WISEMAN'S TIRELESS FIGHT GAINS SUPPORT OF NEXT PRIME MINISTER

Future Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he will re-open the Marine Rescue Sub-Centre that the Conservatives callously closed with no regard for the welfare of Newfoundland and Labrador marine workers.

Former coast guard employee and Marine Rescue Sub-Centre advocate Merv Wiseman confirmed that Trudeau made the commitment during his two day visit to the province.

There is hope for a facility in St. John's which advocates deem to be an essential component of search and rescue services in Newfoundland.

 

Wiseman has fought long and hard, often putting his job on the line trying to convince the Harper Government not to close the facility when he was an employee of the Sub-Centre before it was closed. The former rescue coordinator  swore to continue the fight for the return of the sub-centre service, even after his employment with the federal government ended in 2012.

The outspoken fighting Newfoundlander was reprimanded by the Conservatives for his stinging criticism of the decision.  He had 35 years of service and continues to be passionate about public safety and the closure which left our maritime community vulnerable by reducing the capacity to respond to emergencies and the special challenges presented by our geography.

He summed up the challenges when he stated that, "Not only is Newfoundland and Labrador ingrained in the fishery, but the growth of our oil industry, ever increasing tourism in luxury liners and other sea attractions as well as large ferry operations that are trafficking people to and from the province call for new challenges in ensuring safety in this province."

Wiseman is seeking the provincial nomination in his home district of Bellevue. The date of the nomination has not been announced, but it is expected to be called early in the new year. 

 

Wiseman, a resident of North Harbour would make a strong independent voice in the legislature. A team player by nature, he has shown that when it matters most he puts the interests of the public before his own employment. That is a type of commitment that is both rare and tangible. It is also sorely missing amongst the caliber of elected officials. 

I could only imagine that the long time voice of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture would bring a high level of professionalism, knowledge and critical thinking to the House of Assembly and the Liberal Party.

In a district where so many people depend on the ocean for a living, he would appear to be a perfect fit!