Minister to arrange meeting with federal counterpart

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Tom Lush today engaged in his first discussion as minister with federal counterpart St�phane Dion.

During the conversation, in which Minister Dion congratulated Mr. Lush on his new appointment, the two agreed upon the importance of maintaining a good working relationship between both levels of government. The two ministers pledged the cooperation and willingness to meet as soon as possible to discuss issues of importance, such as inadequacies in Canada�s equalization program.

"I sincerely anticipate an effective working relationship with Mr. Dion in his capacity as minister and I will arrange a personal meeting with him in the very near future," said Minister Lush. "I look forward to further discussing these issues of importance in a reasonable, rational and effective manner and to get working on these files as soon as possible."

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-7006.

2001 02 19             3:15 p.m.