Minister pleased with the level of support for Voisey�s Bay deal

Mines and Energy Minister Lloyd Matthews today stated that he was pleased with the results of an independent survey showing that 70 per cent of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians support the Voisey�s Bay deal reached between government and Inco in June.

Corporate Research Associates conducted the survey from August 14 to August 27, 2002, and it is considered accurate within 4.9 percentage points in 95 out of 100 samples.

"This survey reiterates that the people of the province believe that this government signed a very good deal for the development of Voisey�s Bay," said Mr. Matthews. "I am certain that we will continue to build upon this solid base of support as people begin to witness the benefits that will accrue to the province over the life of this project.

"I am also pleased to learn that the Resource Development Trades Council of Newfoundland and Labrador, a council that represents 16 building and construction trades unions in collective bargaining agreements, has reached a site specific agreement for the Voisey�s Bay mine and concentrator at Voisey�s Bay. This is a major step in commencing work programs at Voisey�s Bay."

The minister noted that government is committed to achieving maximum benefits from the development of all resource projects based in the province and this will continue in the future.

"I can assure the people of the province that this government will only negotiate resource development deals that provide maximum benefits for our citizens. This was our stance during the Voisey�s Bay negotiations, and this will be our stance on any negotiation process that involves this province."

Media contact: Darrell Mercer, Communications, (709) 729-5777.

2002 09 09                                     4:40 p.m.