'Approaching the finish line'

Letter to the editor - Dear Editor:

We are quickly approaching the finish line of a particularly important federal election for the people of this province.

We joined Confederation almost 60 years ago, and ever since we have worked hard to stand together as a people to ensure our rights and our voices are heard in this federation. In the past several years, we have stood together like never before. It started with a new Atlantic Accord delivered by Prime Minister Martin. It wasn't easy, but our united voice won the day. We did it again when we stood up to the oil companies on the Hebron development. We were criticized as a people by national media right across this country and we received absolutely zero support from our Prime Minister, Stephen Harper. But again, we were successful because we stood strong. And we stood together.

Now our Prime Minister has gone back to the old attitudes of disrespect towards our people by telling me in a face-to-face meeting that he does not need Newfoundland and Labrador to win this election.

Now is the time for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to stand together again and to send a clear message to Stephen Harper and his team: that attitude of indifference and disrespect is no longer acceptable. We have fought too hard and too long to gain a newfound respect with our fellow Canadians and to take our rightful place in this country. Let's not turn back now.

If Stephen Harper says his team doesn't need our votes then I suggest we don't give them to him on October 14th.

Sincerely,

Danny Williams, Q.C.

Premier of Newfoundland

and Labrador