The following release is being issued at the request of the Council of Atlantic Premiers:
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey, chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs, Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King, and Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil today expressed deep concern with the reduction in air services to the Atlantic Provinces.
The premiers agreed that today’s announcement by WestJet to bring about significant cuts to its operations and the closure of air stations announced by Air Canada in late June create serious issues for the Atlantic region.
The global pandemic has impacted all businesses and industries. At this time, it is important that we work as a region and a country to ensure that vital transportation linkages remain in place. Together, in partnership with private industry, we can support our citizens and businesses.
Atlantic Premiers recognize and appreciate that the Government of Canada has implemented several emergency response measures for individuals and businesses throughout the health crisis. Premiers acknowledge the Federal Government’s recent commitment in its Speech from the Throne to work with partners to support regional routes for airlines and agree it is essential for Canadians to have access to reliable and affordable regional air services. The premiers are calling for urgent action to address these critical transportation links that open the Atlantic region to the global economy and ensure the region maintains direct air access to the rest of Canada from each of the Atlantic Provinces.
Premiers are committed to working with the Government of Canada and with partners to support economic and social recovery, while ensuring the health and safety of all residents.
– 30 –
Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-3960
Nicolle Carlin
Office of the Premier
New Brunswick
506-453-2144
David Jackson
Office of the Premier
Nova Scotia
902-266-8060
Amanda Hamel
Office of the Premier
Prince Edward Island
902-368-4400