Atlantic Premiers spoke today on advancing the shared priorities of the region. Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King, chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, hosted a conference call today with New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs, Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball, and Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil, in advance of the meeting of Canada’s Premiers on December 2, 2019 in Toronto.

See full documnet here: CAP Release November 2019

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Saskatoon, SK (July 10, 2019)

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, P.C., M.P.
Prime Minister of Canada
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON K1A OA2

Dear Prime Minister Trudeau:

Re: Improving Bill C-69, environmental protection and economic growth in Canada

During the recent meeting of Atlantic Premiers, we discussed our concerns regarding Bill C-69 and the proposed new impact assessment process.

The Council of Atlantic Premiers wrote to you in July and December 2017 in support of your efforts to review and improve environmental assessment and other regulatory processes. We continue to emphasize that Bill C-69 presents a real opportunity to improve assessment of resource projects while supporting the growth opportunities those projects provide. Nevertheless, we are concerned about the lack of change relative to issues previously identified by our jurisdictions.

Our assessment of Bill C-69 as it is currently drafted is that the significant changes being proposed to the scope and scale of federal environmental assessments in Canada will not meet the dual objectives of environmental protection and economic growth. The Bill is also inconsistent with the joint management principles of the Atlantic Accord Acts and introduces considerable discretion into decision-making processes that should be predictable and science-based.

A particular concern to be addressed is that the Bill as drafted places final decision-making power in the hands of the Minister or Governor in Council and provides the opportunity to veto the results of thorough scientific assessment and review of evidence. This will have a significant negative impact for major project certainty and investment confidence and this approach should be amended. We also urge you to adopt the amendments that have been proposed by industry and stakeholder groups and governments, that are collectively intended to:

• Ensure that key items in an assessment are well defined at early stages in the process and that processes under the Act are given appropriate deference;
• Ensure that the assessment process is calibrated to exclude short-term projects and activities with proven mitigation strategies such as offshore exploration wells;
• Ensure that the nature and scope of public participation can be clearly established in the assessment process and not left ambiguous and open to challenge;
• Ensure that discretion in the Act to extend process timelines is used only in limited circumstances and that reasons are provided for doing so
• Allow positive impacts of projects, including economic impacts, to be considered in assessments; and,
• Require cooperation between the impact assessment agency and lifecycle regulators (i.e. the Offshore Petroleum Boards, the Canadian Energy Regulator, and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission) in assessments for projects regulated by those regulators and allow those projects to proceed under any of the process options in the Act.

We were pleased to discuss our concerns with you during the First Ministers’ Meeting in December 2018, and agreed to work constructively through the legislative process to enhance the Bill, as you suggested. We remain committed to working with the Senate and your government, and we are optimistic that amendments to the Bill will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the new assessment regime.

Sincerely,

Honourable Wade MacLauchlan Chair,
Council of Atlantic Premiers
Premier of Prince Edward Island

c.c.
Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
Honourable Blaine Higgs, Premier of New Brunswick
Honourable Stephen McNeil, Premier of Nova Scotia
Honourable Catherine McKenna
Honourable Amarjeet Sohi
Honourable Bill Morneau
Honourable Lawrence MacAulay
Honourable Seamus O’Regan
Honourable Bernadette Jordan
Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Geoff Townsend, Secretary to the Council of Atlantic Premiers

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Charlottetown, PE (January 23, 2019)

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Halifax, NS (December 11, 2017) – Atlantic Premiers are working together to grow the economy, create jobs, enhance oceans opportunities and modernize and harmonize regulations at the 32nd meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers in Halifax today.

Premier Stephen McNeil of Nova Scotia welcomed Premier Dwight Ball of Newfoundland and Labrador, Premier Wade MacLauchlan of Prince Edward Island, and Premier Brian Gallant of New Brunswick to the meeting.

Premiers discussed ways to collaborate in developing the region’s workforce, legalizing and regulating cannabis, and improving the climate for business growth by reducing red tape. Premiers also expressed their collective support for ocean related opportunities.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 4, 2017 – Premier Stephen McNeil will host a meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers in Halifax, N.S. on December 11, 2017. Premier McNeil will be joined by his colleagues Premier Brian Gallant of New Brunswick, Premier Dwight Ball of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Premier Wade MacLauchlan of Prince Edward Island.

Location

Premiers will meet at Pier 21, 1055 Marginal Road, in Halifax, N.S.

Information for Media

A press conference with the Atlantic premiers will be held at 2:00 p.m. in the Ralph & Rose Chiodo Gallery at Pier 21. Simultaneous interpretation services will be provided during the press conference.

Media will be provided with a photo opportunity with premiers at 8:30 a.m. Media is asked to gather in the lobby of Pier 21 at 8:15 a.m.

