News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

   

 

Andersen wants funding for Labrador auditorium

Students want commitment before summer break

June 2, 2005

Wally Andersen, Opposition Labrador Affairs, Transportation and Works Critic and MHA for the District of Torngat Mountains, is calling on Premier Danny Williams to step in on behalf of students in Labrador and announce funding for construction of the Mealy Mountain Auditorium in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

"The students of Labrador have been waiting far too long for government to announce funding for this project," said Andersen. "Funding had been committed in 2003 by the Liberal government, then the project was deferred by the Williams government last year. Government should be committed to this project because it is the right thing to do for the residents of Labrador.

"Another school year will end later this month and the government should now do the right thing and announce a starting date for this project before the students go home for the summer. Students all across Labrador will use this facility to preserve and enhance their unique culture. I have always held a special place in my heart for the children of Labrador and I firmly believe that this is a small amount of money that will have a tremendous impact on Labrador youth."

The proposed Mealy Mountain Auditorium is a 350 seat facility that would replace the previous theatre that was housed in the old Goose High School that closed in 2003. Labrador is currently without a performing arts theatre to accommodate events such as the annual Creative Arts Festival that allows youth from across Labrador to converge in one location for display of culture and performing arts.

 

Media Contact:
Jeff Mackey
Caucus Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6427