EXCERPTS

Children are its top priority, the government of Newfoundland and
Labrador says in a Throne Speech that vows action where it has been
accused of neglect.

The provincial legislature opened Monday with the 20-page
blueprint of government promises and achievements read by
Lieutenant-Governor John Crosbie.

It charts a progressive course for the Tory government of
Premier Danny Williams, including an overhaul of the Child, Youth and
Family Services Act, a new child care and early learning strategy, and
a strengthened Human Rights Code.

"There is no gift more precious than a child, and no duty more
important than advancing the best interests of our children through the
choices we make," Mr. Crosbie read.

"In classrooms and homes across our province, a new attitude is
taking hold, full of hope in the dream of a wonderful future for young
people right here at home."

....

NDP Leader Lorraine Michael asked whether the glitter and gloss of the feel-good speech will amount to more than empty words.

Action is urgently needed, she said.

"Government today announced a 10-year strategy for early
learning and child care. I certainly hope it will not take 10 more
years to implement, and that there will be substantial money upfront to
address the urgent need for new spaces."

....

- reprinted from The Canadian Press