Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs to meet with federal counterpart

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Tom Lush will meet with his federal counterpart Minister Stephane Dion, President of Privy Council and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, in Ottawa tomorrow, March 21.

Minister Lush said: "We have set an extensive agenda dealing with major issues involving Newfoundland and Labrador. I also intend to have a frank and open discussion on the state of our relationship with the Government of Canada."

A wide range of issues will be discussed during the meeting including the downsizing of the Gander Weather Office, the All-Party Committee Report on Fisheries, the Kyoto Protocol and its potential on the Lower Churchill development, the expiration of cost-shared agreements, marketing of CFB Goose Bay, the divestiture of the Port Harmon facilities, the federal Action Plan for Official Languages, and the Francophone School/Community Centre.

The minister stated: " I am looking forward to a very productive session and reporting our progress as we continue to work cooperatively with the Government of Canada to deal with the major issues facing Newfoundland and Labrador."

Tomorrow's meeting is part of a series initiated by Minister Lush since his appointment as Intergovernmental Affairs Minister.

Media contact: Tom Hann, Communications, (709) 729-1341.

2003 03 20                                       10:00 a.m.