NLIS 4
May 1, 2000
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

I would like to take this opportunity to announce to the House that May 7 to 13 has been proclaimed as National Forestry Week across Canada. Since the early 1920s a week has been set aside each year to bring special attention to promoting greater public awareness about Canada�s forests.

The theme for National Forest Week 2000 is Canada�s Forests, Learning from the Past, Building for the Future. As we continue to move forward into the 21^st century, it is important that everyone with a vested interest in our forest resource use their knowledge and contribute to the formulation of a responsible and effective management plan which focuses on sustaining our valuable forest resources for the future.

At times the importance of the forestry sector goes unnoticed. The fact is, the forests of this province have a profound effect on the lives of the citizens of Newfoundland and Labrador. The forest industry is the social and economic backbone of over 80 communities and creates over 10,000 jobs every year. In 1999, sales from the province�s pulp and paper mills reached approximately $600 million and saw their products being shipped to more than 40 countries worldwide. During the same period, sales of forest products from Newfoundland and Labrador sawmills reached approximately $40 million. Modernization and the development of new market opportunities have also lead to the creation of new jobs, particularly in the value-added wood products industry. The forest industry is presently the third largest contributing sector to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador behind the fishing and mining sectors.

Our forests also provide a playground for an array of outdoor enthusiasts which includes everyone from moose hunters to cross country skiers. Our forest ecosystem is also home to a variety of wildlife which depend on a healthy environment for their existence.

Through public education and the promotion of sound forest management practices we can make people aware of the true value of our forests and communicate the need to manage them in a sustainable and environmentally conscious manner.

In an effort to promote understanding and cooperation with respect to the protection, responsible use and development of our forest resources, the Newfoundland Forest Service in conjunction with the Newfoundland and Labrador Forest Protection Association will be providing the general public with an opportunity to learn more about the forests of our province. Informative forestry related activities including tours of woodland areas, Newfoundland Forest Service facilities along with other hands on exercises will be available to school groups and the general public at forestry offices throughout the province.

I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of the men and women who dedicate their careers to effectively managing the forests of this province. It is as a result of this commitment that Newfoundland and Labrador is now considered to be a forerunner in this country with respect to knowledge and expertise within the forest industry.

2000 05 01                                         2:25 p.m.