Atlantic Premiers met virtually to continue their discussion on health care priorities and sustainable regional growth.

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

Premiers discussed the ongoing need for meaningful dialogue with the federal government about long-term, sustainable health care funding that will greatly assist provinces in providing quality and timely health care to all Atlantic Canadians. The Atlantic provinces are making significant investments to innovate and improve health services and a strong federal funding partnership would support and accelerate those efforts. Premiers continue to call for an increase in the Canada Health Transfer so that the federal share of provincial and territorial health care costs rises to 35%. Premiers echoed the call from the Council of the Federation, Canada’s Premiers, to Prime Minister Trudeau for a First Ministers Meeting focused on the Canada Health Transfer.

Health care systems are struggling across the country to meet the evolving needs of Canadians, provide timely services, address workforce shortages and support health care professionals in their workplaces. Through the Atlantic Health Accord and in collaboration with the four Atlantic Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons, Premiers are working towards an Atlantic system to allow physicians to move and practice throughout the region.

Widespread labour shortages are an issue facing all our communities and economies. Premiers welcomed federal announcements to increase immigration targets. Atlantic Canada is a prime destination of international and interprovincial migration. Premiers are seeking increased flexibility in immigration programming and for the federal government to improve processing times.

Premiers discussed the steps their provinces are taking to help Atlantic Canadians with the challenges they face due to the rising cost of living. They agreed that ensuring assistance gets to those most in need remains a priority for their governments.  The effects of federal carbon pricing on consumers in Atlantic Canada remains a concern given the reliance on home heating oil in the region.

Premiers discussed the importance of internal trade in advancing regional priorities. They committed to doing more to reduce internal trade barriers in key sectors.

Premiers noted that Atlantic Canada is home to Canada’s growing clean economy, and discussed clean generation options for the region including hydro, wind, small modular reactors and hydrogen.  They agreed that they want the region to benefit from the opportunity that clean energy can deliver for jobs and environmental sustainability and will continue to make investments and modernize regulations to encourage development.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was noted that Premier King of Prince Edward Island will assume the Chair of the Council of the Atlantic Premiers in 2023. Premiers extended their appreciation to outgoing Chair, Premier Houston, for his leadership and service throughout 2022.

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To view in PDF:CAP Communique- Healthcare and Sustainable Regional Growth-December 19, 2022

Dear Minister Guilbeault,

I am writing to you in my role as Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers which represents Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. Our four governments work closely to coordinate action on shared priorities for the region, including action on climate change.

As you are aware, we are all in discussions with you and your officials respecting the details of carbon pricing plans required under the federal carbon pricing benchmark. We are deeply concerned about the affordability impacts of carbon pricing on households in our region, especially as almost 40 per cent of Atlantic Canadians experience energy poverty- by far the highest rate in the country. The increase to the costs of energy under the carbon price will amplify the inflationary pressures currently being felt in Atlantic Canada and we believe that any discussion on carbon pricing should prioritize mitigating these impacts. We would like to request a meeting with you and your officials to identify practical solutions to this issue, especially as they relate to home heating fuels, before our provinces formally submit our plans.

As such, we are requesting a short-term extension for the provincial carbon pricing plan submissions. This would allow us to resolve any remaining issues, engage in meaningful conversations on solutions for heating fuels and to discuss options for the federal government to support energy affordability in the region.

We would appreciate your reply to our request by noon on September 2 and look forward to discussing these issues with you.

Sincerely,

Honourable Tim Houston

Premier of Nova Scotia

Chair, Council of Atlantic Premiers

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To view letter in PDF: Letter to the Honourable Steven Guilbeault on Carbon Pricing in Atlantic Canada-Sept 1 2022-eng

Atlantic Premiers met today to continue their collaborative efforts to demonstrate leadership in the pursuit of emissions reductions, clean power generation and transmission and future-oriented energy development.

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey welcomed Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs and Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King to Stephenville where they attended the signing of the Joint Declaration of Intent between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Government of Canada on Establishing a Germany-Canada Hydrogen Alliance.

The Premiers welcomed the signing of the declaration as important to accelerating the development of renewable energy and clean fuel industries in Atlantic Canada, as well as the region’s transition toward net-zero carbon emissions.

The Atlantic provinces are uniquely placed to become a hub for export to international markets in traditional and sustainable energy sectors. By working together, the provinces continue to show leadership in reducing emissions and identifying clean power generation and transmission opportunities.

