Premier to Lay Wreath and Speak at Beaumont Hamel Ceremony in France

The Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will pay tribute tomorrow at Beaumont Hamel to the Royal Newfoundland Regiment and its valiant efforts of July 1, 1916 at the Battle of the Somme. On behalf of Newfoundland and Labrador, Premier Dunderdale will speak and lay a wreath at the ceremony, organized by Veteran Affairs Canada. The Premier will join the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada, along with veterans, various officials, members of the Royal Canadian Legion, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, the Royal 22e Régiment, the Department of National Defence, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and youth delegates.

“The deep connection that every Newfoundlander and Labradorian has to Beaumont Hamel is ingrained in our culture, our provincial history and our hearts,” said Premier Dunderdale. “We must never let it slip from our collective consciousness that we have access to astounding rights and opportunities, all of which flow from the enormous sacrifices of those who have fought to secure our freedom.”

During her visit, Premier Dunderdale will also attend wreath-laying ceremonies at Monchy-le Preux, Gueudecourt, Masnieres and Courtrai.

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2011 06 30                                                                          12:15 p.m.