World Oceans Day 2012 Encourages Ocean Conservation and Protection

The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, recognized World Oceans Day today (Friday, June 8). To bring attention to this international day that raises awareness of the importance of the ocean, the Provincial Government contributed $4,000 toward a free-admission family day. The event will be held tomorrow (Saturday, June 9) at the Marine Institute campus on Ridge Road in St. John’s.

“World Oceans Day is a great opportunity for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to reflect on what the ocean really means to this province,” said Minister King. “The ocean has sustained us for decades. It is the main source of our employment and a part of who we are fundamentally. Our government is pleased to recognize this special day and bring attention to the ocean’s importance to all of us.”

World Oceans Day was first proposed by the Government of Canada at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992. Since then, many governments, conservation organizations, aquariums, schools and individuals across the world celebrate World Oceans Day with educational, fun and inspirational events. These events help raise awareness about the crucial role the ocean plays in day-to-day life and how individuals can protect this vital component of the global ecosystem.

Minister King also recognized the great response from young people to the annual World Oceans Day art contest. The contest is advertised annually to all elementary schools across the province. This year, students were asked to draw a picture that best illustrated the World Oceans Day 2012 theme Youth: the Next Wave of Change. A committee chose the winners.

In the kindergarten to grade three categories, the winners are:

• Abby Goobie, Eric G. Lambert School, Churchill Falls;
• Matthew Cave Stella Maris Academy, Trepassey;
• Haley Peddle, Southwest Arm Academy, Hodges Cove; and,
• Ella Banfield, Mary Queen of Peace, St. John's.

In the grade four to six categories, the winners are:

• Kylie Freeman, Bishop White, Port Rexton;
• Sarah Pike, Labrador Straits Academy, L'Anse au Loup; and,
• Danielle Burden, Truman Eddison Memorial, Griquet.

“Congratulations to the winners of the World Oceans Day art contest,” said Minister King. “The submissions were very well done, and it wasn’t easy picking winners. We appreciate the tremendous response once again this year and look forward to building on that interest next year.”

More information on World Oceans Day can be found by visiting //worldoceansday.org/  

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Media contact:
Bradley Power
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
709-729-3733, 699-5707
bradleypower@gov.nl.ca 

2012 06 08             11:05 a.m.