For Immediate Release 

HALIFAX, NS (May 15, 2025) – The following statement was issued today by the Council of Atlantic Premiers: 

“For the past 25 years, the Council of Atlantic Premiers has provided an invaluable forum to promote regional collaboration, strengthen the region’s economy and ensure that Atlantic Canada is fully represented in advancing Canada’s future. 

“The Council was established on May 15, 2000, through an agreement signed by the Premiers of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. The Council has built on the foundation of the Council of Maritime Premiers, created in 1971 to advance the region’s interests within the Canadian federation. 

“Over the past quarter-century, the Council has brought together the region’s Premiers to build a stronger regional partnership, put forward joint positions on national issues and explore ways to collaborate to improve services for Atlantic Canadians. Through its actions, the Council helps ensure that Atlantic Canadians have a voice in the decisions that shape the future of our country. 

“We look forward to a continued partnership among our provinces that advances a growing and resilient Atlantic region within a prosperous and united Canada.” 

-30- 

Media contacts: 

Katie Beers, Office of the Premier, New Brunswick, 506-230-0206 

Catherine Klimek, Office of the Premier, Nova Scotia, 902-717-1020 

Dean Lund, Office of the Premier, Prince Edward Island, 902-368-4400 

Sonja Pomeroy, Office of the Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador, 709-729-4304 

Atlantic Canada’s Premiers will travel to Washington, D.C., next week to highlight the significant value of our important trade relationship in meetings with U.S. political and business leaders.

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt hosted a virtual meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers yesterday to discuss the upcoming mission and ways they can continue to work together to strengthen the region’s economy and mitigate the threat of an uncertain trade climate with the United States. She was joined by Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island and Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia.

Atlantic Premiers will be part of the Council of the Federation mission to Washington, D.C. on February 12, 2025. All 13 provincial and territorial leaders will be in the U.S. capital to directly demonstrate to American leaders the benefits of a stable North American economic partnership.

Premiers will emphasize the importance of Canada to the security of the United States, and the benefits that the continental economic partnership has brought to both countries. They will stress Atlantic Canada’s deep historical ties with New England and the northeastern U.S. states and the significant integration of their economies.

As the threat of U.S. tariffs is paused, but not removed, Premiers discussed ways they can collaborate to bolster the resilience of Atlantic Canada’s economy. Premiers will continue to urge Atlantic Canadians to support Canadian businesses and buy Canadian-made products whenever possible. They also pledged to continue working together to make Atlantic Canada a leader in the removal of barriers and irritants to trade and labour mobility within the Atlantic region and across Canada.

-30-

To view in PDF: CAP 39-A Communique – February 7, 2025

Atlantic Premiers met virtually today to discuss shared successes in 2024 while establishing a plan and priorities for further progress in 2025.
As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers (CAP), Premier Dr. Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador was joined by Premier Susan Holt of New Brunswick and Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island. Premiers extended their appreciation to Premier Furey, the outgoing Chair, for his leadership and collaborative approach in 2024. Premier Holt will assume the CAP Chair in January 2025.

Atlantic Premiers achieved significant progress on key issues this year, such as healthcare collaboration and immigration, and continue to remain strong advocates of affordability. In response to the housing crisis, Premiers implemented record levels of supports and investments. They also successfully urged the federal government to review the carbon tax on home heating fuel and to return undistributed federal carbon tax revenue to small and medium-sized businesses. Additionally, Regional Air Access remains a priority, and work is underway on the Atlantic Wildfire Centre, which will enhance the region’s resilience and preparedness for wildfire response. These efforts have made a tangible difference in the lives of Atlantic Canadians and lay the groundwork for further progress in the future.

Premiers emphasized the importance of Atlantic Canada’s relationship with the United States and reaffirmed their commitment to a Team Canada approach in collaborating with our longtime ally and partner. They also noted the long and productive history of collaboration between the Atlantic provinces and the New England states on many shared priorities, including through the collaborative New England Governors – Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG-ECP) forum. Newfoundland and Labrador, as Chair of the NEG-ECP, will host the group’s annual conference in 2025. New Brunswick will also host the annual Southeastern United States–Canadian Provinces (SEUS–CP) conference in June 2025.

