Federal health funding a top priority for Ball heading into premiers' meeting

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball says securing more cash from Ottawa for health care is a key priority as he heads into the annual summer premiers' meeting.

Ball will be joining his colleagues at the Council of the Federation meeting, opening Wednesday in Whitehorse.

"With an aging demographic and increasing health care costs, increased available funding from the federal government is a high priority," Ball said in a statement distributed from the premier's office.

"I look forward to discussing this with other premiers and finding a way forward so we can continue to provide quality health care services to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador."

Ball cited a number of other issues that he would like addressed, including economic growth, trade, immigration, skills and training.

The meeting concludes Friday.

The Council of the Federation was formed in 2003 to provide a forum for leaders of the provinces and territories to foster closer ties.