Government of Newfoundland News

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has been recognized for its efforts to achieve and maintain environmentally responsible forest management standards. For the 10th consecutive year, forestry operations administered by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture have maintained International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification, keeping Newfoundland and Labrador on the leading edge of responsible forest management.

In a recent audit performed by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP under the ISO14001:2015 environmental management system standard, the province’s Crown forest operations have been recertified until 2027, subject to annual surveillance audits.

ISO14001:2015 certification is an environmental management standard used in all industry sectors to demonstrate commitment to environmental protection and to assure public confidence in management activities. In order to maintain registration, the department must demonstrate continuous improvement in implementing its Environmental Management System and ensure that all Crown forest land operators continue to operate within system guidelines.

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“Our professional team of foresters, forest technicians and conservation officers are marking a decade of excellence in managing Newfoundland and Labrador’s forests to international standards. The achievement of this internationally recognized standard demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to ensuring that the forestry industry in Newfoundland and Labrador remains vibrant for years to come.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Environmental Management System (EMS)

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Newfoundland and Labrador has concluded a successful energy mission with a delegation from Belgium. The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Andrew Minister Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, hosted the delegation, which was headed by H.E. Patrick Van Gheel, the Ambassador of Belgium to Canada.

The mission took place September 26-27, 2024, and included representation from the Belgian Hydrogen Council as well as hydrogen companies and service providers in the energy industry.

The goals of the delegation were to strengthen ties between the province and Belgium relating to hydrogen production and the export of hydrogen to Europe via Belgium’s ports, and to identify common ground for future collaboration in wind energy.

The delegation’s visit provided the province an opportunity to showcase Newfoundland and Labrador’s strategic advantages in the development of wind energy and the production of green hydrogen. The visit also provided valuable opportunities for Belgian companies to make direct connections with stakeholders in the wind and hydrogen industry in the province.

Yesterday, following a meeting with Tom Hautekiet, Chief Business Development and Transition Officer with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and President of the Belgian Hydrogen Council, Minister Parsons signed a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium. This agreement will further enhance cooperation and assist in establishing a green shipping corridor to connect our Canadian renewable energy supply with European demand.

Also, during the visit, Brussels-based consultancy firm Hinicio made an announcement related to their pre-certification program, CertifHy. In 2024, Hinicio launched the CertifHy pilot project to run pre-certification for production of renewable fuels of non-biological origin for the Belgian market. The pre-certification acts as a dry run for full commercial production certification and approval means that fuel produced is essentially ready to receive full certification to ship to Belgium.

Four Canadian developers have applied for pre-certification through CertifHy with two developers in this province, Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation (EVREC) and World Energy GH2, receiving this designation, a vital step towards export of hydrogen into the European market.

Belgium is aiming to become one of Europe’s main import and transit hubs of renewable hydrogen, and one of Canada’s closest markets and partners. Belgium’s hydrogen ecosystem has developed expertise across the value chain, including in the development and production of innovative solutions for electrolysers, network infrastructure development, transport of ammonia or complex project engineering.

Quotes
“Positioning Newfoundland and Labrador as a global supplier of clean energy and supporting the growth of the green hydrogen sector have been strategic priorities for our government. I would like to thank Ambassador Gheel and the Belgian delegation for their partnership and recognizing the important role Newfoundland and Labrador can play in meeting the growing demand for green hydrogen to help the world transition to a clean energy future.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“I was pleased to welcome Ambassador Gheel and the Belgian delegation to Newfoundland and Labrador. Our jurisdictions are forging strong ties to foster successful renewable energy projects. Newfoundland and Labrador is of global interest for its potential as a renewable energy hub to meet world demand for green energy. The MOU provides great opportunities for both jurisdictions and will help maximize the province’s economic potential for the benefit of all residents.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Port of Antwerp-Bruges

Renewable Energy Plan

Hydrogen Development Action Plan

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will present the annual Seniors of Distinction Awards on Tuesday, October 1.

The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Emera Innovation Exchange, 100 Signal Hill Road, St. John’s.

This event will be streamed live on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Youtube.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will bring remarks at an unveiling ceremony taking place Monday, Sept. 30, at 2 p.m. at Blueberry Hill, Kings Road, Botwood.

