He said his Government will provide a loan guarantee or other financial support for the Lower Churchill hydro-electric project. The project will provide Atlantic Canada with a major new source of clean energy, and is identified as a major regional environmental initiative.

The criteria for this new federal government program would be:

• National or regional significance.
• Economic and financial feasibility and merit.
• Significantly reduces carbon emissions.

Gaile Whelan Enns told Manitoba Wildlands.org: " We hope Mr. Harper knows how many hydro projects are on the drawing board in Manitoba. Perhaps when he stops in Winnipeg during the election he will make a similar announcement. Once there are federal funds in an energy project the environmental licensing responsibilities of our federal government increase. This would mean that environmental effects, cumulative impact statements, and monitoring for both construction and operation would all see increased federal oversight."