MPs Hyer, Rafferty weigh in on throne speech

Thunder Bay MPs Bruce Hyer and John Rafferty weighed in on Wednesdays throne speech, where the federal government laid out its priorities for the next session of Parliament.

Independent MP Bruce Hyer of Thunder Bay Superior North told CBC news he liked the references to First Nations education and consumer protection measures.

Many of the things they talked about will depend on returning to a balanced budget. I'm not entirely sure that's ever going to happen.- NDP MP John Rafferty

The speech, read by Gov. Gen. David Johnston, said Conservatives would continue working with First Nations to develop stronger, more effective, and more accountable on-reserve education systems."

It also promised an end to the U.S.-Canada price gap on goods and changes in the telecommunications sector to reduce cell phone roaming costs, get rid ofbundled TV channels and enhance high-speed broadband for rural Canadians.

But Hyer says the speech didnt do enough to address the Senate scandal that has been plaguing the Conservative caucus.

It was disappointing there is nothing of substance about the Senate, Hyer said. It's threatening the credibility of our whole parliamentary system.

• Throne speech highlights: What was in it
• Throne speech promises law forcing balanced budgets

Meanwhile, Thunder Bay Rainy River New Democrat John Rafferty says he didn't find the throne speech very encouraging.

"Not once was northern Ontario mentioned, or the Ring of Fire, or anything to do with northern Ontario," Rafferty said.

Many of the things they talked about will depend on returning to a balanced budget, he added. I'm not entirely sure that's ever going to happen.

He also saidthere was a "laugh-out-loud moment" during the speech when the government touted its leadership in science and technology.

Kenora Conservative MP Greg Rickford could not be reached for comment on the Throne speech.