Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable P.J. Akeeagok, Premier of Nunavut, will sign a Memorandum of Understanding tomorrow (Wednesday, February 8) in Ottawa.

The announcement and signing ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (12:00 p.m. AST, 12:30 p.m. NST) at the Shaw Centre, 55 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario.

Joining the Premiers as signatories to the MOU are the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Pamela Hakongak Gross, Deputy Premier, Government of Nunavut. Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville will also be in attendance.

Interested media are advised to contact Allan Bock (allanbock@gov.nl.ca) to receive further information about the announcement and signing ceremony.

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The third session of the Premier’s Roundtable on Gender Equity was held today (Monday, February 6) with close to 60 people in attendance. Participants included representatives from across government, Indigenous Governments and Organizations, political parties, leaders from community-based agencies, experiential experts, and advocates in the areas of gender equity and social justice.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, opened the day alongside Indigenous leaders and Elders. The session began with an opening ceremony that included smudging and lighting of the Kullik, with throat singing and drum dancing shared at the end of the day.

This session focused on the topics of integrational well-being and care work; access to health and culture; and taking action towards gender equity and well-being. These topics highlight the impact of social determinants of health on the overall wellness of individuals.

The Premier’s Roundtable on Gender Equity was created as a dedicated space to identify ways to further advance gender equity in the province. It is an opportunity for participants to help shape solutions that foster inclusion and respect in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Information and knowledge captured at the Premier’s Roundtable on Gender Equity is used to help inform the ongoing work of the Provincial Government to achieving true gender equity in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Our government is committed to working with all stakeholders on innovative solutions for the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This roundtable is an important forum to listen and learn from leaders, experts and community members that are doing important and innovative work. This kind of collaboration and understanding is vital to building a more equitable province for people of all genders, and I thank everyone involved.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“At today’s session we were able to identify opportunities to build on the great work that is happening throughout the province to create a more equitable place for people of all genders. Our government sees the importance of focusing on a well-being approach to meet the needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Today’s discussions allowed space to deepen our collective understanding and draw out solutions to address some of the gendered issues that are impacting people’s lives every day. I extend my thanks to everyone who participated in today’s session.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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The Provincial Government is advising that it has received the 2041 Churchill River Management Expert Panel’s report. The report included significant analysis and will help ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador is best positioned to maximize long-term benefits from the Churchill Falls assets for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Launched in May 2022, the panel consisted of industry experts, as well as appointees from the Innu Nation, Nunatsiavut Government and NunatuKavut Community Council. Their analysis was a recommendation from the Muskrat Falls Commission of Inquiry.

Given that the Provincial Government will use the panel’s analysis in future commercial negotiations, it would weaken government’s ability to secure maximum benefits for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians if the report was made fully public. High level information will be made available to the public at churchillriverexpertpanel.ca.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has a strong interest in determining the full economic potential of the Churchill River, which includes the existing plant at the Upper Churchill (5,428 MW), Gull Island (2,215 MW) and potential upgrades at the power house at Upper Churchill (approximately 1,300 MW) in conjunction with any opportunities that may exist in relation to Muskrat Falls (824 MW).

The Churchill Falls facility is owned by CF(L)Co and that corporation is owned 65.8 per cent by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and 34.2 per cent by Hydro-Québec.

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“I would like to thank members of the expert panel for their investment of time, energy and expertise on this important initiative. Their contribution will help guide our work as we look to maximize the incredible value of Churchill Falls for Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Expert Panel on Churchill Falls 2041 Announced

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The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, is joining the Prime Minister and Canadian premiers for discussions on a renewed health care funding partnership with the Federal Government tomorrow (Tuesday, February 7).

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Residents seeking information about Income Support can now call one provincial toll-free phone number, 1-877-729-7888. Individuals can also continue to access the Income Support program by email at incomesupport@gov.nl.ca.

