Another five-week break in House sittings at the New Brunswick Legislature has caught the ire of opposition leaders.
After returning last Tuesday following a five-week break, debates are once again on hold and those in opposition feel it’s a poor use of their time.
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“If they had stayed in the house for another week, week-and-a-half, we could’ve passed some of those bills that were put on the floor of the legislature and then done committee work during June,” said Bruce Fitch, leader of the official Opposition.
“We probably could’ve finished up the business in two weeks, a couple of weeks, right now,” said Fitch.
Green Party Leader David Coon is perplexed by the most recent adjournment and says it’s unlike anything seen in provincial history.
“I think they’re playing political games,” said Coon. “To have us come back after a five-week adjournment just before Canada Day, I don’t think any New Brunswicker would see that as anything but game playing.”
“It’s beyond comprehension and there’s a lot of work to do,” said Coon.
Premier Brian Gallant announced the return last week.
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He says the additional dates are a direct result of opposing members’ requests.
“We had thought the schedule that we proposed would be enough time,” said Gallant. “If the opposition wants more time in the legislature to debate some of the legislation, no problem. That’s why we gave them more time.”
MLAs will return to the legislature on June 28.