Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly, Tuesday 2 June 2026
Question Period centered on the Premier's apparent retreat from his referendum promise on the Churchill Falls deal, following an independent review that criticized the previous MOU negotiation process. Other major themes included Marine Atlantic strike concerns affecting tourism and supply chains, health care access issues (emergency wait times, out-of-province medical bills, doctor shortages in Labrador), and infrastructure commitments including school construction and MRI equipment for Labrador.
Question Period
Churchill Falls referendum promise
Asked by J. Hogan · Answered by Premier Wakeham
The Premier refused to confirm abandoning the referendum promise, stating he has "walked away from nothing" and will follow the independent review's recommendations to secure a better deal with more value and transmission for future generations.
Transparency on Churchill Falls negotiations and other matters
Asked by J. Hogan · Answered by Premier Wakeham
The Premier did not commit to the specific disclosures requested, instead highlighting government's delivery on election promises including tax-free income thresholds, student work terms, and increased seniors' benefits.
Chief water bomber pilot vacancy
Asked by J. Hogan · Answered by B. Petten
The minister stated they are "very close" to having a chief water bomber pilot in place, with details being finalized and an appointment expected by the next day.
Marine Atlantic strike and essential service designation
Asked by B. Ford · Answered by Premier Wakeham
The Premier emphasized Marine Atlantic's critical importance for tourism, supplies, and exports, and confirmed he raised the issue with the federal Finance Minister that morning, urging parties to return to negotiations.
Out-of-province medical bill for senior
Asked by E. Loveless · Answered by L. Evans
The minister stated the policy requires residents to obtain insurance when travelling outside the province, but committed to reviewing what process might allow coverage and examining the costs of such a policy change.
Cartwright school construction timeline
Asked by L. Dempster · Answered by B. Petten
The minister acknowledged challenges with contractors and little completed work, reaffirming his commitment to provide an update within the next day or two as previously promised.
Doctor shortage at Forteau health centre
Asked by L. Dempster · Answered by L. Evans
The minister confirmed recruitment and retention of doctors and nurse practitioners is a high priority, and they are exploring an MOU with Quebec for coverage, though Quebec has been resistant due to their own resource needs.
Paramedics' access to CorCare system
Asked by S. Gambin-Walsh · Answered by L. Evans
The minister clarified that paramedics have access to patient information through CorCare, and Medavie is modernizing the ambulance system with CorCare engagement; government is reviewing whether direct integration is needed.
Death after 14-hour emergency room wait
Asked by S. Stoodley · Answered by L. Evans
The minister expressed condolences and stated government is working to fully staff emergency departments and urgent care centres to ensure timely access to health care.
Immigration functions contracted to private companies
Asked by B. Davis · Answered by L. Paddock
The minister denied delegating any immigration responsibilities outside the department, explaining they are meeting with all stakeholders supporting newcomers and updating immigration policy through province-wide consultations.
Education Accord implementation
Asked by P. Pike · Answered by P. Dinn
The minister stated the document is under final review by the consulting firm and will not be discarded; valuable pieces will be incorporated into the government's education blueprint based on front-line input.
Blood collection appointment delays in Carbonear
Asked by P. Parsons · Answered by L. Evans
The minister acknowledged two-month wait times are unacceptable and committed to working with NL Health Services to address the issue and provide an update shortly.
Equalization formula lawsuit promise
Asked by S. Stoodley · Answered by Premier Wakeham
The Premier maintained there is "nothing equal about equalization" and it needs to change, but stated government is currently working with the federal government and other premiers to negotiate improvements rather than pursuing litigation.
MRI timeline for Labrador
Asked by L. Dempster · Answered by L. Evans
The minister highlighted that two MRIs for Labrador were included in the first budget, and government will order the equipment, ensure infrastructure is ready, and address recruitment challenges to staff the facilities.
Memorial University mathematics department cuts
Asked by B. Davis · Answered by P. Dinn
The minister stated the university is autonomous through its Board of Regents, and he has confidence they are working to maintain Memorial as a comprehensive university offering programs needed for the economy.
Class size and inclusive education supports
Asked by J. Dinn · Answered by P. Dinn
The minister stated department professionals are currently reviewing school needs and determining required ratios to have inclusive supports ready for September, acknowledging ratios may change over summer as enrollment shifts.
Social worker recruitment for schools
Asked by J. Dinn · Answered by J. Wall
The minister stated the department has offered positions to more than half the social work graduating class, which will reduce departmental vacancies from just under 20 percent and support the DoorWays mental health program expansion.
Air conditioning in long-term care facilities
Asked by S. O'Leary · Answered by B. Petten
The minister acknowledged the concern and stated it requires further discussion due to significant cost implications and involvement of private operators, but committed to taking it under consideration.
Electric vehicle rebate program cancellation
Asked by S. O'Leary · Answered by C. Tibbs
The minister explained the provincial EV rebate program was discontinued because the federal rebate program is now available and has effectively replaced the provincial offering.
This is Tabled's summary of the sitting, written from the official record; Hansard is only ever quoted at the link above. Search Newfoundland and Labrador Hansard for the words themselves, or read this sitting in the archive.