Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador will make an infrastructure announcement tomorrow (Thursday, November 17). Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Seamus O’Regan Jr., Minister of Labour, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities; Joanne Thompson, MP for St. John’s East; and His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of the City of St. John’s.

The event will be held at the Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Drive, at 1:00 p.m.

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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

Jean-Sébastien Comeau
Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities
343-574-8116
jean-sebastien.comeau@iga-aig.gc.ca

Kelly Maguire
City of St. John’s
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca

Media Relations
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251, toll free: 1-877-250-7154
media@infc.gc.ca

 

The post Media Advisory: Infrastructure Announcement in St. John’s appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs, will bring greetings at the official opening of the Francophone Literary Festival.

The event takes place tomorrow (Thursday, November 17) at the Centre des Grands Vents, 65 Ridge Road, St. John’s, beginning at 5:00 p.m.

The Francophone Literary Festival will take place in French-speaking areas throughout the province from November 15-20, 2022, celebrating Francophone and Acadian culture in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Avis aux médias : La ministre Stoodley participera au tout premier Festival littéraire francophone

Media contact
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Participate in First Ever Francophone Literary Festival appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is calling on the Federal Government to take immediate action to improve federal search and rescue operations in Labrador. The demand for action is shared by stakeholders from the marine and fishing industry, safety advocates and governments, as well as identified as a recommendation from the Public Inquiry Respecting Ground Search and Rescue for Lost and Missing Persons.

This need was passionately highlighted by Ms. Jeanette Russell of Mary’s Harbour, whose son – Marc – and his crewmate Joey Jenkins were lost at sea, during a presentation to the Newfoundland and Labrador Fish Harvesting Safety Association on November 2, 2022. Ms. Russell in her remarks stated:

“There is an absence of adequate federal search and rescue resources in Labrador. Labrador’s vast coastline and land mass warrants a dedicated, primary search and rescue unit to address the current deficit in search and rescue infrastructure.”

Additionally, recommendation seven of the Public Inquiry Respecting Ground Search and Rescue For Lost and Missing Persons called on the Provincial Government to establish an agreement with the Government of Canada to ensure “helicopter resources are made available to support ground search and rescue operations in equal priority to their support for aeronautical and marine search and rescue operations.”

Discussions have been held with the Federal Government about operational issues on the coast of Labrador and the need to establish aircraft, marine craft, and other resources in the region, as we seek to work with Canada in collaboration with stakeholders and Indigenous Governments and Organizations. A delegation of ministers and Labrador stakeholders is travelling to Ottawa in February to meet with federal ministers.

Quotes
“People and communities in Labrador have been deeply impacted by the loss of life associated with tragic incidents that have taken place in the waters and the sea ice off Labrador. Labrador has more than 17,000 kilometres of coastline, yet there is not a single fast rescue craft station in Labrador. That is completely unacceptable when a timely response to incidents can mean the difference between life and death. 5 Wing Goose Bay should be designated as a primary search and rescue unit and fast rescue craft stations must be established in Labrador.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“Given the nature of the province’s economy and its relationship to the fishery, offshore oil and gas, and marine transportation, along with the unique perspectives and challenges inherent in working and living in this province’s harsh environment, marine and air search and rescue services in Labrador is vitally important. It is critical to the safety of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that assets in this province are not only modern and state-of-the-art, but also are appropriately located.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“Pointing out the vast expanse of the Labrador coast as the challenge for responding does not recognize, nor support, the high risk for residents and others who work here. Canada depends on these resources, this workforce, and safe communities. It is essential to establish Labrador-based Search and Rescue operations at 5 Wing Goose Bay and fast craft rescue stations on the coast.”
Perry Trimper
MHA for Lake Melville

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Learn more
Final Report of the Ground Search and Rescue Inquiry Released

Final Report: Public Inquiry Respecting Ground Search and Rescue for Lost and Missing Persons

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @OLA_GovNL, @JPS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contacts
Allan Bock
Labrador Affairs Secretariat
709-899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca

Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

Bonnie Learning
Constituency Assistant to Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville
709-896-7975
bonnielearning@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

