News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government officially recognized the two New Brunswick winners of the 11th annual Council of the Federation Literacy Awards today, which is International Literacy Day.

This year’s recipients from New Brunswick are Mélanie Massé and Christa Piercey.

“I congratulate these recipients for their hard work and dedication to improving literacy,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Francine Landry. “Initiatives to improve literacy in New Brunswick, including our comprehensive literacy strategy, have a positive impact upon residents of all ages.”

The awards are presented each year to educators, volunteers, learners, community organizations, non-governmental organizations and businesses in each province and territory to celebrate outstanding achievement, innovative practices and excellence in literacy.

“The emphasis on the importance of literacy needs to start at a young age, which is why we are working with daycare facilities, our public schools and other organizations to improve the language development and the reading, writing and digital technology skills of children, which will benefit them throughout their lives,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Serge Rousselle. “We recognize and appreciate the commitment of New Brunswickers to improving literacy rates throughout the province. On this International Literacy Day, I congratulate this year’s award recipients.”

The provincial government’s literacy strategy, which is in the process of being drafted, will continue to accent the work of families, public schools, community organizations and employers to improve literacy.

“On this International Literacy Day, I extend the government’s appreciation to all of those who have responded to our call for submissions and have provided input for the development of the literacy strategy,” said Landry. “Through lifelong learning, people have the opportunity to develop the necessary skills to reach their potential in the workforce and to be a part of creating thriving communities.”