A total of 32 rural communities within Newfoundland and Labrador will soon receive greater support for recreation programs and services as the result of investment from the Provincial Government and the partner communities.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said four new full-time, regional-based community recreation directors, operating through Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador, will be hired with the assistance of a $100,000 contribution from the Provincial Government.

"The province�s 2007 recreation and sport strategy, Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador, identified the need to have more community-based recreation and sports leaders in under-serviced regions of the province," Minister Jackman said. "These new positions will enable Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador to provide more opportunities to help the province realize its ultimate goal � to increase physical activity among all our citizens."

Todd Mercer, president of Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador, said this investment is a major boost to recreation programming in this province.

"This is yet another sign that community recreational initiatives are receiving serious support, and that more people are recognizing the benefits that recreational activities bring to the overall health and well-being of our communities," Mr. Mercer said. "It�s a win-win situation."

Mr. Mercer noted that the 32 communities within the four regions identified will be responsible for providing office space, administration, staff supervision, and matching funds for salary.

Community recreation directors will be hired in the following areas:

Eastport Peninsula � serving the communities of Sandringham, Eastport, Happy Adventure, Sandy Cove, Salvage, St. Chad�s and Burnside.

Bay Bulls Athletic Association � serving the communities of Witless Bay, Bay Bulls, Tors Cove, Bauline, Burnt Cove and St. Michael�s.

Labrador Straits � serving the communities of Forteau, West St. Modeste, L�Anse au Clair and L�Anse au Loup.

Twillingate � New World Island Development Association � serving the communities of Summerford, Cottlesville, Virgin Arm-Carter�s Cove-Parkview, Pike�s Arm, Indian Cove, Bridgeport, Valley Pond, Newville, Too Good Arm, Cobb�s Arm, Merritt�s Harbour, Tizzard�s Harbour, Moreton�s Harbour, Fairbank, Hillgrade and Herring Neck.

Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador, launched in May 2007, included almost $2.4 million in new provincial funding for recreation and sport initiatives, including annualized funding designed to strengthen programs and services offered through provincial sport and recreation organizations.

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2008 05 23                                                  9:45 a.m.