• In Canada, SAR services span a multitude of jurisdictions. The Federal Government has responsibility to aeronautical SAR (Canadian Armed Forces), marine SAR (Canadian Coast Guard) and national parks incidents (Parks Canada). Provincial and territorial governments are responsible for missing and lost persons on land or inland waters.
• In December 2021, the Department of Justice and Public Safety released the final report of the Inquiry into Ground Search and Rescue for Lost and Missing Persons in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Led by former Provincial Court Judge James Igloliorte, the Inquiry examined the organization and operations of the ground search and rescue system in the Province.
• The Inquiry did not have jurisdiction to examine the management and operation of federal entities. Ground search and rescue includes provisions for air support and that assistance is provided by federal entities. Further, federal entities voluntarily participated in the Ground Search and Rescue Inquiry.
• The Inquiry issued 17 recommendations, some of which fell within the jurisdiction of the Federal Government. Key recommendations included:
  • Increased use of the Civil Air Search And Rescue Association spotters;
  • Mental health training for policing agencies and search and rescue teams;
  • Funding and insurance benefits to support the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association;
  • Ensuring current gaps in contracted air assets are addressed; and
  • A review of the 911 process to ensure distress calls are tasked in an optimal manner.
• The Provincial Government supported the recommendations in principle and undertook an analysis and consulted with stakeholders on the best approach to implementing the recommendations.
• In Budget 2022, the Provincial Government committed $1.8 million to the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association (NLSARA) for implementation of Inquiry recommendations, as well as funding for equipment and training. This is in addition to $191,000 which is provided annually to NLSARA.
• Budget 2022 also included a $21 million investment in a new province-wide radio system that enables emergency responders to communicate effectively.

 

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The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will speak at the Hibernia 25th Anniversary Celebration event tonight (Wednesday, November 16).

The event takes place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s beginning at 7:00 p.m.

This event is to mark 25 years of production for the Hibernia Project, and reflect upon the history and evolution of Hibernia, with a look to the future of the project.

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Media contact
Michael King
Office of the Premier
709-729-3558
michaelaking@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Speak at Hibernia 25th Anniversary Celebration appeared first on News Releases.

A contract valued at $40.5 million has been awarded to Marco Group to improve and expand the emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s. The new infrastructure will increase access to health care and ensure that appropriate infrastructure is in place to meet future health care needs.

The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, announced today that the construction project will include the redevelopment of 2,230 square metres of the current space, as well as the construction of a new 2,690 square metre extension.

The new emergency department will serve patients at the Health Sciences Centre and the new adult mental health and addictions hospital, and will include a psychiatric assessment unit, high acuity-trauma unit, care initiation area, ambulance parking garage, medical imaging suite, administration area and a new entrance and registration area.

The design of the new emergency department was facilitated by leading industry experts, and has been sized to meet anticipated future patient demand and acuity levels in line with demographic projections. Its layout is based on industry trends and best practices designed to support effective, efficient, and lean workflows in the delivery of patient care.

Construction of the new emergency department is anticipated to be completed in 2026. Its design can be viewed online at: https://youtu.be/idJTHX95wAM

The expansion is in addition to the construction of the new adult mental health and addictions hospital, currently under construction at the site. A parking garage for staff with spaces for 1,000 vehicles opened at the Health Sciences Centre campus in November 2021.

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

Quotes
“New infrastructure creates better working environments and improves the way we deliver services. Projects such as this new emergency department, the new adult mental health and addictions hospital, and the replacement of St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital will lead to timelier access to quality care, and will help us reach our goal to improve social, economic, and environmental conditions affecting the health of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our government is committed to increasing access to quality health care by reimagining and improving the delivery of services throughout our province. The redesign of the emergency department is aligned with this commitment, as it will result in a much better patient flow, which in turn supports better patient care.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Our government recognizes the impact the construction industry has on the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador. This project will lead to a modern, more efficient emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre for patients and health care professionals, and will create employment for tradespeople along the way.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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Learn more
Health Accord NL Blueprint

Health Accord NL Final Report

Health Accord NL Interim Report – A Call to Action to Transform Health

Health Accord NL

Provincial Government Receives Health Accord NL Blueprint

Provincial Government to Replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital

Tender Issued for New Emergency Department at Health Sciences Centre

Avalon Healthcare Partnership Selected to Design, Build, Finance and Maintain New Mental Health and Addictions Hospital

Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca

The post Contract Awarded to Expand and Improve Emergency Department at Health Sciences Centre appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government is requesting proposals for five parcels of farmland located in the western region in Cormack, Reidville and the Crabbes River area.