Premiers discussed ways in which regional proponents and governments can work together to facilitate the establishment of a green hydrogen industry in the region during a roundtable discussion with industry leaders and federal ministers.

Atlantic Canada can play a central role in supporting our nation and allies around the world with their energy needs and energy security. Atlantic Canada’s natural resources, skilled and dedicated workforce, and strong values make the region a highly desirable destination for investment in a world that is transitioning toward a more sustainable economy.

Premiers emphasized the opportunity to advance strategically important economic development and decarbonization objectives that all provinces in the region share, to the benefit of all their residents.

Premiers remain willing partners with the federal government on energy planning and security and look forward to engaging with partners on targets and timelines on the initiatives and progress of the Canada-Germany Hydrogen Alliance.

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To view in PDF: CAP Communique- Atlantic Premiers Discuss Regional Cooperation on Renewable Energy- August 23 2022-EN

To view statement: Atlantic Premiers on the Joint Declaration of Intent between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Government of Canada on Establishing a Germany-Canada Hydrogen Alliance- August 23, 2022-EN

Atlantic Premiers met today to continue working together to better manage health care, address the impact of inflation on the region’s economy and identify opportunities to enhance energy security and self-sufficiency to meet the region’s long-term needs.

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

Premiers acknowledged British Columbia Premier Horgan’s contribution as Chair of the Council of the Federation and wished him well on his recently announced retirement.

Premiers expressed solidarity with Ukraine and its people, who continue to suffer the effects of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of their country. All four Atlantic provinces welcomed Ukrainian refugees, and look forward to the positive contribution they will make to the region’s economy and social fabric.

Premiers noted a recent report by the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council shows the strength of the region’s economy, though labour shortages and affordability present significant challenges to residents and businesses. Premiers discussed ongoing supply chain interruptions due to global events, the impacts of climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These events are creating challenges for Atlantic Canadians in accessing affordable food and housing, as well as the impact of rising fuel costs. While global issues are contributing to these pressures, Premiers remain committed to addressing affordability, increasing the housing supply and improving food security for the region.

Premiers discussed moving forward with actions under the Atlantic Health Care Accord including engagement of Atlantic colleges responsible for physician licensing to work urgently to address the barriers facing the recruitment and retention of international health care workers, and to allow physicians to move seamlessly within the region.

Premiers also renewed their commitment to action through the Council of the Federation, where Canadian Premiers are calling for a revitalized health funding partnership with the federal government. Premiers continue to call on the federal government to increase their share of health funding from 22% to 35% through an increase in the Canada Health Transfer. This increased funding would have a significant impact on the ability of provinces to provide quality health care services and respond to the strain on health care systems.

Immigration and the retention of international students who choose to come to Atlantic Canada to further their education are critical to the continued growth of the region. Atlantic Premiers discussed Atlantic immigration policy priorities and urged the federal government to work with them to enhance the region’s capacity to develop, deploy and retain a skilled workforce. Premiers are committed to work with the federal government to address labour market needs and address barriers to immigration that will strengthen Atlantic Canada’s position as a destination of choice for immigrants.

The global situation has brought attention on Canada’s dependence on imports to meet our energy needs.  The Atlantic provinces are uniquely placed to become a hub for export to international markets in traditional and sustainable energy sectors. Atlantic provinces will continue to work together to demonstrate leadership in the pursuit of emission reductions, clean power generation and transmission, and future-oriented energy development. In particular, Premiers discussed potential renewable energy opportunities, including hydrogen development and use, as well as wind, solar and tidal power, and small modular nuclear reactors. Atlantic Premiers acknowledged the Atlantic Loop will benefit the region but concerns regarding the costs and timelines were expressed. The loop will not fully satisfy the region’s future energy needs, which will require multiple energy sources. Energy planning will be required to improve affordability and while balancing environmental goals. The Atlantic provinces remain four willing partners; they call for further clarity and commitment from the federal government to support these major investments and to meet federal climate targets and timelines. Premiers highlighted the urgency for this clarity and the importance of maintaining reasonable and fair electricity rates.

Continued collaboration with the federal government is key to achieving national and local emissions targets, as well as working towards future sustainable development goals. Premiers look forward to upcoming Atlantic Growth Strategy discussions with federal ministers on July 24-25, 2022, in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. The Atlantic Immigration Program and the Clean Power Road Map for Atlantic Canada and Atlantic Loop initiative are examples of collaboration under the Strategy. Premiers look forward to renewing this partnership in areas such as immigration and workforce development, health innovation, infrastructure, climate change and clean growth, and trade and investment.

