Premier and Minister send message of support

Premier Roger Grimes and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Tom Lush today sent a message of support to the approximately 240 officers and crew on Her Majesty�s Canadian Ship (HMCS) St. John�s who depart this week to participate in Operation Apollo, Canada�s contribution to the campaign against terrorism. The frigate will leave Halifax at 10:00 a.m. on May 1, 2002 to join HMC Ships Toronto, Vancouver and Ottawa as they continue to contribute to the multi-national coalition against terrorism.

"On behalf of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, our thoughts and prayers are with you as you depart to participate in Operation Apollo and the fight against terrorism," said Premier Grimes. "We are extremely proud of the important role that Canada�s Navy is undertaking as part of Operation Apollo. As you face the many challenges ahead in the coming weeks while protecting our country, stand tall and be brave as we look forward to your safe return. God Speed to you all."

Minister Lush commended officers and crew on the HMC Ships Iroquois, Preserver and Charlottetown who recently returned home from Operation Apollo having departed on October 17, 2001.

"The crew of these ships are to be commended for their commitment, hard work and dedication in their efforts to fight terrorism," said Minister Lush. "As the HMCS St. John�s joins this fight against terrorism, be proud of what you have accomplished on behalf of all Canadians and the rest of the world."

The HMCS St. John�s is a Halifax class frigate, and is one of the most sophisticated and versatile warships in the world. The vessel was commissioned on June 24, 1996 in her name sake city of St. John�s, and is the 11^th of 12 Halifax class vessels in the Canadian Navy.

Media contact:
         Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960
         Tansy Mundon, Intergovernmental Affairs, (709) 729-1341

2002 04 30                      10:55 a.m.