Paul Davis defends Nick McGrath's right to run again after paving scandal

Premier Paul Davis says a cabinet minister whoresigned after the Humber Valley paving controversy has his support in the upcoming Newfoundland and Labradorelection.

• Nick McGrath quits cabinet over paving fiasco

Nick McGrathstepped down from his post with Transportation and Works in September 2014 after a critical report from the Auditor General.

The report said McGrathpushed through the cancellation of the Labrador paving contract withouttelling senior government officials and without thoroughly exploring other options.

Humber Valley Paving was not required to pay a $9.5 million bond for not completing the job.

At the time, the company's former president Frank Coleman was running for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative party.

MHA appears by premier's side

McGrathstayed on as MHA for Labrador West, and this week hewas at the premier's side as he toured the region, openinga new oncology suite and announcing money for a trail system and social housing.

In an interview with CBC'sLabrador Morning Wednesday, Davis said he is very comfortable with McGrathseeking re-election.

"Nick has continued to be a very hard worker, and astrong representative for this area," said Davis.

He said it's time to "move on" from what happened with the paving contract.

"I was concerned about how the matter was handled andhow the decision process occurred,so he [McGrath] was held accountable for that," said Davis.

"Heaccepted responsibility for that, offered his resignation and it was accepted. and then we move on. As an MHA, he's worked very hard, he continues to be a team player, he wants the best for the citizens of LabradorWest.