Christmas Lights Across Canada

I rise today to invite all members of the House of Assembly, government employees and their families, and the general public to the annual Christmas Lights Across Canada ceremony this evening. It will take place in the main lobby of the East Block of the Confederation Building at 6:15 p.m.

Christmas Lights Across Canada has become a tradition here in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is a national celebration in which the national and provincial capitals turn on their Christmas lights on the same day. Being the most easterly province, we are usually the first to turn our Christmas lights on each year.

This event was launched in 1986 by the National Capital Commission and has been held in this province since 1987. This year�s display includes approximately 51,000 lights, six billboards depicting Christmas scenes, and13 trees with white lights, symbolizing our 13 provinces and territories. The large main tree, which stands at 25 feet tall, came from the Argentia area and will contain multi-colored lights as a symbol of the diversity of the nation.

The purpose of this ceremony is to instill a sense of pride and unity among Canadians and I urge residents in the area to come by the Confederation Building to join us in this celebration.

The ceremony kicks off with a selection of Christmas carols by the St. Andrew�s Elementary School Choir, followed by holiday music performed by The Royal Newfoundland Regiment Band. It is my pleasure to throw the switch this year in front of the Confederation Building at approximately 6:45 p.m.

Our Master of Ceremonies this evening will be Ms. Shelley Neville of Spirit of Newfoundland, and refreshment will be available at the end of the event. Once again, I encourage everyone to join us at the Confederation Building to celebrate the beginning of this holiday season.

2006 12 07                         2:45 p.m.