Newfoundland and Labrador has called for an urgent meeting of NEG-ECP premiers and governors to safeguard the robust and interconnected relationship the New England-Eastern Canadian region shares. Looking forward, Atlantic Premiers will continue to collaborate to advance shared priorities, including renewable resource development, immigration and population growth, the transition to a greener economy, energy, health care, food security, affordability and direct engagement with our valued trading partners in the United States.

-30-

To view in PDF: CAP 38-C Communique December 9, 2024

Governors and Premiers pass resolutions to reconvene standing committees on energy and the environment

BOSTON — The New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG-ECP) met to discuss coordinated efforts on shared economic, energy and environmental priorities at the 45th annual NEG-ECP Conference held on September 9 and 10 in Boston, Massachusetts. Discussions built on last year’s conference in Québec City, the first in-person meeting of the NEG-ECP since 2018.

The clean energy transition was the primary topic of discussion, with a focus on achieving broad regional economic and reliability benefits, energy independence, and job growth. The leaders held two formal discussions on developing a regional offshore wind supply chain and strategies for hard-to-decarbonize sectors. Through two resolutions, the Governors and Premiers agreed to reconvene the Northeast International Committee on Energy (NICE) to pursue regional collaboration and planning on these and other energy issues, as well as direct the Committee on Environment to reconvene and consider further steps on ecological connectivity, climate adaptation and food security.  These two standing committees of the NEG-ECP have long served as vehicles for pursuing initiatives that the Governors and Premiers direct at the annual conference. The resolutions are available here: 45-1, 45-2.

“Last year’s conference was an important milestone in the long-standing collaboration between our regions, marking the 50th anniversary of these cross-border meetings. We were proud to welcome our colleagues to Massachusetts to spark the beginning of our next 50 years of cooperative work together,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. “We’re excited to continue our work together to achieve greater energy independence and affordability, create new union jobs and build up the climate workforce, and take proactive steps to address climate change.”

“As the easternmost province in Canada, advantageously located close to the European market as well as the United States, Newfoundland and Labrador has long recognized the value of working collaboratively towards shared goals,” said Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dr. Andrew Furey. “Our discussions at this year’s NEG-ECP further strengthen our commitment to the clean energy transition and our trade relationship. I look forward to hosting the conference next year.”

Governor Healey co-chaired the 45th NEG-ECP meeting with Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador. Other Governors and Premiers and their representatives participating in the meeting were: Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut; Governor Janet Mills of Maine; Governor Daniel McKee of Rhode Island; Governor Phil Scott of Vermont; Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island; Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie Martine Biron of Québec; Associate Deputy Minister of the Office of Priorities and Planning Dave MacGregor of Nova Scotia; and Executive Director of Department of Intergovernmental Affairs Serge Breau of New Brunswick.

On Monday, the Governors and Premiers visited the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where they experienced the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Bridge Simulator and toured the cutting-edge facility training the workforce for maritime fields, including the offshore wind industry. On Tuesday, the group spent the day at the Boston University Center for Data and Computing Science for a series of roundtables on offshore wind supply chain and addressing hard-to-decarbonize sectors. The Center is the school’s most sustainable and energy-efficient building to date and the largest building in Boston not reliant on fossil fuels, using closed-loop geothermal wells that provide heating and cooling, as well as electric appliances for cooking.

Quotes from Conference Participants:

Governor Ned Lamont, Connecticut:
“The northeast faces many challenges when it comes to energy affordability and reliability, and collaborating on these policies among our states and provinces is a way that we can work to diversify energy supplies, strengthen the clean energy supply chain, and grow the clean energy workforce. I appreciate Governor Healey for organizing this meeting and thank the New England governors and eastern Canadian premiers for their collaboration.”

