Health and housing tops the list as Atlantic Premiers hold virtual meeting

Premiers noted their concern that no details on the next allotment of federal infrastructure funding were included in the fall update.

Health care and housing were two of the main topics as Atlantic Premiers met virtually to discuss priorities while plotting a course for continued progress in 2024. Premiers talked about how immigration is key to meeting growing labour demands and economic growth. They were disappointed by the reduction in Atlantic Immigration Program levels and lack of increase to Provincial Nominee Program levels in the federal government’s 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan. On November 21st, the federal government released their Fall Economic Statement, which had a significant focus on housing. Atlantic provinces are working with the federal government to explore new approaches to increase the housing supply, especially those that take full advantage of regional innovations in construction. Premiers noted their concern that no details on the next allotment of federal infrastructure funding were included in the fall update. Committed to improving the delivery of health care services Premiers are working together under the Atlantic Health Accord to address regional health care challenges. They  agreed to continue their collaborative efforts in 2024, to ensure that Atlantic Canadians can access critical specialized services.  Premiers also urged the federal government to work closely with Atlantic Canada to ensure necessary federal plans are in place, so interprovincial ferry crossings are affordable, reliable, and available into the future. At the conclusion of the meeting, it was noted that Premier Furey will assume the role of chair of the  Council of Atlantic Premiers in January.