Mr. Speaker, in recent years, government has created a serious problem with money management. It has not been a good steward of the taxes Newfoundlanders and Labradorians pay every year for the services they need and value. We can and will do better, much better. That is what our plan is all about.

The good news is that our economic fundamentals are strong. We have a good base upon which we can build as we endeavour to secure a better future for ourselves and our children. The economy is expanding, becoming more diversified and competitive, and creating more jobs every year. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians want to keep it that way, and so does the government.

We see tremendous new opportunities emerging in the years ahead in our resource sectors, such as agrifoods, aquaculture, mining, energy, oil and gas.

We see tremendous new opportunities in information technology, research and development, the environment, tourism and culture.

We see tremendous new opportunities for growth and job creation in the small business sector, a vital generator of economic activity in our communities.

Clearly, the development opportunities before us are substantial.

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