Please note that:

1. All media representatives, including journalists, photographers, camera operators, and technicians, are requested to register by submitting their name, affiliation, and contact information by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, December 8^th to Sylvie Martin at smartin@cap-cpma.ca or 902-476-0135.
2. Only registered media will receive updates to the meeting schedule via email or text

For further information, contact:

Sylvie Martin

Council of Atlantic Premiers

Cell: 902-476-0135

Email: smartin@cap-cpma.ca

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Council of Atlantic Premiers’ communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Saint John, NB (April 12, 2017) – The development of a new economy based on clean growth principles, development of cutting-edge technology, diversification of energy sources and more efficient use of energy creates a unique opportunity for job creation and economic growth for Atlantic Canada.

Atlantic Premiers are committed to working together to realize the potential of clean growth, building on Atlantic Canada’s position as a clean energy hub, to support innovation and job creation in the transition to this new economy.

To achieve this goal, Atlantic Premiers have established the Atlantic Clean Energy Partnership, with a focus on identifying potential enhancements to electricity generation and transmission infrastructure, the promotion of energy efficiency, as well as the demonstration, deployment, adoption, and export of clean energy technologies. The Partnership will contribute to a more integrated and diverse energy distribution system that will support technological innovation, security and reliability of energy supply, and cost effectiveness.

Building on ongoing collaboration among the region’s Energy Ministers, the Atlantic Clean Energy Partnership will see provinces working together, and with the Government of Canada, to identify opportunities to improve and strengthen the region’s energy sector while meeting provinces’ objectives under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. These objectives are closely aligned with the goals of the Atlantic Growth Strategy, announced by Premiers and the region’s federal cabinet ministers in July 2016.

This strengthened Atlantic energy collaboration will:

◻ Work to address energy generation and transmission capacity needs throughout Atlantic Canada;
◻ Support the development of renewable and non-emitting energy sources, so as to enhance Atlantic Canada’s capacity to generate and export clean energy;
◻ Increase efforts to promote energy efficiency for the industrial, commercial and residential sectors, with a particular focus on low-income and Indigenous communities;
◻ Build on the success of smart grid and storage technology to better utilize clean electricity and further electrify the heating, transportation and industrial sectors; and
◻ Explore opportunities to leverage federal and private-sector funds to support transformative change in the region’s energy infrastructure.

The Partnership will enable provinces to provide focus and leadership in collaborative efforts with the federal government and key partners in the region’s energy sector.

Premiers directed their Energy Ministers, working in collaboration with the region’s energy partners, to develop an action plan for the Partnership by summer 2017.

Atlantic Canada is leading the way in reducing greenhouse gas emissions – over the past decade, the region has cut its GHG emissions by 20 per cent. We can achieve further reductions by working together and with the federal government. Through this Partnership, Atlantic Canada can achieve the goal of more efficient and environmentally responsible energy generation which will promote clean technology, innovative approaches, and new export opportunities, while advancing regional and national goals in combatting the effects of climate change.

For further information, please contact:

Tina Robichaud, Office of the Premier, New Brunswick (506) 453-2144

Michelle Cannizzaro, Office of the Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador (709) 729-3960

David Jackson, Office of the Premier, Nova Scotia (902) 424-6600

Mary Moszynski, Office of the Premier, Prince Edward Island (902) 368-4400

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Council of Atlantic Premiers’ meeting communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Steady Brook, NL (February 20, 2017) – Atlantic Premiers are working together to find innovative solutions to grow the region’s economy and address the challenges facing Atlantic Canadians.

Premier Dwight Ball of Newfoundland and Labrador welcomed Premier Wade MacLauchlan of Prince Edward Island and Premier Brian Gallant of New Brunswick to the Council of Atlantic Premiers’ meeting, with Premier Stephen McNeil of Nova Scotia participating by teleconference.

Premiers discussed ways to enhance regional collaboration in areas such as international trade, regulatory alignment, clean growth, and health care.

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News Release

For Immediate Release

Building a vibrant economic future for Atlantic Canada Federal Ministers and Atlantic Premiers announce the launch of an Atlantic Growth Strategy following a meeting on Atlantic Canada’s economy

July 4, 2016 – St. Peters Bay, Prince Edward Island

The Government of Canada and the governments of the four Atlantic Provinces are working together to build a vibrant economic future for Atlantic Canada by focussing their efforts and resources to stimulate the region’s economy, support the middle class and address both long standing and emerging regional challenges. These actions will build on other advancements for the middle class, such as the Canada Child Benefit and the recent agreement on the Canada Pension Plan.

To demonstrate this commitment, today, the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provincial governments jointly announced the launch of an Atlantic Growth Strategy that will direct targeted actions to stimulate the region’s economy, support both innovative and resource-based industries, and increase job opportunities for Atlantic Canadians. The details were made public following a meeting that concluded today between the four Atlantic Premiers – Stephen McNeil, Brian Gallant, Wade MacLauchlan and Dwight Ball – and federal Ministers Lawrence MacAulay, John McCallum, Scott Brison, Dominic LeBlanc, Navdeep Bains, and Judy Foote.

