Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Tom Lush meets with federal counterpart

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

Minister Lush stated, "We had a full and frank discussion on the state of federal/provincial relations. We both spoke about the necessity of improving those relations and made a decision to work toward that end. We also dealt with issues important to Newfoundland and Labrador. In particular, we discussed the three immediate items of concern; the downsizing of the Gander Weather Office, the divestiture of the Port Harmon facilities in Stephenville, and the All Party Committee Report on Fisheries."

The minister intends to make a full report to his Cabinet colleagues on the results of the ongoing discussions.

"I look forward to continuing my efforts to work cooperatively with Minister Dion, as we look for solutions to these very important issues," the minister stated.

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

2003 03 24                                        9:40 a.m.