The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation:

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House to announce that our province will host the East Coast Music Awards in St. John’s from April 29 to May 3, 2020.

Our province last hosted the ECMAs in 2015.

Mr. Speaker, I am sure all Honourable members agree – the musical talent that exists in Newfoundland and Labrador is second to none.

The ECMAs present a wonderful opportunity for our artists to showcase their immense talents and abilities, and will also be a boost for the local economy as many people visit our wonderful province to participate.

The depth and diversity of the music community in Newfoundland and Labrador was apparent at the most recent ECMAs held in Halifax where local musicians garnered 20 nominations.

Mr. Speaker, to help our musicians foster their talents, skills, and growth, the Provincial Government provides MusicNL annually with a $350,000 investment to help support operations, and programs such as Market Access, Artist Development and Professional Development.

Just a few weeks ago I had the pleasure to present MusicNL’s Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Ralph O’Brien. Mr. O’Brien noted the variety of music offered at the awards show, stating “fifty years ago, we didn’t have all this diversity.”

Yes, Mr. Speaker, from folk to metal; rock to country; hip-hop to gospel, we have certainly cultivated a style and culture that is all our own. I ask all Honourable members to join me in saluting our talented musicians, as we look forward to presenting and creating an unforgettable week of music in 2020.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.