SAINT ANDREWS (CNB) – Provincial and territorial ministers responsible for local government have reaffirmed their commitment to support strong and viable communities.

"Local government ministers believe collectively that we can better help our municipalities and communities remain sustainable in the long term if we learn from one another, work together and share information on new initiatives, including those that support municipal infrastructure," said Local Government Minister Bruce Fitch.

The ministers identified municipal infrastructure such as drinking water, wastewater, transportation and recreation as a priority. They noted that investment in local infrastructure creates jobs, advances green energy efforts, addresses community priorities and stimulates private sector investment.

The ministers – who represent the interests of all municipalities, including rural and remote communities across the country – discussed the importance of adequate, predictable, flexible and long-term funding to address municipal infrastructure needs. They had this discussion with Denis Lebel, federal minister of transport, infrastructure and communities.

The ministers stressed the need for a continued collaboration to ensure federal initiatives respect provincial and territorial jurisdiction, priorities and needs.

They agreed on the importance of continued collective collaboration with provincial and territorial municipal associations on common interests as being key to developing innovative and new initiatives and approaches to supporting municipalities.

Representatives of New Brunswick’s three municipal associations made a joint presentation about the key issues and challenges facing municipalities.

Alberta will host the ministers’ meeting in 2012.


14-07-11