The following statement was read today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak in this Honourable House today to recognize April 18 to 24 as National Volunteer Week.

This year’s theme – ‘The value of one. The power of many’- reflects the inspiring acts of kindness by each individual volunteer throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and the impact they have when working together toward a common goal.

Mr. Speaker, I have seen how volunteers make a difference in our province, especially during this past year as we have faced the challenges of COVID-19.

The individual and collective efforts they have put forth during the pandemic are phenomenal and I commend all of them for the outstanding contributions they continue to make for the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Volunteering also enriches our lives by helping us connect with and learn from others, leading to personal and professional growth.

I would like to thank The Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador, who have been fostering volunteerism and cultivating leadership since 1976.

Their vision is for an inclusive society which supports individuals, families and communities, and our government shares this vision wholeheartedly.

On Tuesday, the Premier and the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Community Sector signed a proclamation to recognize this week, and the incredible volunteers who make our province strong and vibrant.

I invite all members of this House to join me in celebrating our province’s volunteers.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.