April 23, 1999
(Executive Council)

Selection of initial region in which to implement the Strategic Social Plan

Industry, Trade and Technology Minister Sandra Kelly today announced the central region as the pilot region for the implementation of the Strategic Social Plan (SSP). Minister Kelly made the announcement on behalf of Human Resources and Employment Minister Julie Bettney, lead minister for the SSP.

"The central region was selected because it is the one area of the province that presents relatively consistent boundaries among its service sectors," said Minister Kelly. "Work completed in the central region will help guide a process to implement the plan in the remaining regions."

Members of the central region's health, education and economic development boards will meet Saturday, April 24, at the Albatross Hotel in Gander for a one-day conference to discuss initial implementation.

Minister Kelly will open the conference at 8:30 a.m. Members of the media are invited to attend the opening session. Minister Kelly, joined by members of the various regional boards in attendance, will be available to the media at 10:45 a.m. to discuss the SSP and its implementation in the central region.

The Saturday conference will focus on the framework of the Strategic Social Plan, partnering between the region and government, partnering within the region, and next steps in the process.

In addition to the selection of the central region, other regions can apply for program funding through the Strategic Social Plan. Government has created a $1.2 million special fund to carry out projects that demonstrate innovative and coordinated approaches to social and economic development.

Implementation at the regional level will be phased in over the next year and all regions are expected to be participating in implementation of the SSP by April 2000.

Premier Brian Tobin unveiled government's Strategic Social Plan on August 31, 1998. The document, entitled "People, Partners and Prosperity: A Strategic Social Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador", sets out a framework for social action and identifies strategic directions, processes, and outcomes to guide the long-term action of government.

Media contact: Lynn Barter, Communications, (709) 729-0084.

1999 04 23                           2:15 p.m.