Government of Newfoundland News

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Speaker, on September 24 this province, and in particular southwest Newfoundland, was forever changed by a historical and unprecedented weather event in Hurricane Fiona. The damage was devastating, horrifying and tragic. The sea, which has always been a significant part of the fabric of our province, breached our shores and stole houses, fishing stages, wharves, infrastructure, and most tragically, it stole a life.

It has been nearly two weeks, and yet the hurt and the impacts of this storm are still being fully understood and realized. We expect the assessment of this damage will continue in the weeks and months ahead. However, as Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are known for, we shall come out of this together. Unfortunately we are no stranger to tragedy, and these events are becoming more frequent. But as we have done before following disasters, we will come together to support each other. Our government will be there for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that have been impacted by this event, now and as we continue to ensure people get the support they need.

Speaker, at the beginning of this week the Canadian Red Cross started distributing funds on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to those people who were displaced by Hurricane Fiona. In addition, we provided communities with a process to access the funding required to start repairing and rebuilding. Our government continues to work with the Canadian Red Cross to provide further assistance to residents and communities, and will continue this support as we move forward.

The Incident Command Centre team that was established in the days following Hurricane Fiona remains on the ground to assist communities in southwestern Newfoundland. The team is led by officials with experience in incident response, and includes professionals from various government departments, such as the Departments of Transportation and Infrastructure, Children, Seniors and Social Development, Justice and Public Safety, Digital Government and Service NL and Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

Speaker, our hearts are with those who have had their lives turned upside down. We know the recovery will take time. The impacts are far reaching with residents, municipalities and local service districts, businesses and non-profit organizations having to pick up the pieces. I want to assure those impacted that our government is committed to be there to support you throughout this extremely emotional and trying time.

Our province is strong and resilient. We will come together. We will recover. We will rebound. Just like Newfoundlanders and Labradorians always do. I would like to ask all honourable members of this House of Assembly to stand and join me in a moment of silence as we send prayers and condolences for the loss of a woman who was tragically taken from her family and friends.

 

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National Foster Families Month is an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the dedicated service of foster families throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Foster families play an essential role by providing safe and nurturing homes to children and youth experiencing complex and challenging situations.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, was pleased to join Kelli Dawe, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, as well as the Association’s board members and foster parents to proclaim October as National Foster Families Month.

Approximately 600 foster families located throughout Newfoundland and Labrador make lasting and positive impacts on the lives and futures of children and youth every single day, with far-reaching reverberations in the development of healthy communities and the province as a whole.

October is also a time to recognize the important work of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, which works collaboratively with the department to encourage, recruit and support foster parents.

This year, the association celebrates its 40th anniversary, and will be marking its anniversary and Foster Families Month with a variety of activities for foster families and community members throughout the province. To find out more about these events, please visit fosterfamiliesnl.ca

For more information on taking the next step to becoming a foster parent, call the department toll-free 1-855-863-6111 or visit www.fosterafuture.ca; or call the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association toll-free at 1-877-754-0218.

Quotes
“I want to take this opportunity to thank foster families across the province for opening their hearts and homes to children and youth who are at risk, responding to their diverse needs with dedication and care, and putting themselves on the frontlines to ensure safe and caring homes for children and youth to thrive and succeed. I would also like to extend my deep appreciation to the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, who are our valued partners in recruiting and supporting foster parents. Congratulations on celebrating 40 years of exceptional service.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“October is Foster Families Month in Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Foster Families Association extends sincere thanks and appreciation to the 600 foster families who nurture and protect the most vulnerable in our province. Foster families provide loving, stable homes to in-care children and youth, and play an active role in achieving positive outcomes for the children placed in their homes.”
Kelli Dawe
Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association

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Foster a Future

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

Kelli Dawe
Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association
709-754-0213
kelli@fosterfamiliesnl.ca

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The Office of Women and Gender Equality is pleased to announce $30,000 in project funding to support Future of the Vote, hosted by Equal Voice NL. Future of the Vote, formerly known as Daughters of the Vote, was recently rebranded to invoke broader participation from women and gender-diverse people.

Future of the Vote provides an opportunity for young women and gender-diverse people – one person representing each provincial district – to represent their community in a mock debate in the House of Assembly. The event focuses on inclusion and diversity and allows future leaders a chance to network with others, build relationships and foster mentorship roles that will assist them in exploring their paths to boardroom tables, municipal councils and legislatures.

