"I have been informed that Air Labrador will be pulling out of these areas on or before April 13, 2005," said Jones. "I brought these concerns to the House of Assembly today because government must act to prevent a lapse of coverage in these areas. Air Labrador currently provides the only air service to this portion of the Labrador coast.

"I am especially concerned about what this may mean for emergency medical services currently provided by Air Labrador. In the budget this spring, the government announced that it will no longer plow the Trans Labrador Highway in this area, leaving no method of transportation in and out of the area except snowmobile. If a medical emergency arises, government has to ensure the accessibility of a reliable and safe mode of transportation."

The Liberal MHA says that a report being written for government must also be given consideration as a possible solution. "A firm was hired two years ago to examine the feasibility of a regional airport to service the region. If government pursues this option, it could provide a solution that would allow for continued airline service.

"After asking these questions of the Minister in the House today, I am hopeful a compromise can be reached. The Minister needs to meet with the company immediately and find a solution that is acceptable to the company and the affected residents."