"I was very surprised when I received Bill 61 this afternoon, a piece of legislation that will amend the Liquor Corporation Act and allow liquor to be sold on Sundays," said Mr. Sweeney. "This is a major social policy issue in the province, and to make a decision of this magnitude without public consultation is a very heavy-handed move.

"While I am certain that a large number of people will support the sale of liquor of Sundays, I also believe there are many people who will be very much against this decision. An amendment of this magnitude should not be rushed through the legislature, it should go to public consultations to ensure the right decision is being made.

"Most provinces across the country do not allow the sale of liquor on Sundays. For a political party that was very much opposed to Sunday shopping, I am surprised that this government is now going to move forward with this legislation. We have already witnessed the problems encountered by this government trying to rush through their snowmobile legislation. I encourage the minister to review his decision to bring this legislation forward at this time and ensure the people of the province have sufficient opportunity to voice their support or opposition to this legislation."