Executive Council
August 12, 2013
Today on International Youth Day, the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister Responsible for the Office for Public Engagement, including the Office of Youth Engagement, marked the occasion by joining representatives from various youth organizations at Government House for a reception hosted by Their Honours, the Honourable Frank F. Fagan, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Her Honour Patricia Fagan.
“International Youth Day is a day to recognize the accomplishments youth make to society, and to continue the discussion on issues of importance to our young people and how they can continue to be actively involved in their communities,” said Minister Hutchings. “Today, I had the pleasure of meeting many of the exemplary young people who are making valuable contributions to their schools, communities and our province, as well as representatives from organizations who are providing services and programs that educate, motivate and inspire them.”
As part of activities recognizing International Youth Day, earlier today Minister Hutchings announced the recipients of this year’s Grants for Youth Organizations. In addition, Steve Kent, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister, visited with youth participating in the MAX volleyball and dance summer camps and attended a youth forum at the Boys and Girls Club in Buckmaster Circle to discuss the importance of youth to communities, and as future leaders of our province.
“This government is working hard to provide the next generation of leaders with the skills, knowledge and experiences that will help them succeed,” said Minister Hutchings. “We want to ensure our young people have a meaningful voice in policy development and decision-making, and I encourage youth to tell us about issues that are important to them and to engage in conversation with us through various means including Twitter and Facebook.”
Recognizing youth as an essential partner in helping shape the future of Newfoundland and Labrador, Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future, invested over $3.7 million in organizations, programs and services such as Community Youth Networks, Grants for Youth Organizations, the Getting the Message Out program, and the URock Awards honouring youth and youth-led organizations.
Media contact:
Heather Maclean
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 697-4137
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca
2013 08 12 3:00 p.m.