The following statement was issued by the Honourable Darin King. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

BioTalent Challenge Winners Congratulated

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting some of this province�s extremely talented young people who are taking their science lessons to a whole new level.

The Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge gives students the opportunity to gain experience in real-life biotechnology research under the guidance of scientists working in the field. The experience also gives them an understanding of the principles of science, and a chance to compete for a spot at a national event in Ottawa. The junior and senior high school students participating this year certainly delivered.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rebecca Hollett of Holy Heart High School on her first place win with a project that explored the use of juniper tree extract to fight malignant breast cancer cells � truly incredible. The second place winner was Megan House, a Grade 8 student from St. Peter�s Junior High, followed by Heather Warren and Stacey Roberts from Bishops College in third place. By every indication these young people have what it takes to become leaders in biotechnology research and development.

This is why it is so critical that we continue to place a great emphasis on education and providing the best education possible for all students. Through unprecedented investments over the past several years our classrooms are changing for the better.

For example, science labs are not what Honourable Members may remember from their time in school. We would have been lucky to have a frog or worm to dissect. But science and technology are now integral parts of our society and therefore integral parts of our education system. In fact, in recent years $3.8 million has been invested to upgrade our schools� science labs, bringing them into the 21st century.

On behalf of this House, I offer congratulations to all students who participated in the local challenge. They are great examples of the wonderful achievements students from across our province are capable of, and I offer best wishes to Ms. Rebecca Hollett as she heads to the national challenge next month.

2009 04 27                                  1:55 p.m.