The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Andrea Barbour, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation:

Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an incredible showing by Newfoundland and Labrador talent at the 38th East Coast Music Awards in Sydney, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.

This prestigious event, which runs from May 20 to 24, brings together artists, industry professionals and fans featuring live performances and awards that celebrate the sounds of Atlantic Canada.

Speaker, we have 36 nominees from Newfoundland and Labrador across a wide range of music and industry categories.

Artists from this province are excelling locally, nationally and globally, and we are committed to creating an environment where they continue to succeed and thrive.

Our government is strengthening the cultural, arts and heritage sectors, supporting economic development, community vitality, and professional growth across the province – for all of us.

But most importantly, Speaker, we celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador’s cultural sector and its many social and economic contributions.

To the nominees from this province – we’ll be cheering you on at home as you showcase the incredible talent, dedication and creativity thriving in our arts and cultural community.

Good luck to you all.

Thank you.