News Release
Office of the Official Opposition
 

OHS inspectors to visit Harbour Breton plant

MHA sees this as just the first step
November 23rd, 2004

Oliver Langdon, MHA for the District of Fortune Bay - Cape La Hune, is pleased with news that government will send Occupational Health and Safety inspectors to the Harbour Breton fish plant to assess the safety of the structure. Langdon made the request during Question Period today in the House of Assembly.

"I am glad to hear that some action will be taken to assess the structural integrity of the plant in Harbour Breton," said Langdon. "It is essential that government get inside the building and see first hand the true condition of the structure."

Langdon says this visit is just the first step government has to take to ensure the future of the FPI plant which provides direct employment to 400 people on the Connaigre Peninsula. "Once government knows the true circumstances of the condition of the workplace, we can then look at options to ensure the plant reopens next year. At the end of the day, any acceptable solution must maintain a fish processing operation in Harbour Breton and secure the jobs of these people.

"This plant is the backbone of the economy of these south coast communities. Without the plant, these 400 workers will be out of work and the impact would be devastating. Government needs to assess the plant and then take measures to ensure FPI lives up to it’s commitment of maintaining a processing presence in Harbour Breton."

Media Contact:
Jeff Mackey
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6427