Tourism, Culture and Recreation
March 30, 2009The following statement was
issued by the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and
Recreation. It was also read in the House of Assembly:
Minister Congratulates New Chair of
Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association
I rise in this Honourable House today to acknowledge
and congratulate St. John�s businesswoman Brenda O�Reilly, who earlier
this month was elected Chair of Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices
Association.
It is significant, that a Newfoundlander and
Labradorian has been named to lead this national, 33,000-member
organization, which represents independent and chain restaurants, bars,
caterers, hotels, and other foodservice providers.
As I have noted previously in this House, hospitality
industry operators in this province are increasingly regarded as leaders
and innovators in their field.
As some of you may know, Ms. O�Reilly is the
owner/operator of O�Reilly�s Irish Newfoundland Pub on George Street,
which is well-known for its exemplary offerings of food, beverage and
live entertainment. It is also a widely-recognized as a popular
gathering place for residents and out-of-province visitors alike. She
has also recently established a new enterprise, Yellowbelly Brewery and
Public House, and operates a catering service, Food on the Run.
Clearly Ms. O�Reilly is making a significant
contribution to the local economy as a hospitality business operator and
employer. It is equally clear that she supports the local music scene
and the professional entertainers who perform at her establishments.
It may not be as widely known, that Ms. O�Reilly is
also a great supporter of emerging talent, offering young musicians a
chance to hone their skills and gain valuable onstage experience through
"Young Performers Open Mic" events at O�Reilly�s.
I have no doubt that Ms. O�Reilly�s knowledge and
experience in the foodservice industry will be a great asset to Canadian
Restaurant and Foodservices Association.
I invite my colleagues in the House to join me in
congratulating her on her election as chair, and to wish her well as she
takes on this new challenge.
2009 03 30
2:00 p.m.