HARPER PLANS STOPS IN WINNIPEG, CHURCHILL

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is planning a trip to Manitoba, with
stops in Winnipeg today and Churchill tomorrow, says a spokeswoman
for the Prime Minister's Office.

Harper is expected to make an announcement with federal Public Safety
Minister Stockwell Day, Treasury Board President Vic Toews and
Minister of Health Tony Clement at 2 p.m. today at the Salvation Army
at 180 Henry St.

A source said Justice Minister Rob Nicholson and Indian Affairs
Minister Chuck Strahl may also make the trip.

A spokeswoman from the PMO, who asked not to be named, said the
announcement will be about the federal government's anti-drug strategy.

She said the anti-drug release will focus on a "two-track" initiative
meant to ensure harsher punishments for drug dealers and better
treatment options for addicts.

The second announcement is scheduled to occur Friday, when Harper
will be joined by Premier Gary Doer, with the time and place in
Churchill yet to be announced.

A source said the Churchill announcement will relate in part to
upgrades to the rail line that links Churchill to the south.

Doer was tightlipped yesterday, stating he would not comment on
speculation about the trip.

"I am not going to lead to any kind of speculation because I don't
want to lead to false expectations in the city of Churchill," said Doer.

Both announcements are expected to include new federal funding.