Peter MacKay is piece of work - of that there can be no doubt.
Peter MacKay the defected PC - the king maker - the opportunist.
So in he comes to Newfoundland and Labrador with federal bucks and a promise of a Cabinet Post for Peter Penashue.
Why he asks would anybody vote for any other than Peter Penashue (the election cheat)?
Don't the people of Labrador know that they really don't have a choice? Don't they know that an Opposition member is worthless and just "...maybe get to yell at the government two or three times a week in question period..."?
The election is all a folly thinks Peter MacKay - we don't live in a democracy and only god Harper has control. If you want anything in Labrador - you had better rescue Peter P from the land of Nod.
Attack ads on Mr. Trudeau - flyer's in mail boxes - attempted and somewhat successful control of the media. Harper and his man-in-waiting see no value to our electoral system - no value in our democracy?
How should we perceive this then? There is no need for Opposition members in Canada? There is no role for anybody but a member on the Government side? They demonstrably don't mind election act violations or attempting to buy people with their own money.
I think the people of Labrador will decide what they want and Peter MacKay just made it much more palatable to vote anything but Penashue.
With the Burton Winters tragedy still fresh in all our minds - continued failed promises to Labradorians - and now the attempt to force play a vote - I think Peter MacKay has just guaranteed a loss.
Vote Labrador Vote - for whoever in your minds deserves it.
Showing posts with label search and rescue. Show all posts
Showing posts with label search and rescue. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Monday, May 14, 2012
Dunderdale Mentality Revealed after CBC Investigation
The CBC investigative report on Search and Rescue protocols employed during the search for Burton Winters may have ultimately revealed a mentality endemic to the Dunderdale administration.
CBC reports today that the Dunderdale government is only now looking for copies of the military audio recordings - despite the government's claim they completed a review of the failed search and rescue.
One must wonder if that detail is something Kathy Dunderdale did not want to face if a meeting scheduled with Burton's grandmother and former search and rescue coordinator Clarence Peddle - proceeded.
The Dunderdale administration believes that it has ALL the information on ALL decisions despite the loud and clear voices of competent citizens on many issues - that they do not.
The Dunderdale government has claimed to have done its "review" and "due diligence"on an number of files:
1. Fishery
2. Muskrat Falls
3. Pharmacy
4. Paper Mills/Industry
5. Health
If the above examples are held alongside the province's review of the Burton Winters failed search and rescue - one might conclude that Dunderdale and company do not want ALL the information.
One might also conclude that Dunderdale is deliberately keeping at bay experts in all these areas if those experts are not under the direct control of government.
This is an extremely dangerous mindset and one that raises the question - WHY?
Ordinary citizens, the media, and organizations must continue questioning the Dunderdale government in order to prevent catastrophic errors made by people who are too ignorant, arrogant, or complicit to make the best choices for our future.
CBC reports today that the Dunderdale government is only now looking for copies of the military audio recordings - despite the government's claim they completed a review of the failed search and rescue.
One must wonder if that detail is something Kathy Dunderdale did not want to face if a meeting scheduled with Burton's grandmother and former search and rescue coordinator Clarence Peddle - proceeded.
The Dunderdale administration believes that it has ALL the information on ALL decisions despite the loud and clear voices of competent citizens on many issues - that they do not.
The Dunderdale government has claimed to have done its "review" and "due diligence"on an number of files:
1. Fishery
2. Muskrat Falls
3. Pharmacy
4. Paper Mills/Industry
5. Health
If the above examples are held alongside the province's review of the Burton Winters failed search and rescue - one might conclude that Dunderdale and company do not want ALL the information.
One might also conclude that Dunderdale is deliberately keeping at bay experts in all these areas if those experts are not under the direct control of government.
This is an extremely dangerous mindset and one that raises the question - WHY?
Ordinary citizens, the media, and organizations must continue questioning the Dunderdale government in order to prevent catastrophic errors made by people who are too ignorant, arrogant, or complicit to make the best choices for our future.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Damn Kirby's Tweet - The Premier should Resign!
MHA Dale Kirby said that somebody lied in the House of Assembly! Oh my Stop the Presses!
And imagine he did not even identify who he was talking about!! Stop the Presses!
Kathy Dunderdale said not to long ago: “The criticism can sometimes be relentless, and from a small handful of people, but they tend to be very loud and scathing, and personal, and mean”.
These comments were about who? She did not name the individuals and therefore she labelled all local bloggers and people who call open-line programs.
I want her to apologize in the House of Assembly to the people of this province. I want the Premier to acknowledge that her remarks were reckless, unfair, and unwarranted.
It is more important that she apologize as she was making the comments about the people she is employed by. Absolute insubordination by our Premier.
