The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:

Speaker, today I rise to acknowledge National Social Work Month and recognize the invaluable contribution of social workers in our province.

Social workers in Newfoundland and Labrador work in diverse areas of practice, including child protection, foster care and adoptions, health care, housing, senior care, addictions, mental health and income support.

This year, the focus of National Social Work Month is “Seven Points of Unity – Many Possibilities,” which celebrates the seven core values of the recently revised Code of Ethics that guides the ethical, inclusive and empowering practice of social workers in Newfoundland and Labrador, and across Canada.

In my own Department, I witness the passion, professionalism and commitment of social workers who dedicate themselves daily to improving the health, safety and well-being of individuals and families.

Speaker, I would also like to take this moment to recognize a member of my Department, Deanne O’Brien, who is the Recipient of the 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador College of Social Workers Pride in the Profession Award for her outstanding contribution to the social work profession.

I also extend my appreciation to those who work alongside social workers and support them in their work.

Speaker, I encourage Honourable Members to join me in celebrating social workers in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.