Those calling any other phone numbers associated with the Income Support Program will hear a recording indicating to call the new provincial phone number.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-004 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2023-004 Report Date: February 2, 2023 Public Body: Department of Health and Community Services Summary: The Complainant made several access to information requests to the Department of Health and Community Services under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. The Department did not respond to the requests within the time frame set out at section 16 of the Act and was therefore deemed to have refused access to the requested information. The Complainant asked the Commissioner to investigate these deemed refusals. The Commissioner recommended that the Department release the records responsive to the Complainant’s five requests within ten business days.

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Media contact
Sean Murray
Director of Research & Quality Assurance
709-729-6309

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, has announced the following relative to Part 10 Environmental Assessment of the Environmental Protection Act.

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:
Bonavista Microbrewery                                                                    (Reg. 2233)
Proponent:  Bonavista Brewing Company Inc.

The proponent is proposing to establish and operate a microbrewery and tap room within an existing commercial building located at 27-29 Church Street, in the Town of Bonavista. The development would include building renovations and electrical and plumbing upgrades. The facility will use the municipal water and sewer systems and operate year-round. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/

The undertaking was registered on February 2, 2023; the deadline for public comment is March 10, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by March 19, 2023.

Shoal Cove to Chimney Cove Multi-Use Trail                                (Reg. 2234)
Proponent:  Natalia Crocker

The proponent is proposing to construct an approximately 6160-metre multi-use trail from Shoal Cove to Chimney Cove. The trail construction will include clearing and grubbing and crossings of small waterways. Work is scheduled to begin during the summer of 2023. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/

The undertaking was registered on February 2, 2023; the deadline for public comment is March 10, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by March 19, 2023.

Stanhope Equipment Storage Yard                                                      (Reg. 2235)
Proponent: Aurora Holdings Inc.                            

The proponent is proposing an extension to an existing business located along Route 341 within the community of Stanhope, west of Lewisporte. An equipment storage yard would be constructed and used to store imported equipment including ATV trailers, farm equipment and portable sawmills. The development would include the construction of a new building to store boats, RVs and automobiles. An area would be developed for the outdoor storage of RVs and trailers, and sea cans would be installed as personal storage units. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on February 2, 2023; the deadline for public comment is March 10, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by March 19, 2023.

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT REQUIRED:

Victoria River Quarry                                                                                (Reg. 2227)
Proponent: Newcrete Investments Ltd.

The minister has advised the proponent that an environmental preview report (EPR) is required for this project. Additional information is needed to inform the minister of the following, including, but not limited to:

• justification for sourcing sand and gravel in the Victoria River region as opposed to less remote and more accessible locations in central Newfoundland, including a discussion of possible alternative sources of sand and gravel that would meet the company’s needs; an analysis of alternate quarry locations and access routes to minimize the potential effects on the Victoria River watershed and caribou migration routes;
• an analysis of the potential cumulative effects of the project on the Victoria River watershed, wildlife and wildlife habitat in the area and consideration of existing and proposed mining activities, road and transmission line development and other development near the proposed project area;
• identification of any public access routes to the river that may be present within the boundaries of the proposed site, and measures that will be undertaken by the proponent to preserve public access to the river while restricting public access to work sites;
• details on the expected longevity of the quarry and an estimate of the total volume of sand and gravel present that could be extracted from the site;
• an Archaeological Impact Assessment for project activities that would occur on the east side of the proposed access road;
• a Water Resources Management Plan;
• a Visibility Management Plan; and
• public consultation.

An Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the minister and to draft guidelines for the proponent for preparation of the EPR. The EAC includes representatives from the following Provincial Government departments and agencies:

• Department of Environment and Climate Change
  • Environmental Assessment Division – Chair
  • Water Resources Management Division
• Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
  • Wildlife Division
• Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
  • Mines Branch
• Department of Tourism, Culture Arts and Recreation
  • Tourism Product Development Division

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Torbay Powder Coating Facility                                                            (Reg. 2228)
Proponent: APC Industrial Ltd.                                                 

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all  permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the Project, one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Humber Valley Hiking Trail                                                                     (Reg. 2230)
Proponent: International Appalachian Trail Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter Inc.

