Government of Newfoundland and Labrador strongly represented at Combined Councils

Paul Shelley, Minister responsible for Labrador Affairs, and Tom Rideout, Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, are among a number of provincial ministers who are looking forward to meaningful discussions at the Combined Councils of Labrador meetings this week.

"We are very much looking forward to participating in this year�s AGM," said Minister Shelley. "The Atlantic Accord negotiations prevented many of us from attending last year, and we are encouraged by the strong conference agenda that the Combined Councils have prepared on issues such as tourism, fisheries and municipal affairs. With so many delegates, I am confident that this year�s meetings will build on past successes."

"Our government has committed to the continuing development, diversification and well being of Labrador," said Minister Rideout, who will be delivering the keynote address on Saturday evening. "Transportation infrastructure, the health and well being of Labradorians, aboriginal issues and economic development will continue to be our priorities. We are committed not just in word, but also in action, to addressing these matters. Our efforts to date reflect that commitment."

Seven key sessions are being led by government departments. Ed Byrne, the Minister of Natural Resources, will lead a session on the development of an Energy Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador, which will be followed by a presentation by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro on the Lower Churchill project. Other ministers attending include Tom Hedderson, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, and Jack Byrne, the Minister of Municipal Affairs. They will be joined by John Hickey, MHA for Lake Melville. Representatives from the Department of Transportation and Works, as well as the Department of Health and Community Services, will also attend.

The 34^th Annual Socio-Economic Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Combined Councils of Labrador are being held from January 26-29 in the Labrador Straits communities of L�Anse au Clair and West St. Modest. The AGM provides a prime opportunity for municipal leaders from all regions of Labrador to gather together to discuss issues of mutual concern and engage government in these discussions.

Media contacts:
   Alex Marland, Labrador Affairs, (709) 729-4062, 690-6047
   Lori Lee Oates, Aboriginal Affairs, (709) 729-3733, 690-8403

2006 01 26                      2:15 p.m.