The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the positive work of municipal leaders which was recognized at the annual Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador Conference and Trade Show this past weekend in St. John’s. I was very pleased to join Premier Ball and other ministers and MHAs at the convention to acknowledge the work of our municipal councils and employees who work tirelessly every day to improve our communities.

I’d like to extend sincere congratulations to all long-service award recipients whose hard work and dedication have made a great difference and helped to build vibrant communities across our province.

Mr. Speaker, I was also extremely pleased to join Premier Ball for the fourth annual Premier’s Forum on Local Government. We participated in thoughtful, frank discussions about the municipal approach to health, diversity, and inclusion. The input from delegates that participated in the forum will be vital as we continue to work to support our municipal leaders to achieve the common goal of ensuring Newfoundland and Labrador is the best possible place in which to live, work and raise a family.

I know a lot of the Honourable members of this House of Assembly had their political starts with municipal governments and I ask you all to join me in thanking everyone who helped organize the convention. It is certainly no small task to run such a successful event. We look forward to continuing an ongoing collaboration with municipal leaders and staff that supports building safe and sustainable communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.