Premiers noted the role aquaculture plays in Atlantic Canada, and across Canada, in creating sustainable economic opportunities for many rural, coastal, and Indigenous communities. The ongoing changes to the federal approach to aquaculture in British Columbia were also discussed. While the federal government has responsibility in managing Canada’s fisheries, the aquaculture sector is well managed under provincial regulation in this region. Premiers are wholeheartedly committed to maintaining the existing system for licensing and overseeing aquaculture operations in Atlantic Canada.

Premiers announced the Atlantic Vision Conference, to be hosted by Premier King in partnership with the Public Policy Forum on October 13 and 14, 2022, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The 2022 Atlantic Vision Conference marks the 25th anniversary of the 1997 conference of the same name. It will provide an opportunity for leaders from various sectors to discuss how to shape the Atlantic economy, society, and environment to be more sustainable, inclusive, equitable, and diverse over the next 25 years.

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To view in PDF:CAP Communique- Rising Costs of Living, Healthcare and Atlantic Priorities- June 29, 2022- EN

Atlantic Premiers met to discuss regional approaches to health care, economic recovery, cost of living, immigration and energy security.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia welcomed Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador for their first in-person meeting since January 2020.

Premiers also met with Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities and Sean Fraser, federal Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

Premiers condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and expressed solidarity with Ukrainian people. The international crisis precipitated by Russia’s war in Ukraine has brought into focus the need to strengthen Canada’s energy security and enhance self-sufficiency.

Premiers urged the federal government to work with them to improve the region’s energy security through the development of Canadian energy sources. They called on the federal government to provide financial support for the Atlantic Loop project to assist in the transition off coal by 2030. They invited federal ministers to work with them to further diversify the region’s energy supply through the development of clean and renewable power from sources such as wind, solar and tidal power and small modular nuclear reactors.

Premiers expressed concerns with expected supply chain issues in relation to the Canadian Pacific rail strike. Given world circumstances and current supply chain issues, Premiers urged the federal government to address the issue immediately.

Atlantic Premiers expressed optimism about the region’s ability to transition to a new phase of living with COVID-19. They look forward to welcoming visitors to the region and discussed ways to further promote economic recovery and growth.

Premiers recognize the mental and physical toll of the pandemic on residents and continue to express their appreciation of frontline and essential workers who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. They expressed their gratitude to those who followed public health measures throughout the past two years and urge those who have not already done so to book appointments for vaccines and boosters.

Busing is an important part of the transportation network for many Atlantic Canadians and the pandemic has highlighted the importance of accessible and affordable service. Premiers agreed to explore opportunities for regional solutions in busing.

Sustainable and quality health care continues to be a top priority for Atlantic Canadians. Premiers discussed progress on the Atlantic Health Care – “Accord of Guiding Principles” signed in September 2021. The Atlantic Provinces are working collaboratively to advance key health priorities under this Accord.

Premiers noted the recent vote in the United States Senate, approving a bill for permanent Daylight Saving Time in the US. Atlantic Premiers will work with other Premiers and the federal government to explore options for consistency should the Senate bill become law.

Premiers also discussed areas of shared priorities for federal partnership through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which launched the Clean Power Road Map for Atlantic Canada and the successful Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. Premiers look forward to further developing partnerships with the federal government in areas such as immigration, labour market and workforce development, flexible and responsive infrastructure funding, the ocean economy, and clean energy.

Premiers will meet in June for their next meeting.

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To view in PDF:  CAP Communique – Regional Priorities – March 21, 2022 EN

Atlantic Premiers met today to discuss regional impacts of the Omicron variant and priorities for economic recovery.

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

Premiers invited the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities to provide an update on progress to advance work on the Atlantic Clean Energy Loop. Premiers reiterated the importance of all provinces actively participating in the development of the Atlantic Loop, which would connect existing and new clean power supplies across the region. Premiers agreed that the Atlantic Loop is key to the region achieving a clean power future and an economy that thrives in a low-carbon world to the benefit of all Atlantic Canadians.

Premiers reiterated their commitment to immigration and applauded the federal government’s decision to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program permanent. Premiers noted their desire to continue working with the federal government to develop innovative solutions to immigration and work force challenges facing the region, including exploring ways to broaden access to federal and provincial student job programs for international students.

