The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation:

Newfoundland and Labrador Promoted Through Olympic, Paralympic Involvement

I rise in this Honourable House today to note the success of Newfoundland and Labrador's efforts to be a major presence at Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and to bring the excitement of the Games home to the people of this province.

The Olympics provided the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador with an unprecedented opportunity to promote our province's business and trade opportunities, tourism, culture and cuisine on the national and international scene, primarily through our partnership in Atlantic Canada House.

And, we grabbed that opportunity.

As you know, February 26 was Newfoundland and Labrador Day at the Olympics. The attention we received at Atlantic Canada House and other venues that day — and indeed, throughout the entire two weeks — was incredible. No doubt the lineups outside Atlantic Canada House, rain or shine, had something to do with Vancouver Magazine naming it one of the three "must see" pavilions at the Olympics. We were also delighted that we could share the Olympic experience with our residents, through regional celebrations held here at home.

You may recall the success of the Olympic Torch Relay, which visited our province in November, and the enthusiasm it generated. Well, that enthusiasm hit fever-pitch in Vancouver, where more than 90 of this province's most talented artists and performers had the opportunity to showcase their talent, and our culture, to new audiences.

In fact, the entire Olympic experience was an opportunity to show the rest of the country, and indeed the world, that Newfoundland and Labrador has arrived — a strong, vital part of this great country.

I have no doubt our work in Vancouver — and during the Paralympic Games in Whistler last week — will benefit this province for many years to come.

I want to thank the Vancouver Organizing Committee, also known as VANOC, for their help and support, and I invite my colleagues to join me in congratulating all those involved with ensuring the success of Newfoundland and Labrador's participation in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

2010 03 23                                                         1:45 p.m.