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December 2, 1997
(Executive Council)

The following statement was issued today by Premier Brian Tobin. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise before the House today to mark the passing of a remarkable Newfoundlander. Thomas Vincent Curran passed away in Gander on Sunday, November 30 after a brief illness.

Mr. Curran is most widely known for his dedication to the foresters of this province. Shortly after the beginning of World War II, at age 26, Tom Curran led more than 400 men to Scotland to serve as foresters. During the war more than 2,000 young Newfoundlanders followed, cutting timber to be used as pit props for the coal mines of England. Tom Curran was the unit's district manager.

The war ended in 1945, but Tom Curran's efforts continued. He founded the Newfoundland Overseas Foresters Association, and fought to have the foresters recognized for their war effort. Mr. Curran was instrumental in the passage of the Civilian War Pensions and Allowances Act. His book, They Also Served, documents their story.

During the 1960s and 70s, Mr. Curran managed the province's seal hunt for the federal Department of Fisheries. Like today, his work was attacked by animal rights activists.

Throughout his life, Tom Curran showed dedication to his beliefs and his province. He leaves to mourn his wife, Margaret, two sons, four daughters, one brother and two sisters. On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I offer the Curran family our deepest sympathy.