The Premier will be joined by the Honourable Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, and the Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly.

Baetha (Going Home), features the unveiling of a bronze sculpture of a Beothuk woman, Demasduit, her husband, Nonosabasut, and their infant child. The ceremony commemorates the 200th anniversary of the death of Demasduit. It is open to the public.

Sept. 30 is observed as a Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada.

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In recognition of Well-Being Week, the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, is profiling the first cohort of the new Working Opportunities Program. The program enables eligible individuals with barriers to workforce participation and formal post-secondary education to retrain and upskill, creating more stable employment and improving their well-being.

Studies have begun for the inaugural group of the Working Opportunities Program; 44 individuals including single parents striving to enhance their skills for higher-paying jobs, individuals seeking to overcome the barriers of poverty, and newcomers pursuing training to better integrate into the Newfoundland and Labrador workforce.

The diverse group of participants highlights the program’s commitment to removing barriers, providing stronger opportunities for success, and making meaningful contributions to our communities.

Working Opportunities is a $3.5 million program that supports the Provincial Government’s Poverty Reduction Plan by supporting people eligible to attend post-secondary schooling that will lead to employment, including funding for a living allowance, child care, and costs of training. Participants will attend full-time post-secondary programs that are a minimum of 12 weeks and a maximum of three years in duration at a public or private training institution in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Applications continue to be accepted for the next group of the Working Opportunities Program. For more information visit one of our 19 Employment Centres throughout Newfoundland and Labrador https://www.gov.nl.ca/ipgs/department/contact-emp/.

Quotes
“I am pleased to highlight the inaugural group of the Working Opportunities Program during Well-Being Week. The program will help to remove educational barriers for individuals who could not avail of other training programs to obtain the skills and education to secure meaningful long-term-employment. This will contribute to each participant’s overall health including physical, mental, social, economic and environmental well-being.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“Congratulations and best wishes for success to the inaugural group of the Working Opportunities Program. This program removes barriers to training and education needed to secure meaningful long-term-employment. This meets the goals of our Poverty Reduction Plan by empowering people to meet their employment goals and improve their income.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will participate in a proclamation signing hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

The event takes place at the Foster Families Newfoundland and Labrador office, Suite 211, 90 O’Leary Avenue, St. John’s, starting at 9:00 a.m.

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A person’s well-being starts at home, and access to safe and affordable housing is a critical element of improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

As part of its commitment to improving access to affordable housing and housing that is affordable, in October 2023 the Provincial Government introduced a Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing that is Affordable. Driven by a record provincial investment in Budget 2024, the Provincial Government has seen significant progress in supporting first-time homebuyers, while setting the foundation for significant growth in affordable rental housing.

Progress in the first 11 months of the Five-Point Plan includes:

• 193 individuals or families approved under the First-Time Homebuyers Program, with 132 families purchasing their homes to date.
• 11 projects approved under the Rental Housing Development Loan Program, which will result in the creation of an estimated 450 new rental units.
• Five projects conditionally approved to develop affordable rental housing projects on government-owned land in St. John’s, which will result in the creation of an estimated 300 new rental units.
• 29 homeowners approved to develop affordable secondary or basement suites in their homes with a five-year forgivable loan to a maximum of $40,000.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, provided the update today. The minister was joined by Derek Brown, Board Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association, and Alexis Foster, Executive Officer of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Newfoundland and Labrador.

Also included in the Five-Point Plan is the removal of the provincial portion of the HST on new purpose-built rental housing. This includes a 100 per cent rebate on the provincial portion of the HST for larger scale projects with multiple units (minimum of four private units or 10 private rooms with shared amenities), and a 36 per cent rebate on the provincial portion of the HST on projects that do not qualify for the 100 per cent rebate. The deadline for applications is up to two years after project completion, with retroactive reimbursement to September 13, 2023. It is expected that there will be applications in 2025 and beyond as projects currently underway are completed.

The Provincial Government expects further progress in the second-year of the plan implementation, as recent developments at the municipal and federal levels should lead to increased housing development. The City of St. John’s, City of Mount Pearl and Town of Grand-Falls Windsor have all introduced secondary suite programs that can be combined with the provincial Secondary and Basement Suites Program, further decreasing the homebuyer’s personal investment.

