Premier announces Royal Commission 
on Renewing and Strengthening our Place in Canada

In today�s Speech from the Throne, government announced a Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening our Place in Canada. Premier Roger Grimes stated that the significance of the Royal Commission is immense, as it will help shape the province�s future. The premier stated that its work would examine the province�s history and its present to develop an extensive report which will serve as the basis of plans for Newfoundland and Labrador�s future.

"This Royal Commission will open debate on issues of paramount importance to all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians - our role within the Canadian federation and in an international context," said Premier Grimes. "Government will soon announce a panel chair and other commission members, who will lead the Royal Commission in its work."

The Royal Commission will be mandated to lead extensive research on the past history and its impact on the present status of the province. Further to examining the current state of the province, the Royal Commission will consult with both experts in various social, political and economic backgrounds and the general public to plan for the future.

"The goal of the independent Royal Commission will be to present a thorough report that the people of Newfoundland and Labrador can use to plan for future prosperity. I strongly encourage all residents, as well as expatriate Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, to become involved in any way possible with this Royal Commission and offer their advice, criticisms and constructive comments to the panel."

A comprehensive update on the process and findings to date is expected by the end of 2002, with the Royal Commission�s final report due sometime in 2003.

Media contact: Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960.

2002 03 19                          3:50 p.m.