Two figures of financial acuity will speak on the range of influences currently affecting this province’s economic future next week.

The Globe and Mail’s national affairs columnist, Jeffrey Simpson, and Memorial University’s professor of economics, Dr. Wade Locke, will present a special learning event at the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre on White Hills Road in St. John’s Nov. 25.

The speaking event will focus on the global economic crisis and the changes to the international political landscape that have combined to present unprecedented challenges for decision-makers and those responsible for developing and communicating public policy.

“I felt that this was a good opportunity to provide my perspective on the future growth of Newfoundland and Labrador, its prosperity and how factors such as the recent New Brunswick/Quebec Memorandum of Understanding may impact us and how things such as equalization might facilitate these kinds of strategic initiatives on the part of provinces like Quebec,” said Mr. Locke.

As a well-known economist and regular media contributor, Mr. Locke provides informative and sometimes provocative perspectives on the changing elements at play in a modern Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Simpson is a critically-acclaimed journalist who will present his thought-provoking views on the range of influences affecting the development of the country and Newfoundland and Labrador. Well-versed on the economic, social and geographic challenges that governments face in the 21st century, Mr. Simpson will help to provide greater insight into events taking place in Ottawa, the priorities and values of Canadians and the role of the public service.

The session is open to employees of the Government of Canada, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as to faculty and students of Memorial University. While there is no charge, registration is required as well as a government or university ID.

Space is limited, so please register by e-mail to Erin.Curran@tbs-sct.gc.ca on or before Nov. 18. For information, please call 709-772-8833. The event will take place from 9 a.m-12 p.m.

The event is a joint initiative of the NL Federal Communications Council of the NL Federal Council and the NL Regional Office of the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS) Regional Communications Network.