Governor Janet Mills, Maine:
“Maine has a long and productive history of working closely with our neighboring Canadian provinces and fellow New England states on a variety of shared issues, from our economies to our environment. I am proud to continue that longstanding tradition of cross-border collaboration through this year’s NEG-ECP Conference. Through these regional partnerships, we will advance our shared vision of harnessing clean, renewable energy to enhance our energy independence, improve affordability, and create strong, good-paying jobs in rewarding careers – all of which will have the tremendous benefit of strengthening our economy and battling the climate crisis.”

Governor Phil Scott, Vermont:
“A strong relationship across our region is essential to the strength of our states and provinces – from the economy and energy to workforce and infrastructure – and these meetings are important to continuing to build on these connections. By sharing ideas and collaborating on shared priorities, we each bring back new opportunities and approaches to improving the lives of our residents, and our entire region.”

Governor Dan McKee, Rhode Island:
“Rhode Island is dedicated to collaborating with neighboring states and provinces to drive the clean energy transition forward, which is essential for our economic growth and environmental stewardship. By focusing on regional offshore wind initiatives and innovative strategies for hard-to-decarbonize sectors, we are not only enhancing energy independence but also creating valuable, good-paying job opportunities. A cleaner, greener tomorrow starts today, and I’m proud to partner with fellow New England governors and Canadian leaders to reaffirm our commitment to achieving that future.”

Premier Dennis King, Prince Edward Island:
“The connection between the New England states and Eastern Canada is one build on shared history, economic collaboration, cultural bonds, and working together as a region in times of need.  As a region, we will continue to strengthen this partnership, creating opportunities that benefit residents on both sides of the border.”

Martine Biron, Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, Quebec:
[English] “By participating in this important conference, Québec is strengthening its collaboration in New England and is delighted to be a partner in the transition to a green economy in North America. Collaboration between the region’s governments in developing renewable energies, decarbonizing the economy and combatting climate change is essential to achieving our common goals. The entire region can count on Québec and its diplomatic network as a reliable partner in making this necessary transition a success.”

[French] « En participant à cette importante conférence, le Québec renforce sa collaboration en Nouvelle-Angleterre et se réjouit d’être un partenaire de la transition vers l’économie verte en Amérique du Nord. La collaboration entre les gouvernements de la région en matière de développement des énergies renouvelables, de décarbonation de l’économie et de lutte contre les changements climatiques est essentielle pour atteindre nos objectifs communs. Toute la région peut compter sur le Québec et son réseau diplomatique comme partenaire fiable vers la réussite de cette nécessaire transition. »

Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, President, Massachusetts Maritime Academy:
“We are honored to host the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers as they continue their vital cross-border collaboration on energy and environmental initiatives. This gathering highlights the importance of regional cooperation, and it’s an incredible opportunity to showcase the Academy’s leadership in offshore wind, clean energy, and workforce development. Our commitment to these areas aligns perfectly with the resolutions passed today, and we are proud to support such forward-thinking action.”

Massachusetts AFL-CIO President Chrissy Lynch:
“Massachusetts has the strongest labor force ready to tackle the clean energy transition head-on. Cross-border partnerships are key to ensuring workers are at the center of driving this industry – trained, protected, and empowered. We’re not just meeting the challenge but setting the standard and ensuring our workers lead the way in building a sustainable future.”

Massachusetts Building Trades Unions President Frank Callahan:
“Labor is at the heart of the clean energy transition, and our skilled tradespeople are essential in building the infrastructure needed to reach Massachusetts’ goals. Union construction careers are pivotal in the effort, offering high-quality, well-trained professionals who are dedicated to excellence. Cross-border partnerships like this one are crucial, as they unite our expertise and resources, driving innovation and ensuring the climate goals are met together.”

