News Release Archive
PREMIER--PREMIERS CONFERENCE MEETS NOVA SCOTIA'S EXPECTATIONS ----------------------------------------------------------------- Nova Scotia was successful in making its case on a number of key issues discussed at this year's premiers conference, which concluded today in Jasper, Alberta, said Premier John Savage. "On important issues such as natural gas and the proposed federal-provincial infrastructure agreement, Nova Scotia's ambitions were more than realized," said the premier. All of the Canadian premiers and territorial leaders agreed with Nova Scotia's position that the distribution of natural gas in Canada should not be politicized. "We put forward a strong case that market forces and regulatory agencies should make fundamental decisions about natural gas distribution, not politicians. I had an opportunity to discuss this issue with most of the other premiers prior to the opening of the conference and they all agreed that political interference in the gas issue is inappropriate." Premier Savage said he told the other premiers that Nova Scotia was resolute in its determination to get the best possible deal from any gas development off its coast. Nova Scotia was also pleased with the premiers' acceptance of a flexible approach to any new federal-provincial infrastructure agreement. "Nova Scotia made a strong pitch to have any agreement directed at improving the province's export potential. Whether it's port development, telecommunications or roads, any improvement in infrastructure will help increase Nova Scotia's competitive position when it comes to exports." If the federal government accepts the provincial position, the private sector would also have a role to play in the financing of infrastructure projects. The total cost of a new program would be in the area of $2 billion. In the area of social policy reform, Premier Savage said he told the other leaders that the provinces have to develop a "health care vision" for the country. "Canadians are becoming increasingly concerned about the future of health care. As premiers, we must take a lead role in making sure that health care in this country meets public expectations." Premier Savage described this week's premiers conference as "very positive." -30- Contact: David Harrigan 902-497-3817 jlw Aug. 23, 1996 3:45 p.m.