Request for proposal guidelines for the five parcels, including overview and suitability maps of the land available for development, are available online.

The deadline to submit proposals is Monday, December 5 at 4:30 p.m. (NST). For more information, please call 709-637-2081 or email jasonmacdonald@gov.nl.ca.

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Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 640-8152
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Request for Proposal Applications Available for Five Parcels of Farm Land appeared first on News Releases.

The Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered the second of two reports to the House of Assembly on the performance audit of Nalcor Energy. Today’s report contains findings and a recommendation regarding Nalcor’s employee compensation.

The audit concluded that Nalcor’s management and executive employees’ total compensation was, and continues to be, higher than the total compensation of comparable provincial government positions. Since Nalcor’s executive and management positions that were reviewed had the same accountability, problem-solving, and know-how classification ratings as equivalent provincial government positions, no rationale could be determined for such discrepancies.

The audit also found that Nalcor’s base salaries for the majority of the positions reviewed was higher than comparable positions assessed against industry benchmarks.

The report identified that while Nalcor’s executive and management staff may not have received general economic increases since 2016, the increases over the past ten years to salary levels, pay scales, bonuses, incentives, and employee benefits has resulted in compensation costs higher than the provincial government.

The full report, as well as an audit overview, can be found by visiting: www.ag.gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“Nalcor continually increased or broadened salary scales, even after bonuses and incentive programs were removed, all while Nalcor employees received retiring allowances, higher insurance benefits, and better leave entitlements than provincial government employees. Ultimately, we could not determine a business reason for this variance. When a public sector entity’s compensation practices are more lucrative than others, it creates disparity in the public service, adds to recruitment and retention challenges, and ultimately reduce the public’s trust that public money is being managed appropriately.”
Denise Hanrahan
Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Follow us on Twitter @OAG_NL

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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

The post Office of the Auditor General – Auditor General Releases Performance Audit of Nalcor Energy  appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-027 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-2022-027 Report Date: November 10, 2022 Public Body: Department of Environment and Climate Chance Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Environment and Climate Change for records pertaining to the appointment of a Vice-Chairperson of the Labour Relations Board as well as information explaining the decision not to appoint a second Vice-Chairperson. The Department responded to the Complainant providing records with information withheld based on sections 29 (policy advice or recommendations), 31(disclosure harmful to law enforcement) and 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). The Commissioner found that the Department had conducted a reasonable search for records and concluded that the Department had properly applied some exceptions to access. The Commissioner recommended the Department release some information that it had withheld under sections 29(1)(a), 31(1)(l), and 40(1) of ATIPPA, 2015.

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

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Today, Newfoundland and Labrador will issue a test message of the national emergency alerting system, Alert Ready, at 10:55 a.m. (NST) and 10:25 a.m. in most of Labrador (AST). Residents do not need to take any action when receiving this test message.

The Alert Ready system enables designated government authorities to rapidly warn the public via television, radio and compatible wireless devices of imminent or unfolding threats to life. The system was developed with many partners including federal, provincial and territorial emergency management officials, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Pelmorex, the broadcasting industry and wireless service providers.

Not all residents will receive the test alert on their wireless devices. This may occur for a variety of reasons, including device compatibility, connection to an LTE network, cell tower coverage, device software and settings.

To learn more about the Alert Ready system and to check your device’s compatibility, visit: www.AlertReady.ca.

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Avis au public : Test national du système En Alerte prévu aujourd’hui

Media contact
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: National Test of Alert Ready Taking Place Today appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will make a health care infrastructure announcement today (Wednesday, November 16).

The event will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Prior to the event, a technical briefing for media will be held at 1:30 p.m.

The availability will be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.

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 Media contacts
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca

 

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to support residents impacted by Hurricane Fiona by providing details of the financial framework to assist in rebuilding their homes.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology and MHA for Burgeo – La Poile, announced a financial framework for impacted homeowners during an information session this evening in Channel-Port aux Basques.

