November 15, 1999
(Development and Rural Renewal)

Minister recognizes Crafts Week

Beaton Tulk, Minister of Development and Rural Renewal, and Anne Manuel, Executive Director of the Crafts Council of Newfoundland and Labrador (CCNL), noted today that November 12 to 21 is Crafts Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"I am pleased to recognize Crafts Week again this year because the craft industry is an important part of our small-manufacturing sector, and craft production alone employs more than 2,000 people and contributes $25 million a year to the provincial economy," said Minister Tulk.

Crafts Week will be celebrated with a series of craft events around the province and the opening of the Craft Council annual Christmas Craft Fair at St. John's Memorial Stadium and at the Glynmill Inn in Corner Brook where craft products from across Newfoundland and Labrador will be on sale to the public.

"This is our 26th annual Christmas show and it will allow the general public to see the variety of craft goods, particularly in clothing and knitwear that Newfoundland and Labrador is becoming increasingly known for at international shows," said Executive Director Anne Manuel.

The Department of Development and Rural Renewal assists craft businesses that have reached the necessary levels of competence and production to market their goods at trade shows in Halifax, Toronto, Edmonton and in the United States.

"The manufacture and export of craft, gift and apparel products is an excellent way to bring new dollars into our economy, and the production of crafts is a good way to enter the growing export market," said Minister Tulk. "Craft production develops small-scale manufacturing and entrepreneurial skills which are important in developing our growing, diversified provincial economy."

Newfoundland and Labrador crafts range from Inuit carvings to knitted goods, high fashion outerwear, jewelry, pottery and furniture.

Media contact:

Clifford Grinling
Development and Rural Renewal
(709) 729-7066

Anne Manuel
Crafts Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
(709) 753-2749

1999 11 15                                             9:50 a.m.