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture advises the following:
  • The registration document includes two maps that provide slightly differing illustrations of the trail location. The trail under Crown lands application 159964, which was reviewed in its entirety in the environmental assessment, is the trail that will be considered for issuance of a licence to occupy.
  • Some sections of the proposed trail are located within suitable habitats for botanical species of conservation concern. The proponent must contact the Wildlife Division prior to vegetation clearing activities to discuss appropriate mitigation measures to ensure that listed plants or their habitats are not negatively impacted.
  • Vegetation clearing is not to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) or within 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer also applies to all other raptor nests (e.g. Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest sites must be reported to the Wildlife Division.

• The proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the Project, including a copy of all  permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Learn more
Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6

Public comments may be forwarded to: EAprojectcomments@gov.nl.ca

Environmental assessment information is available at:

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2023.pdf

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

If you submit comments on a project that is under environmental assessment, please advise the Department if you DO NOT wish to share your comments with the project proponent.

 

 

 

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The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, is joining Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers of Indigenous Affairs and leaders of national Indigenous Organizations for discussions in Ottawa on Monday (February 6, 2023).

The agenda for these meetings will focus on exploring opportunities for enhanced collaboration between federal, provincial and territorial jurisdictions and Indigenous Organizations.

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The Provincial Government is monitoring forecast information on a weather system that is anticipated to affect northern Labrador. Heavy snowfall and high winds are anticipated to begin this evening (Friday, February 3, 2023) and persist through the weekend. Other areas of the province are forecasted to experience extreme cold and high winds.

We encourage residents to follow guidance provided by officials, and to monitor the forecast for the most up-to-date information. Regional forecast information is available from Environment Canada.

Municipalities and local service districts should ensure infrastructure such as roads, ditches and drains are clear of debris and ensure appropriate provisions are made for the delivery of services during anticipated weather events.

Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take measures to ensure personal safety, and if possible, to clear fire hydrants of snow in case of emergency. It is important that residents have the supplies they need, including food, water and medications for at least 72 hours in the event of adverse weather conditions affecting travel. Please visit Be Prepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates the strong winds and heavy snowfall will lead to poor visibility on some highways in the province. The department recommends motorists should check the latest Environment Canada forecasts before travelling, and slow down and drive to conditions.

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Applications are now available for Grade 9 and 10 students in Newfoundland and Labrador to enroll in summer programs in Quebec.

The Voyage Program, formerly the Summer Program in French for Grade 9 students, and the Adventure Program, formerly the Summer Program in French for Grade 10 students, provide selected students with an opportunity to discover French culture in Canada and improve their French language skills.

Grade 9 students can apply for a bursary to attend a three-week summer program offered through Campus Notre-Dame-de-Foy in Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures. Grade 10 students can apply for a bursary to attend a four-week summer program offered by College Saint-Charles-Garnier in Quebec City or by Université du Quebec à Trois-Rivières in Trois-Rivières.

The application for both programs can be found here. The deadline to apply is February 17, 2023.

Please contact voyage@gov.nl.ca for the Voyage Program and adventure@gov.nl.ca for the Adventure Program for further questions or assistance with the application.

Since 2004, more than 3,100 Grade 9 and 10 students have participated in these programs.

The student programs receive over $600,000 in funding through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on Minority Language Education and Second Official Language Instruction.

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The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, today expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of James Johnston, Treasurer of the Newfoundland and Labrador Brain Injury Association.

“I was very saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a passionate ambassador for the Brain Injury Association, always advocating to help improve the quality of life for survivors and their families. From his role with the association to his many other community roles, he embraced each of them with a dedication that was second to none.

Over the past year, he was also instrumental in helping many of the Ukrainian newcomers to our province embrace their new life. I was fortunate to know him on a personal level and have valued his friendship over the years. My condolences are extended to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones at this difficult time.”

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The Provincial Government will be expanding the province’s bivalent vaccine offerings. Beginning on February 6, 2023, Pfizer Comirnaty BA 4/5 COVID-19 vaccine will be available for children aged five to 11, based on NACI and Health Canada recommendations. This is the first bivalent vaccine authorized for use in this population.

