Premier thanks ministers for their service

"Service to the public is a valuable and important contribution for a person to make to their community," said Premier Grimes. "By seeking to serve in the House of Assembly, Lloyd Matthews, Ernest McLean, Sandra Kelly and Kevin Aylward extended that service to the people of the province."

The Premier continued, "A few weeks ago, I began consulting with my cabinet colleagues and asked them to indicate whether or not they would be running in the next general election. This would provide me with the opportunity to put in place a cabinet that will serve the people of the province up to the call of the election. It would also permit me to invite new members into cabinet who will undoubtedly bring new viewpoints and perspectives."

"Today, three of my colleagues have announced their intention to not seek re-election in the next general election and Minister McLean has confirmed his previous statement on this," said the Premier. "This provides me the opportunity to thank my colleagues for the long standing and valued contributions they have made to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador."

"What is so interesting about the political process is the coming together of people from different backgrounds to work as a solid team with the common goal to improve the circumstance of the province."

"These members of the House of Assembly exemplify this ideal with diligent service to the people of their districts, St. John North, Lake Melville, Gander and St. George�s - Stephenville East, and success in each general election since they were first elected. Their commitment to work for the people of the province took on a broader role in accepting to serve as cabinet ministers."

"All have been valued members of the Liberal Caucus, always team players, always bringing forth views to enhance debate, provide direction and meet challenges head on."

"Serving the public as an elected official is a job that gives a tremendous sense of fulfillment. The rewards that come with working every day to make life better for the people of this province are satisfying. At this time of thank you for accomplishments and contributions, I would be remiss if I did not recognize the families of Lloyd Matthews, Ernest McLean, Sandra Kelly and Kevin Aylward. By sharing these family members with us, they too have done a service to this province."

In concluding his remarks, the Premier thanked the ministers on behalf of the people of the province. " I sincerely thank Minister Matthews, Minister McLean, Minister Kelly and Minister Aylward for their continuous commitment to the political process, recognition of the value of public service and their support and friendship shown to me as Premier. I wish them all continued success in the next paths their lives will take."

Media contact: Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960.

2003 02 14                                        4:30 p.m.