Opposition gets high marks from premier

ST. JOHN'S - Premier Danny Williams says the current four-person opposition does a better job of keeping governments feet to the fire than the dozen MHAs who sat in opposition before the last provincial election.

"It's an effective opposition down there," Williams said. "They're bright, capable people who are well researched ...and ask the difficult questions. And that makes us a better government.

"I think the opposition that's there now, with four people, is more effective than the larger opposition that was there before. They seem to be very focused on the issues and from that perspective they keep us on our toes."

When asked what she made of the premier's comments, Liberal Leader Yvonne Jones said "we certainly feel that we are doing our job. We've stuck to the issues (and) been very careful to weigh out the issues that we see as most critical or most important."

Jones said the Liberals also try to follow through on issues until some sort of resolution is achieved.

"It's often very difficult with only three people in our caucus and very limited staff and resources, but I have to say I have no regrets about the job were doing and I'm proud of the work we've been able to accomplish," said Jones.

Jones also acknowledged the spirit of co-operation between her party and the NDP. She called leader Lorraine Michael grounded and issue-oriented.

Jones also acknowledged the government worked with the opposition parties and listened to some of their input on two bills this year.

The first was a bill, which was passed in the spring, that governs the province's energy corporation, Nalcor. The other expropriated water and timber rights from AbitibiBowater and was passed in the fall sitting of the House.