January 29, 1999
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Premier unveils plans for year 2000 celebrations

Premier Brian Tobin and Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, were in Gander today to attend the annual convention of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador. Premier Tobin addressed the convention, and launched the Vikings! 1000 Years celebrations for the year 2000.

Vikings! 1000 Years is a series of events and activities to promote Newfoundland and Labrador in the year 2000. The 1,000th anniversary of the Viking arrival in North America is a significant milestone in the province's history. L'anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Viking site in North America, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site, along with the Gros Morne National Park, Port au Choix and Red Bay, makes the Viking Trail an exciting tourism opportunity.

"Plans are now underway to celebrate the year 2000 and the Viking Anniversary. This major event will build on the interest and momentum generated by Cabot 500 and Soiree'99 celebrations, and will be another great opportunity to raise long-term awareness of Newfoundland and Labrador as a tourism destination," said Premier Tobin.

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, the Viking Trail Tourism Association, and Parks Canada are working together to develop a calender of events created especially for the Viking Anniversary.

Minister Furey also addressed the convention, and took the opportunity to present the annual Doug Wheeler Tourism Award. This award is designed to recognize the contributions of an individual involved in the promotion and growth of Newfoundland and Labrador's tourism industry. This year's winner, Cathy Lomond, is the manager of St. Christopher's Hotel in Port aux Basques.

"Cathy's vision, skills and enthusiasm are well known within the industry. She is a longtime volunteer and is a tremendous ambassador for our province," said Furey. "She is truly deserving of this recognition by her peers in the tourism industry."

The annual convention for the Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador will conclude this weekend in Gander.

Media contact: Tara Laing, (709) 729-3555.

1999 01 29 12:15 p.m.