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

College of the North Atlantic Graduate Excels at World Competition

Mr. Speaker, from November 12 to 18, two people from Newfoundland and Labrador took to the world stage to represent Canada and showcase excellence in cabinetmaking.

Justin Bennett of Corner Brook, a College of the North Atlantic graduate, and his instructor, Kelly Tompkins of the Codroy Valley, participated at the WorldSkills Americas Competition in São Paulo, Brazil.

Mr. Speaker, after competing among 800 elite tradespeople from 20 regions and countries of North America, Central America, South America and the Caribbean, Justin Bennett received a bronze medal for his efforts. He also helped Canada earn nine medals in total and place third overall at the prestigious international competition.

Mr. Speaker, Justin Bennett was selected and sponsored by Skills Canada to join Team Canada based on his stellar performances at the Skills Canada National Competitions in 2011 and 2012. The Provincial Government is pleased to support Skills Canada Newfoundland and Labrador in building awareness of skilled trades and technologies in the province.

As a College of the North Atlantic graduate, Mr. Speaker, Justin Bennett learned from the best. The college is producing world-class skilled tradespeople, and its cabinetmaking course is no exception. The hard work, passion, and skill of instructor Kelly Tompkins lead to the formation of this program.

Through Mr. Tompkins’ guidance and support, Justin Bennett has made his province very proud. This is the first time ever that Skills Canada has sent a national team to the WorldSkills competition.

I ask all Honourable Members to join me in offering congratulations to Justin Bennett and Kelly Tompkins. They have demonstrated excellence in their skills and are outstanding global ambassadors for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.

2012 11 27                           1:55 p.m.