Letter to the Editor -
Dear Editor,
This is regarding your comment on Brian Mulroney in your recent editorial.
Our memory can be short indeed. How soon we forget the good deeds of those visionaries who sow the seeds for growth and prosperity and how quickly we laud those who, by luck or by chance, happen to be in the right place or time to reap the benefits of those who came before them.
In your recent editorial you make no mention of the facts that in 1984, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the offshore resources fell under Ottawa's jurisdiction. But in 1985, Brian Mulroney's's federal government and Brian Peckford's Conservative Newfoundland government signed the Atlantic Accord, which gave Newfoundland 100 per cent of the offshore revenues and also what are called offset benefits - effectively allowing the province to keep some of the equalization payments it would otherwise have lost as its oil and gas income grew.
You also do not mention that throughout his term as Prime Minister Brian Mulroney was a steadfast supporter of the development of Newfoundland's offshore resources, cementing the commitment of the big oil companies to proceed with the development. All the while being opposed by the opposition (Liberals under Jean Chretien) who routinely described the venture as another Newfie boondoggle or wasted handout. Yes, Mulroney had the vision, and the confidence in Newfoundlanders, to help them achieve prosperity. My thanks goes to Mr. Mulroney.
Why not give something linking Newfoundland with Canada his name. He is worthy.
After all we named our highway up the coast after the Vikings who left behind some piles of earth and a rusty pin!
Now, there's something worthy.
Grenfell was much more deserving.
Sincerely,
Wade Hoddinott
Brig Bay
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