NLIS 1
September 17, 2001
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)
 

 Minister to attend forestry ministers' conference

Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods Rick Woodford will be in Toronto, September 18, for the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM).

"I look forward to joining my counterparts from across the country and discussing important issues related to our forest industry. This conference will provide an opportunity to discuss with my colleagues issues specific to the forest sector in this province, as well as promote our activities in ensuring sustainable management of our valuable forest resources," said Mr. Woodford.

Agenda items include improving capability for forest fire management, criteria and indicators of sustainable forest management, and the development of a new national forest strategy for Canada. The forestry ministers will also discuss new and innovative silviculture initiatives. Mr. Woodford said these issues are of great importance to Newfoundland and Labrador, especially fire protection and silviculture.

A key discussion will focus on a forest fire management plan that proposes a new, strategic investment in fire science and technology to support forest fires management on a national basis. The plan will position Canada and the provinces as world leaders in forest fire management. "This is good news as the plan calls for federal-provincial cost-sharing to replace our aging water bomber fleet. Replacing the fleet is critical to the province maintaining its excellent record of keeping timber losses to a minimum," said Mr. Woodford.

He added that development of a new National Forest Strategy for 2003 - 2008 is another decision to be taken during the CCFM conference. "Newfoundland and Labrador was a signatory to previous national forest strategies and our position is that a new national plan is vital to ensure harmony between provincial and federal forestry policies, and to solidify Canada's position as a world leader in sustainable forest management."

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183 or Craig Renouf, (709) 637-2923.

2001 09 17                                       10:50 a.m.