Premiers to again appeal for federal highway funding

QUEBEC CITY (Aug. 9, 1999) — Provincial premiers are expected to once again call on Ottawa to make a national transportation investment strategy a key component of next year’s federal budget as they begin their annual conference here today.

Over the next three days, they are expected to discuss issues related to fiscal balance and reform, jobs and economic growth, and sustainable social programs, under the theme of “competitiveness.”

“Canada’s major trading partners have all made significant commitments to upgrading their transportation systems, and we can’t afford to fall behind,” said Newfoundland Premier Brian Tobin. “Federal funding remains crucial to ensuring we have a national highway system that is properly maintained and accessible without tolls.”