Also, beginning February 6, 2023, Moderna BA 4/5 will be available for individuals 18 year of age and older. This new offering adds to the current booster campaign currently available for individuals 18 years of age and older. There are now three different formulations of bivalent vaccine for this age group (Pfizer BA 4/5, Moderna Omicron/BA1 and Moderna BA 4/5).

Bivalent COVID-19 vaccine remains the preferred choice for booster doses for individuals 5 years of age and older. Children who have not yet received their fall booster (since September 21, 2022), and whose last vaccine was at least 20 weeks ago can now avail of this bivalent vaccine through regional health authorities. Individuals that received a booster after September 21, 2022 do not need an additional booster at this time, even if it has been 20 weeks or more since their fall booster. Primary series vaccination continues to be recommended for individuals aged six months to under five years

Appointments can be booked through regional health authority clinics by visiting the COVID-19 website. Additionally, appointments can also be made through participating pharmacists and physicians for individuals 12 years of age and older. You may need to check periodically for availability at any of these vaccine sites, as appointments are continually being added as vaccine supply is received.

Vaccinations remain an important tool to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19 as well as reducing the risk of severe disease.

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is extending congratulations to four artists and a teacher from Newfoundland and Labrador who have been nominated for the 2023 Juno Awards.

The Fortunate Ones are nominated for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year for “That Was You and Me,” while the Florian Hoefner Trio’s album “Desert Bloom” received a nomination in the Jazz Album of the Year category.

Comedian Matt Wright is nominated for his album “Here Live, Not a Cat,” and graphic designer Jud Haynes received a nod for Album Art Work of the Year for his design for “Kubasongs” by the Kubasonics.

Susan Evoy, who teaches at St. Theresa’s Elementary and Waterford Valley High, is nominated for the Music Counts Teacher of the Year Award.

The JUNO Awards were founded to raise the public profile and recognition of musical artists in Canada, and are presented by the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. This year’s awards will be broadcast live on Monday, March 13.

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“I am thrilled to see the talent of Newfoundland and Labrador’s world-renowned music culture represented among the nominees from this province for the 2023 Juno Awards. From roots to jazz and from comedy to graphic arts, each of these artists has worked hard to follow their dreams, and in doing so has achieved remarkable success. It is also a proud moment to see a teacher being recognized for inspiring young minds to follow their musical passion. On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the people of our province, I congratulate all nominees and wish them all the best at the 2023 Juno Awards in March.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Officials from the Provincial Government are attending the North America Prospect Exhibit Summit in Houston, Texas from February 1 to 3, 2023. The summit is the energy industry’s marketplace for the buying, selling and trading of prospects and producing properties.

This summit is considered a premier international event to highlight the province’s prospectivity, calls for bids, supply and service sector and energy investment opportunities. Attracting over 10,000 delegates and 1,000 exhibiters from around the world, this event is an excellent opportunity to promote Newfoundland and Labrador as a globally preferred location for energy development.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, along with industry partners, has been attending this event for over 15 years. The department is also participating in the Canadian Consulate’s program through Global Affairs Canada, which provides the opportunity to connect with major corporate exploration decision makers.

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“The North America Prospect Exhibit Summit is a great opportunity to join others in the exploration industry, to see how companies are responding to the changing environment. Government’s attendance helps maintains momentum of interest within our energy sector, building on recent developments in the responsible development of petroleum, wind and hydrogen.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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North America Prospect Exhibit Summit 2023

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The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will raise a flag tomorrow (Wednesday, February 1) to recognize Eating Disorders Awareness Week from February 1-7 in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The flag raising will take place at 8:30 a.m. in the main lobby of East Block, Confederation Building.

Minister Osborne will be joined by members of the Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as Dr. Anna Dominic, pediatrician at the Janeway Department of Adolescent Medicine and Susan Zbitnew, Manager of Adult Eating Disorder Programs at Eastern Health.

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In an effort to promote fair pricing practices for consumers of commercial property insurance, the province’s Superintendent of Insurance has issued a bulletin, calling on insurers and brokers to discontinue best terms pricing practices as of July 31, 2023.