The Atlantic Growth Strategy is intended to drive economic growth in the region by implementing targeted, evidence-based actions under the following five priority areas:

• Skilled workforce/immigration
Enhance the region’s capacity to develop, deploy and retain a skilled workforce by addressing persistent and emerging labour market needs and making Atlantic Canada a destination of choice for immigrants.

• Innovation
Foster greater business innovation by supporting the scaling up of small firms, technology transfer, the commercialization of research, and the generation of new breakthrough ideas in areas such as bioscience, aquaculture, ocean technology and renewable energy, while also spurring value-added opportunities in established industries like the fisheries, agriculture and forestry which are the foundation of Atlantic Canada’s economy.

• Clean growth and climate change
Stimulate economic growth, creation of clean jobs, and innovation in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

• Trade and investment
Expand business activities between Atlantic Canada and international markets, and strategically market the region as a whole by displaying the best Atlantic Canada has to offer the world to attract new investments and grow tourism.

• Infrastructure
Invest in regionally significant infrastructure projects, including broadband connectivity, that support long- term growth in Atlantic Canada and position the region to capitalize on global trade opportunities by attracting investment and enhancing productivity.

Ministers and Premiers unveiled a two-year action plan that will guide short-term actions to be implemented under the Atlantic Growth Strategy. The first area of action focusses on skilled workforce and immigration with the introduction of a new three-year immigration pilot project aimed at addressing the unique labour market challenges in Atlantic Canada. When in place, the pilot project will help to better match the needs of local employers with the skill sets of immigrants while helping to improve the attraction and retention of newcomers in Atlantic Canada.

Through this project the Government will admit up to 2,000 immigrants and accompanying families in 2017, with rising numbers in the following years depending on performance. This is a substantial increase, amounting to almost half the current number of provincial nominees in Atlantic Canada. The federal and provincial governments will continue to undertake cooperative actions that will bring stable and long-term economic prosperity in Atlantic Canada and additional joint actions will be unveiled over the coming months.

Ministers and Premiers have formed a Leadership Committee to oversee the implementation of targeted actions, provide policy direction, review the broad range of factors that affect the Atlantic Canadian economy, and, ultimately, drive results that will lead to economic growth in the region. The efforts of the Leadership Committee will be supported by an Advisory Group.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada is focussed on growing the economy and strengthening the middle class. Working jointly with the Atlantic Premiers, we will make the strategic investments and take the actions needed to generate long-term clean and inclusive growth, create jobs and position Atlantic Canada as a thriving, knowledge-driven economy.”
– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

“This is a major initiative that addresses a top priority of provincial governments and will lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth. Accomodating a variety of skill levels, provincial governments and employers will recruit and settle immigrants depending on the economic needs of the provinces.”
– The Honourable John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“To build on our successes and create sustained prosperity for Prince Edward Island, we must grow our workforce and continue to foster an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship. Working together with our Atlantic, federal and community partners, we will grow our population and create economic opportunities for all Islanders and for the Atlantic Region.”
– The Honourable Wade MacLauchlan, Premier of Prince Edward Island

Related products

• Backgrounder – Atlantic Immigration Pilot
• Backgrounder – Atlantic Growth Strategy: Action Plan
• Backgrounder – Atlantic Growth Strategy: Leadership Committee Terms of Reference

Associated links

http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/ags-sca/eng/

Follow on social media. Twitter: #AtlanticGrowth

Contacts

Philip Proulx Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Innovation,Science and Economic Development 343-291-2500

Bernie Derible
Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Issues Management and Communications Office of the Minister of Citizenship, Refugees and Immigration
613 948-5960

Mary Moszynski
Director of Communications
Office of the Premier of Prince Edward Island 902 368-4400

Backgrounder July 4, 2016

ATLANTIC IMMIGRATION PILOT

Purpose/Objective

The three-year pilot project is intended to be an employer-driven immigration program to help address labour market needs in the four Atlantic provinces. The goal is to develop approaches for immigration that will enhance retention of immigrant workers in the Atlantic provinces in support of the Atlantic Growth Strategy.

Through this project the Government of Canada will admit up to 2,000 immigrants and accompanying families in 2017, with rising numbers in the following years depending on performance. This is a substantial increase, amounting to almost half the current number of provincial nominees in Atlantic Canada.

Pilot Principles

The pilot will be designed to test innovative approaches that will help to enhance retention and that potentially could be replicated to other provinces and territories depending on results. Key aspects of this innovative approach include:

• Better Coordination: All key actors (federal government, provincial government, employers, educational institutions, communities and settlement agencies) would work closely together in an effort to ensure that all of the factors that will lead to increased retention rates are addressed as part of the pilot. Examples of this coordinated approach could include: working closely with partners to identify labour market needs, building better pathways to credential recognition, and cooperation on the provision of settlement supports (e.g. in rural areas).

