Trudeau’s comments on Canadian offshore industry disappoint key trade group
ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND – On September 3rd, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with VOCM Open Line host Paddy Daly who asked pointed questions about supporting the Newfoundland and Labrador offshore oil and gas industry. The responses of the prime minister did not provide any commitment or clarity, despite months of a crisis in the offshore, advocacy by the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association (Noia), as well as information sharing by Noia, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and other stakeholders.
Karen Winsor, Chair, Noia Board of Directors said “Prior to the prime minister’s call, I spoke with Paddy Daly about the importance of our industry and the need for an answer now after months of discussion, thousands of lost jobs, and an industry crisis. Mr. Daly asked pointed questions of the prime minister but there was no response provided that indicated support was coming for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to help to stop the bleeding. This is extremely disappointing and we expect more from our prime minister.”
Charlene Johnson, CEO, Noia, said: “Despite being presented with facts about the important contribution our industry makes to Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada and his government’s previous investment in a pipeline, the prime minister did not directly answer any questions but instead made vague references to helping the province and referred to “the way the world is going.” Such a reference only raises more questions and lowers our belief that investment in exploration and development is coming. Premier Furey will be meeting with the prime minister today and I sincerely hope the premier has more luck in getting an answer from the prime minister and achieving support for our industry.”
The Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association was founded in 1977 to represent the supply and service sector of the offshore oil and gas industry. Today, Noia represents almost 500 member organizations worldwide which are involved in, or benefit from, the oil and gas industry of Newfoundland and Labrador. Noia members are a diverse representation of businesses that range from offshore supply boats and helicopters, health and safety equipment and training, engineering solutions and fabricators to law firms and personnel agencies.
