Referendum Vote On NB Power Sale Is Defeated

An Opposition motion that called for a referendum on the controversial N-B Power deal with Hydro-Quebec was defeated in the Legislature by the Liberals. Conservative Leader David Alward says the 3.2 (b) billion dollar sale of 10 power plants will affect the future of the province and the public deserves to have a voice. But the motion was defeated by a vote of 28 to 22. Government house leader Greg Byrne says the government was elected to govern and make tough decisions.
Alward says he will continue to do whatever he can to try to stop the deal. Premier Shawn Graham says he wants to finalize the agreement by the end of March.