This is Co-Op Week in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada.

The week is singled out to reflect on the contributions the co-operative sector has made to the lives of Canadians, and celebrate the impact that co-operatives have in communities.

Industry Minister Andrew Parsons joined staff with the province’s federation of co-operatives for a proclamation signing at Confederation Building this morning.

Parsons noted co-operative enterprises benefit communities by instilling local resilience and participation, as well as more local spending, creativity and development.

Shannon Fraser, the Vice-President of the Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives, says a number of events are planned to mark the week, including an especially relevant housing forum tonight.

The Co-operative Housing Association of Newfoundland & Labrador is co-hosting tonight’s housing forum in Mount Pearl.

It’s set for 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Primary on Ashford Drive.