AND WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF ALL OF THIS?
In my opinion the purpose is to deflect from her government's dismal performance on all levels. The purpose is to deflect away from the disaster on the Burin Peninsula and other rural areas of our province. It is to deflect away from the collapse of our fishing industry, and the fiasco which is the Emera deal. It is to deflect away from the loss of the Marine Rescue Sub-Centre, the loss of jobs in Federal parks and other federal offices. It is to deflect away from the Search and Rescue inadequacies and most importantly away from the loss of a young Labradorian's life.
AND NOW?
A Newfoundland fisherman gets ill at sea and the crew calls for a Doctor's assistance. The crew seeks to determine if they need a medevac. Their call goes to Italy! That's right people Italy! The crew is unable to get anywhere with the call and are left stranded with their medical emergency. Meanwhile...
From the Canadian Forces: 09/05/2012
HALIFAX – A CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 103 (Search and Rescue) Squadron, Gander NF and a CC-130 Hercules aircraft from 413 (Transport and Rescue) Squadron from Greenwood NS are currently involved in a medical evacuation for a crewmember aboard Spanish fishing vessel, F/V Calvao, located approximately 445 kilometres southeast off St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Both aircraft were tasked early Wednesday afternoon, when Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Halifax received a request from the United States Coast Guard ‘s (USCG) Rescue Coordination Centre in Boston to perform the medevac, as the vessel is in the Boston Search and Rescue region but Canadian assets were in closer proximity at the time of the incident.
This event is an excellent example of the close coordination that exists between US and Canadian Search & Rescue assets on a daily basis. To offer context, the distance from St John’s NF to the vessel is slightly further than the distance between Halifax and Sydney NS (434 km).
The Premier and her Cabinet should all be removed from office - the absolute dismantling of rural Newfoundland and Labrador and the treatment of our province in this nation is all a result of the Premier, her Cabinet, and Caucus. Anything for the loan guarantee right? Who and what is driving this? We demand to know!
Premier Dunderdale if you want to deal with the word LIAR - deal with Stephen Harper who is a LIAR. His lies to this province will cost us billions. Deal with that!
And imagine he did not even identify who he was talking about!! Stop the Presses!
Kathy Dunderdale said not to long ago: “The criticism can sometimes be relentless, and from a small handful of people, but they tend to be very loud and scathing, and personal, and mean”.
These comments were about who? She did not name the individuals and therefore she labelled all local bloggers and people who call open-line programs.
I want her to apologize in the House of Assembly to the people of this province. I want the Premier to acknowledge that her remarks were reckless, unfair, and unwarranted.
It is more important that she apologize as she was making the comments about the people she is employed by. Absolute insubordination by our Premier.
AND WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF ALL OF THIS?
In my opinion the purpose is to deflect from her government's dismal performance on all levels. The purpose is to deflect away from the disaster on the Burin Peninsula and other rural areas of our province. It is to deflect away from the collapse of our fishing industry, and the fiasco which is the Emera deal. It is to deflect away from the loss of the Marine Rescue Sub-Centre, the loss of jobs in Federal parks and other federal offices. It is to deflect away from the Search and Rescue inadequacies and most importantly away from the loss of a young Labradorian's life.
AND NOW?
A Newfoundland fisherman gets ill at sea and the crew calls for a Doctor's assistance. The crew seeks to determine if they need a medevac. Their call goes to Italy! That's right people Italy! The crew is unable to get anywhere with the call and are left stranded with their medical emergency. Meanwhile...
From the Canadian Forces: 09/05/2012
HALIFAX – A CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 103 (Search and Rescue) Squadron, Gander NF and a CC-130 Hercules aircraft from 413 (Transport and Rescue) Squadron from Greenwood NS are currently involved in a medical evacuation for a crewmember aboard Spanish fishing vessel, F/V Calvao, located approximately 445 kilometres southeast off St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Both aircraft were tasked early Wednesday afternoon, when Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Halifax received a request from the United States Coast Guard ‘s (USCG) Rescue Coordination Centre in Boston to perform the medevac, as the vessel is in the Boston Search and Rescue region but Canadian assets were in closer proximity at the time of the incident.
This event is an excellent example of the close coordination that exists between US and Canadian Search & Rescue assets on a daily basis. To offer context, the distance from St John’s NF to the vessel is slightly further than the distance between Halifax and Sydney NS (434 km).
The Premier and her Cabinet should all be removed from office - the absolute dismantling of rural Newfoundland and Labrador and the treatment of our province in this nation is all a result of the Premier, her Cabinet, and Caucus. Anything for the loan guarantee right? Who and what is driving this? We demand to know!
Premier Dunderdale if you want to deal with the word LIAR - deal with Stephen Harper who is a LIAR. His lies to this province will cost us billions. Deal with that!