• Enhanced Employer Engagement: Provinces would engage with employers to develop a retention-focused, wrap-around settlement approach. Employers would play an active role in the recruitment of candidates, providing support to immigrants and their families
(e.g., language training, transportation, housing, job certification, etc), that will help facilitate the integration process.

• Enhanced Flexibility: This pilot would provide Atlantic provinces with the flexibility to focus on current labour market challenges in priority sectors. Recognizing that each province has unique needs, there would be an opportunity for each province to tailor the program to meet its needs. The pilot would include occupations with varying skill levels.

• Speed and Space: The pilot would include priority processing in order to ensure that identified labour market needs and shortages are addressed in a timely manner. It would also provide provinces with a significant number of additional nominations outside of the current Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocation.

• Robust Measurement/Reporting: There would be a particular emphasis on measurement of key indicators (e.g. retention, employer participation) and quarterly reporting in order to ensure that the pilot is working as designed and achieving results.

Scope

The pilot would be launched in early 2017 and run for three years.

Backgrounder July 4, 2016

ATLANTIC GROWTH STRATEGY: ACTION PLAN

The following action plan outlines short-term and longer-term actions and announcements related to the Atlantic Growth Strategy, to be reviewed, validated, and adjusted through consultations and measurement of progress.

1. LAUNCH (July 4, 2016)

• Meeting of Leadership Committee.
• Public announcement of:
o Atlantic Growth Strategy.
o Plan to create Atlantic Growth Advisory Group.
o Development of three year immigration pilot.

2. PHASE 1 – IMPLEMENTATION – SHORT-TERM ACTIONS (July – December 2016)

• Atlantic Growth Advisory Group to identify and validate short-term regional opportunities, plan engagement for early 2017, and provide advice on objectives and goals.

• Premiers and Ministers to meet with Atlantic Growth Advisory Group.

• Development of benchmarks and indicators.

• Focus on early areas of collaborative action
o Implement a three-year immigration pilot.
o Develop and implement initiatives to attract and retain international students in Atlantic Canada (e.g., mission to Asia with University Presidents).
o Support business incubators and accelerators to help launch and grow new start-ups.
o Promote technology transfer, the commercialization of research and value-added in both emerging and traditional sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
o Develop a clean energy plan for Atlantic Canada.
o Develop a strategic and collaborative approach to tourism.
o Develop multi-year international business development strategy.
o Implement Phase 1 of Federal Infrastructure Plan, including Post-Secondary Education Strategic Infrastructure Fund.

• Regular public announcements as joint areas of action are completed.

3. TRACK PROGRESS (December 2016)

• Report on results of early actions to the Leadership Committee.
• Adjust plan based on advice from Atlantic Growth Advisory Group, consultations, and progress.
• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

4. PHASE 2 – IMPLEMENTATION – MEDIUM/LONG-TERM ACTIONS (January – July 2017)

• Atlantic Growth Advisory Group to conduct engagement sessions/roundtables.

• Premiers and Ministers to meet with Atlantic Growth Advisory Group.

• Initiate medium to longer-term areas of collaborative action, such as:
o Strengthen work-integrated learning in education and training facilities.
o Improve the alignment of federal and provincial skills training investments
o Develop Indigenous businesses.
o Support research and innovation in areas such as biosciences, aquaculture, ocean technology, renewable energy, fisheries, agriculture and forestry.
o Better coordinate support for high-impact firms and innovation clusters.
o Support regional electricity grids and renewable power generation, and the ongoing work of the Atlantic Energy Gateway.
o Support SME exporters through greater export awareness, better market planning, enhanced trade training, and more targeted trade missions.

• Regular public announcements as joint actions are launched and implemented.

5. YEAR 1 REPORT (July 2017)

• Benchmarking report.
• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

6. PHASE 3 – IMPLEMENTATION – REASSESS ACTIONS (July – December 2017)

• Adjust actions as required, based on benchmarking report.

7. TRACK PROGRESS (December 2017)

• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

8. PHASE 4 – IMPLEMENTATION (January – July 2018)

• Adjust actions as required.

9. YEAR 2 REPORT (June 2018)

• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

Backgrounder, July 4, 2016

ATLANTIC GROWTH STRATEGY: LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE TERMS OF REFERENCE

Atlantic Premiers and federal Ministers have agreed to work together as a Leadership Committee on an Atlantic Growth Strategy – an approach and actions to advance inclusive growth in Atlantic Canada through enhanced federal and provincial collaboration.

Principles of the Atlantic Growth Strategy

Collaboration – Support a coordinated and collaborative approach among the federal and four provincial governments that increases the impact of key interventions.

Pan-Atlantic – Emphasize region-wide approaches.

