Environment and Conservation
June 1, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Environment and Conservation:

Environment Week Celebrates Commitment to Protecting the Environment

Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise in this Honourable House today to recognize June 1-7 as Environment Week.

Since 1972, people worldwide have celebrated June 5 as Environment Day. However, here in Canada, the entire first week of June is designated as Environment Week – a time to acknowledge accomplishments in protecting the environment as well as to promote and educate residents about actions they can take to help ensure a sustainable province for future generations.

Just last week, Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege of standing in this House and speaking to the incredible contributions of the Conservation Corps of Newfoundland and Labrador as well as the Stewardship Association of Municipalities. Through their work in educating about climate change and their commitment to protecting wildlife habitat in and around municipal planning boundaries, both groups are environmental leaders in their commitment toward a clean and sustainable ecosystem. And later this week I will also have the honour of acknowledging another seven groups, individuals, schools and businesses at the 26th annual Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Awards.

Always a highlight of Environment Week, this event is a partnership between my department, the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board and the Newfoundland and Labrador Women’s Institutes, and acknowledges the contributions of environmental leaders in this province. It is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the important contributions of individuals, schools, groups and businesses that are all doing their part to ensure a sustainable environment for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the incredible work of the staff of the Department of Environment and Conservation. These dedicated individuals make a difference everyday through their work in natural heritage, wildlife, parks and natural areas, pollution prevention, water resources management, environmental assessment and sustainable development, and the institute for biodiversity and ecosystem science. As noted earlier, Environment Week is about celebrating accomplishments in protecting the environment and I would like to thank the more than 250 staff of my department for their daily accomplishments and contributions in this area.

Mr. Speaker, a healthy and sustainable environment yields healthy people, a stronger economy and more vibrant communities. This government is committed to working with all residents, groups, communities and businesses toward the protection of our natural areas and the development of our resources in an environmentally appropriate and sustainable manner. I am pleased to say that we continue to make great progress in these areas. Clearly, there is much to celebrate during Environment Week 2015.

2015 06 01                              2:00 p.m.