Liberals take Moncton East

The provincial Liberals say Monday's byelection in Moncton East was a test of their government and they passed, easily taking Bernard Lord'sold riding.

Liberal Chris Collins beat Tory Chad Peters by more than 1,000 votes for the seatthe former Conservative premier vacated when he retired from politics in January.

Thebyelection was seen by many as a first test for Shawn Graham's Liberal government.

"Absolutely a test for the Liberal party," Collins said Monday night. "This is an extremely strong mandate from the people of Moncton East and a vote of confidence from the people of Moncton East for Mr. Graham's government and his policies with regards to job creation, employment and health care."

It's a test Graham says his party has passed.

"You never take any election for granted, and every day is a test for a government,but tonight the people of Moncton East have voted in confidence of our government's agenda," Graham said.

But Peters questioned the timing of the byelection, saying the Liberals should have waited until after the provincial budget was tabled. It's expected to contain tax hikes and service cuts.

"You know, the Liberal government is still enjoying a bit of a honeymoon and we expect that they would enjoy that until the budget gets tabled," Peters said.

Moncton only has one cabinet minister, Health Minister Mike Murphy. Graham won't say if his newest caucus member will get a cabinet post.Collins, he said,would have to learn the ropes as an MLA first.