Premier to Attend Meeting of National Indigenous Leaders and First Ministers

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Premier Stephen McNeil will participate in meetings with the Prime Minister, provincial and territorial premiers, and national Indigenous leaders on Tuesday, Oct. 3 in Ottawa.

“Our relationships with the federal government and other provinces and territories are highly important, particularly in light of the ongoing North American Free Trade Agreement negotiations and other pan-Canadian issues,” said Premier McNeil.

“I look forward to representing Nova Scotia in these discussions with my colleagues.”

Topics of discussion will include:
— proposed federal tax changes
— cannabis legalization
— Canada-U.S. relations
— economic growth and job creation

“The proposed federal tax changes have generated a lot of discussion and raised many questions in Nova Scotia and across the country,” said Premier McNeil.

“I was grateful to have the chance to speak with federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau last month about Nova Scotians’ concerns. This meeting will be a good opportunity to hear an update on consultations and to have further discussion with the Prime Minister and First Ministers.”

The meeting with Indigenous leaders will focus on economic development in Indigenous communities.

“Improving overall economic prosperity is a priority, and the contribution of Indigenous communities is an important part of inclusive economic growth, said Premier McNeil.

Since the last First Ministers’ Meeting on Dec. 9, 2016, federal, provincial, and territorial governments have been implementing the pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

Last week, amendments to the provincial Environment Act that will allow Nova Scotia to develop a cap and trade program were tabled in the legislature. This program will help Nova Scotia fulfill its commitments under the pan-Canadian framework, further reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Province, and ensure that Nova Scotia remains a national leader in fighting climate change.

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Source: Release