NDP leader Cardy says Robichaud's defence of Blaney appointment in tailspin

ROTHESAY – “The Conservatives are trying to spin their way out of a mess they created. I want the Conservatives to explain why Efficiency New Brunswick needed four Presidents and CEOs in the last year,” said New Brunswick New Democrat Leader Dominic Cardy.   

Cardy questioned Deputy Premier Paul Robichaud’s explanation for Premier David Alward’s decision to appoint former Conservative MLA for Rothesay Margaret-Ann Blaney to be CEO and President of Efficiency New Brunswick. Mr. Robichaud told the media that Ms. Blaney was hired to replace former CEO of Efficiency NB Elizabeth Weir, when in fact the position was filled in March by the deputy minister of environment Denis Caron, and has been previously held by other civil servants.

                                                                    

“My problem is not with Ms. Blaney – it is with the system that gives New Brunswick Premiers, Liberal and Conservatives, the power to play favourites with our public service,” said Cardy.

Since the Conservatives were elected Premier Alward has appointed his campaign co-chairs to head InvestNB and NB Liquor. The previous Liberal government also has a record of patronage. Former Premier Shawn Graham appointed one of his closest political advisors to be CEO of NB Liquor in 2006 and then, when he lost the election, made sure he was gifted with a secret pension.

Mr. Cardy is the New Democrat candidate in the riding of Rothesay, and has committed to ending patronage in New Brunswick.

“If elected I will bring the Rothesay Charter to End Patronage to the legislature,” said Cardy. “This Bill would make it an offense for an elected politician to try and influence the hiring process in any way.”

Cardy added, “Except for the individuals working directly for politicians, and ceremonial offices, all government appointments will be made based on merit and without the influence of elected officials.”

“For 150 years, the Conservatives and Liberals have traded power back and forth, making bad decisions that have undermined our economy and weakened our province,” said Cardy. “It is time for a change.”