The financial assistance is for residents from communities on the southwest coast whose homes were either destroyed, are no longer safe to live in and/or cannot be reasonably repaired due to Hurricane Fiona. With much of the damage resulting from a storm surge, insurance coverage was unavailable for most properties.

The financial framework consists of:

• A replacement value for the home at a minimum of $200 per square foot and based on a detailed assessment;
• Replacement value of property contents in accordance with the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program Schedule of Loss; and
• A value for land or provision of a suitable land option. Insurance adjusters are currently completing household assessments in the area.

Premier Furey and Minister Parsons committed to complete further analysis with community officials on land usage in the vulnerable area impacted by Hurricane Fiona.

For impacted individuals that are in need of financial, housing and other immediate supports, it is critical that they register with the Canadian Red Cross by calling toll-free at 1-800-863-6582 or visiting the emergency shelter at St. James Regional High School, located at 200 Hardys Arterial Road, Channel-Port aux Basques.

Individual homeowners, tenants, small business owners, not for profit organizations, municipalities and local service districts can avail of the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangement Program application online. This information can also be obtained by calling 1-888-395-5611. The deadline to submit a claim is January 31, 2023.

For more information on programs, supports and applications, visit: gov.nl.ca/jps/hurricanefionarelief

Individuals with inquiries related to Hurricane Fiona may contact the Fiona Response Coordinator, Joanne Clarke at 709-695-9871 or email FionaResponse@gov.nl.ca for assistance.

Quotes
“We made a commitment to support the residents of the southwestern region of the province. In the wake of catastrophic Hurricane Fiona, we have worked tirelessly with communities and stakeholders and have taken meaningful actions to provide immediate financial support. Today we have announced the financial framework so they are able to rebuild both their homes and their sense of community.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador

“My friends, family and neighbors have been hit hard by Hurricane Fiona and the impacts have been far reaching with residents, municipalities and local service districts, businesses and non-profit organizations. Through it all, the people of our communities have demonstrated strength and resilience, and we look forward to seeing them rebuild their homes.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
MHA for Burgeo – La Poile

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Media contacts
Michael King
Office of the Premier
709-729-3558
michaelaking@gov.nl.ca

Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government Announces Financial Support Details for Residents Impacted by Hurricane Fiona appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will bring greetings at a financial literacy event tomorrow (Wednesday, November 16). Level 1 students from Holy Heart of Mary High School and Waterford Valley High School who take Career Education 2202 will also be in attendance.

The event will take place at Holy Heart of Mary High School, 55 Bonaventure Avenue, in the Learning Resource Centre, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

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Media contact
Debbie Marnell
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-2575, 699-9048
debbiemarnell@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Davis to Attend Financial Literacy Event with Level One Students appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister for Labrador Affairs and Minister for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, is participating in presentations and discussions as part of a biennial convention hosted by the Labrador Fishermen’s Union Shrimp Company Limited today and tomorrow.

The closing banquet takes place tomorrow (Wednesday, November 16) at the Northern Light Inn, 82-86 Main Highway, L’Anse au Clair beginning at 7:00 p.m.

The LFUSCL is a successful community-owned and operated company that operates fishing vessels and processing plants in Southern Labrador, and which is a provider of multi-species fish products throughout North America.

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Media contact
Allan Bock
Labrador Affairs Secretariat
709-899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Dempster Participating in the Labrador Fishermen’s Union Shrimp Company’s Biennial Convention appeared first on News Releases.

The Department of Health and Community Services will begin distributing free COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to households throughout the province over the coming weeks. The tests will be distributed to households via Canada Post. To ensure widespread community access to rapid antigen testing, rapid antigen tests will also be available in public libraries and MHA constituency offices throughout the province in the coming weeks.

Two kits (five tests per kit) will be sent in two different shipments through Canada Post throughout November and December. Rapid antigen testing is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19. As rapid antigen tests do not always detect COVID-19 on the first day or two of symptoms, Public Health recommends doing one test on the first day of symptom onset and, if negative, taking a second test 48 hours later.

