The apparent decision by the Department of National Defence to remove one of the aircraft arresting systems at CFB Goose Bay is of great concern and the provincial government must begin lobbying the federal minister to have any decision on this matter reversed, says Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones. Jones raised the issue earlier today during question period.

The Goose Bay airbase has two runways that can be used by fighter jets. The selection of which runway a jet lands on is determined by the direction of the wind. One of the base’s aircraft arresting systems that services runway 16-34 is apparently scheduled to be removed by the Department of National Defence. These safety systems are used for emergency landings and prevent fighter jets from sliding off the runway.

“There are currently no fighter jets landing in Goose Bay, but we know that the airbase has plenty of potential if it receives an appropriate level of promotion and recognition from the federal government,” said Ms. Jones. “The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay is still hoping to attract allied forces back to the base in the near future. Removing the aircraft arresting system from one of the runways will certainly act as a deterrent for attracting future flights and activities.”

Jones says it is unfortunate that it appears the provincial government has done little to make effective representation to the federal government on this issue. Under questioning in the House of Assembly, it was obvious government knew little of the situation and no meetings had been scheduled on the matter.

“We know that the allied forces will be less inclined to return to Goose Bay if the necessary infrastructure isn’t already in place. If this piece of equipment is removed, I certainly question whether the federal government is committed to attracting allied training flights back to Goose Bay.