brought into the public debate when discussing issues. The premier has complained in the past that his family was brought in the public debate in this province and felt it was unacceptable. It is certainly no more acceptable when making similar comments concerning the family members of other MHAs. "As the Official Opposition, we are expected to do a job on behalf of the people of the province. The branding issue has received much attention over the past few days and many people are not pleased with the new logo or the $1 million plus price tag that is attached. The premier must realize that not everyone will agree with his position on every issue. We, as the Official Opposition, have been asked to perform a job on behalf of the people of the province and we should be permitted to do this job without having to worry about personal attacks from the premier. "It is important to encourage good people to come forward and express their viewpoints and offer themselves for public office. If similar conduct continues in the future, I suggest more people will be inclined to avoid putting their name on the ballot."
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