Over $3 Million Committed to Provincial Sport and Recreation Federations and Organizations

Sport and recreation activities continue to flourish in Newfoundland and Labrador thanks in part to continued investment provided by the Provincial Government. The Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced a commitment of over $3 million for the province’s sport and recreation federations and provincial sport organizations.

“We support and work collectively with our recreation and sport partners to maximize opportunities and benefits for the residents of our province,” said Minister French. “Continued investment in our recreation and sports federations and provincial sport organizations paves the way for more active and healthy communities in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as for individuals striving for excellence in their chosen athletic endeavours.”

Minister French announced over $2 million in annual operating funding for Sport Newfoundland and Labrador, School Sports Newfoundland and Labrador, and Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador, which this year represents an overall increase of $250,000. Minister French also announced approximately $1 million in support of the province’s 40 provincial sport organizations, which includes over $300,000 for the upcoming 2013 and 2015 Canada Games.

In addition, Minister French highlighted the success of Sportfest, a three-day interactive event held in May which showcased a number of organized sports for children and youth in the province. During today’s announcement, the minister announced a commitment of $25,000 for next year’s Sportfest event.

“Sportfest was a great success, demonstrating the diversity of organized sport in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Minister French. “This event provided children and youth with hands-on experience and direct access to a variety of sporting activities. We are proud to support a followup event.”

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador provides $11.5 million to support recreation and sport in the province. Since the launch of the Provincial Government’s recreation and sport strategy, Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador (2007), more than $70 million has been committed to recreational and sport infrastructure, programming, and athlete development throughout the province.

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2011 07 13                                                 2:25 p.m.