The Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs, and the Honourable Patty Pottle, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, extend congratulations to the new executive of the Combined Councils of Labrador (CCL), who were elected at the CCL�s annual general meeting, March 12-15, in Port Hope Simpson.

"The Combined Councils of Labrador has the best interests in mind for all Labradorians and I look forward to meeting with its new President, Jim Farrell and his new executive," said Minister Hickey. "Through constructive dialogue and financial investments, our government has supported and will continue to support the CCL."

The CCL executive are:

• Jim Farrell, President;
• Nath Moores, Vice-President, Labrador Straits;
• Alton Rumbolt, Vice-President, Labrador Southeast;
• Sarah Erickson, Vice-President, Labrador North;
• Ernie McLean, Vice-President, Labrador Central; and,
• Richard Hepditch, Vice-President, Labrador West.

"I encourage the new executive of the CCL on continuing to advocate for the betterment of all Labrador communities," said Minister Pottle. "I look forward to hearing their concerns and ideas on issues that face Labradorians as we continue to grow opportunities and work collaboratively to advance the goals outlined in the Northern Strategic Plan."

The CCL represents 32 communities throughout Labrador. Each year, for the last 36 years, representatives and delegates gather from each of the regions of Labrador, elect a new executive, meet with Provincial Government officials and industry representatives, and discuss and pass resolutions that bring attention to issues facing Labradorians and their communities. The president is elected every second year. The next annual general meeting will be held in North West River on March 11, 2009.

"I was very pleased with the outcomes and the sessions were very informative," said Mr. Farrell. "We look forward to sitting down with Provincial Government officials in the coming months. Also, I want to congratulate Mayor Graham Letto of Labrador City for being the first recipient of the Wayne Earle Community Service Award, established to commemorate years of service and commitment to municipal development. Wayne was a long-time community supporter and advocate from L�Anse Au Loup."

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