I rise in this Honourable House today, as the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, to ask members to join me in congratulating all those involved in the recent Olympic Torch Relay events held across Newfoundland and Labrador.

From November 11 to 16, Newfoundland and Labrador played host to the Olympic Flame as it passed through 42 of our communities on its cross-country journey to Vancouver, where it will arrive at BC Place for the opening ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games on February 12.

For the 330 torchbearers who had the honour of carrying the Flame, and for those who witnessed it � including those in my home community of Conception Bay South � it was an emotional event.

Regional community celebrations were held in Labrador West, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, St. Anthony, St. John�s, Clarenville, Grand Falls-Windsor, Corner Brook and Channel-Port aux Basques. I want to thank the organizers of those celebrations; those who provided entertainment, and all the volunteers for their efforts in making these events a memorable experience for the people of our province. We showed the rest of the country, and the world, that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have the Olympic spirit.

As we look forward to the Olympic Winter Games in February, there will be several opportunities to highlight this province on the national and world stage.

Last week, we were involved in the launch of Atlantic Canada House, an Atlantic Canadian pavilion in Vancouver which will showcase all things Newfoundland and Labrador � this province�s business, trade, culture and tourism opportunities.

There is also the Cultural Olympiad � which will put our emerging and established professional talent out there for all the world to see.

And, on February 26, 2010, it will be Newfoundland and Labrador Day at the Olympics. Plans are being finalized to ensure we capitalize on this opportunity to show the world who we are, and also to bring the Olympic experience home to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

I am looking forward to being a part of Newfoundland and Labrador�s Olympic experience, and to updating you further as February draws near.