Education and Early Childhood Development
May 9, 2017
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Dale Kirby, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development:
Minister Recognizes 20th Anniversary of Heritage Fairs
Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 20th anniversary of Heritage Fairs in our province.
This year’s theme, Keeping our Stories Alive: Celebrating 20 Years of heritage fairs in Newfoundland and Labrador, presents valuable opportunities for our youth to connect with our history and culture.
I had the pleasure last weekend of attending the Regional Heritage Fair at Waterford Valley High School which featured over 200 projects by students from across the Avalon Peninsula. Projects included many inspiring and creative topics that ranged from the Blue Puttees, our role in world wars, the value of women in war-time, Indigenous traditions, local fishing techniques, Viking visitors, and a winning project on Outhouses in Newfoundland and Labrador with the tagline: To Go or Not to Go.
I am especially pleased to say that 19 outstanding heritage fair projects about Newfoundland and Labrador’s role in the First World War will receive accolades this month through the Ambassador Award Program. Award recipients will have the opportunity to visit First World War battlefields of Western Europe where many of our soldiers gave their lives.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the preparation and organization of the fair’s program that involves many hours of dedication by hundreds of volunteers throughout our province. I would also like to thank the Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador and Historica Canada for their constructive partnership and for continuing to successfully offer these opportunities for the benefit of students.
Mr. Speaker I ask all members of this Honourable House to join me in congratulating all participants and wishing luck to all students who will represent our province in Western Europe.
Thank you.
2017 05 09 2:00 p.m.