Province to deliver on promise of whistleblower law

In Wednesday's throne speech in the house of assembly, the provincial government promised to deliver on its unfulfilled promise for whistleblower legislation.

The province saidabout seven years ago it wouldcome up with laws that would better protect civil servants that report wrongdoing, but it has yet to deliver.

In the speech, government said it will introduce the province's first whistleblower legislation during the spring session.

Government said it would be itsmost significant legislation to be introduced inthe house during this sitting.

Previously, a series of ministers said protection for whistleblowers wasn't needed, and adequate protection was provided under current legislation.

Going for more open government

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tom Marshall is fighting back against the perception of a secretive government, emphasizing on openness during the throne speech.

In his first big move as premier in late January, Marshall ordered a full review of controversial Bill 29, which gives government more power to withhold information from the general public.

Now, the government used the throne speech to promise an open government initiative.

"We believe much more information should be disclosed to the public even before it is requested,"Chief Justice Derek Green said during the speech.

"Government departments and agencies ought to disclose information as a routine way of doing business."