As per current guidelines, testing is not recommended for anyone who does not have symptoms, including close contacts. PCR testing will remain for outbreak management and within acute care settings. Public health surveillance and predictive modelling will continue as COVID-19 cases remain in our province. Public Health encourages all who have a positive rapid antigen test result to report it, as reporting positive tests provides important information to help guide public health recommendations. To report a positive COVID-19 rapid antigen test, visit the online COVID-19 Assessment and Test Reporting Tool.

More information regarding the distribution of COVID-19 rapid antigen tests can be found on the Department of Health and Community Services website.

Quote
“In addition to keeping up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, providing rapid antigen testing for Newfoundland and Labrador residents is an important part of living with COVID-19. By making these tests accessible to all residents across the province, our government is enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

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Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

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Media contact
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government to Distribute COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests to Newfoundland and Labrador Residents appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, will participate in the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims ceremony tomorrow (Wednesday, November 16, 2022). The event will take place in the lobby of East Block, Confederation Building at 11:00 a.m.

Guests are invited to bring flowers, wreaths, photos or mementos in memory of those who have been impacted by a road incident. Representatives from law enforcement agencies and other organizations are welcome to bring wreaths and banners.

Parking will be available in front of East Block, and guests are asked to enter using the main entrance facing Prince Philip Drive. Guests who require an accessible entrance can use the blue zone parking behind East Block and enter through the “Public Gallery Entrance.” The event will also be livestreamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Facebook page.

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Media contact
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Participate in Ceremony of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings at “Rebuilding Our Mental Health Community After Isolation,” a wellness education event focused on older adults, tomorrow (Wednesday, November 16).

The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Memorial United Church, 13 Hill Road, Grand Falls-Windsor.

The event is hosted by EXCITE Corporation, which is the not-for-profit business development corporation of the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor.

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Media contact
Khadija Rehma
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-3768, 730-2977
khadijarehma@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings at a Wellness Education Event appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology and MHA for Burgeo – La Poile, will hold an information session for residents from communities on the southwest coast whose homes were either destroyed, no longer safe to live in and/or cannot be reasonably repaired, or located in the highest impacted area due to Hurricane Fiona.

The information session will take place this evening (Tuesday, November 15) at 5:00 p.m. at St. James Regional High School, 200 Hardys Arterial Rd, Channel-Port aux Basques.

The primary focus of the information session is to provide an update to residents on the financial assessment process regarding their property.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to support residents impacted by Hurricane Fiona through the $30 million allocated to the Hurricane Fiona Financial Assistance Program. To receive funding under the Hurricane Fiona Financial Assistance Program, impacted individuals that are in need of financial, housing or other immediate supports must register with the Canadian Red Cross.

For more information on programs, supports and applications, visit: gov.nl.ca/jps/hurricanefionarelief

Individuals with inquiries related to Hurricane Fiona may contact the Fiona Response Coordinator, Joanne Clarke at 709-695-9871 or email FionaResponse@gov.nl.ca for assistance.

Media planning to attend are asked to RSVP by contacting Emily-Jane Gillingham (emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca).

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Media contacts
Michael King
Office of the Premier
709-729-3558
michaelaking@gov.nl.ca

Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Provincial Government Holding Information Session for Residents Impacted by Hurricane Fiona appeared first on News Releases.

Provincial and territorial emergency management organizations will be issuing public test messages through Alert Ready, the national emergency alerting system, tomorrow (Wednesday, November 16). Newfoundland and Labrador will issue one test message to be distributed over television, radio and to compatible wireless devices at 10:55 a.m. (NST) and 10:25 a.m. in most of Labrador (AST).

The Alert Ready system was developed with many partners, including federal, provincial, and territorial emergency management officials, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Pelmorex, the broadcasting industry and wireless service providers. The Alert Ready system enables designated government authorities to rapidly warn the public via television, radio and compatible wireless devices of imminent or unfolding threats to life.

It is important to note that not all Canadians will receive the test alert on their wireless device. This may occur for a variety of reasons, including device compatibility, connection to an LTE network, cell tower coverage, device software and settings.

To learn more about the Alert Ready system and to check your device compatibility, visit: www.AlertReady.ca.

