November 20, 1997
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

The following statement was issued today by Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

On behalf of my colleagues the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, it gives me great pleasure today to inform the Members of the House of Assembly and the citizens of our province of a national award that has been bestowed upon the Newfoundland and Labrador Special Olympics.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Special Olympics have been awarded the distinction for having the top per/capita Law Enforcement Torch Run in the world. The 1997 Torch Run raised $117,500 for the Newfoundland and Labrador Association. This award was recently presented to our provincial association at a ceremony in Portland, Oregon.

This award is a major accomplishment, not only for the athletes and the Newfoundland and Labrador Special Olympics but, for members of the provincial public service who assisted in the organization of the event and ran in the Torch Run. This includes the conservation officers of my department, members of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, wardens of Her Majesty's Penitentiary, Provincial High Sheriff's Office, the highway enforcement officers of the Department of Works, Services and Transportation, as well, officers of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Military Police and Parks Canada.

These funds will greatly assist the Special Olympics organization to continue to provide quality sport and fitness programs to the province's athletes who have a mental handicap.

As Canadians we are to be doubly proud having two provinces take first and second place in this honour. I would also like to congratulate the Province of Ontario who placed second in this event and the United Kingdom for receiving third place.

The contribution that these employees have made to Special Olympics certainly shows their dedication and commitment to the athletes and to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This torch run commenced on June 8, 1997 in Port aux Basques and concluded June 13, 1997 at the opening of the Provincial Summer Games. But in addition to this there were several torch runs held in other areas of the province - Labrador West, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Nain and on the Burin Peninsula to name a few. This entire effort is a great accomplishment for all who have contributed to the event.

I ask all Members of this House to pass on their congratulations to the Newfoundland and Labrador Special Olympics and the provincial employees who made this possible.