Seventy-five years ago today, a delegation appointed by the Commission of Government signed the Terms of Union making what was then known as Newfoundland the 10th province of Canada.
This morning, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced plans to commemorate 2024 as the 75th anniversary of Confederation.
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will have a variety of opportunities to recognize and celebrate the anniversary throughout the year.
The Confederation 75 Celebration Grant Program will support community activities and celebrations, and heritage or Indigenous cultural projects that commemorate the anniversary. Details about the program will be released in early 2024.
The Provincial Government will also create a 75th Anniversary of Confederation Medal to recognize Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who have made significant contributions to their communities and the province over the past 75 years. The medals will be awarded to residents in each electoral district throughout the province, recognizing people who largely go unnoticed while contributing their time and energy to making Newfoundland and Labrador a better place to live.
In addition, a special Confederation 75 Scholarship will be created. The scholarship will be awarded to 75 Grade 12 students, to support post-secondary education and the fulfillment of their career goals.
Passenger vehicles, light trucks, pick-up trucks, trailers and antique autos that are registered for the first time in the province in 2024, between January 1 and December 31, 2024, will receive a licence plate bearing the Confederation 75 logo. These licence plates will be issued by authorized dealerships, as well as through Motor Registration and Government Service Centre locations throughout the province.
Anyone who would like to have a Confederation 75 licence plate on their current vehicle can purchase one for $30 or $13 for individuals 65 years of age or older. Current plates that are peeling due to manufacturer defect can be exchanged for a Confederation 75 plate, free-of-charge.
On December 11, 1948, Canada and Newfoundland entered into a Memorandum of Agreement, commonly known as the Terms of Union, establishing the terms under which Newfoundland would join Canada as its 10th province.
Quotes
“Our entry into Canada on March 31, 1949, was the latest chapter of our unique political evolution from colony to Dominion to province of Canada. While we are the youngest province, we have been a strong and equal member of Confederation, with contributions ranging from our vibrant and unique culture to our ample and rich natural resources, and our emerging tech sector. Newfoundland and Labrador is an integral part of the Canadian Confederation. We are better because of it and Canada is better because we are a part of it. As we reflect on the past 75 years, let’s look forward with optimism as we envision the next 75 and beyond.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“The 75th anniversary of Confederation is an opportunity for us to reflect on the remarkable journey that resulted in our union with Canada. The Confederation 75 Celebration Grant Program will support communities throughout the province who wish to celebrate our fascinating history and the vibrant culture that makes up a unique part of our national identity.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“I am pleased that our government is marking this important moment in our province’s history by awarding a scholarship to 75 students in the province. The Confederation 75 Scholarship will support the post-secondary goals of recipient students as they continue their educational journey and contribute to our province’s future.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
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Le premier ministre Furey annonce des initiatives de commémoration du 75e anniversaire de la Confédération
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