Jeff Colbourne
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jul 08/98) - Western leaders gave full marks to this year's host city of the Western Premiers Conference.

On Saturday, the five other premiers were given the opportunity to pay tribute to the NWT's Don Morin -- and Yellowknife -- before national and Northern media.

Manitoba Premier Gary Filmon thanked Morin, his colleagues, staff and volunteers for making it a terrific conference.

"I've been at these meetings for 10 years now and this is one I will remember forever as an outstanding effort. The hospitality in the North and all the attention to detail is going to be something for all of us to take back and share with our families," he said.

Alberta Premier Ralph Klein, who will host the next premier's conference in May in Drumheller, recognized Morin for hosting a productive conference.

"This was a bit of a historic meeting. This is the last time that the Western Premier's Conference will be held in the NWT as we know it today. Next year the territories will be split and the new territory of Nunavut will be established," said Klein.

Nunavut is not expected to be a participant in next year's conference, looking instead to become a member of the eastern group.

Saskatchewan Premier Roy Romanow spoke of Yellowknife's distinct, yet unified cultural diversity, which was evident during the cultural performances the previous night at Fred Henne Park.