Premier Supports Call for First Ministers Economy Meeting

Premier Rodney MacDonald has endorsed a call by Quebec Premier Jean Charest to quickly set up a meeting of premiers and the prime minister to discuss the impact of the rising dollar on Canadian companies and workers.

Premier MacDonald has sent letters to Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Canada's premiers asking that they support the initiative.

"The high value of the dollar is a good indicator of the strength of the Canadian economy," said Premier MacDonald today, Nov. 9. "But the speed with which the dollar has risen has caught some Canadians off guard."

The Canadian dollar reached parity with the U.S. dollar in September and this week reached as high as $1.10. It is up 25 per cent so far this year.

"We are seeing the effects of the dollar in many Nova Scotia industries," Premier MacDonald said. "It's leading to job losses and uncertainties for businesses and workers."

The premier hopes a meeting can be held as soon as possible to discuss possible solutions or adjustments that could ease some difficulties.