Alignment – Ensure actions align with national priorities/strategies and the priorities of each Atlantic province.

Engagement – Engage and consult with regional stakeholders in Atlantic Canada.

Inclusiveness – Foster economic growth, improve living standards and share the benefits of increased prosperity more evenly across social groups, including women and Indigenous peoples.

Outcome-driven – Identify clear and realistic outcomes.

Accountability – Report on results in 2017 and on an ongoing basis.

Mandate

Building on existing federal and provincial priorities and initiatives, the Atlantic Growth Strategy is based on the following five pillars of action:

• Skilled workforce/immigration – Enhance the region’s capacity to develop, deploy and retain a skilled labour force and make Atlantic Canada a destination of choice for immigrants, while also supporting labour market participation for unemployed and underemployed Canadians, including under-represented groups such as Indigenous peoples, older workers, and persons with disabilities; support the Forum of Labour Market Ministers to address persistent and emerging labour market needs.

• Innovation – Foster greater business innovation by scaling up small firms, promoting technology transfer, commercialization of research and value-added in both emerging and traditional sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and forestry.

• Clean growth and climate change – Stimulate economic growth, create clean jobs and drive innovation in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
• Trade and investment – Expand tourism, trade and investment between Atlantic Canada and international markets.

• Infrastructure – Invest in regionally significant infrastructure projects that support long-term growth in Atlantic Canada and position the region to capitalize on global trade opportunities, enhance productivity, and attract foreign investment.

Scope of Work

The Leadership Committee will:

• Identify shared economic priorities and collaborate on the design and implementation of actions that advance the Atlantic Growth Strategy.
• Provide direction to their respective officials for implementation of the Strategy through a collaborative approach.
• Ensure input into the process by Indigenous peoples and stakeholders.
• Monitor progress and report publicly on results in 2017 and on an ongoing basis.

Governance

Federal-Provincial Governance: The Leadership Committee will be supported by a Committee of Federal- Provincial Senior Officials.

Atlantic Growth Advisory Group: A committee of business and other leaders will provide strategic advice to the Leadership Committee.

Membership

Members of the Leadership Committee include:

• Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil
• New Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant
• Prince Edward Island Premier Wade MacLauchlan
• Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball
• Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay
• President of the Treasury Board, Scott Brison
• Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Dominic LeBlanc
• Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Navdeep Bains
• Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Judy Foote

* Note: Other federal Ministers with responsibilities for work which is aligned with the five pillars of the approach may be involved on an ad hoc basis.

Frequency and Location of Meetings

Meetings will take place twice annually and will rotate location.

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News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Federal Ministers and Atlantic Premiers announce the launch of an Atlantic Growth Strategy following a meeting on Atlantic Canada’s economy

July 4, 2016 – St. Peters Bay, Prince Edward Island

The Government of Canada and the governments of the four Atlantic Provinces are working together to build a vibrant economic future for Atlantic Canada by focussing their efforts and resources to stimulate the region’s economy, support the middle class and address both long standing and emerging regional challenges. These actions will build on other advancements for the middle class, such as the Canada Child Benefit and the recent agreement on the Canada Pension Plan.

To demonstrate this commitment, today, the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provincial governments jointly announced the launch of an Atlantic Growth Strategy that will direct targeted actions to stimulate the region’s economy, support both innovative and resource-based industries, and increase job opportunities for Atlantic Canadians. The details were made public following a meeting that concluded today between the four Atlantic Premiers – Stephen McNeil, Brian Gallant, Wade MacLauchlan and Dwight Ball – and federal Ministers Lawrence MacAulay, John McCallum, Scott Brison, Dominic LeBlanc, Navdeep Bains, and Judy Foote.

The Atlantic Growth Strategy is intended to drive economic growth in the region by implementing targeted, evidence-based actions under the following five priority areas:

• Skilled workforce/immigration
Enhance the region’s capacity to develop, deploy and retain a skilled workforce by addressing persistent and emerging labour market needs and making Atlantic Canada a destination of choice for immigrants.

• Innovation
Foster greater business innovation by supporting the scaling up of small firms, technology transfer, the commercialization of research, and the generation of new breakthrough ideas in areas such as bioscience, aquaculture, ocean technology and renewable energy, while also spurring value-added opportunities in established industries like the fisheries, agriculture and forestry which are the foundation of Atlantic Canada’s economy.

• Clean growth and climate change
Stimulate economic growth, creation of clean jobs, and innovation in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

• Trade and investment
Expand business activities between Atlantic Canada and international markets, and strategically market the region as a whole by displaying the best Atlantic Canada has to offer the world to attract new investments and grow tourism.

• Infrastructure
Invest in regionally significant infrastructure projects, including broadband connectivity, that support long- term growth in Atlantic Canada and position the region to capitalize on global trade opportunities by attracting investment and enhancing productivity.

