Protesters block Newfoundland and Labrador legislature ahead of provincial budget

By The Canadian Press on March 20, 2024.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – Protesting fishers are blocking Newfoundland and Labrador government officials from entering the legislature this morning ahead of the scheduled presentation of the provincial budget.

Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officers on horses tried to disperse the shouting crowd, but the police were largely unsuccessful, and at least one protester had to be taken away on a stretcher.

Officials tried to enter the legislature to prepare the presentation of today’s budget, but they had to turn back as the crowd of roughly 100 people blocked their entrance.

Fisher harvester Jason Sullivan says the protesters want a freer market in fishery.

He says governments are over-regulating the fishery, preventing new processors and buyers from entering the market.

Newfoundland and Labrador Finance Minister Siobhan Coady is scheduled to release her 2024-25 budget later today, with an expectation that the books will be balanced.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 20, 2024.

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