Premier Williams to chair Council of the Federation Committee on Energy

Given the province's significant energy interests, Premier Danny Williams says he is very pleased to have been nominated by his colleagues to chair a newly formed Council Committee on Energy of the provincial and territorial premiers. The initiative was announced yesterday in Banff, Alberta, where the premiers are meeting for the annual Council of the Federation meeting.

"Energy is a critical component of Newfoundland and Labrador's economic base and our future prosperity, so I am delighted to lead this committee as collectively the premiers develop a pan-Canadian approach to dealing with energy issues," said Premier Williams. "There is a recognition that energy issues are some of the most important we as leaders will be dealing with as we move forward. From energy shortages to developing new energy sources, we must ensure that we work cooperatively and collaboratively to ensure this country is prepared for the future."

The premiers discussed that increasing energy supplies and dealing appropriately with market demand is key to the future sustainability of the country. Given Canada�s position as a secure supplier of energy to international markets, the premiers agreed that the best course of action was to develop a pan-Canadian, Council of the Federation Strategy.

"Given the significant oil and gas and hydro-electric resources in Newfoundland and Labrador, I look forward to bringing my knowledge to the table as chair of this committee," added Premier Williams. "I look forward to working cooperatively with my colleagues as we move forward on important files, such as enhancing transmission systems and developing new technologies."

The committee will also call on Ottawa to acknowledge the constitutional jurisdiction of the provinces in energy negotiations. Premiers Klein, Handley and Charest will be on the committee chaired by Premier Williams. The committee will report back to the next Council of the Federation meeting.

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960, 690-5500, elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca

2005 08 12                                                      1:50 p.m.