The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today recognized World Oceans Day which is held annually on June 8. Thousands of governments, conservation organizations, aquariums, schools and individuals around the globe are celebrating with events that are both educational and fun. World Oceans Day was designed to raise awareness about the crucial role that oceans play in people's lives, the important ways that everyone can protect ocean environments and the current challenges faced by the international community in relation to oceans.

"This day is certainly an opportune time for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to reflect on our special relationship with the ocean," said Minister Jackman. "The ocean has sustained us for centuries and continues to generate most of the employment and economic wealth in our province. It provides inspiration, awe and recreation. For many people, the ocean defines us, as it reflects our heritage and represents the future."

For World Oceans Day 2010, the Provincial Government has partnered with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the World Wildlife Fund, the Fish, Food and Allied Workers, the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Environment Canada and Parks Canada to bring education and awareness to schools across the province. One of the key events this year was the oceans art contest which asked students to create a drawing that best illustrates this year's theme: Oceans of Life. Prizes included oceans-themed books and t-shirts.

In the kindergarten to grade three category the winners of the oceans art contest were: Carter Burt, New World Island Academy Summerford; Benjamin Pope, Baie Verte Academy, Baie Verte; and Gabrielle Muzychka, Ećole des Grands Vents, St. John's. In the grade four to six category the winners were: Tristan Noftall, Baie Verte Academy, Baie Verte; Michael Fitzgerald, St. Peter's Elementary, Mount Pearl; Rebekah Leyte, Hazelwood Elementary, St. John's.

The Provincial Government also supported the World Oceans Day family event that was held at the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre in St. John's over this past weekend. At this event, visitors learned about the impact of marine debris, searching for seabirds, water safety, healthy watersheds and protecting aquatic species at risk.

"I encourage all the people of the province to take this day to think about the ways in which the ocean has played an important role in their lives," said Minister Jackman. "I also encourage them to think about what we can do to ensure that we preserve our oceans resources for future generations."

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Media contact:
Lori Lee Oates
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
709-729-3733, 690-8403
oatesll@gov.nl.ca