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Avis au public : Test national du système En Alerte prévu demain

Media contact
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: National Test of Alert Ready to Take Place Tomorrow appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government is inviting young, innovative, community-minded Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to apply for a seat on the Premier’s Youth Council.

The Premier’s Youth Council is comprised of 25 youth between the ages of 16 to 24.  It provides the valuable perspective of youth to the Premier, ministers and senior government officials on programs and services. Recent areas of discussion and analysis by the council include:

• Youth retention
• Mental health
• Come Home 2022
• Immigration
• Reconciliation
• Renewable energy

Those interested in joining the council can apply online here. Applications will be accepted until December 2, 2022.

The Public Service Commission will lead the recruitment for the council and will follow a merit-based appointment process. Members will serve one-year terms, with the opportunity for reappointment for an additional year.

Quote
“The youth of our province are our future, and they bring a significant and unique perspective to the decision-making process of our government. I encourage all interested youth between the ages of 16 to 24 to apply and bring their ideas, passion and enthusiasm to the Premier’s Youth Council table.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more
Premier’s Youth Council

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL

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Media contact
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

The post Applications Now Open for Premier’s Youth Council appeared first on News Releases.

Over 125 of the province’s top athletes were recognized today at the 18th annual Premier’s Athletic Awards in St. John’s.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, presented the awards, which recognize athletic excellence and provide financial support to help offset the costs of training and competition. Grants ranging from $500 to $1,500 are awarded based on the level of competition and the athletes’ respective accomplishments.

Also presented today were the Team Gushue Awards. These awards are in honour of Team Gushue’s Gold medal win at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Each award is valued at $5,000, and is presented annually to two athletes who excel in athletics and academics. This year’s winners are Jaida Lee of St. John’s (baseball) and Liam Drover-Mattinen of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s (tennis).

Jaida Lee is a Grade 12 student at Gonzaga High School in St. John’s, where she maintains a 90-plus per cent average.

She led her team to the U16 Baseball Atlantic championship as the top batter and pitcher, and is the youngest player ever invited to a Senior Women’s National Team Camp.

She was named 2022 Female Athlete of the Year by Baseball NL, and was a member of the 2022 Canada Games baseball team, where she became first female to play in the male baseball event in Canada Games history.

Liam Drover-Mattinen is from Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s. This past summer he won the U16 Atlantic Tennis Championship and the U16 National Championship.

As a member of Team Canada, he competed at the Junior Davis Cup in Türkiye, and wrapped up his season finishing second at an International Tennis Federation J3 event in Montreal, where he defeated the top-ranked player in Canada in his age group in the semi-finals. He attends Blyth Academy in Ontario, where he maintains a 90-plus per cent average.

For a complete list of recipients of the Premier’s Athletic Awards, please see the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“The Premier’s Athletic Awards support the pursuit of excellence by our province’s top athletes, who continue to excel at their sports locally, provincially, nationally and internationally. On behalf of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, I congratulate this year’s award winners on their accomplishments and offer my best wishes for their continued success.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“These athletes lead by example, showing us all how we can benefit from participation in sport. Our continued investment in sport and recreation is our way of ensuring that they have opportunities to follow their athletic dreams. Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Athletic Excellence Fund

Sport Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contact
Gina MacArthur
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-327-9574
ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