At the same time, the Provincial Government continues to work with the Federal Government to identify opportunities under Canada’s Housing Plan, first announced in May 2024, that reflect the realities of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Five-Point Plan is just one part of the Provincial Government’s efforts to increase housing availability in Newfoundland and Labrador. Through the Affordable Rental Housing program, the Provincial Government is investing over $80 million in projects that will construct approximately 900 new affordable rental homes throughout the province. In Budget 2024, the Provincial Government announced the construction of over 100 new social housing units in Corner Brook, Central Newfoundland and Labrador West. These new builds are in addition to ongoing construction of 16 homes in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and 32 homes in the Pleasantville area of St. John’s, with a further 40-unit apartment complex set to begin construction in 2025.

From January to June 2024, housing starts in the province totaled 672 units, up 106.8 per cent (or 347 units) compared to the corresponding period in 2023.

Quotes
“Well-being starts at home. Having a safe, affordable place to call home is critical for mental and physical health. We know that those whose homes that aren’t affordable – or those without a home at all – face significant challenges without this foundation. Our Five-Point Plan has seen early success in helping families purchase their first home, and we expect significant affordable rental housing development as a result of our investments in the years to come.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

“The NL Construction Association is excited to see the Provincial Government provide funding, loans and land to facilitate development of hundreds of new affordable rental units in this province. Our membership looks forward to continued collaboration with the Provincial Government, as well as municipal governments in moving these projects forward to completion and getting more people in homes.”
Derek Brown
Board Chair, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association

“CHBA-NL is pleased to see the positive impact of the Provincial Five-Point Plan on affordable housing in Newfoundland and Labrador. We commend the government for valuing feedback and making necessary adjustments to the programs. We are optimistic that these changes will inspire further housing developments, ensuring more Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have access to safe and affordable homes.”
Alexis Foster
Executive Officer, Canadian Home Builders’ Association Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more
Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable

Proposals Invited for Development of Land for Rental Housing That is Affordable

Provincial Government Announces Program to Help Support Residential Rental Housing Development 

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A contract totaling approximately $370,000 has been awarded to JCL Investments Inc. for brush clearing for the upcoming additional passing lane project in the Port aux Basques area of the province.

The scope of work includes clearing along the Trans-Canada Highway from Campbell’s Brook to Port aux Basques. The brush clearing will encompass the entire right-of-way on both sides of this section of highway, in addition to the areas where the passing lane will be constructed.

In May 2023, the Provincial Government announced funding of $20 million for an additional 15 kilometres of passing lane to allow for a continuous passing lane for the first 30 kilometres leaving Port aux Basques. When constructed, this will allow vehicles, including commercial vehicles, to flow more efficiently during peak periods of ferry traffic and contribute to overall safety.

Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Quotes
“The brush clearing effort in this area is one important step in preparing for the upcoming additional passing lane project that will facilitate traffic flow coming from the ferry terminal in Port aux Basques. Safety is paramount for our government, and projects like this one will help ensure both a safer and more efficient travel time for the motoring public.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Rural Economic Development

“As the main entry into the province for vehicular traffic, the importance of road improvements in this area cannot be overstated. This investment by our government will result in enhancements to this stretch of road, ensuring efficient and safe driving conditions for residents and visitors to the province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
MHA for Burgeo-La Poile

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will both participate in techNL’s Innovation Week 2024 conference next week (Tuesday, October 1).

Premier Furey will take part in a podcast taping beginning at 9:00 a.m. Minister Parsons will deliver remarks at 12:40 p.m. Both engagements will take place at St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s.

Innovation Week 2024 is being held from October 1-3. It is Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest annual tech conference, bringing together the province’s business community, youth and public and private partners for a series of events which raise awareness, create connections, showcase startup entrepreneurship and create a foundation for a strong tech sector ecosystem within the province.

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Employers in Newfoundland and Labrador now have access to a new resource for empowering employees to increase physical activity in the workplace. The toolkit aims to reduce sedentary behavior to enhance overall physical, mental, social and emotional health and well-being.

Through a partnership with ParticipACTION, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is launching the Active at Work Toolkit. The toolkit is designed to equip employers with information to encourage their employees to move more during the workday and establish healthy habits to improve their overall health.

