Municipal Awareness Campaign launched

Municipal and Provincial Affairs Minister Oliver Langdon, Derm Flynn, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities, Rod Cumby, vice-president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Municipal Administrators, and Dianne Whalen, co-chair of the Municipal Training and Development Corporation, launched today the Municipal Awareness Campaign.

This year�s campaign focuses on two themes: (i) encouraging people to get involved with their municipal council, and (ii) encouraging people to vote. The campaign involves a series of radio and television advertisements by people from various parts of the province who have served on council, but are not seeking re-election. These individuals are highly respected members of their communities and are taking this opportunity to share their reasons for serving on council.

To assist potential candidates who are considering running, a toll-free number has been established where people can speak to staff of the Municipal Training and Development Corporation. The number will remain in effect until September 24, 2001.

The toll free number is 1-866-44-ELECT (35328).

Municipal elections will be held September 25 throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Minister Langdon congratulated all those who have served on council over the past four years and encouraged them to consider running again this year. As well, he encouraged others to consider the contribution that they could make to their community through involvement in municipal council.

"Many hours of personal time go into being a municipal representative. However, the reward at the end of the day is to be able to look back and know that your community is a better place because of the contribution that you have made," said the minister. "With this being the International Year of Volunteers, I commend all those who have given freely of their time and talents."

"It is essential for the progress and development of communities throughout this province that we have strong municipal councils," said Mr. Flynn. "Local governments are increasingly important in the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. They represent an opportunity to have your voice heard and make a difference. The more people who get involved, the better off we will all be."

Mr. Cumby stated that in addition to calling the toll-free line, people can call the town council office and the administrative staff can provide them with information on becoming a councillor and the election process overall.

The Municipal Training and Development Corporation was established in November 1999. Its mandate is to work towards strong, effective and self-sustaining municipal government provided by knowledgeable, competent, elected officials and qualified professional staff.

Ms. Whalen said that the corporation is busy compiling training programs, publications and identifying the training needs for both elected officials and administrators. The corporation has developed a pre-election brochure, a councillor�s handbook, an orientation video and workbook, a candidate�s municipal election guide and a how to get elected manual. She also encouraged people to visit the corporation�s website at www.municipaltraining.nf.ca.

"When you call the toll-free line, you will be connected to our training officer, Jackie Butler, who will answer any questions you might have regarding the program and services offered by the corporation and provide you with publications upon request," said Ms. Whalen.

Media contacts:

Sean Kelly, Director of Communications, Municipal & Provincial Affairs, (709) 729-1983
Craig Pollett, Executive Director, Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Municipalities, (709) 738-1750.

2001 08 07                                               2:30 p.m.