August 6, 1999
(Executive Council)

A very committed and enthusiastic group is how Walwyn Blackmore, co-chair of the Central Region Steering Committee for the Strategic Social Plan (SSP) views his committee colleagues. The group met in Grand Falls-Windsor on Friday, July 30. "When you consider that many of the committee members are volunteers and that this is the middle of summer the turnout for Friday's meeting was significant." The members are representatives of regional service delivery boards who are the major partners with the provincial government in the SSP.

In reviewing the recommendations of the sub committee charged with hiring a planner/facilitator for the central region, the group was impressed by the caliber of local candidates who applied for this position. The announcement of the successful applicant is anticipated shortly. This person will assist the work of the steering committee in the development and advancement of the objectives of the committee in support of the goals of the SSP.

People, Partners and Prosperity: A Strategic Social Plan is a framework enabling people, communities, regional service boards and government to work together to effect better outcomes from the services government provides. This plan plays a vital role in the commitment of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to work with people to strengthen their communities and insure a prosperous future.

The plan, which was announced in August 1998, is being initiated in Central Newfoundland. Work continues to implement the plan in two other regions this fall.

The Central Region Steering Committee meets again in late August. With the planner/facilitator in place they are confident that they can now focus their efforts on specific objectives related to the SSP.

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy Kelly, Communications, (709) 729-0168.

1999 08 06                              11:55 a.m.