Although many insurance companies and brokers have discontinued best terms pricing, the practice is still in use.

Best terms pricing occurs when brokers bring together multiple insurers, with each taking a portion of the total risk. The resulting policy is referred to as a subscription policy. Insurers can choose if they would like to participate (or ‘subscribe’) in a policy where the risk associated with providing the insurance is shared. In putting together such a policy, each insurer submits its own quote. Under best terms pricing models, the final premium paid by the client is calculated based on the highest rate quoted, even if the majority of quoted rates were lower.

A bulletin has been issued as a result of a review by the Canadian Council of Insurance Regulators (CCIR) on the prevalence and impact of best terms pricing. In its review, which included engagement with insurers and brokers, the CCIR concluded that best terms pricing may lead to higher insurance premiums, and does not support the fair treatment of consumers. The bulletin can be viewed here.

The department encourages consumers to seek quotes from multiple insurers to get the best coverage and rate for them. Licensed insurers are listed on the department’s website. Further information on complaints processes for insurance can also be found online.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-003 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2023-003 Report Date: January 30, 2023 Public Body: Department of Health and Community Services Summary: The Department of Health and Community Services received an access request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 for records related to adverse patient safety incidents. The Department responded that there were no records responsive to the request. The Complainant filed a complaint with this Office. The Commissioner concluded that the Department had failed in its duty to assist the Complainant by failing to engage with the Complainant to understand the request, and by failing to conduct a reasonable search for records. The Commissioner also concluded that the Department initially failed to satisfy our Office that it does not hold records that might be responsive to the Complainant’s request, and that the Department initially refused to provide our Office with records, information about records, or information about the search conducted, to enable our Office to deal with the issues in this complaint. The Commissioner recommended that the Department continue its now ongoing a search for and analysis of records, provide a new Final Response to the Complainant, and provide to the Complainant copies of all responsive records located, subject to any applicable exceptions to access or exclusions that may apply.

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced investments of $241,500 in 16 projects through the Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program.

This year’s funded projects include initiatives focused on developing public awareness, education and training materials; leadership development; building community capacity; and enhancing opportunities for healing. Details on the funded projects can be found in the backgrounder below.

Minister Parsons was joined by Nona Matthews-Gosse and Odelle Pike from the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network, as well as Colleen Paul from Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities. The event was held in Stephenville.

Minister Parsons also signed a proclamation to recognize the importance of continued collaboration with Indigenous Governments and Organizations, both during Violence Prevention Month in February and going forward. The proclamation was signed alongside representatives from the Town of Stephenville, the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network and Violence Prevention Southwest.

The Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program reaffirms the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to support violence prevention efforts that are culturally appropriate and informed by the experiences of Indigenous communities.

Quotes
“Support for violence prevention initiatives that are developed and delivered by Indigenous Governments and Organizations is foundational to preventing violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. These 16 projects will have lasting positive impacts in Indigenous communities and throughout our province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Government’s partnership with Indigenous women’s groups, organizations and communities represents a collective effort to achieve a society where Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals can live free from the threat of violence and abuse. Projects approved under the Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program are positive, Indigenous-led and grounded in community.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“The Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program provides the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network with necessary financial support. The funds will assist in providing culturally based leadership and skill development while creating violence awareness, prevention and healing programs.”
Nona Matthews-Gosse
Executive Director, Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network

“Reducing and preventing violence requires that we work collaboratively to address the root causes of violence. This grant will allow our organization to support 40 people to grow their coping skills and self-awareness, helping to reduce harm while facilitating healing.”
Colleen Paul
Project Coordinator, Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities

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Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program

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BACKGROUNDER

Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program Projects 2022-23

Circle of Strength – Indigenous Women’s Gathering
Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network
This project will be a two-day gathering for 40 Indigenous women to be held in Stephenville in spring 2023. The goal of the project is to reduce violence and build leadership skills.
Grant awarded:  $19,375

