I rise this afternoon to inform members that on Wednesday, December 4, representatives from nine Newfoundland and Labrador companies and organizations will be in New Orleans, Louisiana for the 2002 International Workboat Show.

This government made a commitment to market and promote the province's marine technological capabilities and expertise in its Renewal Strategy for Jobs and Growth.

There is an abundance of marine technological expertise in Newfoundland and Labrador and the International Workboat Show is one way we can tell the world about it, and in turn, assist our companies in penetrating new markets.

The International Workboat Show is North America's premier trade show for inland and coastal marine firms. It boasts over 900 exhibitors and has a 24 year history.

Attendees and exhibitors will include manufacturers, boatbuilders, distributers and service providers to the marine industry from around the world.

This is a very high profile event. It is an excellent opportunity to showcase the province�s sector capabilities and potential and hopefully will lead to new commercial business opportunities for the Newfoundland and Labrador companies that will participate.

I ask all honourable members to join me in wishing the following companies well at the 2002 International Workboat Show:

• Aqua Purge, Lewisporte;
• Industrial Marine Lighting, Mount Pearl;
• Oceanic Corporation, St. John's;
• Genoa Design, Kelligrews;
• Consolidated Technologies Ltd., St. John's;
• ICAN, Mount Pearl;
• Diesel Injection Sales and Service, St. John's;
• C&W Industrial Fabrication and Marine Equipment, Bay Bulls; and
• The Marine Institute - Centre for Marine Simulation, St. John's.

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