February 28, 2011
Premier Selinger Meets Key U.S. Federal, State Legislators
– – –Progress Made on Water Protection, Flood Preparedness, Renewable Energy Exports, Economic Partnerships: Selinger
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Premier Greg Selinger wraps up meetings today with several U.S. federal and state legislators on issues he said are of importance to all Manitobans including protecting lakes and rivers, providing renewable hydro power exports to American markets and strengthening economic
co-operation.
“Strong ties and open dialogue with our American neighbours are critical for protecting and promoting what matters to all Manitobans,” said Selinger. “I am encouraged by the progress we’ve made on several issues and I look forward to building on the many positive relationships we’ve established.”
Today, Selinger met with U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar on cross-border water issues, North Dakota Sen. Kent Conrad to follow up on the first-ever, four-party water talks held last fall and New Mexico Sen. Jeff Bingaman on the benefits of clean reliable Manitoba hydroelectricity as part of U.S. efforts to move toward 80 per cent renewable energy by 2035. Bingaman chairs the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Later today, Selinger will meet with Minnesota Sen. Al Franken to discuss renewable energy partnerships, flood preparedness and water protection.
Yesterday’s meetings included North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple, Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton and South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard on flood preparedness and Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire, current chair of the National Governors Association (NGA), to strengthen co-operation between the NGA and Council of the Federation, currently chaired by Selinger. He also met with Illinois Gov. Patrick Quinn to discuss economic partnerships on tourism and inland port development, as well as water stewardship, clean energy and youth crime prevention.
- 30 -