Ministers and Premiers unveiled a two-year action plan that will guide short-term actions to be implemented under the Atlantic Growth Strategy. The first area of action focusses on skilled workforce and immigration with the introduction of a new three-year immigration pilot project aimed at addressing the unique labour market challenges in Atlantic Canada. When in place, the pilot project will help to better match the needs of local employers with the skill sets of immigrants while helping to improve the attraction and retention of newcomers in Atlantic Canada.

Through this project the Government will admit up to 2,000 immigrants and accompanying families in 2017, with rising numbers in the following years depending on performance. This is a substantial increase, amounting to almost half the current number of provincial nominees in Atlantic Canada. The federal and provincial governments will continue to undertake cooperative actions that will bring stable and long-term economic prosperity in Atlantic Canada and additional joint actions will be unveiled over the coming months.

Ministers and Premiers have formed a Leadership Committee to oversee the implementation of targeted actions, provide policy direction, review the broad range of factors that affect the Atlantic Canadian economy, and, ultimately, drive results that will lead to economic growth in the region. The efforts of the Leadership Committee will be supported by an Advisory Group.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada is focussed on growing the economy and strengthening the middle class. Working jointly with the Atlantic Premiers, we will make the strategic investments and take the actions needed to generate long-term clean and inclusive growth, create jobs and position Atlantic Canada as a thriving, knowledge-driven economy.”
– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

“This is a major initiative that addresses a top priority of provincial governments and will lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth. Accomodating a variety of skill levels, provincial governments and employers will recruit and settle immigrants depending on the economic needs of the provinces.”
– The Honourable John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“To build on our successes and create sustained prosperity for Prince Edward Island, we must grow our workforce and continue to foster an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship. Working together with our Atlantic, federal and community partners, we will grow our population and create economic opportunities for all Islanders and for the Atlantic Region.”
– The Honourable Wade MacLauchlan, Premier of Prince Edward Island

Related products

• Backgrounder – Atlantic Immigration Pilot
• Backgrounder – Atlantic Growth Strategy: Action Plan
• Backgrounder – Atlantic Growth Strategy: Leadership Committee Terms of Reference

Associated links

http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/ags-sca/eng/

Follow on social media. Twitter: #AtlanticGrowth

Contacts

Philip Proulx Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Innovation,Science and Economic Development 343-291-2500

Bernie Derible
Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Issues Management and Communications Office of the Minister of Citizenship, Refugees and Immigration
613 948-5960

Mary Moszynski
Director of Communications
Office of the Premier of Prince Edward Island 902 368-4400

Backgrounder July 4, 2016

ATLANTIC IMMIGRATION PILOT

Purpose/Objective

The three-year pilot project is intended to be an employer-driven immigration program to help address labour market needs in the four Atlantic provinces. The goal is to develop approaches for immigration that will enhance retention of immigrant workers in the Atlantic provinces in support of the Atlantic Growth Strategy.

Through this project the Government of Canada will admit up to 2,000 immigrants and accompanying families in 2017, with rising numbers in the following years depending on performance. This is a substantial increase, amounting to almost half the current number of provincial nominees in Atlantic Canada.

Pilot Principles

The pilot will be designed to test innovative approaches that will help to enhance retention and that potentially could be replicated to other provinces and territories depending on results. Key aspects of this innovative approach include:

• Better Coordination: All key actors (federal government, provincial government, employers, educational institutions, communities and settlement agencies) would work closely together in an effort to ensure that all of the factors that will lead to increased retention rates are addressed as part of the pilot. Examples of this coordinated approach could include: working closely with partners to identify labour market needs, building better pathways to credential recognition, and cooperation on the provision of settlement supports (e.g. in rural areas).

• Enhanced Employer Engagement: Provinces would engage with employers to develop a retention-focused, wrap-around settlement approach. Employers would play an active role in the recruitment of candidates, providing support to immigrants and their families
(e.g., language training, transportation, housing, job certification, etc), that will help facilitate the integration process.

• Enhanced Flexibility: This pilot would provide Atlantic provinces with the flexibility to focus on current labour market challenges in priority sectors. Recognizing that each province has unique needs, there would be an opportunity for each province to tailor the program to meet its needs. The pilot would include occupations with varying skill levels.

• Speed and Space: The pilot would include priority processing in order to ensure that identified labour market needs and shortages are addressed in a timely manner. It would also provide provinces with a significant number of additional nominations outside of the current Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocation.

• Robust Measurement/Reporting: There would be a particular emphasis on measurement of key indicators (e.g. retention, employer participation) and quarterly reporting in order to ensure that the pilot is working as designed and achieving results.

Scope

The pilot would be launched in early 2017 and run for three years.

Backgrounder July 4, 2016

ATLANTIC GROWTH STRATEGY: ACTION PLAN

The following action plan outlines short-term and longer-term actions and announcements related to the Atlantic Growth Strategy, to be reviewed, validated, and adjusted through consultations and measurement of progress.

