Atlantic Premiers gathered in Brudenell today to discuss priorities and emerging issues within our region, says Premier Robert Ghiz.
Premier Ghiz was joined by Premier Darrell Dexter of Nova Scotia, Premier David Alward of New Brunswick and Premier Kathy Dunderdale of Newfoundland and Labrador.
“We, as Atlantic Provinces, see great value in working together to provide efficient and effective programs and services to our residents,” said Premier Ghiz. “In response to current economic conditions and the resulting pressure placed upon the labour force, I am pleased to announce the establishment of the Atlantic Labour Force Partnership.
The Atlantic Labour Force Partnership will assist provinces in preparing for changing skill requirements and the anticipated demand associated with capital projects in the mining, electricity, and shipbuilding sectors. Premiers will direct a steering committee to develop strategies that enhance the region’s labour force through improved skills development and utilization.
Topics discussed throughout this week’s meeting included regional co-operation opportunities, Atlantic priorities, as well as emerging issues across Atlantic Canada.
Atlantic Premiers expressed concern about the federal government’s recently announced changes to Employment Insurance and the renewal of federal transfers including Equalization, as well as recent reductions in federal services across the Atlantic region. Premiers feel consultation was lacking in both instances and are committed to seeking further clarity at next month’s Council of the Federation meeting on these significant issues.
Premiers also committed to developing further joint procurement opportunities across the Atlantic region.
“Joint procurement is a valuable tool that allows provinces to provide the same level of programs and services while reducing costs to taxpayers,” said Premier Ghiz. “School buses are an excellent example of the positive results achieved through joint procurement. In 2012, this arrangement will result in $6 million in savings across our region.”
Premier Ghiz looks forward to the upcoming Council of the Federation meeting hosted by Premier Darrell Dexter in Halifax next month.
For further information about the Council of Atlantic Premiers, visit www.cap-cpma.ca.