Premiers recognize that the widespread impact of the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus means that provinces must continue to adapt to ensure that the health care systems can continue to provide important services to Atlantic Canadians.

Premiers understand the mental and physical toll the pandemic continues to have on Atlantic Canadians and are grateful for their compliance with public health measures. They expressed appreciation for front-line and essential workers who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. Premiers continue to urge eligible residents to book appointments for boosters and first and second doses, noting vaccines are available throughout the region for those aged five and up.

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To view PDF:CAP Communique- Covid Response and Recovery Regional Priorites January 25

Atlantic Premiers today urged all Atlantic Canadians to exercise caution during the holiday season to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus across the region.

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

Premiers were joined by their Ministers of Health and senior Public Health officials: Minister Dorothy Shephard and Dr. Jennifer Russell of New Brunswick, Minister Michelle Thompson and Dr. Robert Strang of Nova Scotia, Minister Ernie Hudson and Dr. Heather Morrison of Prince Edward lsland and Minister John Haggie and Dr. Janice Fitzgerald of Newfoundland and Labrador. They discussed the recent surge in COVID-19 infections, driven by the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Premiers stressed the importance of individuals’ actions in limiting the spread of the virus. They urged all Atlantic Canadians to follow Public Health guidance and advice to protect themselves, their families and communities.

Premiers agreed that Atlantic Canadians should limit holiday gatherings to a small and consistent circle of friends and family members. This will help limit the spread of the virus and support timely tracing of contacts when infections are reported. Avoiding large gatherings, wearing a well-fitting mask in public places, maintaining two metres of physical distance in public settings and seeking testing when symptoms emerge will also help reduce the spread of infection.

Testing is an important aspect of the COVID-19 response in all Atlantic provinces. Premiers urged Atlantic Canadians to follow the testing guidance of local Public Health authorities, whether that be getting tested at the first sign of symptoms or making use of rapid tests as appropriate. Early detection of infections will help slow the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable Atlantic Canadians.

Premiers also stressed the importance of becoming fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination remains the most effective protection available against severe illness, hospitalization and death due to COVID-19.  They urged parents to ensure their children are vaccinated and that Atlantic Canadians eligible for a booster dose receive it as soon as possible.

The goal of taking these actions, and following local Public Health restrictions, is to reduce the threat of the region’s hospitals becoming overwhelmed by seriously ill COVID-19 patients. Premiers expressed their appreciation for the efforts of front-line health care workers and first responders, who have worked tirelessly to protect the health of Atlantic Canadians since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic almost two years ago. Premiers will continue to work together to maintain viable health care services while addressing the threat of the ongoing pandemic.

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To view the PDF:CAP Communique-December 20

Atlantic Premiers have endorsed a regional accord that will enhance collaboration in delivering health care services to Atlantic Canadians.

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

The Accord of Guiding Principles states that the Atlantic Provinces will collaborate on the recruitment and retention of health professionals and create a sustainable work environment for the health care sector. Provinces will work together to develop and maintain specialized care services for the region, limiting duplication while ensuring local needs are met. Provinces will also collaborate on the introduction of new technology and learning to improve health care delivery.

Atlantic Premiers also discussed key priorities for regional alignment to improve health care services. Premiers directed their Ministers of Health to develop priority actions based on the Accord.

Premiers reaffirmed their commitment to work together to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus within the region. They thanked the region’s health care workers for their efforts in controlling the virus and continue to urge all Atlantic Canadians to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and follow Public Health guidance and advice.

Premiers discussed the current suspension of PEI potato exports to the United States. While the restrictions are limited to Prince Edward Island, the economic and social impacts of this decision are not. The exportation of safe, high-quality potatoes from Prince Edward Island supports jobs in various sectors across the region. When one Atlantic Canadian province is impacted, the entire region feels the effects.

The Atlantic provinces and the federal government have worked together to support and promote increased international trade and access to new export markets. Trade decisions that go against prevailing science and historical protocols hurt our industries, damage our reputation and set undesirable precedents. Atlantic Premiers are united in their desire to see a swift resolution to this trade disruption.

Premiers reiterated this message to the Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, in a conversation focused on developing the region’s energy potential and other shared priorities for Atlantic Canada. Premiers strongly urged the Minister to partner with them to support a shared vision for the development and transmission of reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to meet the region’s present and future needs, which will also contribute towards national climate change goals.

