Ministerial Statement – Minister Dempster Extends Congratulations on a Successful 2023 Labrador Winter Games

March 22, 2023

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

Speaker, for the first time in four years, athletes, coaches, families and communities from across the Big Land converged on Happy Valley-Goose Bay to participate in the Labrador Winter Games.

As athletes filed into the arena for the opening ceremonies, it was evident that the passion, spirit and pride of place that marked the very first Games 40 years ago was alive and well.

It was inspiring to watch athletes compete in traditional and modern-day competitions that celebrate the culture and heritage of the Big Land. There is no event quite like the Labrador Winter Games – dogteam racing, seal kick and the snowshoe biathlon – these Games are unique.

Congratulations to the athletes, the board of directors, the event organizing committees, and more than 400 volunteers who delivered a fabulous event. A huge shout out to sponsors for their valued support.

Our Government understands the benefits of activities that promote our mental and physical wellness, and the value of preserving our heritage. We are proud to be the primary funder of the Labrador Winter Games.

Before the Premier officially closed the Games and athletes started returning home, planning for the next Games had already begun. Keep on training, Labradorians. We look forward to doing it all again in 2026.

NT5