Speech will highlight the benefits of developing the Lower Churchill project

ST. JOHN'S, April 27, 2012 /CNW/ - CIBC (CM: TSX) (CM: NYSE) - The Honourable Jim Prentice, P.C., Q.C., Senior Executive Vice-President and Vice Chairman of CIBC, will be the keynote speaker today at a luncheon hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association.

In his remarks, Mr. Prentice will continue his national discussion on the benefits of developing energy infrastructure projects like the Lower Churchill. He describes Lower Churchill as a transformational project for Atlantic Canada - a project that has both environmental and economic benefits and will help move Canada closer to becoming a true clean energy superpower.

Mr. Prentice joined CIBC in January 2011 and has responsibility for expanding CIBC's relationships with corporate clients across Canada and abroad, and for providing leadership on strategic initiatives to enhance CIBC's position in the market. He joined the bank following a successful career as a lawyer, Member of Parliament and one of the most senior Ministers in the Canadian Government. He served variously as the Minister of Industry, the Minister of the Environment, the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and was the Minister responsible for major pipeline projects. He was also the Co-Chair of the Indian Claims Commission of Canada from 1993 until 2000.

Mr. Prentice will be available for media interviews after this event.

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