August 6, 1999
(Executive Council)

Minister attending Council of State Governments Conference in Burlington, Vermont

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Walter Noel is attending the conference of the Council of State Governments (CSG) in Burlington, Vermont from August 7 to 9. He will be accompanied by Topsail MHA Ralph Wiseman, chair of the Liberal Caucus, and Ferryland MHA Loyola Sullivan, the Opposition House Leader.

The CSG is a parliamentary-style organization of United States legislators that serves US states, territories, and commonwealths. Nova Scotia and Quebec are international associate members of the CSG's Eastern Regional Conference, and generally send delegates to its annual meetings. Established in 1933, the CSG provides a forum for identifying and sharing ideas with government leaders, promoting projects and initiatives, and facilitating cooperation between legislative and executive branch policy makers.

"We're building upon the success of the Team Atlantic trade mission to New England in March to develop trade linkages between Newfoundland and Labrador and the United States," said Minister Noel. "The northeastern states are also a key market for our tourism industry, and our participation will help generate greater awareness of the province in that area.

"Our province has traditionally had close ties with the United States. Government is undertaking new initiatives to build on this relationship and create more opportunities for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to develop business connections with our American friends." Media contact: Ron Fitzpatrick, Communications, (709) 729-2077.

1999 08 06                 12:50 p.m.