Infrastructure Funding Highlights Atlantic Premiers' Meeting

Atlantic Premiers met today, Dec. 8, in Summerside, P.E.I., to discuss the need for increased and accelerated infrastructure funding from all levels of government in light of the global economic slowdown.

"I am confident the Atlantic region will be able to get through these challenging times," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "Investing in infrastructure will provide employment and will give a significant boost to our economy."

Premier MacDonald was joined at the meeting by New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham, P.E.I Premier Robert Ghiz and Shawn Skinner, Newfoundland and Labrador Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development.

The Atlantic Gateway represents a significant opportunity for the four provinces to enhance their transportation infrastructure while stimulating the economy. The premiers are pleased with the federal government's commitment to the Atlantic Gateway and the recent appointment of Peter MacKay as Minister for the Atlantic Gateway.

The premiers also discussed the significant impact the economic climate is having on resource industries in the region. They committed to work collaboratively to support research and development, remove trade barriers and expand trade into new and emerging markets.

The Atlantic premiers also encourage the federal government to make a major investment in electricity transmission infrastructure in the Atlantic region. Creating a green energy transmission corridor through each of the Atlantic provinces would provide a critical eastern anchor to Canada's energy superpower profile. The substantial federal infrastructure investment would also stimulate the economy.

The premiers remain committed to mitigating and adapting to climate change. They continue to work within their provinces and regionally on energy efficiency and renewable energy. The federal Eco-Action Trust, together with provincial commitments, is an important tool to support the efforts which have provided significant environmental and economic benefits to the Atlantic provinces. Based on the success of the Eco-Trust, Atlantic premiers called on the federal government to continue the program beyond the existing timeline and add funding.

The next meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers will be held in early summer in Newfoundland and Labrador.