Premier holds information sessions related to Voisey�s Bay

Premier Roger Grimes has concluded a series of events in a number of communities throughout the province. Premier Grimes traveled to communities, as did Mines and Energy Minister Lloyd Matthews, to explain the details of the Statement of Principles reached with Inco regarding the development of the Voisey�s Bay Project.

"It was a great pleasure and privilege to meet with people throughout the province to discuss the Voisey�s Bay project," said Premier Grimes. "This agreement was always about the best interests and aspirations of our people, and the information sessions gave people the opportunity to discuss within their own communities the details of this tentative agreement."

During his sessions, Premier Grimes met with many citizens, town representatives, chambers of commerce and other interest groups. Premier Grimes held meetings in St. John�s, Placentia, Gander, Corner Brook, Port aux Basques, Marystown, Lewisporte, Grand Falls-Windsor, and is currently in his district consulting with constituents on this matter. Minister Matthews held information sessions in Nain, Labrador City, L�Anse au Clair, as well as St. John�s, Bay Roberts and Clarenville. Minister Matthews will also be in St. Anthony on Monday to continue with the information sessions.

Premier Grimes said that he looks forward to the debate on the Voisey�s Bay Project in the House of Assembly next week. The House of Assembly will be open for a special sitting on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. All proceedings will be televised.

"We will have a full and open debate, as promised by this government, on the Statement of Principles we have tentatively agreed to with Inco.  Each member in government has the right to vote in whatever manner they believe is acceptable. I encourage all members on both sides to consider the provincial implications of this tentative agreement, and welcome full, fair and factual debate."

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

2002 06 15                              10:00 a.m