Ottawa, ON, 17 February 2012 – Minister Peter Penashue today refuted the reckless and irresponsible comments made by NDP MP Ryan Cleary on VOCM Radio this morning regarding the future of the Canadian Forces Base at Goose Bay.

Mr. Cleary, with absolutely no information whatsoever, attempted to suggest that the government is neglecting CFB Goose Bay and threatening to withdraw resources from it. This is not the case. Since 2006 the Conservative Government has worked tirelessly and vigorously to maintain the base and its operations, and it remains an important priority for the government and for Labrador. CFB Goose Bay is both an economic engine in the region and an integral part of our National Defence capability. The Conservative government has invested $300 million to clean up contamination at the base, and over $20 million to resurface its runways, among other investments.

“Our government has been committed to CFB Goose Bay since day one, and will continue to invest in its operations and make sure that it remains the strong, viable military hub that it is today for years to come,” said Minister Penashue. “Mr. Cleary’s comments were completely ridiculous and entirely irresponsible. His attempt to convince my constituents, and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, that some of our province’s most important federal infrastructure is in danger is nothing short of desperation and fear mongering. This tactic is nothing new for the NDP or Ryan Cleary and all it shows is how out of touch MP Cleary and the rest of the NDP caucus truly are. If only they put in as much energy in representing the views of Canadians as they do in spreading fear and completely false information. The facts are clear: CFB Goose Bay is here to stay.”