Canada’s premiers and territorial leaders looked and sounded unified following the first of two days of talks in St. John’s.

”We are optimistic that the potential for a good outcome before we finish our meetings and discussions this week,” said Newfoundland and Labrador’s Paul Davis.

Alberta Premier Rachel Notley was all smiles and optimistic when she said leaders were striking ”a healthy balance” between ”economic prosperity and environmental responsibility.”

Saskatchewan Brad Wall had strong words for Ontario and Quebec, whom he believes are blocking pipeline development, including the proposed Energy East line.

He added he’s concerned energy resources are increasingly seen as a liability in some parts of the country.

On another subject, the provincial leaders are asking Ottawa for more healthcare money.

They want the federal government to increase the Canada Health transfer to cover at least 25 percent of provincial and territorial healthcare spending.