Launch

• Meeting of Leadership Committee.
• Public announcement of:
o Atlantic Growth Strategy.
o Plan to create Atlantic Growth Advisory Group.
o Development of three year immigration pilot.

PHASE 1 – IMPLEMENTATION – SHORT-TERM ACTIONS (July – December 2016)

• Atlantic Growth Advisory Group to identify and validate short-term regional opportunities, plan engagement for early 2017, and provide advice on objectives and goals.

• Premiers and Ministers to meet with Atlantic Growth Advisory Group.

• Development of benchmarks and indicators.

• Focus on early areas of collaborative action
o Implement a three-year immigration pilot.
o Develop and implement initiatives to attract and retain international students in Atlantic Canada (e.g., mission to Asia with University Presidents).
o Support business incubators and accelerators to help launch and grow new start-ups.
o Promote technology transfer, the commercialization of research and value-added in both emerging and traditional sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
o Develop a clean energy plan for Atlantic Canada.
o Develop a strategic and collaborative approach to tourism.
o Develop multi-year international business development strategy.
o Implement Phase 1 of Federal Infrastructure Plan, including Post-Secondary Education Strategic Infrastructure Fund.

• Regular public announcements as joint areas of action are completed.

TRACK PROGRESS (December 2016)

• Report on results of early actions to the Leadership Committee.
• Adjust plan based on advice from Atlantic Growth Advisory Group, consultations, and progress.
• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

PHASE 2 – IMPLEMENTATION – MEDIUM/LONG-TERM ACTIONS (January – July 2017)

• Atlantic Growth Advisory Group to conduct engagement sessions/roundtables.

• Premiers and Ministers to meet with Atlantic Growth Advisory Group.

• Initiate medium to longer-term areas of collaborative action, such as:
o Strengthen work-integrated learning in education and training facilities.
o Improve the alignment of federal and provincial skills training investments
o Develop Indigenous businesses.
o Support research and innovation in areas such as biosciences, aquaculture, ocean technology, renewable energy, fisheries, agriculture and forestry.
o Better coordinate support for high-impact firms and innovation clusters.
o Support regional electricity grids and renewable power generation, and the ongoing work of the Atlantic Energy Gateway.
o Support SME exporters through greater export awareness, better market planning, enhanced trade training, and more targeted trade missions.

• Regular public announcements as joint actions are launched and implemented.

YEAR 1 REPORT (July 2017)

• Benchmarking report.
• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

PHASE 3 – IMPLEMENTATION – REASSESS ACTIONS (July – December 2017)

• Adjust actions as required, based on benchmarking report.

TRACK PROGRESS (December 2017)

• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

PHASE 4 – IMPLEMENTATION (January – July 2018)

• Adjust actions as required.

YEAR 2 REPORT (June 2018)

• Meeting of Leadership Committee.

Backgrounder, July 4, 2016

ATLANTIC GROWTH STRATEGY: LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE TERMS OF REFERENCE

Atlantic Premiers and federal Ministers have agreed to work together as a Leadership Committee on an Atlantic Growth Strategy – an approach and actions to advance inclusive growth in Atlantic Canada through enhanced federal and provincial collaboration.

Principles of the Atlantic Growth Strategy

Collaboration – Support a coordinated and collaborative approach among the federal and four provincial governments that increases the impact of key interventions.

Pan-Atlantic – Emphasize region-wide approaches.

Alignment – Ensure actions align with national priorities/strategies and the priorities of each Atlantic province.

Engagement – Engage and consult with regional stakeholders in Atlantic Canada.

Inclusiveness – Foster economic growth, improve living standards and share the benefits of increased prosperity more evenly across social groups, including women and Indigenous peoples.

Outcome-driven – Identify clear and realistic outcomes.

Accountability – Report on results in 2017 and on an ongoing basis.

Mandate

Building on existing federal and provincial priorities and initiatives, the Atlantic Growth Strategy is based on the following five pillars of action:

• Skilled workforce/immigration – Enhance the region’s capacity to develop, deploy and retain a skilled labour force and make Atlantic Canada a destination of choice for immigrants, while also supporting labour market participation for unemployed and underemployed Canadians, including under-represented groups such as Indigenous peoples, older workers, and persons with disabilities; support the Forum of Labour Market Ministers to address persistent and emerging labour market needs.

• Innovation – Foster greater business innovation by scaling up small firms, promoting technology transfer, commercialization of research and value-added in both emerging and traditional sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and forestry.

• Clean growth and climate change – Stimulate economic growth, create clean jobs and drive innovation in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
• Trade and investment – Expand tourism, trade and investment between Atlantic Canada and international markets.

• Infrastructure – Invest in regionally significant infrastructure projects that support long-term growth in Atlantic Canada and position the region to capitalize on global trade opportunities, enhance productivity, and attract foreign investment.