Monday, May 07, 2012
DND - con-(FES)-sion Demand an Inquiry
Do - Not - Disturb point - Finger - at Everybody but - Self
The audio tapes of telephone conversations between the JRCC, RCMP, and FES during the search for Burton Winters are very troubling.
These recordings have been made available to the public by CBC - obtained from the Department of National Defence.
One thing is for certain - the odds for Burton Winters survival were reduced - when people in authority made the decisions they made.
This is not meant to offend - but there appeared to be a more urgency in doing a survival probability model than was coordination for rescue.
Burton Winters was lost. A young Labradorian who deserved all the resources available to help him find his way home.
If his fight to walk 19 km's - in frigid northern weather and challenging ice conditions - was matched by sheer determination of people responsible for rescue - the outcome may have been different.
One particular recording stood out to me: PRESS HERE to Listen
If one does not know what resources are available - how does one coordinate or participate in a rescue effort?
The death of Burton Winters demands an enquiry and requires enhanced not reduced federal search and rescue assets in both Newfoundland and Labrador.
The provincial component of these services known as FES (Fire and Emergency Services) needs to be questioned thoroughly by an independent body. The objective should be to determine the qualifications and knowledge of decision makers and the training provided staff.
For people reading this story - please take the time to visit the Facebook site The Burton Winters' Rescue Centre in Labrador - and please participate.
Burton Winters deserved more and your children and families deserve more.
This is not a time for federal and provincial officials to play off each other - in order to lay ultimate blame. This is a time for action - to make sure this does not happen to any other child or youth of our province.
The audio tapes of telephone conversations between the JRCC, RCMP, and FES during the search for Burton Winters are very troubling.
These recordings have been made available to the public by CBC - obtained from the Department of National Defence.
One thing is for certain - the odds for Burton Winters survival were reduced - when people in authority made the decisions they made.
This is not meant to offend - but there appeared to be a more urgency in doing a survival probability model than was coordination for rescue.
Burton Winters was lost. A young Labradorian who deserved all the resources available to help him find his way home.
If his fight to walk 19 km's - in frigid northern weather and challenging ice conditions - was matched by sheer determination of people responsible for rescue - the outcome may have been different.
One particular recording stood out to me: PRESS HERE to Listen
If one does not know what resources are available - how does one coordinate or participate in a rescue effort?
The death of Burton Winters demands an enquiry and requires enhanced not reduced federal search and rescue assets in both Newfoundland and Labrador.
The provincial component of these services known as FES (Fire and Emergency Services) needs to be questioned thoroughly by an independent body. The objective should be to determine the qualifications and knowledge of decision makers and the training provided staff.
For people reading this story - please take the time to visit the Facebook site The Burton Winters' Rescue Centre in Labrador - and please participate.
Burton Winters deserved more and your children and families deserve more.
This is not a time for federal and provincial officials to play off each other - in order to lay ultimate blame. This is a time for action - to make sure this does not happen to any other child or youth of our province.
Saturday, May 05, 2012
Using a Teaspoon on your Campfire
While I would like to commend the pilot of the helicopter and the grounds crew both local and from other parts - the government should have been able to get a water bomber in.
It is now forest fire season and the wind and people on the ground not forestry assets are keeping the town of Seal Cove safe - for now.
My understanding is there was a problem with the bomber in Deer Lake today and that a bomber could not leave Gander yesterday in fog.
The local fire brigade is tremendous and keeping an eye on everything.
Please look at the pictures below:
Now we need to know - is there a problem with our forest protection assets?
It is now forest fire season and the wind and people on the ground not forestry assets are keeping the town of Seal Cove safe - for now.
My understanding is there was a problem with the bomber in Deer Lake today and that a bomber could not leave Gander yesterday in fog.
The local fire brigade is tremendous and keeping an eye on everything.
Please look at the pictures below:
Now we need to know - is there a problem with our forest protection assets?
Monday, April 09, 2012
For Burton Winters - It's Time to Raise YOUR Voice
Once again we are slipping back into apathy - turning our cheek - and saying we forgive you Ottawa.
A 14 year old young man from Makkovik died on the ice - trying to get home - while people who should have rescued him - did not.
Do we really care if this is a combination of federal and provincial entities? No! We care that this should not have happened and we should do what is necessary so it will not happen again.
Do not stop - carry the torch - and walk the rest of the way for this young brave Labradorian. Do not let this journey end without a permanent solution. Do not allow these bureaucrats, officials, and politicians to wait for the noise to let up.
The sound of our voices must grow stronger each and every day. Easter has come and gone and the only thing I see is that Gander should maintain its capabilities.
