Premier Grimes comments on success of meetings in Alberta and British Columbia

Returning from meeting with the premiers of British Columbia and Alberta, Premier Roger Grimes said he was pleased to have an opportunity to engage both premiers in a better understanding of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador�s intent of seeking joint management of this province�s fishery resources. Premier Grimes also received support from these provincial premiers on his own conviction that a mechanism must be developed to guarantee a relationship between provincial governments and the federal government whereby provinces play a significant role in discussions on decisions that impact provinces.

"The decision six weeks ago to close the fishery is a proven example of the failure of the federal government to engage the provinces in this regard," said Premier Grimes. "Add to this the decision in the past couple of months to end the weather forecasting operations in Gander and the failure of the federal government to negotiate with this province on the appropriate method to divest Port Harmon in Stephenville. In all these cases no opportunity was given to the province to participate in the decisions. Just as disturbing was the dismissal of proposals presented to the federal government on the fishery issue and Gander Weather office from this government that could have resulted in better decisions being made."

"Many people in this province and throughout Canada realize that it is time for the Canadian federation to be renewed and strengthened. Canada is a collection of communities, provinces and territories that came together to create this country. It is time that a concerted effort is made to bring about a model of a federal-provincial relationship based on consultation, communication and respect for the partners that comprise this country," said the Premier.

Premier Grimes will meet with the newly elected premier of Quebec, Jean Charest, tomorrow, to provide Mr. Charest with further information on the White Paper for Joint Management of Newfoundland and Labrador�s fishery resources and to discuss with Premier Charest the need for a better mechanism in how the national government interacts with its provincial partners.

While in Alberta, Premier Grimes accepted an invitation to address Economic Development Edmonton. As well as speaking about the issue of fisheries resources joint management and renewing the federation, Premier Grimes took the opportunity to speak on the notable economic development occurring in the province and incentive programs available to encourage corporate investment in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960.

2003 06 09                                     12:40 p.m.