In February, the provincial Physical Activity Strategy was launched at the E. & P. Sénéchal Center in Grand Falls, marking a significant step toward enhancing public health and wellness across New Brunswick. The two-day conference featured the official launch, the Right to Play Forum, and the Active Transportation Symposium, bringing together diverse voices from across the province.
Key stakeholders, including government officials, health authorities, educators, and community leaders, shared insights on policy recommendations and community engagement strategies. Dr. Julie Castonguay, Chair of the Advocacy & Engagement Committee, represented the New Brunswick Medical Society (NBMS) as a featured partner during the provincial launch. She presented a physician perspective on the health impacts of inactivity and the importance of prevention. Dr. Castonguay highlighted the role of New Brunswick physicians in reinforcing positive messages about the value of movement and praised the strategy’s focus on health literacy and supportive environments.
Session Highlights
Right to Play Forum: Keynotes from Kelly Lamrock, Child & Youth Advocate, and Louise de Lannoy, Outdoor Play Canada, framed discussions on children’s opportunities for play in the context of evolving safety standards, digital life, community design, and broader social and economic conditions. Participants shared experiences and explored strategies to expand access to play.
Provincial Physical Activity Strategy Launch: Presentations by Isabelle Thériault, Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, and Rob McKee, Minister of Justice, Attorney General, and Minister responsible for Addictions and Mental Health Services, introduced the strategy and action plan. Attendees had opportunities to participate in discussions on key priorities, emerging initiatives, and next steps to strengthen environments supportive of physical activity.
Active Transportation Symposium: Dr. Trevor Hanson, Chair of the Active Transportation Advisory Committee, presented draft recommendations for a provincial Active Transportation Plan. Participants collaborated to validate recommendations and explore tangible actions to support safer, more connected, and active communities.
The Grand Falls conference underscored the need for collaborative efforts to implement the Physical Activity Strategy, urging stakeholders to commit to actionable steps toward a healthier, more active New Brunswick. Moving forward, the NBMS will focus on providing support for the strategy’s recommendations.
Jess Ramirez, Health Promotion & Advocacy Specialist
