Premier Williams reaffirms support for ACOA

Premier Danny Williams today commented on the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). The premier reaffirmed his support for the agency and the valuable opportunities it provides for Newfoundland and Labrador and the Atlantic region generally.

"Small businesses are a key contributor to Newfoundland and Labrador�s economy and many of those companies got their start with financial assistance from ACOA," said the Premier. "Today, many of those entrepreneurs are operating viable and prosperous businesses and employing many people across the province. This is evidence that ACOA provides meaningful opportunities for the people and economy of Newfoundland and Labrador."

Recent media reports have suggested that Premier Williams may support the termination of ACOA. "I want to make it absolutely clear that I do not support the dismantling of ACOA," said the Premier. "What I said earlier this week was that I do not see a problem with re-evaluating the agency, including the selection criteria which determines the allocation of funding, including ensuring a completely non-partisan selection process, based on submitted business proposals and other key information. I believe that it is incumbent upon governments to periodically review all programs and services. This is a responsible and prudent process, which I believe the taxpayers of the country expect and deserve. I fully support the goals and objectives of ACOA and I believe it should continue to make investments into Atlantic Canada which yield returns for both the region and the entire country. "

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency has been particularly beneficial in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. "The tourism industry in rural Newfoundland and Labrador has capitalized on funding opportunities from ACOA and that industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years. ACOA certainly contributed to that success," said the Premier. "To lose this valuable federal government agency would certainly have a negative impact on our province."

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960 or (709) 690-5500

2004 06 25                                         4:00 p.m.