Healing Our Community
Labrador Friendship Centre
This project will allow for an expansion of the crafting program, facilitating a train-the-trainer workshop for the blanket exercise, knowledge sharing, and hosting a throat singing workshop. The goal of the project is to build deeper connections to Indigenous cultures and traditions.
Grant awarded:  $19,220

Indigenous Violence Prevention Program
First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre
This project will support three of First Light’s ongoing programs: Generations Program/Women’s Group, Men’s Group and Elders Wisdom Circle. Together these programs have a goal of empowering participants, sharing cultural knowledge, and growing a sense of community to help prevent violence.
Grant awarded: $20,150

Innu Ishkueut Healing Journey
Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation
This project will host a five-day retreat on the land for approximately 10-12 women and elders. Topics to be discussed include violence against women, child neglect and abuse, addictions, lateral violence and reconciliation.
Grant awarded:  $15,500

Ktaqmkuk Restorative Justice Capacity Building – Benoit’s Cove
Benoit’s Cove Indian Band
Through cultural profiling, this project aims to contribute to a vision that reduces youth contact with the law.
Grant awarded:  $7,200

Ktaqmkuk Restorative Justice Capacity Building – Burgeo
Burgeo First Nation
Through cultural profiling, this project aims to contribute to a vision that reduces youth contact with the law.
Grant awarded:  $7,200

Ktaqmkuk Restorative Justice Capacity Building – Degrau
Benoit First Nation
Through cultural profiling, this project aims to contribute to a vision that reduces youth contact with the law.
Grant awarded:  $7,200

Ktaqmkuk Restorative Justice Capacity Building – St. George’s
St. George’s Indian Band
Through cultural profiling, this project aims to contribute to a vision that reduces youth contact with the law.
Grant awarded:  $7,200

Ktaqmkuk Restorative Justice Capacity Building – Three Rivers
Three Rivers Mi’kmaq Band
Through cultural profiling, this project aims to contribute to a vision that reduces youth contact with the law.
Grant awarded:  $7,200

Make it CLEAR: Developing Inclusivity Training Tools to Reduce Violence in the Workplace
Kalawikk
This project will support the development of a research-backed evaluation metric capable of evaluating existing organizational training material and to guide course development material in using a model approach. The goal of this project is to develop an inclusivity metric and increase positive attitudes towards societal diversity through the use of the metric.
Grant awarded:  $18,000

Nunatsiavut Craft Project
Nunatsiavut Government
This project will provide facilitated crafting workshops. The goal of this project is to bring together Elders and youth through cultural crafting activities to share tradition and foster connections.
Grant awarded:  $23,250

Parka Making Course
AnânauKatiget Tumingit Regional Inuit Women’s Association
This project will provide a three-day parka making course for six women. The goal of the project is to help the participants develop tangible, culturally relevant skills through which they can gain economic security.
Grant awarded:  $5,225

Positive Paths: Violence Prevention Steps for Indigenous Peoples
Newfoundland Indigenous Peoples Alliance, Northern Peninsula (Mekap’sk) Mi’kmaq Band
This project involves a series of activities, workshops, crafting sessions and motivational speakers. The goal of this project is to grow understanding and awareness of violence, share violence prevention knowledge and promote understanding and acceptance among communities.
Grant awarded:  $20,420

Re-connecting our Roots, Re-establishing our Traditional Roles
Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities
This project will provide a two-day training session for 20 men and 20 women leading up to the “I am a Kind Man” training set to take place in the spring of 2023. The goal of the project is to support individual healing and provide tools for self-awareness, self-care and further development of coping mechanisms.
Grant awarded:  $23,260

Sharing our Strength
NunatuKavut Community Council
This project will help identify gaps and barriers of NunatuKavut Inuit with a focus to intergenerational trauma. The NunatuKavut Community Council will hold sharing circles and other engagements with a goal of increasing understanding of the impact of residential schools on former students, family members and communities as a whole.
Grant awarded:  $22,100

True Engagement to Address the Need for Prevention of Violence within Indigenous Families
Miawpukek First Nation, Conne River Health & Social Services
This project will provide a series of workshops for youth, will host weekly women’s group, will host weekly men’s group, will support recreational activities, and will offer motivational speaking sessions aimed at preventing violence within Indigenous families. The goal of this initiative is to increase knowledge and engagement within community.
Grant awarded:  $19,000

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As the Provincial Government continues its efforts to find creative solutions to improve access to health care in Newfoundland and Labrador, a recently implemented pilot project is making a difference for cardiac patients.

