Executive Council
February 26, 2007

Minister Ottenheimer Pleased with Meetings with Federal Ministers

The Honourable John Ottenheimer, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, was pleased to meet with ministers of the Government of Canada in Ottawa over two days last week and express Newfoundland and Labrador�s desire to have the federal government keep its commitments.

"I believe our meetings were productive, positive and furthered the strong working relationship between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada," said Minister Ottenheimer. "I am pleased to have had the opportunity to discuss issues important to our province."

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, was unable to meet with Minister Ottenheimer but a meeting was held between officials of both ministers. However, meetings with the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and the Honourable Gordon O�Connor, Minister of National Defence, continued as scheduled and were both positive meetings.

"I outlined to both ministers matters of importance to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Ottenheimer. "I impressed upon Minister Hearn the importance of the federal government having a strong presence in our province when it comes to matters such as Atlantic headquarters and senior executive positions. As well, we discussed the future of the Gander Airport, the shipyard in Marystown, 5 Wing Goose Bay, Marine Atlantic services and other significant issues.

"Minister O�Connor reiterated to me his commitment, along with that of his government, to ensure the future viability of 5 Wing Goose Bay. We had an open discussion about the importance of this facility to the people of Labrador and to the operations of the Canadian Armed Forces. I emphasized his government�s written commitment to our province and I take him at his word, given to me once again Friday, that the future of 5 Wing is safe. I do plan to monitor this situation closely and ensure that the federal government lives up to its commitment to the people of Labrador."

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Media contact:
Ken Morrissey
Communications Specialist
Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat
(709) 729-6026, 690-0525
kenmorrissey@gov.nl.ca

2007 02 26                                                    9:25 a.m.

 


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