I see no commitment to keep the sub-centre in St. John's to remain open.
I see no commitment to a rescue centre in Labrador.
I see politicians - spinning and whining.
I see people like Merv Wiseman being punished.
This is not good enough - think about it. Put yourself in Burton's shoes - put yourself in his families shoes. Do not desensitize. Think about it. Get active and do not allow the people to be walked over - let the politicians know - they must deliver this time. This is not optional. Don't turn your head and walk away.
Together we can walk the rest of the way.
Press HERE to get involved.
A 14 year old young man from Makkovik died on the ice - trying to get home - while people who should have rescued him - did not.
Do we really care if this is a combination of federal and provincial entities? No! We care that this should not have happened and we should do what is necessary so it will not happen again.
Do not stop - carry the torch - and walk the rest of the way for this young brave Labradorian. Do not let this journey end without a permanent solution. Do not allow these bureaucrats, officials, and politicians to wait for the noise to let up.
The sound of our voices must grow stronger each and every day. Easter has come and gone and the only thing I see is that Gander should maintain its capabilities.
I see no commitment to keep the sub-centre in St. John's to remain open.
I see no commitment to a rescue centre in Labrador.
I see politicians - spinning and whining.
I see people like Merv Wiseman being punished.
This is not good enough - think about it. Put yourself in Burton's shoes - put yourself in his families shoes. Do not desensitize. Think about it. Get active and do not allow the people to be walked over - let the politicians know - they must deliver this time. This is not optional. Don't turn your head and walk away.
Together we can walk the rest of the way.
Press HERE to get involved.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Burton Winters - Priority One - the Fifth Estate
The Fifth Estate became the voice of Burton Winters last night and walked another leg in his journey home.
The CBC program was respectful - revealing - and powerful.
There is no doubt that "assets" that are owned and paid for by Canadians were not used in the best interests of Canadians but rather were used in a manner prescribed by a Rear Admiral. That same Rear Admiral did not make himself available to Canadians who wanted to ask questions through their public broadcaster.
Both Peter McKay and the Rear Admiral David Gardam went missing when it came to answering questions that were not in a controlled environment. A Minister of the Crown who had no problem receiving the use of "assets" after a recreational fishing trip - did not respond when the question would be "why not use the 'assets' for a 14 year old young man from Labrador?"
Both men did not display one morsel of the courage displayed by 14 year old Burton as he valiantly tried to find his way home. A Minister and a Rear Admiral could not find their mouths or in the alternate were not allowed to use them.
One thing is for certain; the inconsistencies in the stories provided previously by both were revealed by the CBC investigative program and they do require answers.
Most people watching were moved emotionally as Burton's baby brother and parents were introduced to the program. As the program progressed that emotion would have turned to anger and then finally would have become resolve - to find real answers and to correct the problem.
It was a reminder to our provincial and federal government members that they must correct this. Peter Penashue and Kathy Dunderdale cannot hide or cower under the watchful eye of Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
I particularly liked the scripting which said the people of Labrador and Newfoundland have come together to fight for what's right and to fight for Burton and the loss of that precious young life.
We will walk the rest of the way together and we invite you - whoever you are and wherever you may live to join us.
To participate in the "Burton Winters' Rescue Center in Labrador" Facebook group - PRESS HERE.
To view the Fifth Estate Program - PRESS HERE.
The CBC program was respectful - revealing - and powerful.
There is no doubt that "assets" that are owned and paid for by Canadians were not used in the best interests of Canadians but rather were used in a manner prescribed by a Rear Admiral. That same Rear Admiral did not make himself available to Canadians who wanted to ask questions through their public broadcaster.
Both Peter McKay and the Rear Admiral David Gardam went missing when it came to answering questions that were not in a controlled environment. A Minister of the Crown who had no problem receiving the use of "assets" after a recreational fishing trip - did not respond when the question would be "why not use the 'assets' for a 14 year old young man from Labrador?"
Both men did not display one morsel of the courage displayed by 14 year old Burton as he valiantly tried to find his way home. A Minister and a Rear Admiral could not find their mouths or in the alternate were not allowed to use them.
One thing is for certain; the inconsistencies in the stories provided previously by both were revealed by the CBC investigative program and they do require answers.
Most people watching were moved emotionally as Burton's baby brother and parents were introduced to the program. As the program progressed that emotion would have turned to anger and then finally would have become resolve - to find real answers and to correct the problem.
It was a reminder to our provincial and federal government members that they must correct this. Peter Penashue and Kathy Dunderdale cannot hide or cower under the watchful eye of Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
I particularly liked the scripting which said the people of Labrador and Newfoundland have come together to fight for what's right and to fight for Burton and the loss of that precious young life.
