February 17, 2011

Saskatchewan and Manitoba concluded their second-annual joint cabinet meeting last week in Brandon, Man., with the signing of three memorandums of understanding (MOUs) on electricity, transportation and emergency response, which are said to reflect the increasing provincial collaboration since the inaugural meeting in Yorkton, Sask., last year.

“The MOU on transportation will lead to a smoother flow of goods and services. The MOU on electricity will lead to an increased flow of electrical power between the two provinces. The MOU on emergency response will serve both provinces well in times of crisis,” said Greg Selinger, premier of Manitoba.

The new electricity arrangement will see SaskPower and Manitoba Hydro building their co-operative relationship to increase electricity supply, security and reliability, while enhancing economic development and green energy in both provinces, said the Manitoba government.

The two cabinets also noted that provinces, the owners of Canada’s natural resources, are best positioned to protect resources while seeking investment that adds value to provincial economies, said the Manitoba government.