By Brent Bosker

Looming provincial election brings up hot topics

Nov 7, 2010 | 10:27 AM

paNOW Staff

Today marks one year until the next provincial election and the New Democratic Party wants to make sure Prince Albert is getting everything it was promised three years ago.
Prince Albert Northcote NDP MLA, Darcy Furber, claims the Wall government made three key promises in the run up to the last election, none of which he said have been delivered.
“You know they said a vote for Daryl was a vote for the mill open and people working. Unfortunately not only are a number of people not working, Mr. Hickie isn’t working on this file either,” said Furber.
Saskatchewan Party MLA for Prince Albert Carlton, Daryl Hickie, said Domtar owns the facility meaning they have little control over what happens.
He said his government is willing to support industry, but refuse to risk tax payer’s money like the former NDP government.
“We have always said that we would look at supporting any new industry out there, through money for infrastructure improvements (such as) roads that have to be upgraded or maintained,” said Hickie.
“It’s extremely frustrating,” said Furber. “Especially considering it affects the daily lives of the people that live in Prince Albert. Certainly when you see families broken up and families move away from Prince Albert because of the closure of the mill, it’s extremely frustrating.”
Furber’s frustration extends to the much talked about second traffic bridge for Prince Albert.
“Mr. Wall stood on the bridge with then Mayor Jim Stiglitz – promised a second bridge for Prince Albert,” said Furber.
“When I question the government on it in Regina there’s been absolutely no response, there not interested in talking about it and it’s not on the horizon for them either – so it’s another hollow promise by the Wall government.”
Hickie said the commitment made by Brad Wall at that time was on resurfacing the bridge.
In regards to a second bridge, Hickie said his government did help fund a study which examined another bridge, but also improving traffic flow.
Hickie said the ball is now in the City of Prince Albert’s court.
“The second bridge really ties to the (city) wondering where their plans for growth are for the next 50 years and then approaching the government with an action plan,” he said.
“I’ve talked to the mayor about this. He knows the cost is very high. It would have to be shared three ways if a bridge was ever to come into play. That’s why that study talks about having interchange work done first and a bridge would be later down the road.”

bbosker@paNOW.com