The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation promotes and supports physical activity and the recreation and sport delivery system through its Recreation and Sport Division. One of the main functions of the division is to oversee the implementation of Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador: A Recreation and Sport Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador(2007)
Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador: A Recreation and Sport Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador
VISION
A vibrant and active population safely participating in physical activity, recreation and sport at all levels for quality of life, improved health, enhanced social interaction, personal fulfillment and excellence, all within a system that is safe, equitable, ethical, and accountable.
VALUES
SAFE – In a safe recreation and sport system, the physical and psychological well-being of all participants is of the highest importance, allowing all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to safely participate in the recreation and sport activities of their choice at the level of their aspiration.
EQUITABLE – In an equitable recreation and sport system, all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have access to a diverse range of recreation and sport opportunities regardless of age, gender, cultural background, economic or social circumstance, physical ability, or place of residence within the province.
ETHICAL – In an ethical recreation and sport system, all participants work to uphold the highest levels of personal and social conduct, and ensure, individually and collectively, that all participants are treated with dignity and respect.
ACCOUNTABLE – In an accountable recreation and sport system, individual, groups, and organizations are all recognized as being responsible for their actions and their roles within that system, and are required to act within and according to established principles, guidelines, standards, and best practices.
KEY DIRECTIONS
- Increase participation in recreation and sport and physical activity
- Encourage and support communities and organizations to improve access to recreation and sport by overcoming barriers to participation
- Strengthen public sector support, especially by developing physical and human resources in order to expand and improve the recreation and sport experience of the province’s citizens with special attention to Aboriginal groups, women, seniors, youth and persons with disabilities
- Reach the potential of our citizens through enhanced excellence
- Build human resource capacity by strengthening the volunteer sector and identifying opportunities for cooperation and collaboration in recreation and sport
- Support infrastructure capacity.
Additional Policy Documents
Canadian Sport Policy 2025-2035
The Canadian Sport Policy 202
5–2035 provides a national framework to guide the development of sport across Canada. Rooted in broad public engagement, the policy promotes inclusive, safe, and meaningful participation for all, regardless of role or background. It emphasizes people-centered sport environments that reflect shared values and supports individual and community well-being. The policy calls on governments, institutions, and organizations to collaborate toward a unified vision that respects diversity and fosters growth through sport.
Download the Canadian Sport Policy (2025-2035).
Framework for Recreation in Canada (2015)
A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015 – Pathways to Wellbeing provides a new vision for recreation and identifies common ways of thinking about the role of recreation in Canadian life, based on clear goals and underlying values and principles. The Framework has been endorsed by the Government of Canada, Provincial and Territorial Ministers, the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association, Provincial and Territorial Parks and Recreation Associations and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
The principle purpose of the Framework is to guide and stimulate coordinated policies and practices in recreation that aim to improve the wellbeing of individuals, communities, and the built and natural environment.
Download the Framework for Recreation in Canada document here: Pathways to WellbeingOpens in new window
A Common Vision for Increasing Physical Activity and Reducing Sedentary Living In Canada: Let’s Get Moving! (2018)
On May 31, 2018, Federal, Provincial and Territorial Governments released the first policy document on physical activity called “A Common Vision for Increasing Physical Activity and Reducing Sedentary Living in Canada- Let’s Get Moving!” (Common Vision).
The Common Vision aligns with and supports the goals and objectives of existing policies, strategies and frameworks in Canada including the Canadian Sport Policy (2012), Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Well-being, Active Canada 20/20: A Physical Activity Strategy and Change Agenda for Canada (2012), amongst others.
Within the Common Vision there are six areas of focus that were identified to assist in providing directions and examples on how organizations, communities and government can activate each area. These six areas include cultural norms, spaces and places, public engagement, partnerships, leadership and learning and progress.
Download the Common Vision documents here: Lets Get Moving
Recreation and Sport Organizations
Contact
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