News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Strengthening the regional economy and population growth will be the highlights of discussions when Premier Brian Gallant meets with his Atlantic counterparts and members of the federal cabinet in Prince Edward Island on July 3-4.

“Co-operating as Atlantic Canadians is crucial to the region’s economy,” said Gallant. “By working together we will be better positioned to overcome our collective challenges and improve the quality of life of Atlantic Canadians.”

Discussions will focus on developing a regional approach to key areas of action, including immigration and a skilled labour market; innovation; clean growth and climate change; trade and investment; and infrastructure.

Gallant will be joined by Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball, Prince Edward Island Premier Wade MacLauchlan, and Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil.

Federal government representatives will include Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAuley; Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister John McCallum; Treasury Board President Scott Brison; Fisheries, Oceans and Canadian Coast Guard Minister Dominic LeBlanc; Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Singh Bains; and Public Services and Procurement Minister Judy Foote.

“Atlantic Canadians and businesses can compete globally; they simply need governments supporting them with the right investments and policies,” said Gallant. “This requires governments to be nimble, innovative and able to work together.”

This is the second time the Atlantic premiers will meet with federal Cabinet ministers. The first meeting took place in Fredericton in February 2016.