It gives me great pleasure to stand in the House today and inform Honourable Members about an event that exemplifies how Aboriginal people in Newfoundland and Labrador are celebrating achievement in business with distinction and innovation.

More than 100 people gathered in Stephenville recently for the second annual Aboriginal Business Gala, which I'm pleased to say was sponsored in part by the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs. A total of 65 Mi'kmaq businesses were recognized and celebrated for their contribution to economic development in their communities in the Port au Port, Bay St. George and Burgeo areas. The diversity of businesses recognized was impressive, ranging from natural resources, tourism and recreation, retail, construction, accommodations and food service. The gala was hosted by the Aboriginal Community/Business Advisory Committee.

In Newfoundland and Labrador we have made great strides in recognizing the contributions of Aboriginal people to our rich social and cultural fabric. Throughout the province, Aboriginal peoples are celebrating and expressing their origins and traditions, often through the arts and cultural events. But we must do more to recognize Aboriginal persons and groups who are doing their part to develop and diversify the growing economy of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Aboriginal Business Gala provides an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of Aboriginal businesses, and note how they are key to sustainability and growth in their communities. This celebration and recognition is important because it helps to encourage and foster further success.

During this night of celebration, the Aboriginal Community/ Business Advisory Committee also announced the possible formation of an Aboriginal Board of Trade and the committee is looking into offering business workshops to Aboriginal business operators who need assistance with their marketing, expansion and business plans. The Aboriginal Community/Business Advisory Committee currently has 143 Aboriginal businesses registered in a database and they will continue to provide support to small business owners. I wish them all the very best of success in their efforts.

I ask all Honourable Members to join me in congratulating the Aboriginal Community/Business Advisory Committee on their second annual Aboriginal Business Gala to showcase Aboriginal businesses in the Port au Port, Bay St. George and Burgeo areas.
 

2010 12 14                                                   1:45 p.m.