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December 6, 1999
(Executive Council)

The following statement was issued today by Premier Brian Tobin. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I would like to respond today to comments attributed to Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard regarding the province's request to the federal government to legally change the name of the province to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Government brought forward a resolution to amend Term 1 of the Terms of Union to reflect the new name of the province on April 29 of this year, which was unanimously adopted by the House of Assembly. The federal government is moving at the request of the province to introduce the resolution for confirmation by the House of Commons and the Senate. This is not new; this is not a provocation by anyone. The federal government is indeed acting on a request that is eight months old.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Quebec have had a solid working relationship over the last several years, specifically in relation to Labrador Hydro Project.

We have kept the Government of Quebec apprised of the status of the name change throughout this process. In fact, I have spoken this morning with Premier Bouchard who has assured me that it is not Quebec's intention to commence legal action regarding the name change.

It is not in anyone's best interest to attempt to create a situation where one does not exist.

Both provinces have recognized the existing borders in recent agreements, such as the Labour Market Mobility Agreement signed on April 24, 1998.

I have spoken with federal officials and have been assured that this province's request to enact the name change will be dealt with in an expeditious manner.

The resolution passed by the House of Assembly and now being considered by the federal government would simply legalize what has been the boundary of this province as confirmed by the British Privy Council decision of 1927.

To conclude, Labrador has been an integral part of this province throughout our history. It is only right and proper that the contribution of this region of the province be acknowledged in our official name.

I look forward to the federal government's and Parliament's early consideration and passage of the requested Constitutional amendment.

1999 12 06                 2:40 p.m.


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