We will walk the rest of the way together and we invite you - whoever you are and wherever you may live to join us.
To participate in the "Burton Winters' Rescue Center in Labrador" Facebook group - PRESS HERE.
To view the Fifth Estate Program - PRESS HERE.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Burton's Voice - This time it Will be Heard!
For many years Newfoundland and Labrador appeared to have lost its voice.
For many years the unification of Newfoundland and Labrador people seemed difficult to achieve.
Burton Winter's is unifying the voice of our people.
This young man fought hard to survive - he walked 19 km's on the ice in an effort to get home.
Make no mistake - this time the peoples' will - shall be heard.
To the MP's of Canada: In two days over 15,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians joined this facebook site (press here) - in order to send you a message. Many more thousands will follow from communities throughout our province and from our people all over Canada and the world.
Burton's voice was not heard the first time - it will be heard this time.
You are servants of the people - a position you sought to hold. Now you must do what is just and right.
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians plan to walk the rest of the way for Burton and we are doing so unified, proud, and strong. We will protect our children and people.
For many years the unification of Newfoundland and Labrador people seemed difficult to achieve.
Burton Winter's is unifying the voice of our people.
This young man fought hard to survive - he walked 19 km's on the ice in an effort to get home.
Make no mistake - this time the peoples' will - shall be heard.
To the MP's of Canada: In two days over 15,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians joined this facebook site (press here) - in order to send you a message. Many more thousands will follow from communities throughout our province and from our people all over Canada and the world.
Burton's voice was not heard the first time - it will be heard this time.
You are servants of the people - a position you sought to hold. Now you must do what is just and right.
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians plan to walk the rest of the way for Burton and we are doing so unified, proud, and strong. We will protect our children and people.
Let Newfoundlanders and Labradorians Worldwide Unite for Burton
There is a movement in Newfoundland and Labrador and it involves the loss of a young man's life from Makkovik.
It is the belief of our people that this young man did not have to die on the ice - trying to get home.
On Facebook there is a Group called "The Burton Winters' Rescue Center IN Labrador".
Our people are uniting and we need the voice of EVERY Newfoundlander and Labradorian as well as support from people in all Northern and Maritime jurisdictions.
Please remember Burton as the young man who walked 19 km's on the ice - bravely to try and find his way home. Please remember Burton by joining this group and its call for action.
It is the belief of our people that this young man did not have to die on the ice - trying to get home.
On Facebook there is a Group called "The Burton Winters' Rescue Center IN Labrador".
Our people are uniting and we need the voice of EVERY Newfoundlander and Labradorian as well as support from people in all Northern and Maritime jurisdictions.
Please remember Burton as the young man who walked 19 km's on the ice - bravely to try and find his way home. Please remember Burton by joining this group and its call for action.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Walk a Kilometre in Burton's Shoes - Demand Change!
This post is for Burton Winters and his family.
You did not walk that 19 km's in vain - we cannot allow that.
You were a young man who - on the day you went missing - was snowmobiling. You were enjoying northern life and were not causing harm to anybody.
The stories about you by those close to you - help relate the tragedy of your loss to all parents.
You were living life and then fought for life and you were not wrong - when you were hoping somebody would find you - when you were hoping somebody would help you.
Your community of Makkovik and the greater community of Labrador were all looking for you. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador wanted you to be found safe and sound and wanted you to return to the comfort of your home and family.
When politicians have been around too long - they can become desensitized - detached - and in some cases appear aloof. They listen to people tell them sad and tragic stories everyday. If that is the case for any politician - they should quit - their time in public service is finished.
When bureaucrats spend one moment on spinning or downplaying neglectful policy - where a life is lost - they need to move on.
Because you Burton - were instantly wrapped in the arms of the Newfoundland and Labrador people - from the moment we heard you were missing - you will not be forgotten. That means that the circumstances surrounding your loss must be written about, examined, studied, and spoken of. That means that Newfoundland and Labrador must not accept anything short of a real solution to this obviously flawed system.
I watched the DND News Conference that was shared by local media. One point stuck in my mind - and it made me angry. When asked the question - why was a private company able to operate in the weather while the DND could not - the person responding said that local pilots knew the terrain, the mountains, and the local area.
This is simple - people - why would anybody who is NOT familiar with the local terrain be responsible for Search and Rescue of that area? Why?
This is a message for Minister Penashue, Minister MacKay, Premier Dunderdale and provincial MHA's - make this your number one priority. Fix this!
Newfoundland and Labrador is a massive geographic territory which is the easternmost part of Canada. See how many times you can put Nova Scotia in our physical footprint. Look at our coastline and understand that this province needs its own dedicated Search and Rescue service. Not only the marine communications sub-centre but a full fledged Search and Rescue Centre. Move the assets of Nova Scotia to Newfoundland and Labrador including the home dock of SAR and DND ships. If Nova Scotia feels it needs to maintain these assets - so be it - and then the federal government can build new infrastructure and assets for our province.