The innovative approach allows patients from other regions of the province, who are in need of cardiac catheterization procedures only offered in the St. John’s region, to access them via a same-day fly-in/fly-out service. Spearheaded by the Eastern Regional Health Authority, patients are assessed based on clinical acuity, and those determined suitable for travel are flown into St. John’s for the procedure and returned to a health care facility in their region the same day.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services and Dr. Sean Connors, Clinical Chief of Cardiac Care at Eastern Health, will be available to the media today (Tuesday, January 31) at 1:30 p.m. to discuss this initiative. The availability will take place in the main lobby of East Block, Confederation Building and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Completing the procedure and allowing patients to return to their region that same day not only addresses the waiting list for cardiac catheterizations in the province, but also frees up beds that would have been otherwise utilized within Eastern Health. Furthermore, it decreases expenses for families and/or support persons who would ordinarily have to stay in the St. John’s region as well. Approximately 25 patients have benefited from this pilot project to date.

This latest initiative aligns with other measures implemented to help address the surgical backlog in the province, such as the partnership with the University of Ottawa Heart Institute to address the waitlist for cardiac surgery; increased regional caps on cataract surgeries in non-hospital facilities; hip and knee joint replacement surgeries on an outpatient basis for suitable candidates; and additional surgical opportunities for hip and knee joint replacement surgeries in Carbonear and St. Anthony. A task force of health care providers was also established in June of last year to tackle the current surgical backlog and provide meaningful solutions. For more, please click here.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador leads the country in both burden and complexity of cardiovascular disease, and reducing the cardiac surgery waitlist is a priority for our government. This innovative strategy to address the number of people currently waiting for cardiac procedures in other regions of our province helps Eastern Health respond to the demand that has resulted from the pandemic and the cyberattack, as well as resource challenges. Solutions like this one are in keeping with our government’s commitment to change the delivery of health care in our province for the better.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Accessing health care and addressing the surgical backlog in the province remain priority areas for our government. Creative solutions like this one implemented by Eastern Health are a wonderful example of how innovative solutions can be developed that achieve numerous objectives. In this case, patients are receiving the care they need, they get to return to their home area the same day, and hospital beds in this region remain available for other patients.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Cardiac patients located in other regional health authorities have specific challenges accessing cardiac catheterization in St. John’s, such as waiting for a bed to open up in Eastern Health and then coordinating that with flights and arrangements for their support persons as they recuperate. This innovative approach supports stable inpatients by transporting them to the cardiac catheterization lab in the morning where they were assessed, treated as appropriate and, depending on clinical findings, returned to their regional health authority later the same day to recuperate closer to their homes and families.”
Dr. Sean Connors
Clinical Chief of Cardiac Care, Eastern Health

“This creative new approach is a novel example of health authorities across the province working together to decrease wait times for patients. This kind of collaboration means that patients in all areas of the province, including rural and remote regions, have equitable access for services of the cardiac catheterization lab. In addition, barriers such as distance are minimized which benefits the most urgent stabilized inpatients who receive the treatment they need in a more timely manner.”
David Diamond
Transitional CEO, Provincial Health Authority

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The post Creative Solutions Continue to Promote Access to Health Care in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-002 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2023-002 Report Date: January 27, 2023 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complaint made an access to information request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Justice and Public Safety. The Department did not respond to the request in the timeframe required by section 16 of the Act and was deemed to have refused access. The Complainant made a complaint to this Office. The Commissioner found that the Department had not complied with its obligations under the Act, in particular sections 13 (duty to assist) and 16 (time limit for final response). The Commissioner recommended that the Department comply with its statutory duties in the future, assign additional staff as early as possible, and provide a final response to the Complainant within 15 business days of the issuance of this Report.

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