Premiers Support Halifax Bid for Superships

Halifax's bid to become the new hub for post-Panamax superships received nationwide endorsement today as Premier Russell MacLellan succeeded in having the issue addressed at the Premiers' Conference in Saskatoon and in winning the resounding support of his fellow premiers. The other premiers agreed that Halifax must be the destination for the next generation of superships and that winning the bid was important for the economy of the country as well as the economy of Nova Scotia.

The premiers noted that Halifax is the only Canadian port in the running to become the hub of a new supership-rail transportation system; all other bidders are in the United States. They congratulated Premier MacLellan for taking a strong stand and championing the port on the national stage.

"This is not a case of the Port of Halifax trying to outdo its competitors in Montreal or Saint John. The benefits both in terms of transportation revenue and improved access to world markets, will not just stay in Nova Scotia, but will be diffused throughout Canada," said Premier MacLellan.

Premier MacLellan noted that he was pleased with the reaction of the premiers. "Their understanding and support for our proposal is key. We know we are a top contender. The support of the rest of the country is important because in Canada there are no losers under this deal, only winners. It's a unique opportunity, and we intend to push for it and the other premiers see it the same way," he said.

The premiers agreed that the Halifax terminal was essential in order for Canada to remain competitive in the 21st century for the next round of superships, planned to be larger than the post-Panamax vessels. They affirmed their support for Nova Scotia's position by including their views in the official press release of the premiers' Saskatoon conference.

Editors Note:

Contact 499-8569 for a copy of Premier MacLellan's statement.