Premier Pat Binns today expressed the appreciation of government to the members of the Round Table on Land Use and outlined government plans to respond to the report.
"First, I want to express our appreciation to the members of the Round Table for their work. They have focused attention on some specific issues that must be addressed," stated the Premier. "Government will not be responding in a direct way to the various recommendations until everyone has had time to review the report and discuss it. This is a major public issue that will determine our future direction as an agricultural province."
Premier Binns says he has asked the Round Table to continue to function as a group specifically to foster discussion on the report and the recommendations contained in the report. "I know a number of groups and organizations will want to talk with the members about the content of the report, and I have asked the Round Table to remain in place to address that need."
In an effort to support Premier Binns says he has asked the Round Table to meet in one year's time to review progress on addressing the items contained in the report.
Premier Binns says the report has also been forwarded to the Select Standing Committee on Agriculture with the request it meet, review the report and set priorities for discussion in the fall session of the Provincial Legislature.
The Premier has also written to all Member of the Legislature asking for their involvement in developing a legislative response to the report. "I want to see the full Legislative Assembly discuss the report in an open manner. I have asked the Legislative committee to provide leadership on the issues, and I have asked all members to join in a discussion about the priorities with the view to giving specific direction for the preparation of legislation that will be implemented in 1998."
Premier Binns says he has asked the Minister of Fisheries and Environment to follow up the discussion in the Legislature with a formal response to the Round Table report.