PROVINCIAL MINISTERS DISCUSS GAS PRICES

All Canadian provinces and territories participated in a teleconference meeting this morning to discuss gasoline prices in Canada. During discussions, participants indicated they want to explore the creation of an inter-provincial oversight body. Saskatchewan will lead the work with other jurisdictions to develop the proposal for an independent petroleum price-monitoring agency, with a view to referring this matter to the Council of the Federation.

"All Canadians need access to better information about this important issue," Justice Minister Frank Quennell said. "This would best be provided by an independent agency with the ability to collect industrial data and then to disseminate clear and factual information to the public."

Provincial Ministers also discussed the Federal proposal to use increased GST revenues resulting from the current high pump prices to invest in medical equipment. Ministers want to be assured that this is new money and not part of increased health-care funding currently under discussion or previously announced. Ministers also expressed concern that this proposal may require matching funds from the provinces.

The Council of the Federation was created to address present and future challenges facing the federation to better meet the changing needs of Canadians. It came into effect in Charlottetown in December 2003.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Debi McEwen Justice Regina Phone: (306)787-6043