June 1, 1999
(Executive Council)

Provincial ministers in Happy Valley-Goose Bay
to meet with Italian defence officials

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Walter Noel and Ernest McLean, Minister of Government Services and Lands and Minister Responsible for Labrador, will be in Happy Valley-Goose Bay tomorrow to continue the province's efforts to promote and expand the military presence in the town.

The ministers will be meeting with representatives of the Italian Air Force who are in the town to tour the facilities of 5 Wing Goose Bay, deciding whether to conduct low level flight training exercises in Labrador. The British, Dutch, and German air forces presently train out of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The Italian delegation will also meet with representatives from the base and the community.

Minister Noel stated: "We are eager to work with the town and the Department of National Defence to demonstrate the advantages of low level flight training in Labrador. Another NATO ally participating reduces the costs for all training partners and the federal government." Minister McLean added: "We are going to welcome the Italian Air Force to Happy Valley-Goose Bay and to the province, and hope that they decide to establish a presence here. It would mean increased activity for 5 Wing Goose Bay and growth in the town's economy."

Media contact: Ron Fitzpatrick, Communications, Intergovernmental Affairs, (709) 729-2077, or Rick Callahan, Communications, Government Services and Lands, (709) 729-4860.

1999 06 01                          11:00 a.m.