INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS ON THE INTERNET

April 19, 1996 – The President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canadaand Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, the Honourable Stéphane Dion,announced today that Intergovernmental Affairs now has its own home page on theInternet. The site now features basic elements providing general information.When the site is completed in May, a host of information and components will beavailable to users.

The Intergovernmental Affairs site address is http://www.pco-bcp.gc.ca/aia. The sitecontains speeches by Mr. Dion, press releases and a section for comments byusers.

Like other departments, Intergovernmental Affairs has decided to use theInternet to provide all Canadians with a direct mechanism for obtaininginformation and communicating with the Government about our country. Internetcomplements traditional means of communication, facilitating dialogue and rapidinformation.

"I am confident in Canada's future. Many Canadians have already written tome to express their concerns and share their ideas about how to renew theCanadian federation. The Internet site will provide us with further observationsand comments in that regard."

The Minister believes that by working together and talking about the issues thatconcern all Canadians, we will meet the challenges facing Canada as we move intothe 21st century. "It is that spirit of solidarity that will allow us tomake Canada stronger and more solid. I have accepted the Prime Minister'sinvitation to combat negativism, to work to improve the functioning of theCanadian federation and to ensure that future generations can benefit from abetter Canada. I am counting on Canadians' support and participation," saidMr.Dion.

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For information:Claude Péloquin
Press Secretary
(613) 943-1838.