Regardless of who you are - you can look at the maps and understand that we cannot be serviced from Halifax.
Burton Winters died and that is not acceptable.
The Winters' family has lost Burton and that is not acceptable.
This young man walked 19 km's on terrain that federal and provincial politicians should experience.
This death on the ice will not happen again because our politicians shall be forced to make the changes necessary to protect our people.
Rest in Peace Burton - let us walk the rest of the way.
To the family of Burton - we are with you in your search for answers and are with you in your fight to ensure the safety of our people.
You did not walk that 19 km's in vain - we cannot allow that.
You were a young man who - on the day you went missing - was snowmobiling. You were enjoying northern life and were not causing harm to anybody.
The stories about you by those close to you - help relate the tragedy of your loss to all parents.
You were living life and then fought for life and you were not wrong - when you were hoping somebody would find you - when you were hoping somebody would help you.
Your community of Makkovik and the greater community of Labrador were all looking for you. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador wanted you to be found safe and sound and wanted you to return to the comfort of your home and family.
When politicians have been around too long - they can become desensitized - detached - and in some cases appear aloof. They listen to people tell them sad and tragic stories everyday. If that is the case for any politician - they should quit - their time in public service is finished.
When bureaucrats spend one moment on spinning or downplaying neglectful policy - where a life is lost - they need to move on.
Because you Burton - were instantly wrapped in the arms of the Newfoundland and Labrador people - from the moment we heard you were missing - you will not be forgotten. That means that the circumstances surrounding your loss must be written about, examined, studied, and spoken of. That means that Newfoundland and Labrador must not accept anything short of a real solution to this obviously flawed system.
I watched the DND News Conference that was shared by local media. One point stuck in my mind - and it made me angry. When asked the question - why was a private company able to operate in the weather while the DND could not - the person responding said that local pilots knew the terrain, the mountains, and the local area.
This is simple - people - why would anybody who is NOT familiar with the local terrain be responsible for Search and Rescue of that area? Why?
This is a message for Minister Penashue, Minister MacKay, Premier Dunderdale and provincial MHA's - make this your number one priority. Fix this!
Newfoundland and Labrador is a massive geographic territory which is the easternmost part of Canada. See how many times you can put Nova Scotia in our physical footprint. Look at our coastline and understand that this province needs its own dedicated Search and Rescue service. Not only the marine communications sub-centre but a full fledged Search and Rescue Centre. Move the assets of Nova Scotia to Newfoundland and Labrador including the home dock of SAR and DND ships. If Nova Scotia feels it needs to maintain these assets - so be it - and then the federal government can build new infrastructure and assets for our province.
Regardless of who you are - you can look at the maps and understand that we cannot be serviced from Halifax.
Burton Winters died and that is not acceptable.
The Winters' family has lost Burton and that is not acceptable.
This young man walked 19 km's on terrain that federal and provincial politicians should experience.
This death on the ice will not happen again because our politicians shall be forced to make the changes necessary to protect our people.
Rest in Peace Burton - let us walk the rest of the way.
To the family of Burton - we are with you in your search for answers and are with you in your fight to ensure the safety of our people.
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Trading Seal Pelts for Safety? A public letter to Minister King
A public letter to our Minister of Fisheries
Dear Minister King,
Please be advised that I - as one Newfoundlander and Labradorian - have no interest in building bridges with the Government of Canada if that means we have to trade off safety.
You would be well advised to strip the bridge bit by bit - if that means that one life of a Newfoundlander and Labradorian can be saved.
A "partnership" with Prime Minister Harper - a man who lies with ease and without regret - is not worth one life of a Newfoundlander and Labradorian.
Below please read an excerpt from a story in the Telegram today.
...he stressed the government has clearly stated its opposition to the pending Marine Rescue Sub-centre closure. He said the province has participated in a public rally, Premier Kathy Dunderdale has addressed the issue, and he has discussed the decision with his federal counterpart, Keith Ashfield, twice this week.
“And I’ve been clear to him how we feel about this.”
King added the opposition parties can criticize and rant, but he has to build bridges with Ottawa to be successful on other issues, such as finding markets for seal products.
“The reality is, I’ve got five or six significant files on my plate that I need to work with the federal government on. While I’m not happy with this issue and I’ll continue to fight it, I still have to work with the minister on other files that are very important to the province.”