The event will be held on Friday, October 21, and will feature programming including workshops and panel discussions. The activities will help participants to gain a practical understanding of government, and to develop key skills for engaging in politics. Delegates will also learn about how to support equity and diversity in leadership.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to undertaking initiatives that encourage, promote, support and retain women and gender-diverse people in leadership roles, including in running for elected office.

Quotes
“Future of the Vote is an opportunity for women and gender-diverse people to gain a better understanding of the political system through experiential learning. The participants are the leaders of today and the change makers of tomorrow, who want to make a positive impact in our province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Conversations that raise awareness about inclusion and diversity are essential to creating welcoming environments for women and gender-diverse individuals and to increasing their participation in local governance. The Municipal Conduct Act and the Make Your Mark campaign are other excellent examples of how we can build a municipal sector that is respectful and inclusive, reducing barriers to entering politics and leadership roles.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“We have invited 40 women and gender-diverse youth from regions all across Newfoundland and Labrador to fill the House of Assembly on October 21, as Delegates of Future of the Vote. We are humbled and honoured by the stories of leadership, resilience and sense of social responsibility we have heard in getting to know this years’ delegates. These delegates are not just future leaders; they are leaders of today, and we are excited to be part of their journey.”
Courtney Clarke
Co-Chair, Equal Voice NL

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Learn more
Future of the Vote

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Media contacts
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca

Jacquelyn Howard
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5539, 689-2624
jacquelynhoward@gov.nl.ca

Courtney Clarke
Equal Voice NL
709-765-7091
nl@equalvoice.ca

 

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Newfoundland and Labrador’s population growth accelerated in the last quarter, leading to the highest population increase since 1971. Statistics Canada’s latest population estimates show that the province’s population increased by 2,929 persons from April 1 to July 1 of this year.

This latest report from Statistics Canada confirms that the population growth trend that began in 2021 is continuing. This comes as the Provincial Government is planning to welcome the third government-sponsored airlift of Ukrainian refugees to the province on October 11 to join the more than 800 Ukrainians who have already arrived to seek refuge from the illegal Russian invasion.

Since January 1, 2021 the population of Newfoundland and Labrador has grown by 6,236 people. A chart showing recent provincial population trends is available in the backgrounder below. Immigration is once again the primary source of growth, with 2,068 international newcomers arriving in the quarter. Migration from other provinces, coming mostly from Ontario and Alberta, continues to be strong with 1,300 people moving here during this period.

Population growth is occurring while positive trends have appeared in employment data. Between June 2021 and June 2022, the unemployment rate dropped from 11.5 per cent to 9.2 per cent. In addition, during the same period, 7,100 more people were employed in the province.

Quotes
“Our government recognizes the critical importance of immigration, and we continue to work hard to grow our population. Provincial population growth, by quarter, is at a 51-year high as increasing numbers of newcomers and expatriates are choosing Newfoundland and Labrador. 2022 is shaping up to be so much more than a time for visiting our shores. This year is truly a year to ‘Come Home’.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Newfoundland and Labrador welcomed more people from April to July of this year than in all of 2021. Our population is surging while employment continues to steadily increase. This speaks to the contributions our new residents are making to our economy and the work of our government to upskill and retrain workers for impactful careers in the provincial workforce.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

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

Jeremy Reynolds
Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
709-729-2377, 709-691-2298
jeremyreynolds@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Newfoundland and Labrador Quarterly Population Changes – January 2019 to July 2022

 

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Starting, Friday, October 7, adults aged 18 and over are eligible for the bivalent vaccine in Newfoundland and Labrador.  This vaccine targets the original COVID-19 virus from 2019 and the Omicron variant.

Appointments can be booked through regional health clinics by visiting the COVID-19 website. Additionally, appointments can also be made through participating pharmacists and physicians. 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.

On September 21, the Provincial Government announced the availability of the bivalent vaccine to those groups considered at higher risk for severe outcomes.

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Media contact
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0471
LauraThomas@gov.nl.ca

 

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The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture will participate in the opening of the 34th Eastport Peninsula Agricultural Exhibition tomorrow (Thursday, October 6).

The event is taking place at the Beaches Arts and Heritage Centre, 8 Church Street, Eastport at 7:00 p.m.

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Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca

 

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The following are speaking notes delivered at the Opening of the Second Session of the Fiftieth General Assembly of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador by Her Honour, The Honourable Judy M. Foote, PC, ONL, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Please check against delivery

Speaker and Honourable Members of the House of Assembly:

As the representative of His Majesty King Charles III, I welcome the members of the House of Assembly for the opening of this, the Second Session of the Fiftieth General Assembly of Newfoundland and Labrador.