Simple steps such as stretching or standing during conference calls, engaging in walking meetings, or encouraging employees to take the stairs instead of the elevator can lead many benefits. With these small changes, employees will experience increased productivity, more meaningful employee interactions, lower injury rates, and reduced absenteeism in the workplace.

The Active at Work Toolkit includes resources such as an employee handout, a PowerPoint template, a Climb to Well-Being tool to encourage stair usage, posters and a variety of other materials, such as the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines and movement videos that can be used to break up sedentary behaviour.

The Active at Work team toolkit can be accessed here.

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“Encouraging physical activity in the workplace is crucial for promoting a healthy lifestyle and supporting employees’ mental well-being. This Active at Work Toolkit empowers organizations to foster a culture of health and well-being among their teams. By providing a comprehensive toolkit, employers can easily access a range of resources to inspire their employees to integrate movement into their daily routines.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The Active at Work Toolkit is designed to encourage employees to integrate movement into their daily routines, significantly enhancing their overall health and well-being. Resources like these create supportive environments within workplaces that recognize the importance of physical activity, especially considering how much time we spend at work. Supporting employees to prioritize their health and well-being not only boosts morale and productivity but also fosters a healthier, more engaged workforce.”
Dr. Pat Parfrey
Deputy Minister of Health Transformation

“Reducing barriers and providing the right tools and resources can be instrumental in helping people live a healthy, active lifestyle,” said Elio Antunes, President and CEO of ParticipACTION. “We are pleased to be working with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to make physical activity more accessible and a vital part of everyday life for everyone.”
Elio Antunes
President and CEO of ParticipACTION

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Active at Work Toolkit 

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will be participating in the 22nd Annual Newfoundland and Labrador Police and Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony and Parade, on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

The ceremony will be held at the Memorial Monument Site outside of the Confederation Building East Block, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Later that evening, Minister Davis will be speaking at the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services convention in Clarenville. Minister Davis will address the delegation at approximately 6:00 p.m.

The event is being held at the Eastlink Events Centre, 15 Blackmore Avenue, Clarenville.

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The Provincial Government is calling on all residents to test home smoke alarms on Saturday, September 28, for national Test Your Smoke Alarm Day.

In the event of a fire, the best chance to keep you and your family safe is with a working smoke alarm, and to be “Saved by the Beep”.

“Saved by the Beep” is a national call to action to ensure all smoke alarms in your home are in good working order. In Newfoundland and Labrador, smoke alarms are required to be installed in every room of a residence, including cabins, cottages, RVs, trailers and vacation homes.

Last year, there were approximately 742 reported fire-related incidents in the province, including residential structure fires and electrical fires, with five fire-related deaths.

Test Your Smoke Alarm Day is also a good opportunity to test carbon monoxide detectors. These alarms are designed to alert you of any build-up of carbon monoxide in your home or dwelling.

Contact your local fire department for help or advice with your smoke alarm. To help educate children regarding the importance of a working smoke alarm, and other fire safety tips, visit Sparky the Fire Dog at www.sparky.org for videos, games and other fun activities.

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The Resource Enforcement Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is seeking information related to a moose poaching incident near the Codroy Pond area in Western Newfoundland.

Officers responded to a complaint from the public about a dead bull moose approximately two kilometers east of Codroy Pond near the Trans-Canada Highway.  The moose had been shot and left, and likely killed on Monday, September 23, 2024.

Officers continue to seek information about two other recent poaching incidents in the area. An illegally harvested moose is believed to have been shot on the roadway in the St. David’s area on the morning of September 18. A dead bull moose, likely killed during the period from September 14-16, was shot and left approximately six kilometres in the Black Duck Siding Resource Road.

Anyone who may have additional information about these incidents or witnessed suspicious activity in the area is encouraged to contact the Resource Enforcement Division, Stephenville Detachment, at 709-643-3143.

The public can also report anonymously by calling 1-877-820-0999 or contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, will provide a progress update on the first year of the Five-Point Housing Plan tomorrow (Friday, September 27).

The event will take place at the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association Offices, located at 397 Stavanger Drive, Suite 202, at 11:00 a.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 10:30 a.m.

Minister Abbott will be joined at the update by Derek Brown, Board Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association and Alexis Foster, Executive Officer of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Department of Education is clarifying the Student Supervision Policy, particularly in relation to school athletics.

