March 9, 1998
(Executive Council)

Chief negotiator named for Churchill negotiations

James Thistle has been named as chief negotiator for formal negotiations regarding new hydro-electric developments on the Churchill River.

Mr. Thistle has broad experience in both the public and private sectors. While Deputy Minister of Justice and Deputy Attorney General for the province in the early 90's, he served as a member of the team involved in pursuing further development of the Churchill River and was also involved in related native land claims issues. He also served as Deputy Clerk of the Executive Council and Assistant Secretary to Cabinet.

Between 1991 and 1996 he acted as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Hibernia Management and Development Company Ltd. He was responsible for the legal and corporate affairs of the Hibernia development which included overseeing contracts and Canada-Newfoundland benefits. Most recently, he has worked as a partner with Stewart McKelvey Stirling Scales, one of the largest law firms in Atlantic Canada. His practice focussed primarily on resource development and related issues.

Mr. Thistle holds a B.A. (Hons.) in History from Memorial University of Newfoundland, an LL.B. from Osgoode Law School and a Master of Philosophy in Newfoundland History from Memorial.

Contact: Heidi Bonnell, Premier's Office, (709) 729-3564.