Nova Scotia's Priorities Reflected in Connecticut Resolutions

PREMIER'S OFFICE--Nova Scotia's Priorities Reflected in Connecticut Resolutions

The resolutions coming from the 26th annual conference of New England governors and Eastern Canadian premiers clearly reflected the priorities of Nova Scotians, Premier John Hamm said today.

Energy and the environment dominated discussions among the provincial and state leaders, who met this year in Westbrook, Conn.

"While we recognize the strong demand of the United States for offshore oil and gas, Nova Scotians are demanding the maximum benefit from their energy resources. That's a message I delivered strongly to participants at this year's conference," said the premier. "But Nova Scotians also want to share with their children a clean and healthy environment for years to come. As governments, we must always strive for the balance between a vibrant energy sector and a clean environment."

Premiers and governors adopted resolutions in favour of:

• enhancing co-operation on regional approaches to energy, environmental and transportation issues;
• continuing to set targets to reduce regional mercury emissions; and
• hosting a forum on energy in 2002 in Saint John, N.B.

"As regional leaders, we are building on the success of last year's meeting in Halifax to advance productive co-operation on the priorities of our citizens," said Premier Hamm. "We must continue to work together so that the people of New England and Eastern Canada benefit from these conferences."

Premiers and governors also recognized the contributions of former Massachusetts governor Paul Cellucci, who was appointed earlier this year as United States ambassador to Canada. As governor, Mr. Cellucci co-chaired last year's conference of governors and premiers in Halifax with Premier Hamm. Mr. Cellucci was also the keynote speaker at Open to the World: Nova Scotia Energy Forum, held this past June in Halifax.

Next year's conference will be held in Quebec City.