Minister Noel begins public consultation on provincial electricity policy

Mines and Energy Minister Walter Noel today announced the date of the first public forum to discuss provincial electricity policy. It will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 7:30 p.m. in Salon B and C, Holiday Inn, Portugal Cove Road, St. John�s.

This public consultation follows the April 11 release of the report which was compiled by Wallace Read summarizing submissions made during the Electricity Policy Review consultations held in 2002.

"At this time, with the increasing interest in the development of electricity policy for the province, I feel it is important to provide Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with another opportunity to discuss this issue," said Minister Noel. "I want to ensure that everyone has a chance for their views to be heard before any final decisions are made. I encourage everyone with an interest in the future development of our electricity sector to take part in this important discussion."

Further announcements will be made in the coming weeks regarding additional dates and locations throughout the province where public forums will be held to discuss electricity policy.

Information on provincial electricity issues is available on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador website at www.gov.nl.ca/mines&en/policyreview/ Printed copies are also available from the Department of Mines and Energy.

Media contact: Darrell Mercer, Communications, (709) 729-5777.

2003 04 24                                       2:45 p.m.