The following statement was issued today by Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

The craft industry is a valuable contributor to our economy and a growing employer of men and women in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In 1992, the craft industry was valued at $10 million to $12 million and employed approximately 1,500 people. Today, more than 2,000 people work in the craft industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. The industry is worth in excess of $38 million annually, with the potential to grow significantly. The craft industry has strong growth potential across the entire province, particularly in rural areas, because location is not a barrier to doing business.

This government recognizes the potential of the craft industry and its importance to the Newfoundland and Labrador economy. That is why we allocated $150,000 in Budget 2004 to support the continued expansion and diversification of the industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The funding will be used to help companies, entrepreneurs, craftspeople, artisans and supporting agencies with market research and development, product development and the development of promotional and identification materials. It will also be used to support the implementation of key recommendations contained in the Craft Industry Development Strategy that was announced two years ago.

This government intends to work with craft producers, the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador, and industry associations to create more opportunities and to support entrepreneurs and businesses in the craft industry in growing and diversifying their product lines.

We will work with the industry and key stakeholders to develop new opportunities in local and export markets.

Every Newfoundlander and Labradorian can play a role in building the craft industry by purchasing our craft products more often. By working together we can help sustain and expand the craft industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

2004 05 18                                         1:55 p.m.