Minister to attend meeting of Canadian Council of Forest Ministers

The Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Rick Woodford, will be attending the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM) in Halifax, September 24-26.

Mr. Woodford said he looks forward to discussing forestry issues of mutual interest with his

provincial and territorial colleagues, as well as issues of importance to Newfoundland and Labrador.

"One of the key issues on the agenda for this province is the proposed national forest fire management plan, which will provide a future framework for fire management in Canada," said Mr. Woodford. "The plan proposes federal-provincial cost sharing to replace aging water bomber fleets, which is a critical factor for Newfoundland and Labrador if we are to maintain our excellent record of keeping timber losses to a minimum."

Other key agenda items include discussions on a new National Forest Strategy for 2003-2008 and a national program called Forest 2020, which would see the establishment of fast growing plantations throughout the country. Discussions will also focus on international policy, climate change, First Nations forestry programs and the World Forestry Congress, which will be held in Quebec City in 2003.

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2002 09 23                                        9:15 a.m.