The department is assuring all school communities in Newfoundland and Labrador that there have been no recent changes to this policy.

Schools should continue to work within this policy to meet their needs as they have done every other year. As the policy states, a teacher sponsor is preferred but, when one is not available, a lead volunteer can be appointed by the school administrator. To emphasize, this practice is unchanged.

The Department of Education greatly values the role of school sports and all extracurricular activities within the system and is committed to working with all schools to enhance student participation. The department extends gratitude to the educators and volunteers who generously give their time to support these activities.

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The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development, will make an announcement related to physical activity on Friday, September 27.

The event will take place at 10:00 a.m. in the East Block Lobby of Confederation Building.

Minister Hutton will be joined at the announcement by Dr. Pat Parfrey, Deputy Minister of Health Transformation, Jon Malton, Director of Partnerships, ParticipACTION, and Carla Sullivan, Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador.

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September 30 is being observed as a Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Newfoundland and Labrador to honour survivors and raise awareness about the terrible legacy of residential schools in Canada, including this province.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to take the time to learn about residential schools and reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous Peoples. Many Indigenous Governments and Organizations are planning ceremonies and events to commemorate this day.

The day is also observed as Orange Shirt Day. Residents are invited to wear orange on this day and any day of the year. Wearing orange honours the children who attended residential schools and recognizes the traumatic experience of Phyllis Webstad, who had her new orange shirt taken away from her on the first day she attended a residential school.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador delivered apologies on behalf of people of the province to members of NunatuKavut who attended residential schools and to survivors of Labrador Inuit residential schools. These events took place on September 29, 2023, in Cartwright, and November 1-3. 2023, in Nunatsiavut and Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

Confederation Building will be lit in orange on the evening of September 30 to commemorate all those affected by residential schools. Flags at all provincial buildings will be flown at half-mast in memory of the children who never returned home. The Survivor’s Flag for the Day for Truth and Reconciliation will be flown on the courtesy pole at Confederation Building.

Government offices, schools and other entities will be closed on September 30 as the provincial public service joins Canadians in commemorating survivors and stand with families and communities who are grieving.

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“September 30 is a day to remember and honour the survivors, families and communities of the residential school system. We all bear a responsibility to educate ourselves about the hardships experienced by children while attending residential schools. As a government, we have pledged to shape a future with Indigenous Peoples that is founded on respect, cooperation, partnership and trust.”
Honourable Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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Learn more
Premier Furey Delivering Apologies to Residential Schools Survivors in Nunatsiavut and Happy Valley-Goose Bay

Premier Furey Delivers Apology to Former Students of the Residential School System in NunatuKavut

Orange Shirt Day

Indigenous Governments and Organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador

Federal Government Statutory Holiday

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in collaboration with the Registered Nurses’ Union of Newfoundland and Labrador and NL Health Services, has launched an online survey to gather feedback from nurse practitioners working in the province’s health system. A survey for nurse practitioner students is also being launched.

The results of the surveys will inform recommendations to improve career opportunities for nurse practitioners in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Nurse practitioners and students will be asked questions related to:

• Improving access to health services
• Reporting structures
• Enabling opportunities for nurse practitioners to develop additional competencies
• Enhancing opportunities for leadership and autonomy

The surveys will be available to complete via survey links that will be sent by the Registered Nurses Union to its members.

These surveys complement other collaborations between the Provincial Government and the Registered Nurses’ Union including the collective agreement signed last year, as well as initiatives that arose from the 2022 Nursing Think Tank such as self-scheduling and childcare for health care workers.
Quotes
“Our government looks forward to working with our valued nurse practitioners to improve their scope of practice and opportunities for leadership and autonomy in the public system. Expanded opportunities will help with retention, which will increase access to health care for residents.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Our nurse practitioners are instrumental to the long-term sustainable success of our public health care system. We have been advocating for solutions such as nurse practitioner-led clinics to improve access to primary health care, expanding the nursing travel locum province-wide, and recognition of the work and expertise of our nurse practitioners in the delivery of life improving health care through a fair and equitable job evaluation process. This survey is an important step in that process and provides our nurse practitioners with direct input into this process. I encourage all nurse practitioners in our public health care system to complete the survey.”
Yvette Coffey, RN
President, Registered Nurses’ Union of Newfoundland and Labrador

“NL Health Services is always looking for ways to improve the work experience of our health care staff. Through the retention task force, we are working closely with our staff to ensure meaningful and lasting improvements that make a real difference in their work. The surveys provide a valuable opportunity for nurse practitioners to share their insights and ensure their voices are included in the discussion. The information gathered will be critical in shaping improvements that directly impact their daily work.”
Debbie Molloy
Vice President – Human Resources, NL Health Services.

