The Honourable John C. Crosbie, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Her Honour Jane Furneaux Crosbie, today participated in the unveiling of Taylor's Pole of the North on Government House grounds. This unique piece of art was hand carved by Abiel Taylor, a longtime resident of Raleigh, a small fishing community on the Great Northern Peninsula.

Taylor's Pole of the North is a hand-carved, wooden pole depicting icons of Newfoundland and Labrador, including the puffin, a codfish, seal, polar bear, kayaker and a fisherman. It was skillfully carved from a salvaged utility pole over several months in 2006. Mr. Taylor is a third generation hand carver, having learned the art from his grandfather. He was present at the unveiling and accompanied by his wife Viola along with several family members.

"This is a remarkable piece of art reflecting significant icons that have been integral to the social fabric, and indeed the economic survival of this great province and its people," stated the Lieutenant Governor. "We are immensely pleased that Mr. Taylor has agreed to part with this fine piece of work for display at Government House, so that a sizeable component of the resident population and visiting tourists can enjoy and benefit from the symbolism reflected in the work. Jane and I also extend our great appreciation to Newfoundland Power, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (Hydro) and Bell Aliant for acquiring this piece of art and donating it to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador."

The Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, attended the unveiling and spoke to the aspects of Newfoundland and Labrador's heritage and culture depicted in the artwork.

"While Taylor's Pole of the North is a very tangible, and very unique piece of artwork, it is also representative of our intangible culture and heritage, in that it speaks to a tradition of hand carving which, in this case, has been handed down through several generations of the Taylor family," said Minister French. "This wonderful piece will serve as a focal point of interest on the grounds of Government House, a Provincial Historic Site, and as a lasting legacy to Mr. Taylor and his family."

Senior representatives of the three companies who acquired and transported the piece of art over 1,000 kilometres from Raleigh to Government House were also in attendance. Newfoundland Power, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, and Bell Aliant stated how proud they were to have partnered on this worthwhile project which recognizes the incredible talent of Mr. Taylor, one of our own local artists, and to see Taylor's Pole of the North proudly displayed on the grounds of Government House for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to see and enjoy.

Following the unveiling, Mr. Taylor and family members were guests of honour at a luncheon hosted at Government House by Their Honours. The Lieutenant Governor and Mrs. Crosbie wish to recognize those who contribute, through their talent and skills, to the growth and enhancement of our culture and our economy.

- 30 -