The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs:
Speaker, on November 4 representatives from municipalities across the province gathered in Corner Brook for the 71st Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador Annual Conference and Trade Show. It was a huge success, with many important discussions, such as women’s leadership, great networking sessions, and the opportunity to remind municipal leaders how important they are to their communities and our whole province.
During the conference, delegates also gathered for the annual Premier’s Forum on Local Government to discuss regionalization. The overwhelming sentiment is that regionalization and increased sharing of services are critical to ensure communities are sustainable, can take full advantage of economic development opportunities and attract new residents. I look forward to receiving recommendations from the Joint Working Group and developing a plan to move our communities forward.
There are exciting opportunities ahead Speaker, not the least of which is Come Home Year 2022. At the conference, Premier Furey announced over $4 million to help communities and cultural partners prepare for the celebration. It will support municipalities, the tourism and arts and culture sectors, and community organizations in celebrating everything the province has to offer. We want to energize Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, no matter where they live. We want to welcome them home and invite newcomers to visit, perhaps inspiring more of them to make this beautiful province their permanent home. I encourage everyone to take full advantage of the funding available.
Speaker, congratulations to MNL, its new executive, and all municipal leaders on a tremendous conference. I ask all Honourable colleagues to join me in this recognition and also to help spread the word about the funding available under the Municipal Come Home Year Celebration Grant and the Cultural Economic Development Program.
Thank you.