About the ECP-NEG Conference

Since 1973, the six New England states and the five Eastern Canadian provinces have worked cooperatively to address their shared interests across the border. Through the annual conferences of governors and premiers and discussions of joint committees, the NEG-ECP encourages cooperation by developing networks and relationships, taking collective action, engaging in regional projects, undertaking research, and increasing public awareness of shared interests.

The 11-member jurisdictions of NEG-ECP are Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Québec.

###

To view PDF: NEG-ECP Press Release September 2024, Boston, MA EN
To view Resolution 45-1 PDF: 45-1
To view Resolution 45-2 PDF: 45-2

Atlantic Premiers met virtually today to discuss shared priorities and progress on collaborative work in areas of importance to Atlantic Canadians. This includes initiatives to improve affordability, housing, and health care, along with opportunities to address labour shortages and strengthen the region’s economy.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Dr. Andrew Furey was joined by Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island, and Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick.

Premiers reiterated their commitment to support Atlantic Canadians, and indeed all Canadians, as wildfire season intensifies, including those affected by the ongoing fires near Churchill Falls, Newfoundland and Labrador, who remain under evacuation order. Premiers also discussed forest management best practices as well as the establishment of a Regional Centre of Excellence, located in central Newfoundland and Labrador, for training in fire preparedness and response. These efforts seek to improve the region’s resilience and readiness for present and future challenges by strengthening communities’ ability to manage forests sustainably and respond effectively to wildfires.  Premiers discussed pilots underway to improve cell service during emergency situations.  They urge the federal government to expand this initiative to all Atlantic Canada.

Affordability and Housing

Atlantic provinces are all making unprecedented investments to address the pressing issue of affordability, including the availability and rising costs of housing and shelter. Premiers shared their experiences and best practices in launching a variety of initiatives, including low-interest loans for the development of affordable rental properties, assistance for first-time homeowners, and in-law suites. Premiers recognize that access to housing remains a challenge and is crucial to growing vibrant communities.

Premiers underlined their commitment to continue their work together and with key partners to expand housing supply and access to affordable housing options as rapidly and responsibly as possible. This includes continuing to work with the federal government to ensure that housing investments are maximized for Atlantic Canadians and done in a manner that is sustainable for the future.

Health Care Collaboration

Through the Atlantic Health Accord, the Atlantic Provinces work together to improve patient-centered healthcare access, system efficiency, and patient outcomes.

Premiers have joined forces to help build a stable and sustainable healthcare workforce in Atlantic Canada. Committed to sharing resources and expertise, Atlantic Premiers, through the Atlantic Working Group on International Recruitment, are collaborating to help alleviate healthcare worker shortages and improve healthcare access in underserved areas.

Labour Market and Productivity

All provinces and territories are feeling the impacts of labour shortages, which are slowing economic growth, productivity, and innovation. In Atlantic Canada, these shortages are especially acute in the health care, construction, and service sectors. Federal Budget 2024 brought an unexpected reduction of $625 million in workforce development programs that help people find and maintain jobs in sectors facing critical labour shortages such as construction, early learning childcare, and healthcare. These Labour Market Transfer Agreements (LMTAs) support persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, women and newcomers, helping them to get the training and supports necessary to secure meaningful work, while also assisting employers to meet their labour demands.

With this cut, LMTA funding will revert to pre-2017 levels at a time when inflationary costs continue to have profound impacts on citizens. Provinces and territories were not notified of this cut prior to the release of the Budget on April 16, 2024. Premiers noted the negative impact the funding cut will have on the 120,000 individuals and 8,500 employers and organizations that have benefitted annually from these programs throughout Atlantic Canada. Premiers urged the federal government to immediately reverse these cuts to Labour Market Transfer Agreements.

Infrastructure, Economic Growth and Competitiveness

Atlantic Premiers discussed the critical infrastructure needed to power economic development in the region, including infrastructure that supports resilient and reliable supply chains, transportation and communications networks, energy distribution, and community development. Premiers noted the federal government has yet to announce an adequate successor to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which is now closed. Without dedicated support for the full range of infrastructure needs and the program flexibility to address the region’s unique requirements, Atlantic Canada’s economic growth and community development will be hampered.

Investing in well-functioning trade corridors improves the flow of people and goods in Atlantic Canada and helps Atlantic Canadians compete in key global markets, trade more efficiently with international partners, and keeps the region’s supply chains competitive and resilient. As a business and leisure destination, Atlantic Canada needs a strong and reliable domestic and international air service network to support economic growth, tourism and competitiveness. Atlantic Premiers are working together to identify gaps and ways to improve air linkages within the region.

The Chignecto Isthmus, which joins New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, contains the only road, rail, and telecommunications connection between the two provinces, and between Nova Scotia and the rest of Canada. Approximately $35 billion in goods and services moves through the isthmus every year. Collaboration with and support from the federal government is vital to protect this critical economic trade link, which faces increasing threats from more frequent and severe weather events.

-30-

To view in PDF: CAP 38-B Communique – June 25, 2024 EN

The Council of Atlantic Premiers recently wrote to the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, regarding the billions of carbon tax rebates overdue to Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Atlantic Premiers are concerned about the federal government’s approach to managing carbon tax rebates for businesses in the region, recognizing the unique challenges faced by SMEs operating in the Atlantic provinces. To find a resolution that supports impacted businesses, Premiers urged the Ministers to take immediate action to both ensure the prompt return of the overdue carbon tax revenues to businesses in the Atlantic provinces and to establish a transparent and efficient mechanism for annual distribution going forward.

-30-

To view the Letter to Ministers Freeland and Valdez: Letter to Ministers Freeland and Valdez

For media inquiries, please contact:

Adam Ross, Office of the Premier, Prince Edward Island, 902-368-4400

Catherine Klimek, Office of the Premier, Nova Scotia, 902-717-1020

Nicolle Carlin, Office of the Premier, New Brunswick, 506-453-7494

Meghan McCabe, Office of the Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador, 709-729-3960

The Council of Atlantic Premiers recently wrote Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to share the priorities of Atlantic Canadians and request the federal government’s intended actions regarding these priorities. 

The letter focuses on the ongoing housing crisis, lack of details on federal infrastructure and labour market funding, as well as the proposed international student cap and national pharmacare program. 

Premiers urged the Prime Minister to consider the issues raised and encouraged the federal government to collaborate by sharing information to maximize the positive impact of federal initiatives on the lives of Atlantic Canadians.  

-30-

To view the Letter to Prime Minister Trudeau: CAP release – Letter to PM re Priorities of Atlantic Canadians – March 27, 2024

On February 2, 2024, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) presented the Council of Atlantic Premiers with the Golden Scissors Award to recognize the Atlantic Physician Registry. The prestigious Golden Scissors Award recognizes politicians, public servants, and other Canadians who have shown leadership in cutting red tape to produce meaningful results.

The Atlantic Physician Registry removes interprovincial barriers to practicing medicine in the region, allowing Atlantic physicians to practice in any Atlantic province. The development of this registry delivers on a commitment made by Atlantic Premiers to support efforts to improve health care services for Atlantic Canadians. Since its launch on May 1, 2023, over 270 physicians have joined the Atlantic Physician Registry. Premiers extend their gratitude to the Atlantic Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons for their pivotal role in this work.

Premier Furey, as CAP Chair, accepted the award on behalf of the Council.

-30-

To view PDF: CAP Communique Golden Scissors Award EN 020224

To view the CFIB’s press release: https://www.cfib-fcei.ca/en/golden-scissors-award

On January 12, 2024, the Council of Atlantic Premiers wrote to the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport for the Government of Canada, regarding proposed changes to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations and the impact they may have on air connectivity in Atlantic Canada.

While Atlantic Premiers recognize the importance of respecting passenger rights, Premiers are concerned the proposed regulatory changes could mean even further increased costs for Atlantic residents as well as airlines becoming hesitant to continue, resume or provide service to the region, ultimately limiting air accessibility.

