Minister meets with planning committee for August SEMACA conference

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Walter Noel met this weekend with members of the planning committee for the annual conference of the Southeastern Massachusetts-Atlantic Canada Association (SEMACA), to be held August 2-4, 2000 in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

The planning meetings, which conclude today at the Hotel Newfoundland, were attended by Dr. Anthony Cicerone, president of SEMACA and professor at Bridgewater State College in Massachusetts, Happy Valley-Goose Bay Mayor Judy O�Dell, Mayor Bill Hogan of Placentia, Mayor James Sleets of Quincy, Massachusetts, and various municipal representatives. Sandra Kelly, Minister of Industry, Trade and Technology, also met with the committee.

Minister Noel attended last year�s conference in Quincy, where Happy Valley-Goose Bay was chosen as the location for this year�s event. "I am delighted to see the progress being made in the organization of this important conference," said the minister. "The timing couldn�t be better in view of the province�s New England Trade and Investment Strategy. We hope that the SEMACA conference will enable us to build on that strategy and develop stronger economic times with the New England states, particularly in the areas of export and investment opportunities."

Ernest McLean, Minister Responsible for Labrador, said the conference will also introduce delegates to Labrador. "Not only will the conference help promote economic ties between the province and the New England states, it will also introduce delegates to the tourism potential of Labrador."

SEMACA�s purpose is to increase communication between municipalities in Massachusetts and Atlantic Canada, and to enhance trade and commerce.

Media contact: Lynn Barter, Communications, (709) 729-0084.

2000 04 17                                                                 3:05 p.m.