Premiers thanked Premier Higgs for his leadership as chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers over the past year. Premier Houston of Nova Scotia will assume role of chair on January 1, 2022.

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To view the PDF: CAP Communique- December 10 2021

To view the Health Accord in PDF: Health Care Accord-December 10

Atlantic Premiers met today to renew their commitment to improving health care, addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, and promoting a robust recovery for the region’s economy.

Premier Blaine Higgs chaired the virtual meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, with Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island, Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premiers recognize the continuing impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Atlantic Canada, but also the positive collaboration among provinces. Premiers will continue to work together to protect residents, limit the spread of the virus and safely stimulate economic growth as we emerge from this pandemic. Premiers urged every eligible Atlantic Canadian to become fully vaccinated against the virus as the most effective means of controlling the spread of COVID-19.

Premiers thanked the region’s doctors, nurses, and other health professionals for their tireless efforts in addressing the crisis and pledged to continue to base decisions on medical science and expert public health advice and guidance.

Improving Health Care

Premiers agree that urgent action is required to address the growing crisis in health care services for Atlantic Canadians. The region faces unique challenges in delivering health care – an aging population, dispersed and rural communities, and higher-than-average incidence of chronic illness – which must be recognized and addressed.

Premiers agreed in principle to develop an accord setting out guiding principles to enhance collaboration on improving health care services to Atlantic Canadians. They agreed to explore innovative ways to recruit and retain doctors, nurses and specialized health care professionals, improving mobility for workers within the region and accelerating the process for certifying foreign-trained workers.

Premiers affirmed the value of existing specialized care centres across the region and will work together to limit duplication of these specialized services. They agreed to explore innovative means to deliver high-quality specialized health care to Atlantic Canadians, such as virtual care and specialized training.

Premiers will identify key priorities for regional alignment to improve health care service for discussion at their next meeting.

Premiers noted the significant challenges in delivering mental health care services in Atlantic Canada. Provinces need the flexible funding arrangements to address their unique health care needs. For this reason, they urged the federal government to enhance funding to provinces and territories through the Canada Health Transfer, to raise the federal government’s share to 35 per cent of all health costs, along with an annual escalator to maintain federal funding at that level.

Meeting Energy Needs

Atlantic Canadians deserve access to reliable, sustainable and affordable electricity that reduces greenhouse gas emission, creates jobs and supports continued growth of the region’s economy. Atlantic Canada has the resources to be a powerhouse in the development and transmission of non-emitting energy, but urgently requires a commitment of federal support to realize this goal.

Development of an Atlantic Loop transmission network offers the promise of moving hydroelectricity from Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec to meet Maritime and Atlantic energy needs and creates opportunities for further development of renewal energy within the region. Premiers will work with the federal government to advance this project in a way that secures the region’s present and future energy needs, assists with reducing Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, and helps to keep electricity rates affordable. Premiers will seek a meeting with the Prime Minister to explore ways to collaborate on unlocking Atlantic Canada’s energy potential.

Promoting Prosperity

Canada’s future growth is best ensured by the prosperity and well-being of all Canadians in every region of our country. Atlantic Canada needs to be ready for immediate and sustained growth as the country emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic. In a post-election letter to the Prime Minister, Premiers urged the federal government to work with them to seize the opportunity to accelerate growth for Atlantic Canada.

Premiers emphasized Atlantic Canada’s continuing need for more people, as a growing population is required to meet the demands of a new economy and support valued public services. Premiers noted the success of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot in meeting the needs of employers and communities and are pleased it will become a permanent program. Premiers also urged the federal government to improve processing time for prospective immigrants, increase the number of immigrants who may settle in the region through provincial nominee programs and encourage new Canadians to call the Atlantic region home.

Premiers discussed the challenges in ensuring all Atlantic Canadians have access to housing. They called on the federal government to develop new programs that address housing market challenges in communities throughout Atlantic Canada.

All Premiers are concerned by the shortage of workers and its impact on Atlantic Canada’s economic recovery. Supports to businesses and workers have been important to Atlantic Canadian families during the pandemic. As the economy recovers, Premiers urge the federal government to work with them to develop innovative approaches that will support those who need assistance while encouraging a return to the labour force.

Students from across the world come to Atlantic Canada to continue their education in the region’s colleges and universities. Premiers urged the federal government to work with them on initiatives to support the retention of international students who study in Atlantic Canada, which would promote the attraction and retention of new Canadians in the Atlantic region.