Premiers requested that the process for adopting these new regulations be reconsidered to allow for further consultation.

-30-

To view PDF: CAP Communique to M Rodriguez EN

To view the Letter to Minister Rodriguez: CAP Correspondence to Hon Pablo Rodriguez – regarding proposed changes to Air Passenger Protection Regulations EN

Atlantic Premiers met virtually to discuss priorities for Atlantic Canadians, including health care and housing, and to reflect on regional successes this year while plotting a course for continued progress in 2024.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island was joined by Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick, Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia, and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premiers discussed immigration as key to meeting the region’s growing labour demands and bolstering economic growth, noting that newcomers make important contributions to Atlantic Canada’s communities. Atlantic provinces are leading the way in efforts to address labour mobility, streamline foreign credential recognition, and address labour shortages, including through legislative changes, launching the Atlantic Physician Registry, and advancing collaborative work on international recruitment of health care professionals. While improving internal labour mobility can support economic growth, it will not increase the total labour supply. Collaboration with the federal government on targeted immigration programming combined with improved foreign credential recognition is needed to assist in relieving current labour shortages.

Premiers were disappointed by the reduction in Atlantic Immigration Program levels and lack of increase to Provincial Nominee Program levels in the federal government’s 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan.  Atlantic provinces are best positioned to determine immigration needs based on local labour market demands and domestic capacity, and must have the ability to meaningfully collaborate with the federal government on immigration levels planning given the significant impact changes to these levels can have on the region. Premiers also recognize the need to balance welcoming newcomers with the ability to meet demand for services and amenities, such as housing, health care, and education.

On November 21, the federal government released their Fall Economic Statement, which had a significant focus on housing. Engagement with the Atlantic provinces will be required as federal programs are developed to align provincial and federal actions to address the housing crisis. To ensure that federal funding and programming can deliver the maximum benefit to Atlantic Canadians, program and funding parameters must recognize the opportunities and challenges in the Atlantic region. Atlantic provinces are working with the federal government to explore new approaches to increase the housing supply, especially those that take full advantage of regional innovations in construction.

Premiers noted their concern that no details on the next iteration of federal infrastructure funding were included in the Fall Economic Statement. Adequate and predictable funding is essential to multi-year provincial infrastructure planning. Atlantic Premiers call on the federal government to share details on future infrastructure funding and to maintain a base plus per capita allocation approach to recognize the unique needs of small and rural jurisdictions. They also reiterated the Council of the Federation request for a First Ministers Meeting on strategic infrastructure and competitiveness.

Premiers are committed to improving the delivery of health care services for Atlantic Canadians and are working together under the Atlantic Health Accord to address regional health care challenges. Premiers agreed to continue their collaborative efforts in 2024, including working together to ensure that Atlantic Canadians can access critical specialized services.

Interprovincial ferry services in Atlantic Canada are a key enabler of provincial and national economies, and play a vital role in contributing to the health, social and economic well-being of Atlantic Canadians by supporting domestic and international trade, tourism, and family connections. Premiers discussed the integral role of the federal government in ensuring the dependability of ferry service in the region, and the importance of a meaningful partnership with the federal government for these critical transportation links. Premiers urged the federal government to work closely with Atlantic Canada to ensure necessary federal plans are in place, so these crossings are affordable, reliable, and available into the future.

Premiers extended their appreciation to Premier King, the outgoing Chair, for his leadership and collaborative approach throughout 2023. In 2023, the Council of Atlantic Premiers successfully lobbied for the federal government to recognize the unique heating challenges faced in the region, leading to home heating oil being exempt from the federal carbon tax for three years, and enhanced supports for Atlantic Canadians who are transitioning to heat pumps. They also launched the Atlantic Physician Registry to improve physician mobility within the region, with 226 physicians joining the Registry since May.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was noted that Premier Furey will assume the CAP Chair in January 2024.

-30-

To view PDF: CAP 37-D Communique- December 11, 2023 EN