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“The Premier promised — in writing — to engage in a full and open public review to ensure that these deals would be made in the best interests of all Nova Scotians.” — Joan Jessome.
Halifax (18 Sept. 2015) — In light of the process currently underway to privatize Nova Scotia’s Motor Vehicle, Joint Stock and Land Registries, Joan Jessome, President of the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU/NUPGE), is calling on Premier Stephen McNeil to honour the written commitment he made just two years ago, when he signed onto the “Five Point Quality Public Service Protection Plan for Nova Scotia” (see below).
Premier backtracking on written promise?
“The Premier promised — in writing — to engage in a full and open public review to ensure that these deals would be made in the best interests of all Nova Scotians,” says President Jessome.
“Instead, the Premier has now entered into secretive discussions with his own campaign manager acting as a paid lobbyist, according to CBC News reports.”
Going to hand over millions without a review
Rather than honouring the open and transparent review he committed to, McNeil is preparing to hand over millions in government contracts to Teranet, a Toronto based private-sector company that got the Premier’s ear by hiring the former Liberal campaign manager to lobby McNeil on their behalf.
“We are calling on the Premier to honour the promises he made to Nova Scotians leading up to the election,” says Jessome.
A bad deal for Nova Scotians
“Nova Scotians, who will end up paying more to buy and sell houses, register their vehicles and businesses, deserve an open and transparent process, not a Liberal backroom deal.”
Download Five Point Quality Public Service Protection Plan for Nova Scotia here.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 360,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE