Premier Catherine Callbeck will leave tomorrow for the First Ministers Conference in Ottawa. Talks, focusing on job creation, the economy and social policy reform, will begin tomorrow evening and conclude later Friday afternoon.
Premier Callbeck will be discussing several key priorities on behalf of Prince Edward Island including labour market training, the potential for a new infrastructure program and renewal of the federation.
"I am attending this conference with the objective of working closely with the Prime Minister and the other premiers to ensure a bright and prosperous future for Islanders and all Canadians," says Premier Callbeck.
A theme dominating the overall conference is renewal of the federation. To reduce overlap and duplication, and to improve federal-provincial relations, First Ministers will discuss shifting a number of responsibilities to the provinces and increasing the federal role in a few areas.
"I feel this area holds great potential for the PEI government to provide better and more efficient services to Islanders," said Premier Callbeck. "For example, in the labour market area, where Islanders may now be experiencing a level of frustration in finding information, or accessing services, they will now find all they need at one location. This will be particularly helpful in helping Islanders get jobs and keep jobs."
Premier Callbeck indicated that while she saw potential to serve Islanders better through a decentralized approach, she intends to make sure that PEI's interests are protected in any transition. "I will make it clear at the conference that any transfer of responsibility to PEI must be accompanied by the resources to do the job," stated Premier Callbeck. "In cases where the federal government continues to play a role, I will emphasize that national services must acknowledge and meet the needs of Islanders."
The Premier is interested in addressing the May 30 offer from the federal government to the provinces to significantly increase involvement and control over labour market training, services and funding. Each province will be discussing the offer at the conference.
"Prince Edward Island is interested in working with Ottawa to further explore this offer. This follows closely in line with our movement towards greater self-sufficiency," says Premier Callbeck. "However that being said, the transition process is critically important. I want assurances that the federal government will provide the resources and funds to support this transition."
During the past week, the possibility of a renewed infrastructure program has emerged. The first round, which began in 1994, injected $6 billion into municipal and transportation infrastructure across the country. In PEI $36 million was invested in upgrading water and sewer systems, roads and community facilities.
"I feel the program brought significant benefits to PEI. The program created hundreds of jobs, and contributed to the rebuilding of our infrastructure. Much was accomplished but only one fifth of the total demand was met by the funds available. We support a renewed commitment to this program."
Each province will be delivering a report on their provincial economy during the conference. Prince Edward Island has enjoyed significant economic growth in 1994 and 1995 and the Bank of Montreal is predicting a 2.5 percent growth rate for PEI's economy in 1996 – the second highest in the country next to Alberta. Total international exports from PEI in 1995 increased by 24.4 percent compared to 1994. Value-added manufacturing exports to international markets increased by 25.7 percent. International manufacturing exports have grown by 86 percent over the past three years.
Callbeck says that her government's priorities remain economic development, expanding on the Island's existing industries and remaining fiscally responsible in order to ensure the delivery of quality programs in education and health.
The Premier will be available upon her return Monday, June 24, for comments.