2022 Premier’s Athletic Awards Recipients

Sport Name Hometown Artistic Swimming Marissa Huxter Paradise Athletics Shae LeDevehat Mount Pearl   Levi Moulton Paradise   Alexandre Nunes St. John’s   James Power Goulds Ball Hockey Kieran Burke St. John’s   Jack Chafe St. John’s   Ewan Cleary Conception Bay South   Renee Faulkner St. John’s   Kyle Greene Paradise   Margaret Jones St. John’s   Brooke Lannon Placentia   Jenni Simpson Glovertown   Alyson Thomas L’Anse Au Clair Baseball Molly Healey St. John’s   Jaida Lee St. John’s   Jay Miller Corner Brook   Kayla Musseau St. John’s   Zachary Reid Mount Pearl   Nicholas Smith Flatrock   Chase Tucker Mount Pearl   Cole Tucker Mount Pearl   Braedan Walsh St. John’s   Hudson White St. John’s Basketball Nathan Barker Massey Drive   Kelsey Crocker St. John’s   Gracie Dalton Cape Broyle   Alyssa Jenkins St. John’s   Brooke LeDevehat Mount Pearl   Cole Long St. John’s   Serena Phillips St. John’s   Caleb Sooley Mount Pearl   Cameron Stanford St. John’s Bicycle Roughan Gaetz St. John’s Boccia Kristyn Collins St. John’s   Terrie Hefford Mount Pearl   Stephen Westcott Conception Bay South Bowling Amy Harris Paradise   Jack Walsh Goulds Boxing Michael Gosine Tors Cove Cross Country Skiing Jillian Coates Clarenville   Tadhg Strand St. John’s Curling Cailey Locke Conception Bay South   Nathan Locke Conception Bay South   Nathan Young Paradise Diving Merrick Noel Logy Bay Golf Taylor Cormier Corner Brook   Ethan Efford St. John’s Gymnastics Michael Drover St. John’s   Gleb Evstigneev Paradise   Grace Hill St. John’s   Jirah Hiscock St. John’s   Sarah Pace St. John’s   Kyla Piercey Middle Cove   Megan Skinner St. John’s   Jane Young Torbay Hockey Anna Barrington St. John’s   Matthew Butler St. John’s   Carmen Elliott Lewisporte   Abby Newhook St. John’s   Devan Newhook St. John’s   Michael Strapp Harbour Main   Ronan Whitten Logy Bay   Leah Wicks St. John’s   Jordan Winter St. John’s Karate Ryan Crocker Torbay   Grace Noseworthy Portugal Cove – St. Phillips   Emma Pittman Outer Cove   Alex Ryan Middle Cove   Noah Ryan Middle Cove Parasport- Athletics Jeremy Jones St. John’s   Gavin Noble Middle Arm Parasport- Swimming Nathan Luscombe Grand Falls-Windsor Powerlifting Bre Andrews Happy Valley – Goose Bay   Erin Cadigan St. John’s Rowing Teghan Byrne Portugal Cove – St. Phillips   Kaitlyn Hall Portugal Cove – St. Phillips   Alexander Kingsley St. John’s   Gabriella Mate St. John’s Rugby Devon Burt St. John’s   James Noftall St. John’s   Sophie Pickard St. John’s   John Stanley Cook St. John’s Shooting Claire McCarthy St. John’s   Naomi Tucker St. John’s Skating Sarah Burry Middle Cove   Mark Butt Bloomfield   Lily Evans Pouch Cove   Jonathan Flynn Conception Bay South   Katie Slaney Paradise   Shawna-Marie Stuckless Corner Brook   Rachael Tuff Witless Bay   Jasmine Wheadon Carbonear Snowboard Owen Lapshinoff Wabush Soccer Felly Elonda St. John’s   Morgan Harris Mount Pearl   Kate Hickey Outer Cove   Eric Knight St. John’s   Evan Knight St. John’s   Finley Manning St. John’s   Briana Pender St. John’s   Lauren Rowe Conception Bay South   Lauren Taylor St. John’s Softball Shilo Chislett Kippens   Halle Joy Harbour Main   Ryan Maher St. John’s   Jordan Pomeroy Placentia   Liam Shea Dunville   Brooklyn Shortt Carbonear   Mark Stack Petty Harbour   Abigail Woodman Torbay Swimming Abigail Andrews St. John’s   Megan Holden Mount Pearl   Jaxson Row Paradise   Abigail Williams St. John’s Taekwondo Benjamin Eddy Coley’s Point Tennis Aiden Drover-Mattinen Portugal Cove-St. Philips   Liam Drover-Mattinen Portugal Cove-St. Philips   Jasmine Rahman St. John’s   Declan Walsh St. John’s Triathlon Dylan McDougall Port aux Basques Ultimate Cameron Penney St. John’s Volleyball Cecilie Dumaresque St. John’s   Derrick Ejeckham Gander   Karen Greek Mount Pearl   Morgan Hoskins Bishop Falls   Adam James Conception Bay South   Jenna Lake Conception Bay South   Nathan Marshall Mount Pearl   Alyssa Warford Corner Brook   Claire Whiffen St. John’s

 

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