Transportation and Works
May 22, 2014

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister of Transportation and Works:

Minister Acknowledges Role of Public Works Professionals

Mr. Speaker, day in and day out public works professionals throughout Newfoundland and Labrador do exemplary work.

Often working behind the scenes, these women and men are the backbone of managing and maintaining all aspects of local, municipal, and provincial infrastructure. They keep our marine infrastructure operating as safely and efficiently as possible, they keep our road infrastructure in good condition, and they ensure buildings and properties are appropriately maintained. They also play integral roles planning and building infrastructure projects.

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of acknowledging the contribution of public works professionals by officially proclaiming this week as National Public Works Week.

Coordinated by the Canadian Public Works Association, National Public Works Week is a way to recognize the important role of public works in our communities. This year’s theme, Building for Today, Planning for Tomorrow , is consistent with our government’s vision.

Over the last number of years, we have invested in the development of essential infrastructure that will help shape our province’s future and serve as catalysts for economic development. This same infrastructure makes our communities more attractive to young families who want to live near modern, state-of-the-art facilities and is transforming the delivery of important programs and services throughout the province.

Whether it is new wharf infrastructure in St. Anthony, health care facilities in Flower’s Cove or Glovertown, and several educational facilities, public works professionals play key roles in bringing projects from concept to completion.

Mr. Speaker, it is exciting to see the province’s infrastructure continue to grow and progress. This year, we will be opening a new hospital in Labrador, a new long-term care facility in St. John’s and new treatment centres in Grand Falls-Windsor and Paradise.

In the coming year, we will continue to advance new health and education infrastructure, including the new regional hospital in Corner Brook, replacement of the Waterford Hospital and the penitentiary, and new schools.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the public works employees for their professionalism and commitment to these initiatives and the many others that positively impact the people of the province on a daily basis and make our province a great place to live, work and do business.

Thank you.

 

2014 05 22                       2:00 p.m.