This week’s meeting of the Council of the Federation offers an opportunity for Prince Edward Island to discuss pressing national issues, says Premier Robert Ghiz.
“I look forward to meeting with my provincial and territorial counterparts, because it allows me to place Island issues in a national context,” Premier Ghiz said.
The Premier leaves today for the annual meeting of the Council of the Federation. This year’s meeting will be chaired by Québec Premier Jean Charest, and takes place in historic Québec City.
During their meetings on July 16-18, provincial and territorial premiers will be discussing labour market, trade and climate change issues, all of which are important for Prince Edward Island. A closing news conference is scheduled for Friday, July 18.
This year’s meeting is taking place during celebrations marking the 400th anniversary of the founding of Québec City. During the meetings, premiers will also have an opportunity to express their support for the Canadian Francophonie. Premier Ghiz will co-chair a discussion on this topic with Premier Charest.
The Council of the Federation comprises all13 provincial and territorial premiers. The council enables premiers to work collaboratively to strengthen the Canadian federation by fostering a constructive relationship among the provinces, territories and the federal government.
While in Québec City, premiers will also meet with the leaders of the national Aboriginal organizations. Since meeting with the Aboriginal leaders last summer, Prince Edward Island has signed a Partnership Agreement with the Mi’kmaq of Prince Edward Island and the federal government.