The Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister Responsible for the Rural Secretariat, today announced 31 additions to the Rural Secretariat Regional Councils. Effective immediately, the new members will build upon the established groundwork of the councils to date.

"The newly-appointed members have significant knowledge and experience in the areas of economic, social, cultural, and environmental development," said Minister Taylor. "I am confident the new members, in conjunction with existing council members, will be able to contribute to meaningful dialogue on important issues impacting the province."

These additions fill the vacancies on councils that resulted from volunteers who resigned due to time constraints, labour market issues, and other personal commitments. The new members join an existing group of volunteers to further shape policies and initiatives focused on advancing regional and community sustainability.

"Since the establishment of the Rural Secretariat and its regional councils in August 2005, we have been fortunate to have a dedicated group of volunteers," said Minister Taylor. "These volunteers are committed to collaboration on such issues as out-migration, agriculture development, municipal governance, and rural education. Their work is appreciated throughout the Provincial Government and plays an important role in socio-economic development."

The Rural Secretariat supports a network of nine regional councils and a provincial council that provide the Provincial Government with ideas and counsel that is ultimately factored into the policy and decision-making process. An issue of significant importance is the further engagement of youth and addressing the challenges they face.

"When planning for the province�s future, the opinions of young people are vital to the process," said Minister Taylor. "As we proceed, we need greater involvement from this important group. Through further engagement, we are creating opportunities where youth can work with council members to identify solutions to rural issues."

The Rural Secretariat facilitates information sharing, informed dialogue and collaboration within the region and between the Provincial Government and communities. It also conducts research, facilitates partnerships and engages citizens to develop a sustainable vision for 2020.

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Media contact:
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca

Below is the list of the 31 newly-appointed members. The complete list of council members is available at www.exec.gov.nl.ca/rural/.