The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Premier Honours the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second

Mr. Speaker, February 6, 2012, marked the 60th anniversary of the accession of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second to the throne as Queen of Canada. It gives me great pleasure to rise in this House today as Her Majesty’s First Minister of Newfoundland and Labrador, to honour the 60-year reign of a sovereign who has dedicated her life to the service of others and who has demonstrated great pride and affection for Canada.

The Diamond Jubilee provides an opportunity to highlight those in our community who, like Her Majesty, have dedicated themselves to serving family, community and country. Through the Diamond Jubilee medal program, Canadians are recognized for their significant contributions. Diamond Jubilee medals will be presented to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during ceremonies that will take place across the province throughout 2012.

The Diamond Jubilee is also a wonderful opportunity to honour our traditions and history. Events and activities will take place in our province this year which will highlight how Canada has evolved during Her Majesty’s reign.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all Honourable Members, as well as all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, to join in the many celebratory activities that will take place throughout the province. A list of Diamond Jubilee activities will be updated throughout the year on the Government House website. That said, Mr. Speaker, there is no need to wait for an activity to be announced. Groups are encouraged to organize their own celebration or commemoration: perhaps an essay contest or an art show, a garden party or a tree planting, a croquet tournament or high tea.

Mr. Speaker, I invite all those interested to sign the congratulatory message book currently located in the main lobby of Confederation Building. It will travel across the province throughout the year and in due course will be delivered to Her Majesty. What better way to send our own personal thank-yous to Her Majesty than by adding our own names to this book that will undoubtedly become an important part of the legacy of Queen Elizabeth the Second, and part of our history. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2012 03 06                         1:45 p.m.