Minister King - let me make my position clear - and as a Minister you work for all of us - there is no seal product, fish, Marine Atlantic ferry or equalization file that ranks up to the safety of our people. If you have to take a stand on safety and that means we have to pull out of other discussions - so be it. If you take that stand we may be able to save the Communications Sub-Centre. That in turn may save lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Minister King - if you don't already know - nothing trumps the safety of our people - NOTHING.
Our Premier's new cosy relationship with a liar - a Prime Minister who has betrayed our province - should not interfere with your duty as a Cabinet Minister.
If a loan guarantee means we are willing to lose the fight on search and rescue - then you are not fit to be in office.
There is no bridge that man can build that is worth a life. Priorities - Minister King - Priorities.
If you are successful with all other files and fail on this one - you have failed - period. In this Minister Peter Penashue has already failed us - and more particularly his own peoples.
Dear Minister King,
Please be advised that I - as one Newfoundlander and Labradorian - have no interest in building bridges with the Government of Canada if that means we have to trade off safety.
You would be well advised to strip the bridge bit by bit - if that means that one life of a Newfoundlander and Labradorian can be saved.
A "partnership" with Prime Minister Harper - a man who lies with ease and without regret - is not worth one life of a Newfoundlander and Labradorian.
Below please read an excerpt from a story in the Telegram today.
...he stressed the government has clearly stated its opposition to the pending Marine Rescue Sub-centre closure. He said the province has participated in a public rally, Premier Kathy Dunderdale has addressed the issue, and he has discussed the decision with his federal counterpart, Keith Ashfield, twice this week.
“And I’ve been clear to him how we feel about this.”
King added the opposition parties can criticize and rant, but he has to build bridges with Ottawa to be successful on other issues, such as finding markets for seal products.
“The reality is, I’ve got five or six significant files on my plate that I need to work with the federal government on. While I’m not happy with this issue and I’ll continue to fight it, I still have to work with the minister on other files that are very important to the province.”
Minister King - let me make my position clear - and as a Minister you work for all of us - there is no seal product, fish, Marine Atlantic ferry or equalization file that ranks up to the safety of our people. If you have to take a stand on safety and that means we have to pull out of other discussions - so be it. If you take that stand we may be able to save the Communications Sub-Centre. That in turn may save lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Minister King - if you don't already know - nothing trumps the safety of our people - NOTHING.
Our Premier's new cosy relationship with a liar - a Prime Minister who has betrayed our province - should not interfere with your duty as a Cabinet Minister.
If a loan guarantee means we are willing to lose the fight on search and rescue - then you are not fit to be in office.
There is no bridge that man can build that is worth a life. Priorities - Minister King - Priorities.
If you are successful with all other files and fail on this one - you have failed - period. In this Minister Peter Penashue has already failed us - and more particularly his own peoples.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Before attending the SOS RALLY Look at This! It's more than just Pride - It's Lives
Have a look at the map above - this is the area covered by the Search and Rescue Centre in Halifax. Are MP's able to view a MAP?
It is not only unacceptable for Newfoundland and Labrador lose a sub-centre - it should actually be home to the main Search and Rescue Centre currently located in Halifax.
Before you go the rally today on the waterfront - please read the information below taken from the Federal Government website.
Further - as you read it - you will notice we lost a rescue centre from Torbay in the 1970's as it was all sent to Nova Scotia. The sub-centre was supposed to make up for that. Now they want it all - when geography does not bear it out.
Is the sub-centre in Quebec City being closed?
Newfoundland and Labrador either wins this fight - or we get out. Do not let the Harper Conservatives insult or harm us anymore.
Who do you think is most at risk - from a marine perspective?
Nobody has the right to place our people at increased risk!
How about we take over forest-fire communications for Ontario, or flooding response communication in the Prairies? Why don't we take over the Search and Rescue Centre for British Columbia? There should be no reason that we can't control marine rescue for the Great Lakes and shut down Trenton.
The following is the information is taken from the federal government website.
The Halifax Search and Rescue Region (SRR) is bounded on the east at 30 degrees West Longitude, on the west at 70 degrees West Longitude, to the south at approximately 42 degrees North Latitude and to the north at 70 degrees North Latitude. This area comprises all of the Atlantic provinces, the eastern half of the province of Québec, the southern half of Baffin Island and an area of the western North Atlantic extending to 30º west, an area of approximately 4.7 million square kilometres. With over 29,000 kilometers of coastline, eighty percent of the region is covered by water.
