Governor General Michaelle Jean visits St. George's Bay

Port au Port Peninsula, NL. Canada

Governor General Michaelle Jean makes first visit to Taqamkuk (Newfoundland)

On Monday, July 10, 2006, residents of the Port au Port Peninsula were invited to meet with her Excellency the Right Honorable Michaelle Jean, Governor General of Canada at the Scool and Community Centre in Mainland. Residents enjoyed meeting the Governor General, good food and great music.

In her speech the Governor General included: "The French heritage stands alongside that of the First Nations and the Vikings, the Portuguese fishermen and the settlers who came from the British Isles, as well as all of the other nationalities who have come here to join in our shared adventure.

"Together, you have built something unique here in Newfoundland and Labrador. And that partnership is a solid foundation to build on.

"In this new interconnected world, all peoples must work together in order to get ahead. Here in this province, there is much to be gained by Aboriginal, Francophone, Anglophone and new citizens coming together for the common good."

The Governor General, also visted De Grau harbour, local fishers and Chief Jasen benwah of the Benoit First Nation who was at the harbour. Chief Benwah volunteers his time as secretary-treasurer and administrator for the Harbour Authority of Cape St. George.

Brief discussions between the Chief and Governor General included a committment between both to keep in touch. The Governor General said she would visit again and would do anything she could to help.

The Governor General:

represents the Queen who is the Head of State
is appointed by the Queen on the advise of our Prime Minister

Photo courtesy of the Governor-General's Office

Penwa' Mawi-Amskwesewey L'nue'kati