"Canada is facing significant challenges in addressing energy and climate change, so the premiers' focus on these topics is timely for our country and our province," said Graham, who assumes the chair of the council at the COF summer meeting. "To ensure our continued prosperity as a nation, we need a healthy economy and a healthy environment. Maintaining this balance is both a challenge and an opportunity that all premiers face and that we will discuss at our meeting in Moncton."

Premiers will meet for two days of discussions at the Delta Beauséjour Hotel. A closing news conference is planned for the afternoon of Friday, Aug. 10, where premiers will report on the progress of their discussions. Premiers will discuss energy issues following from their discussion at the council's 2006 summer meeting in St. John's, NL. The discussion will encompass a wide range of energy concerns, including security of supply, regulatory efficiency, energy research and technology, energy efficiency and conservation and energy transmission and transportation.

Premiers will review actions and share leading practices on reducing greenhouse gases and adapting to climate change. They will also discuss initiatives to enhance the competitiveness of the Canadian economy.

Graham said he is looking forward to discussing these important issues with his colleagues, as they are key elements in New Brunswick's effort to become a prosperous and self-sufficient partner in the Canadian federation.

"The development of our energy sector is important to New Brunswick and to all provinces and territories," Graham said. "I believe we can do this while ensuring that we are good stewards for the environment that we all cherish. I see exciting opportunities in making Canada a leader in the development and use of new energy technology that will better protect our climate while securing our energy supplies. The Council of the Federation provides a forum where all premiers can share views and exchange ideas on meeting these challenges."

In keeping with the conference themes chosen by premiers, Graham said New Brunswick is making efforts to reduce waste and offset the environmental impact of the COF meeting. Steps are being taken to reduce paper use, prevent idling by vehicles around meeting sites and provide environmentally friendly water choices to premiers and delegates. To make this a carbon-neutral event, the provincial government will plant trees to offset greenhouse gas emissions generated in relation to this meeting.

"As premiers, it is important that we lead by example. When we talk about addressing climate change and securing our energy supplies, we must put our actions ahead of our words," Graham said.

The Council of the Federation was formed in 2003 and comprises all 13 provincial and territorial premiers. It enables premiers to work collaboratively to strengthen the Canadian federation by fostering a constructive relationship among the provinces and territories, and with the federal government. This is the first time the council has held its annual summer meeting in New Brunswick.