The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills:

Minister Announces Multiculturalism Week 2012

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform this Honourable House that March 18 to 24 is Multiculturalism Week in Newfoundland and Labrador – a time to celebrate how people of all cultures are making tremendous contributions to this province.

To support the future prosperity of our province, this government first launched an immigration strategy, Diversity ~ Opportunity and Growth, in March 2007. Today, multiculturalism thrives in Newfoundland and Labrador. For example, through our Provincial Nominee Program, people from 85 different countries have settled in 58 communities – many providing valuable services in often difficult-to-fill positions.

Mr. Speaker, throughout our history, Newfoundland and Labrador has always had a strong sense of identity. We are renowned for our warmth, our generosity, and for extending a warm welcome to people the world over.

Working in areas from medicine to engineering, from education to hospitality and many more, immigrants and international students are making significant contributions in all sectors of society.

As part of this year’s Multiculturalism Week, Mr. Speaker, there are numerous community activities organized with strong support from all regions. People can also celebrate diversity by displaying multi-coloured lights in their homes and workplaces. At Confederation Building, multi-coloured lights will be lit once again next week to celebrate Multiculturalism Week and to symbolize the bright, prosperous, and vibrant future for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Speaker, the Provincial Government is proud of the many talents that newcomers bring and the contributions they make to this province.

I invite residents and my colleagues in this House to celebrate Multiculturalism Week – an important reminder that when we encourage immigration and multiculturalism, we build vibrant communities, enrich our future, and make connections to the world.

2012 03 15             1:45 p.m.