September 8, 1999
(Executive Council)

Agreement signed with Italian Air Force

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Walter Noel welcomed news that the Canadian and Italian governments have signed an agreement for the Italian Air Force to train in low-level flying at CFB Goose Bay.

The Italian Air Force, which will begin training in 2000, will spend about $6 million next year on operations and maintenance, with an expectation that this amount could increase to $9-10 million as activity expands over the life of the agreement. These amounts do not include initial start-up costs, including construction and renovations to existing facilities.

"This is tremendous news for the people of Happy Valley-Goose Bay," Minister Noel stated. "The province has been actively working with the Department of National Defence and local stakeholders to convince the Italians of the benefits of training at 5 Wing Goose Bay, and we're delighted to welcome them as a partner in NATO low-level training at the base. I have been actively working to find ways to expand activity at the base, and the arrival of the Italians next year will certainly be a boost to the local economy. We'll continue to work to ensure that the base is used to its full potential by NATO partners."

As Minister for Intergovernmental Affairs, Minister Noel is responsible for coordinating the province's relations with federal, provincial, and foreign governments. In particular, Intergovernmental Affairs is working to see that defence spending in Newfoundland and Labrador is maximized by the Department of National Defence and foreign governments.

Media contact: Ron Fitzpatrick, Communications, (709) 729-2077.

1999 09 08                         3:00 p.m.