NLIS 2
August 23, 2002
(Executive Council)

 

Premier Grimes to attend New England Governors - 
Eastern Canadian Premiers Conference in Quebec City

Energy and environmental issues will be key discussion items for Premier Roger Grimes at the 27th annual conference of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers being held in Quebec City from August 25-27.

"Energy industries, including oil and gas and hydro, are important to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador and this region," said Premier Grimes. "As with any resource development in the province, these industries must be developed with attention to economics and the environmental impact on the region. It is our intent at these meetings to discuss how we can all work together to ensure the maximum economic benefit of these industries in a responsible manner."

Other items for discussion include: cross border trade; globalization; air access within the Northeast Region; economic cooperation; and academic cooperation. The meetings will also provide an opportunity for eastern region leaders to commemorate the anniversary of September 11 with a resolution that not only marks the anniversary, but also commits to discussions about improved border management between Canada and the United States.

"I am very pleased to have the opportunity to join with my colleagues to express our deepest sympathy to all families who lost loved ones, including those from New England and Eastern Canada," said Premier Grimes. "The people of Newfoundland and Labrador responded with such care and compassion following this most tragic event. Over 13,000 people were diverted to the province and were treated with such kindness and consideration that lasting bonds have been formed with citizens the world over."

The premier continued on to say that, although the world has changed since September 11 and the need for increased security is paramount, it is important that security not come at the price of economic stability.

"It is our duty, as elected representatives, to work together to enhance safety in our region," said Premier Grimes. "But, we must also work to maintain a smooth flow of goods and people across our borders to ensure our continued economic success. Our regions are highly integrated economically and we must ensure these linkages are maintained in an effective way."

To help ensure the continued economic development and success of the region, the premiers and governors plan to call on their federal counterparts to involve them in discussions relating to cross-border issues that affect the eastern region.

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

2002 08 23                         3:40 p.m.

 


SearchHomeBack to GovernmentContact Us


All material copyright the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. No unauthorized copying or redeployment permitted. The Government assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any material deployed on an unauthorized server.
Disclaimer/Copyright/Privacy Statement