Province to host Canadian premiers next week

Newfoundland and Labrador steps into the national spotlight next week as Premier Danny Williams will host Canada�s premiers July 26-28 for the Council of the Federation (COF) annual summer meeting and assume the role of chair of COF.

�This is a spectacular opportunity that only presents itself once a decade and I am honoured to host my colleagues, their families and staff, national media and other guests,� said Premier Williams. �Next week we will proudly demonstrate our breadth of culture and talent, beauty and warm hospitality that has earned us the reputation of a young and vibrant province.�

The premiers will arrive in Humber Valley on July 25 for a pre-conference event and meeting with national Aboriginal leaders before traveling to St. John�s for the meetings on July 27 and 28. During their stay on the province�s west coast, delegates will visit the city of Corner Brook and can tour Gros Morne National Park.

The Council of the Federation meeting agenda will focus on issues of importance to all Canadians including the fiscal imbalance, transportation infrastructure, energy, global pressures on traditional resource industries and enhancing Canada's international and trade relations.

Premier Williams noted that the conference will be unique with a distinct cultural flavour.

�Premiers, their families, delegates and national media will experience a true kaleidoscope of culture featuring performances by a broad range of our many talented local artists; craft demonstrations from artisans across the island and Labrador, and a wide sampling of our cuisine.�

With close to 350 delegates including premiers and their families, government officials and national media, the conference is expected to generate approximately $1.4 million in economic spin-off for local businesses.

The Council of the Federation comprises all 13 provincial and territorial premiers. It enables premiers to work collaboratively to strengthen the Canadian federation by fostering a constructive relationship among the provinces, territories, and with the federal government.

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3690, 351-1227, elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca

2006 07 19                             10:35 a.m.