"There has been much rhetoric and name calling taking place between the federal and provincial governments over the past number of days," said Mr. Grimes. "Now is the time for cooler heads to prevail and serious attempts to be made to ensure that this deal is done right. Our federal representatives have a key role in helping secure this deal. They must stay strong in an effort to exert their influence inside their caucus and ensure the election promise is kept.

"I feel that more than anyone else in this debate right now, our federal members have the most important role to play. They are the people who can force a showdown on this issue. We currently have a minority government situation in this country and every vote is vital. There are seven federal members from this province and I believe all of them want the best possible deal for Newfoundland and Labrador. I encourage all of them to do everything in their power to ensure that this province truly gets 100 per cent of our offshore revenues.

"If the federal government changes their position on this issue, I will be the first person to call each and every one of our federal MP’s and thank them for their commitment to this province. It is their efforts that could ultimately ensure that the Prime Minister lives up to his election promise and ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador reaps the true benefits of our offshore resources. That is truly what the people of this province want and deserve. "