"Today’s announcement has been a long time in the making," said Mr. Langdon. "When I was Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, I initiated discussions on this amalgamation process. Along with our commissioner, we held meetings with representatives from these communities to explore the level of interest and possibility of amalgamation. After detailed discussions, a terms of reference was established and we worked together to see this amalgamation take place. I congratulate the minister for following through with this initiative and providing these communities with new opportunities.

"While Catalina, Port Union and Melrose have become part of the new Town of Trinity Bay North, I am disappointed that the Town of Little Catalina was not included in today’s announcement. This would have been a beneficial move for both the town and the surrounding area. I am hopeful that Little Catalina will be included in any future amalgamation plans.

"It is very promising to see these communities working together for the good of the region. By becoming a cohesive unit and sharing resources, the Town of Trinity Bay North has the potential to save money and promote new growth opportunities. I congratulate all three towns and the government for finalizing this process. I look forward to other future announcements, including the amalgamation of Grand Falls-Windsor and Bishop’s Falls, another positive initiative that would create this province’s third city. I expect this process will be finalized in the near future."