June 29 to July 5, 2024
Governor General Mary Simon and Mr. Whit Fraser undertook an official visit to Newfoundland and Labrador.
This visit marks the Governor General's first official trip to the province and is an opportunity to learn about Newfoundland and Labrador's rich history and vibrant culture.
June 30, 2024
The Governor General was greeted by provincial dignitaries including Her Honour the Honourable Joan Marie J. Aylward, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Governor General also inspected a guard of honour.
The Governor General then paid her respects to the unknown soldier during the lying-in-state. She also served meals at The Gathering Place, a community health centre that helps people in need by providing food, clothes, medical and dental care, and support.
She held meetings with Chief Brad Benoit of Miawpukek Mi’kamawey Mawi’omi First Nation, and with Interim Chief, Western Vice-Chief, Jennifer Brake of Qalipu First Nation.
In the evening, the Governor General attended and provided remarks at the annual Beaumont-Hamel Commemorative Dinner.
July 1, 2024
The Governor General participated in a special ceremony marking 100 years since the National War Memorial was built.
In the afternoon, the Governor General celebrated Canada Day with the residents of Alderwood Estates and their families. The residents showcased their talents such as singing and dancing.
July 2, 2024
The Governor General was invested as honorary chief commissioner of the CCG. Established in 1976, this role involves the Governor General participating in national ceremonies and events to promote the CCG's work in saving lives and protecting the marine environment.
The Governor General then participated in a mental health and wellness workshop, and engaged with Lifewise members and staff to learn about their experiences and the positive impact the organization has had on them.
The Governor General hosted a Learning and Listening Mental Health Roundtable Discussion. This discussion brought together people with lived experiences, health professionals and experts so that their best practices and knowledge may inspire programming elsewhere in Canada.
In the evening, the Governor General attended and delivered remarks at a reception hosted by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. During this reception, the Governor General presented national honours to remarkable Canadians who have made significant contributions to Canada.
See the list of recipients that received their honours during this special ceremony.
July 3, 2024
Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador
The Governor General visited the Opioid Dependence Treatment Hub (ODT Hub) to learn about the services and support provided to individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and their families.
She held meetings with Johannes Lampe of Nunatsiavut Government and Grand Chief Simon Pokue of Innu Nation.
The Governor General also visited the Memorial University’s Pye Centre, a hub for community-led and northern-focused food systems research, education, community connections, production and distribution in the region.
July 4, 2024
The Governor General met with Innu youth and Guardians. During her visit to Akamiu-Uapishkᵘ−KakKasuak−Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve, the Governor General met with Innu youth currently on an expedition that provides exposure to marine science for the management of Innu Nation’s waters.
She also met with Todd Russell of NunatuKavut Community Council.
Gander, Newfoundland
Following a preview performance of the musical Come From Away, the Governor General met with the cast and crew—as well as with some of the actual people who inspired the characters—to celebrate Canadian artistic achievement.
July 5, 2024
The Governor General met with members of the Canadian Armed Forces at 9 Wing Gander. During her visit, the Governor General also learned about the search and rescue services that 9 Wing provides throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as north-eastern Quebec.