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Learn more
Recruitment and Retention Incentives Available for Retired Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners

Provincial Government and Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador Sign Collective Agreement

Work in Health NL

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As the Provincial Government continues to reflect on the social, economic and health impacts of well-being this week, it is important to consider the link between climate change and our peace of mind. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians know that the impacts of climate change are costly – not just for the environment, but for their pocketbooks.

Today, the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, reminds residents of the programs in place to assist with creating a greener community while prioritizing affordability:

• The Oil to Electric Incentive Program
• The Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are benefiting from these programs. Since 2021, over 3,600 homeowners have switched from oil to electric heat through the oil to electric incentive program. Over 90 per cent of the electricity in Newfoundland and Labrador comes from clean, renewable sources. By switching to an electric heat source, homeowners support a greener future for our province. Prioritizing affordability while preparing for the impacts of climate change ensures a strong economy and clean air for our communities.

Electric vehicle sales have achieved over a 1,000 per cent growth since 2018, averaging two new electric vehicles on the road each day. Since 2021, over 1,650 electric vehicle purchases have been approved for the rebate. To support the growth of electric vehicles on our province’s roads and highways, ongoing investments are being made to expand fast charging infrastructure. The provincial government has invested $3.2 million toward a total project cost of about $10 million to date, with more chargers planned for implementation.

As well, as part of well-being week, Minister Dempster took time today to meet with environmental science students at Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus for a round-table discussion on the links between the environment and well-being. Students were encouraged to share their thoughts on how policy and science can work to create stronger, greener communities in the future.

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“I am thankful for the insights shared with me today by our province’s future environmental leaders and policy makers. While today government is focusing on how current programs offer residents the ways and means to make small changes towards a greener community, the fight against climate change will continue, as will programs to assist in building a more sustainable future. As we think about well-being, I encourage all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to consider availing of these programs.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

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The Oil to Electric Incentive Program

The Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

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As part of continued efforts to support teaching professionals to enhance math education for students in Newfoundland and Labrador, applications are now being accepted from K-12 teachers to participate in the Supporting Teachers/Educators in Lifelong Learning and Reflection (STELLAR) Program.

The STELLAR Program is designed to be a flexible model to promote professional learning opportunities in mathematics education. It is intended to support educators who identify mathematics pedagogy or content as a professional learning priority, need, or interest.

There are five funding routes available through the STELLAR Program:

• Availing of a K-12 mathematics bursary
• Engaging in self-directed learning
• Establishing a professional learning community
• Participating in a mentorship program
• Attending an institute or conference

Applications for STELLAR routes are accepted throughout the year except for the month of March. Applications must be submitted at least one month (by date) in advance of projected start dates.

The Provincial Government is taking action to improve the educational experience of students in the K-12 public education system, which includes promoting the STELLAR Program that promotes professional learning opportunities for educators in mathematics education.

Further actions include Education Accord NL, which will reimagine and transform the education system and support better outcomes for students and learners, and recently announced curriculum renewal, new evaluation framework for high school students,  and increased math specialists to support teachers and students.

Quote
“The STELLAR Program is an excellent opportunity for teachers and educators to expand their professional learning in mathematics. As we move forward with a focus on improving outcomes for our students in math, providing this program for educators is vital to their skill development as they prepare students to consider future options following their academic learning. I encourage those in mathematics education to get involved in this opportunity where possible. I thank all educators for their continued commitment to advancing their skill, knowledge and professionalism.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Learn more
Provincial Government Continues Work on Curriculum Renewal for K-12 Public Education System

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Provincial Advisory Council on Education Regulations Now in Force

Newfoundland and Labrador Studies Course to Become Graduation Requirement for High School Students

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