Police in riot gear hold off fisheries protesters as N.L. Liberals finally land budget [Video]

The government of Newfoundland and Labrador pushed ahead with its provincial budget Thursday even as opposing political parties opted to stay out, capping a dramatic day that saw police — many clad in riot gear — stare down frustrated fisheries workers.  

Finance Minister Siobhan Coady rose on schedule to present a budget that focuses largely on health-care spending, housing and social programs, but the governing Liberals could hear only their own applause. 

That’s because the Progressive Conservatives, the NDP and Independent MHAs stayed out of the House of Assembly to protest government’s handling of a fisheries dispute that has had hundreds of protesters on the steps of Confederation Building. 

The protest was met by dozens of Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officers in riot gear, with tensions high throughout the morning.

“The premier has let the situation get out of control,” said NDP Leader Jim Dinn in a press release. “If the premier had shown the same determination in resolving this …