44th Annual Premiers’ Conference

NEWS RELEASE – PREMIER BINNS RELEASES AGENDA FOR THE 44TH ANNUAL PREMIERS’ CONFERENCE

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- The Honourable Pat Binns, Premier of Prince Edward Island and Chair of the 44th Annual Premiers' Conference, made public the agenda that will be considered by Canada's Premiers when they convene in Charlottetown July 9th to the 11th.

The theme of the 44th Annual Premiers' Conference is: Toward a New Era of Cooperation.

Premier Binns advised that the agenda was developed and approved by all Premiers and he very much looks forward to productive and earnest discussion.

Binns indicated that Canada's Premiers have consistently demonstrated their ability to achieve positive results for Canadians by working together.

"As Premiers we have an important responsibility to take action on issues that are priorities for our citizens," said Premier Binns. "There is a tremendous desire among Premiers to work collaboratively to advance the quality of life of Canadians."

Prince Edward Island is renowned the world over for its fine hospitality and many amenities attractive to visitors. Premier Binns predicted that the 44th Annual Premiers' Conference would not only demonstrate unity and consensus among Canada's Premiers, but also further showcase Prince Edward Island as an ideal venue for important events in Canada.

AGENDA -- TOWARD A NEW ERA OF COOPERATION

July 10, 2003

Session One

1. Revitalizing Federal-Provincial-Territorial Relations: Dialogue for Change

Session Two

2. Jobs and the Economy

3. Responding to Emergencies: SARS and BSE

4. Canada-United States Relations

July 11, 2003

Session Three

5. Cooperation to Improve Programs and Services for our Citizens

a) Health

b) Fiscal Imbalance

6. Other Issues

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