Local identities, discourses, and institutional change: an examination of voluntary municipal amalgamation in Newfoundland and Labrador

Nolan, Robert M. (2022) Local identities, discourses, and institutional change: an examination of voluntary municipal amalgamation in Newfoundland and Labrador. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the phenomenon of voluntary municipal amalgamation by observing four cases in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. This project draws on insights from scholarship in historical and discursive institutionalisms as well as rhetoric and identity discourses to explore the question of why communities voluntarily amalgamate. The comparative case study observes four cases of amalgamation debate in rural communities of Newfoundland and Labrador: three cases (Fogo Island, Roddickton-Bide Arm, and Trinity Bay North) in which amalgamation occurred; and one case (Labrador City and Wabush) in which the communities considered and decided against amalgamation. The results support the hypotheses that 1) amalgamation is chosen voluntarily when community members believe they are facing urgent challenges that are insurmountable as a single community and 2) resistance to amalgamation is identity-driven, and may be overcome by discourses related to regional identity and community survival. Using the independent variables of regional identity discourses and concern for community survival, a framework is proposed to assist policymakers and local government scholars when assessing the likelihood of voluntary amalgamation.

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