FREDERICTON (CNB) – Maintaining New Brunswick's course toward renewed economic growth will be the focus for Premier Shawn Graham when the Council of the Federation meets in  Winnipeg, Man., this week.

“I am looking forward to meeting with my colleagues to discuss some issues that are of great importance to New Brunswickers and, indeed, all Canadians,” said Graham.

On Thursday, Aug. 5, discussions will focus on sustaining Canada's economic recovery as well as on water issues and health care.

On Friday, Aug. 6, the premiers will discuss Canada-United States relations as well as international relations. A closing news conference will be held later that day.

Graham said that his first priorities at the meeting will be to ensure that New Brunswick can continue to grow its economy; and to work with all provinces and territories to ensure Canada can balance fiscal responsibility with the need for continued economic growth.  

“All provinces and territories have invested significantly to support economic stimulus at a time when the economy needed it,” Graham said. “We must ensure that, as we move forward, all governments, including the federal government, work together to support continued economic growth.”

Graham will speak to his colleagues about the importance of innovation and the green economy as key features of sustaining the economy.

“We are all in the same boat with respect to our budget challenges, and a strong continued federal presence is vital to the provinces and territories as we work to grow our economies, sustain vital services and return to fiscal balance,” said Graham.

Graham noted that he will solicit support from the other premiers on recognizing the Bay of Fundy as one of the seven new natural wonders of the world.

"Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter and I will be urging the premiers and all Canadians to ask residents in their respective jurisdictions to vote for the Bay of Fundy online,” said Graham. “Our Bay of Fundy is the only remaining natural wonder in Canada still being considered by the new seven wonders foundation as one of the seven natural wonders of the world.”

The New Brunswick delegation will also raise public and media awareness of the campaign. A promotional video for the Bay of Fundy bid has been produced and is now available for viewing online.
 
The Council of the Federation comprises all 13 provincial and territorial premiers. It is intended to enable them to work collaboratively to strengthen the Canadian federation by fostering a constructive relationship among the provinces, territories and the federal government.

LINKS:

●    Bay of Fundy (bid to be named one of the seven new natural wonders of the world): www.votemyfundy.com
●    Tourism New Brunswick (promotional video of the Bay of Fundy): www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca


04-08-10