Scope of Work

The Leadership Committee will:

• Identify shared economic priorities and collaborate on the design and implementation of actions that advance the Atlantic Growth Strategy.
• Provide direction to their respective officials for implementation of the Strategy through a collaborative approach.
• Ensure input into the process by Indigenous peoples and stakeholders.
• Monitor progress and report publicly on results in 2017 and on an ongoing basis.

Governance

Federal-Provincial Governance: The Leadership Committee will be supported by a Committee of Federal- Provincial Senior Officials.

Atlantic Growth Advisory Group: A committee of business and other leaders will provide strategic advice to the Leadership Committee.

Membership

Members of the Leadership Committee include:

• Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil
• New Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant
• Prince Edward Island Premier Wade MacLauchlan
• Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball
• Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay
• President of the Treasury Board, Scott Brison
• Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Dominic LeBlanc
• Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Navdeep Bains
• Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Judy Foote

* Note: Other federal Ministers with responsibilities for work which is aligned with the five pillars of the approach may be involved on an ad hoc basis.

Frequency and Location of Meetings

Meetings will take place twice annually and will rotate location.

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Council of Atlantic Premiers’ meeting communiqué

For Immediate Release

ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, NS (May 16, 2016) – Atlantic premiers are working together to improve the lives of Atlantic Canadians through focused efforts to strengthen the region’s economy, improve health care, enhance energy cooperation and address climate change.

Premier Stephen McNeil of Nova Scotia welcomed Premier Brian Gallant of New Brunswick, Premier Wade MacLauchlan of Prince Edward Island, and Premier Dwight Ball of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Economy

Population growth and workforce development were underlined by Premiers as critical to expanding

Atlantic Canada’s economy. Premiers discussed continued collaboration with the federal government to grow immigration levels, including maximizing pathways for international post-secondary students and ensuring that businesses are able to attract and retain global talent. Premiers expressed their continued support for the settlement of refugees in Atlantic Canada.

Premiers reinforced their commitment to work with stakeholders to reduce red tape and barriers to business in the region to support economic growth. As part of modernizing business regulation, priorities were identified in consultations led by regional business organizations. Premiers agreed to work toward the following priorities:

• Use of the One Business One Number system for Workers’ Compensation Boards and Commissions;

·       Mutual recognition of targeted occupational health and safety equipment and safety training standards; and

• Assessment of options for standardizing the carrier profile system in the trucking

These initiatives will make it easier to do business across Atlantic Canada and will contribute to the ability of businesses to expand throughout the region.

Premiers also discussed the vital importance of fast and reliable access to high speed internet across Atlantic Canada. Improved connectivity is vital to attracting new jobs to the region. Premiers are working together to expand access to high speed internet, particularly in rural communities.

Energy and Climate Change

Open and non-discriminatory transportation and transmission of energy within Atlantic Canada and beyond supports economic growth. Strategic energy infrastructure projects such as the Energy East Pipeline and Muskrat Falls are crucial economic growth initiatives. Premiers are pleased to see that work on the Northumberland Strait electrical cables project has begun. Premiers discussed how these initiatives together with improved grid integration and system management can improve security of supply and expand export opportunities.

Atlantic Canada is leading the nation in mitigating the impacts of climate change and these efforts will assist in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Canada.

As a coastal region, Atlantic Canada has unique considerations with respect to climate change in terms of understanding risks and vulnerabilities. Identifying opportunities to mitigate climate change impacts, foster resilience and build local solutions will remain a priority. Atlantic provinces are participating fully in the significant work underway to develop a pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

Health

Premiers are committed to improving the efficiency, sustainability and quality of health care in the Atlantic region, with a focus on patient-centred care and improved health outcomes. Premiers are pleased to announce that the Atlantic Provinces are moving forward with joint procurement of anaesthesia and ultrasound equipment. It is estimated that this new collaboration will save $6.1 million over the next three years, with more savings to be realized in coming years as governments identify further joint purchasing opportunities.

Premiers are committed to a regional approach that focuses on innovation to address the determinants of health, chronic disease management and the unique needs of Atlantic Canada in providing health care services to an aging population.

Support for Fort McMurray

Atlantic Premiers and the people of Atlantic Canada support the people of Fort McMurray impacted by the Alberta wildfire. All communities in our region have close ties to Fort McMurray and Atlantic Canadians are personally reaching out to help in this time of need. Last week the Atlantic provinces provided $250,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to support relief efforts in Alberta.

For further information, please contact:

Nancy O’Connor

Office of the Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador

(709) 689-1825

Julie Robichaud

Office of the Premier, New Brunswick

(506) 453-2144

David Jackson

Office of the Premier, Nova Scotia

(902) 424-6600

Mary Moszynski

Communications PEI, Prince Edward Island

(902) 368-4400

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