The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House to highlight how our government is helping Labrador youth, Special Olympians and sports teams travel to other areas of the province to participate in provincial competitions, development camps and try-outs.

The Department of Labrador Affairs is increasing financial assistance through enhancements in the Labrador Sport Travel Subsidy program. The changes include increasing the subsidy to offset the higher cost of team airfare, improving the mileage claim process, and enhancing travel for Labrador athletes who qualify for provincial teams.

Through Budget 2023, Labrador Affairs also increased funding to School Sports Newfoundland and Labrador by $100,000. This boost in funding is expanding opportunities for student athletes from Labrador and laying the groundwork for the development of Indigenous-themed games. Total spending on both programs now amounts to $830,000. Full details are available on the Labrador Affairs website.

Encouraging and promoting physical activity at an early age improves self-esteem and mental and physical well-being. Young athletes across Labrador have proven they have the ability to compete at a high level. In order to tap into this incredible potential, it’s essential they have opportunities to grow, develop and mature.

As a Government, we recognized the need to do more and we are delivering to support young athletes from Labrador.