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To view the PDF:CAP Communique September 28 2021

To view the letter to the prime minister: Post-election letter to the prime minister

The following statement is released on behalf of Nova Scotia Premier Iain Rankin, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs, Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King, Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey, Québec Minister Nadine Girault, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Massachusetts  Governor Charlie Baker, Maine Governor Janet Mills, Vermont Governor Phil Scott, Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee, and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu regarding the 43rd annual conference of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers, which took place virtually, today, May 17^th, 2021. 

The New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG/ECP) have a long, successful history of working together to promote our shared cross-border priorities and our closely integrated economies.

Governors and Premiers were pleased to be able to meet today to continue to build on our unique and important relationship to address the shared priorities of our region, including strengthening our economies, the fight against climate change, and the unprecedented challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

They recognized the commitment of health care and all essential workers during these extraordinary times and thank them for keeping our citizens healthy and safe.

The pandemic has demonstrated that it is more important than ever for jurisdictions to work together, to share best practices, and to continue to strengthen our economic and social ties.

The combined GDP of the NEG/ECP member states is approximately $2.09 trillion CDN ($1.58 T USD) in the year 2019. Governors and Premiers remain committed to strengthening this relationship and cross-border trade.

As jurisdictions look to stay globally competitive while rebuilding their regional economies, Governors and Premiers noted the importance of economic recovery, with particular attention on the impact of COVID-19 on their respective economies.  Premiers and Governors discussed at length the need to strengthen cross-border trade and other activities between the regions as part of their collective response to assist with economic recovery.

Governors and Premiers noted that a high rate of vaccination amongst the two populations is necessary for the economic recovery of both countries. They agreed to call on their respective national governments of the United States and Canada in support of the continued sharing of surplus vaccines to Canada.

States and Provinces are committed to the work required to transition the region to a low-carbon economy.  Governors and Premiers are pleased to report that the region is expected to meet its 2020 target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 10 per cent below 1990 levels, keeping with the historic commitments made by the NEG/ECP to lower greenhouse gas emissions in 2001.

Governors and Premiers look forward to continuing to work together to further reduce the region’s emissions as countries around the world look to increase their climate ambition at the international level. This includes reaffirming the region’s commitment to meet the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 35-45 per cent below 1990 levels by 2030.

To help achieve this work, Governors and Premiers have asked that the NEG/ECP committees and working groups continue their efforts to advance issues of importance to the region, including renewable energy and clean technology solutions.

Governors and Premiers look forward to building on the important work of this unique relationship between States and Provinces during the 44^th annual meeting to be hosted in New England in 2022.

The Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers was formed in 1973 to advance common interests of the six New England states and five Eastern Canadian provinces. The Conference represents the following 11 states and provinces: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Québec.

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To view the PDF: NEG-ECP Statement May 17 2021

Premier Blaine Higgs chaired a teleconference of the Council of Atlantic Premiers to discuss COVID-19 outbreaks now under way within the region. He was joined by Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island, Premier Iain Rankin of Nova Scotia and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premiers agreed that recent outbreaks of COVID-19, accelerated by emerging variants of concern, have made it necessary to maintain restrictions on non-essential travel within the Atlantic region. Premiers will revisit the re-opening of the Atlantic Travel Bubble when the threat of further outbreaks has been reduced, based on advice from the region’s Chief Medical Officers of Health.

Premiers  expressed gratitude to front-line workers for their ongoing efforts and urged Atlantic Canadians to continue to follow  public health guidance and advice as they have been throughout the pandemic.

Premiers remain optimistic that travel within Atlantic Canada will resume by  summer, when most Atlantic Canadians have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The vaccine rollout will help provide protection against COVID-19, and Atlantic Premiers strongly encourage Atlantic Canadians to continue to get vaccinated.

Premiers support the federal government’s commitment to ensure federal supports for workers and employers remain in place. However, they noted that these supports should stay in place at their current levels for as long as they are needed to offset the negative impact of the pandemic on the region’s economy.

For more information about the COVID-19 response and specific public health requirements for each of the Atlantic Provinces, please consult the following links:

• New Brunswick: http://www.gnb.ca/coronavirus

• Newfoundland and Labrador: https://www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19/

• Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/

• Prince Edward Island: https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/covid-19

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To view PDF:CAP communique Bubble Discussions Deferred April 28, 2021