Premier Danny Williams met yesterday with Fishery Products International (FPI) to raise issues on behalf of the people of Fortune and Harbour Breton, and to further discuss the company's plans for the future. The premier was joined by Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Trevor Taylor; Innovation, Trade and Rural Development Minister Kathy Dunderdale; and Justice Minister and Attorney General Tom Marshall.

"We put forward to the company the pressing issues and concerns these communities have identified to government, as a result of FPI�s decisions concerning its fish plants in both towns," said Premier Williams. "When my ministers and I met with the concerned citizens committee of Fortune last week, we committed that we would take their concerns back to FPI and seek answers on their behalf. As such, we have requested that the company respond as soon as possible, to the issues outlined."

In addition to the meeting with representatives from Fortune last week, Premier Williams said government has had ongoing discussions with the Industrial Adjustment Services Committee of Harbour Breton, which was formed as a result of FPI's announcement to close the plant in that community.

"We all have many unanswered questions for the company, and it is time that FPI demonstrate exactly what their plans are for those communities and the future of the company generally," added the premier. "Several regions of this province depend on FPI, and as a government we must and we will work to ensure that those communities and the affected workers are protected."

The premier says government is hoping to hear back from FPI within the next week to 10 days. "Time is of the essence for Fortune and Harbour Breton, and the more quickly we can get a response from FPI the more quickly we move forward with a plan to assist these communities and the workers involved."

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960, 690-5500, or elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca

2005 04 28                                      4:45 p.m.