The fate of a government-owned liquor corporation is stirring debate, with a bold report suggesting drastic measures for economic recovery. But is selling off public assets the right move?
No plans to privatize the NLC, assures the Finance Minister. Despite the 'Big Reset' report's recommendations, the government remains steadfast in its decision. The report, authored by Moya Greene and released in 2021, proposed a series of bold initiatives to improve the province's financial situation. One of these suggestions was to sell off certain government-owned assets, including the NLC and Marble Mountain.
And this is where it gets controversial. While the government has struggled to find private investors for Marble Mountain, the NLC is a different story. Minister Craig Pardy emphasizes that the NLC's dividends, amounting to over $200 million last year, are a crucial part of the government's income. He firmly states, 'We've given no thought to selling off the NLC.'
But the question remains: is holding onto these assets the best strategy for the province's economic future? The debate is open, and the public's input is invaluable. What do you think? Is privatization a missed opportunity or a necessary step?