Public recognition of an individual’s merit, or his or her contribution to our society - be it to a community, a province, or Canada - is a cherished Canadian value. The House of Assembly has established The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, and so at long last we can honour contributions to our province and her people.

The Order has been authorized by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of Canada. It is part of the Canadian honours system, which includes the Order of Canada and the Orders established by most of the other provinces, as well as the awards for gallantry and meritorious service. Its object is “to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavor benefiting in an outstanding manner the province and its residents”, to use the words of the Act passed by the House of Assembly. It will be the highest honour that can be conferred by the people of Newfoundland and Labrador upon one of our own.

The Lieutenant Governor is Chancellor of The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, just as the Governor General is Chancellor of The Order of Canada. I hold it a great privilege to be the Lieutenant Governor who will induct the first Members of the Order. These men and women will be chosen by the Advisory Council, led by the Chief Justice of Newfoundland and Labrador and including the President of Memorial University of Newfoundland, the Clerk of the Executive Council and four residents of our province. Members will be chosen from individuals nominated by people and organizations throughout the province.

Each of us can think of men and women who deserve to become Members of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. I hope all of them will be nominated, so that the Council will be able to select those most deserving of the high honour. I urge you to send in the names of those whom you consider should become Members of the Order. They deserve such recognition.

Yours Sincerely,


EDWARD ROBERTS, O.N.L., Q.C.


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