Funding provided for Science Division, research institute and
Natural Heritage Stewardship Secretariat

Government will provide $2.8 million annually, when fully implemented, to enhance the Science Division within the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, to fund an Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Science, and to create a Natural Heritage Stewardship Secretariat.

"Government continues its commitment to the protection and conservation of our natural heritage to ensure the viability of the industries that depend on this heritage for their livelihood and to ensure that future generations will value and enjoy the wildlife and scenic beauty that are a part of our natural heritage," said Kevin Aylward, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. "The Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation has expanded its Science Division which will complement the work of the Inland Fish and Wildlife Division and the Parks and Recreation Division, by providing these divisions with the necessary scientific research to develop management plans. This action further emphasizes other government initiatives such as the passing of the Endangered Species Act in December 2001."

The Science Division will initiate and foster best practices in programs of research and scientific inquiry as well as the enhancement of this province as a leader in science-based management and sustainment of resources. The division will work with all levels of government, academia, and non-governmental organizations in North America and internationally to implement a program of research in our province to maximize the benefits, increase the relevance and enhance the educational programs of our wildlife and natural areas.

Government is also developing an innovative plan to establish, at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN), a new Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Science. This institute will ensure that the research and knowledge requirements of the provincial government will become a focus of the academic community of the province. MUN will extend its expertise and enhance its work in the public by providing institutional and intellectual resources in the area of natural heritage conservation.

The Natural Heritage Stewardship Secretariat is being established to seek new research funds from both public and private sector institutions outside the province.

"Through this multi-departmental approach, this government is strengthening its leadership role to ensure that the resources of the province are understood, safeguarded and promoted for optimal benefit of our people and the enjoyment of the citizens of the world," said Minister Aylward. "It is government�s intention to furnish this province with a long term resources management plan and demonstrate that the natural resources of Newfoundland and Labrador are closely linked to the recreational, economical and cultural pursuits of our people."

These initiatives are a result of the consultations held by the Cabinet Committee on Outdoor Resources.

Media contact: Vanessa Colman-Sadd, Communications, (709) 729-0857.

2002 03 21                          3:30 p.m.