NLIS 4
September 25, 2001 
(Works, Services and Transportation)
 

Provincial and federal transportation ministers meet

Provincial and territorial ministers from across the country met with their federal counterpart Friday at the annual Council of Ministers meeting in Halifax. At the meeting, Works, Services and Transportation Minister Percy Barrett presented Newfoundland and Labrador's transportation concerns to federal Transport Minister David Collenette.

"Without question, the key issue raised by all provincial and territorial ministers, including myself, was the need for a national highway strategy to address deteriorating roads," said Minister Barrett. "Every minister who spoke called upon the federal government to recognize its commitment to helping the provinces bring roads and highways up to acceptable standards."

Minister Collenette informed the provincial and territorial ministers he would assess their requests, but that significant funding would now be required to address the situation currently facing the air transportation sector. 

"We realize the tragic situation in the United States has had a tremendous negative impact on the air industry and we will certainly assist in any way we can. But our highways play a very significant role in the overall transportation system. They drive the economy by supporting provincial, national and international activities," said Minister Barrett. "The federal government must recognize they have a substantial role to play in funding our highway system, including the Trans Labrador Highway. The provinces and territories have been asking for a national highway agreement for some time. These latest requests are not news to the federal minister. In my mind, there is no way the federal government can ignore the individual and collective voices of the provinces." 

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-3015.

2001 09 25                                      2:40 p.m.