Brussels, Belgium, March 3, 2005 - Speaking at the third International Conference on Federalism, the Honourable Lucienne Robillard, President of the Privy Council and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, stated that a happy balance between unity and diversity makes federalism the formula best adapted to the needs and aspirations of Canadians.
"If I had to highlight one reason for Canada's success, it would be the flexible and evolving nature of our federalism, and the pragmatic way it is put into practice," stated the Minister. Noting that productive cooperation among governments within the federation must be based first and foremost on mutual respect, Ms Robillard also stressed the need to forge a partnership, which means pooling expertise and resources to achieve common objectives. One of the challenges of that cooperation, the Minister added, lies in seeking greater accountability by governments to citizens.
Ms Robillard then stated that the asymmetric approach advocated by the Government of Canada toward its partners means developing flexible means to achieve common goals. She said she is confident that the debate on sharing financial resources will result in a positive solution, provided there is a capacity for compromise and mututal respect on all sides. With respect to the provinces' role on the international scene, the Minister stated that "the active participation of the provinces is essential for Canada to address effectively the domestic implications of international issues. As such, federalism must be seen as a tool for strengthening Canada's voice in the world."
In conclusion, the Minister pointed out that all Canadians are united by a host of common values reflected in federalism. "By uniting these different elements, Canada has been able to progress, prosper and assume its destiny as a nation. I believe this makes federalism a system well adapted to major universal ideals, and to the issues of our time and our Canadian reality," Ms Robillard concluded.
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For information:
Michael O'Shaughnessy
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Lucienne Robillard
Telephone: (613) 943-1838
Fax: (613) 943-5553
Email: michael.oshaughnessy@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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following address: http:/www.pco-bcp.gc.ca/aia