Minister acknowledges Placentia Courthouse on 100th anniversary

Justice Minister Kelvin Parsons today acknowledges the unveiling of the commemorative stone in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Placentia Courthouse.

The cornerstone for the Placentia Courthouse was laid on June 26, 1902. This building project signified the commitment of the government of the day to the crucial role played by the administration of justice in building a free and democratic country.

"This year marks an historical date for the Town of Placentia," said Minister Parsons. "The Placentia Courthouse holds a unique and rich history quite relevant to the province and worthy of celebration."

The Newfoundland government commenced in the late 1890s a building program to provide the larger outports of the island with new courthouses that would also serve as general public buildings. New courthouses in the early 1900s were built in Placentia, Trinity and Greenspond. The Placentia Courthouse however is the only one of the three buildings still in full time use as a court of law.

"I extend my sincere congratulations on this milestone anniversary. This marks a memorable day for not only the Town of Placentia but for the entire province," he said.

Media contact: Edwina Bateman, Communications, (709) 729-6985.

2002 07 12                               11:25 a.m.