The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Brian Warr, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:
Mr. Speaker, today I recognize five amazing people who were honoured by our government last week during the annual Seniors of Distinction Awards ceremony.
I had the pleasure of announcing the 2020 Seniors of Distinction on October 1st as part of marking National Seniors Day and the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons.
This year’s recipients are Doris Butt, Lloyd Colbourne, Rosemary Lester, Paddy McNeil and Emma Reelis.
While each of these individuals has contributed to our province in different ways and have different life experiences, they all have one thing in common; and that is, they have made a tremendous impact on their communities and the province.
The volunteer contributions of Doris Butt, of Corner Brook, span the Atlantic Provinces and include fundraising, church groups, sports teams, Girl Guides, and serving as a foster parent.
Lloyd Colbourne has served as a member of almost every committee in his home town of Robert’s Arm, including the fire department, the Economic Development Association, and the Public Library Board.
Rosemary Lester came here from the United Kingdom, and is a committed volunteer in the area of health care and seniors’ well-being, dedicating years to improving the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Paddy McNeil of Pasadena is a retired RCMP officer and life-long volunteer, who started the ‘Paddy’s Wagon Food Bank Pickup’ during COVID-19, as well as a group that helps people of all ages learn to play the guitar.
Emma Reelis is an Inuit Elder from Nain, who works at all levels of society to contribute to the cultural, health and well-being of the Indigenous communities in the province. We were honoured that Emma offered an opening prayer at last week’s award ceremony.
Mr. Speaker, I invite all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to join me in congratulating the 2020 Seniors of Distinction.
Thank you.