The 1970's saw changes that provided better support for people in distress. Air resources were now located in Gander Newfoundland, and Summerside Prince Edward Island. Halifax became the sole RCC with the closing of Torbay, although the Coast Guard established Marine Rescue Sub-Centres (MRSC) in St. John's and Québec City, Québec. Aircraft began dropping pumps in aid of vessels taking on water in 1970; in January of that year, the Motor Vessel USEN #1 was the first successful recipient of a pump. The year 1970 saw the number of cases rise to a total of 963
The operations of the SAR fleet account for most of the Canadian Coast Guard SAR Program costs. On average, 65-75% of the budget for SAR is spent on the fleet. A further 8% is spent on capital projects. Rescue Co-ordination accounts for 16% and the management, monitoring and administration of the program accounts for the remaining 8%.
Rescue Co-ordination Centres and Maritime Rescue Sub-Centres
The Canadian Coast Guard jointly staffs three Rescue Coordination Centres (JRCCs) with the Canadian Forces. The JRCCs are located at Victoria, British Columbia, Trenton, Ontario, and Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Canadian Coast Guard also operates two Maritime Rescue Sub-Centres (MRSCs) at Quebec City, Quebec, and St. John's, Newfoundland. The function of a MRSC is to reduce the JRCC's workload in areas of high marine activity. These centres are staffed by SAR Co-ordinators who operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year round. The maritime area for which the Canadian JRCCs/MRSCs are collectively responsible for is more than 5.3 million square kilometres.The JRCCs/MRSCs are responsible for the planning, co-ordination, conduct and control of SAR operations. JRCCs/MRSCs have highly trained staff, detailed operational plans and an effective communications system. Once an JRCC/MRSC is notified that a person(s) is in danger, the SAR Co-ordinator begins to organize the rescue. All available information about the person(s) in danger is gathered and recorded and the positions of potential assisting resources in the area of the incident are determined. SAR Co-ordinators are trained to evaluate various situations and send the most effective resources to deal with a particular incident. In complex and major incidents, many resources are often sent or tasked to assist.
To fulfill our mission, our objectives are to:
- Save 100% of lives at risk.
- Reduce the number and severity of SAR incidents.
- Minimize loss of life, injury, property damage and risk to the environment.
- Support and involve the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary.
- Maintain the highest professional standards.
- Provide national leadership and effective SAR Program management.
- Provide international SAR leadership.
- Maximize SAR system efficiency through innovation.
- Promote volunteerism.
- Increase awareness of the SAR Program.
- Assist in the development of the National SAR Program.
- Foster co-operative SAR agreements.
- Provide humanitarian aid and civil assistance where possible.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Harper's Vendetta will now cost Lives - will Dunderdale stand by "her" Man?
Stephen Harper will not do right by Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Prime Minister has lied to Premier Williams directly, he has lied to me directly, he has lied to our people directly and it has cost us billions of dollars.
Each decision he makes guarantees that our Province and her people lose again.
The Prime Minister has lied on equalization, custodial management of the Nose and Tail, Air Force Base Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Senate appointments, and Income Trusts.
Regardless of your point of view about Danny Williams - he was right in his assessment of Harper and his very public warning about Harper's character should be remembered.
Harper is now threatening Fisheries Science again and places into more peril the stocks which the federal government is already responsible for mismanaging. Cuts to the Department, puts another nail in the coffin which is our future. That was figurative! With respect to cuts to the Coast Guard and emergency response - the man is placing in jeopardy - real lives. This certainly must be the last straw for our people!
The way Harper sees it is if we don't voluntarily jump off the bridge - he will push us.
Last but not least - Harper takes particular pleasure in having Newfoundlanders and Labradorians stand by his side while he takes aim at our province. Manning, Hearn, Sullivan, Beth Marshall, and Fabian have been used successfully and now he has our Premier Dunderdale holding his left hand and Peter Penashue holding his right hand. Let's hope they let go before more damage is done.
The Prime Minister has lied to Premier Williams directly, he has lied to me directly, he has lied to our people directly and it has cost us billions of dollars.
Each decision he makes guarantees that our Province and her people lose again.
The Prime Minister has lied on equalization, custodial management of the Nose and Tail, Air Force Base Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Senate appointments, and Income Trusts.
Regardless of your point of view about Danny Williams - he was right in his assessment of Harper and his very public warning about Harper's character should be remembered.
Harper is now threatening Fisheries Science again and places into more peril the stocks which the federal government is already responsible for mismanaging. Cuts to the Department, puts another nail in the coffin which is our future. That was figurative! With respect to cuts to the Coast Guard and emergency response - the man is placing in jeopardy - real lives. This certainly must be the last straw for our people!
The way Harper sees it is if we don't voluntarily jump off the bridge - he will push us.
Last but not least - Harper takes particular pleasure in having Newfoundlanders and Labradorians stand by his side while he takes aim at our province. Manning, Hearn, Sullivan, Beth Marshall, and Fabian have been used successfully and now he has our Premier Dunderdale holding his left hand and Peter Penashue holding his right hand. Let's hope they let go before more damage is done.
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