Premier to Meet with Vice-President Cheney

Maximizing Nova Scotia benefits in the continental energy market will be the focus of Premier John Hamm's meeting this week with United States Vice-President Richard (Dick) Cheney.

Premier Hamm will meet with Mr. Cheney via teleconference on Thursday, Dec. 6, in Washington, D.C. The vice-president will participate from an undisclosed location for security reasons.

"This is a great opportunity to promote Nova Scotia natural gas as part of North America's energy solution," said the premier, who requested the meeting through United States Ambassador Paul Cellucci. "I greatly appreciate Vice-President Cheney taking the time to meet with me, despite his heavy responsibilities for security, defence and intelligence."

Energy is one of the key issues Premier Hamm will be pursuing this week in the Boston area, Washington, D.C., and New York City. This morning, the premier addressed members of the North Shore Chamber of Commerce in the Boston area. While visiting the United States capital, Premier Hamm will hold meetings with the president of the American Petroleum Institute and the executive vice president of the American Gas Association. In New York, the premier will be meeting with senior oil and gas executives.

"By promoting Nova Scotia natural gas in the northeastern United States, we will attract new investment to the province and new jobs for Nova Scotians," concluded the premier. "Meeting with Vice-President Cheney will reinforce our province's reputation as North America's east coast energy centre."

NOTE TO EDITORS: Premier John Hamm will hold a 10-minute audio news conference with Nova Scotia media at about 11:45 a.m., Atlantic time, today, Dec. 5. Media can go to the Premier's Office, 7th floor, One Government Place, to participate in the conference. To confirm participation, please call Dale Madill at 902-424-6600.