Premier presents Awards of Achievement; Funding for Duke of
Edinburgh�s Award Program benefits Newfoundland and Labrador�s youth.

Premier Danny Williams will present 27 young people with Bronze and Silver Awards of Achievement today for their successful participation in the Duke of Edinburgh�s Award Program. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador supports the program annually through the Career, Employment and Youth Services Division of the Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment.

The awards presented today are for the Challenging Our Students to Achieve Project, a Duke of Edinburgh�s Award Program for youth with special needs. The award ceremony begins at 2 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, St. John�s.

�The dedication of these young people to their own personal growth, community spirit and hard work is an inspiration to us all,� said Premier Williams. �I am proud to have this opportunity to celebrate their achievements and recognize the value of the Duke of Edinburgh�s Award.�

The Duke of Edinburgh�s Award in Canada is the most prestigious achievement award for young Canadians. The program allows young people between the ages of 14 and 25 to broaden their interests and experiences by participating in practical, cultural and adventurous activities, regardless of gender, background or ability.

More than 3,000 young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are now participating in the awards program through youth groups such as Guidings, Scouting, Cadets, in school or on an individual basis.

�The Duke of Edinburgh�s Award Program is an opportunity for young people to learn about themselves and their communities,� said Joan Burke, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment. �At a critical time in their lives, these young people discover their own potential, talent, strengths and weaknesses and above all, their ability to work as part of a team.�

This week marks the Duke of Edinburgh Award Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In addition to the awards ceremony, a flag raising ceremony will be held at Confederation Building at 4:15 p.m. today attended by representatives of the Duke of Edinburgh�s Award and Dave Denine, MHA for Mount Pearl and Parliamentary Secretary to Minister Joan Burke.

�We will continue to support the youth of our province through many valuable community programs, such as the Duke of Edinburgh�s Award,� said Premier Williams. �Congratulations to all participants and achievers of the Duke of Edinburgh�s Award Program for your hard work and dedication and I look forward to witnessing your success in the future.�

Media contact:
Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-4062, 689-2624
Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier (709)729-3960, 690-5500, elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca

2005 10 17                               1:35 p.m.