We open this session at a somber time in the history of the Commonwealth with the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a steady presence in the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and other Canadians as our head of state for more than 70 years. Her reign was a historic one. Having visited our province three times, Her Late Majesty always displayed great dignity, empathy, and a keen wit. We were fortunate to have the opportunity to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee this year.

To His Majesty the King, this Legislature affirms its continued loyalty. God Save the King! May His reign be a long one.

In opening this session, we respectfully acknowledge the province of Newfoundland and Labrador as the ancestral homelands of many diverse populations of Indigenous people who have contributed to 9,000 years of history including the Beothuk on the Island of Newfoundland. Today, this province is home to diverse populations of Indigenous and other people. We also acknowledge, with respect, the diverse histories and cultures of the Mi’kmaq, Innu, and Inuit.

As we open the Second Session of the Fiftieth General Assembly, now is a time to reflect, re-evaluate, and assess where Newfoundland and Labrador stands after a very turbulent few years, both here and in many places around the world.

Global economic pressures are hitting the pockets of people all over the world, and impacts are equally being felt here in Newfoundland and Labrador. Across the country and beyond, staffing shortages are placing additional strain on the delivery of healthcare services. And the impacts of climate change have altered the way we interact with our natural environment.

But challenges lead to opportunities. Opportunities to innovate and adapt. To step up and help those in need.

Like so many people in the province who have adapted, innovated, and reached out to help, My Government has led by embracing change. With Newfoundland and Labrador solutions to worldwide problems, My Government is rising to the challenge.

The resiliency of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians is renowned and was on full display again recently during the devastating forest fires in the central region and after the tragic impact of Hurricane Fiona.

My Government was there for the residents whose lives were affected by these events and it continues to work with its municipal and federal counterparts to ensure the supports are there for those who need them.

My Government immediately provided initial support of up to $30 million to assist residents and communities as they recover from the effects of Hurricane Fiona.

My Government has been with the people of the southwest coast since the beginning and will continue to be with them every step of the way as they work to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their communities.

MEASURES TO ADDRESS THE COST OF LIVING

The COVID-19 pandemic, global geopolitical pressures, and supply chain issues have all contributed to an increase in the cost of living across Canada and beyond. Earlier this year, Newfoundland and Labrador introduced a five-point plan as the first set of several meaningful measures. This included:

• Increasing the Income Supplement;
• Increasing the Seniors’ Benefit;
• A one-time benefit for those receiving income support;
• Funding for electric vehicles and the infrastructure required for them to operate; and
• Support for transitioning from heating our homes with oil to electricity.

My Government also eliminated the 15 per cent retail sales tax on home insurance for one year, offered a 50 per cent reduction in vehicle registration fees, and lowered provincial gasoline taxes by more than eight cents per litre. The gas tax reduction will be extended until March 31, 2023.

The Home Heating Supplement Program offers residents a reimbursement of up to $500 towards the purchase of furnace or stove oil to heat their home. Payments are already being disbursed. My Government has also successfully mitigated electricity rates through the $5.2 billion partnership with the Government of Canada.

Recognizing that affordable child care is crucial to helping people, particularly women, enter or re-enter the workforce, My Government has been a national leader in lowering costs to $10 a day starting this coming January.

My Government recently announced three increases to the minimum wage, based on the recommendation of the Minimum Wage Review Committee, which will bring Newfoundland and Labrador’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by October 2023. It also expanded the bus pass program to include seniors receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement, as well as youth-in-care and those receiving youth services programming.

All told, My Government has provided almost a quarter of a billion dollars towards initiatives aimed at easing the financial burden that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are carrying due to no fault of their own. Perhaps the most generous package of initiatives in the country. And My Government is not finished yet.

IMPROVING FISCAL SITUATION

While measures such as these are necessary right now, decisions to help residents are made with the province’s fiscal situation in mind – addressing our past, present, and future.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are well aware of the significant public debt that has been accumulated over the past few decades, and the debilitating effect this may have on future generations. This year, My Government will make payments towards that debt, lowering borrowing costs, and addressing consequences of our past.

To address present challenges, My Government will introduce additional measures to address cost of living pressures. On top of the aforementioned programs and expenditures, My Government will provide direct relief to the people of this province as they face rising prices of everyday necessities. As the first order of business in this session of the House of Assembly, tax filers aged 18 and over by December 31, 2022, who have income less than $100,000 will receive a cheque for $500, and those with income of $100,000 to $125,000 will receive a cheque on a sliding scale with a minimum payment of $250. This is non-taxable, does not require an application, and flows directly to residents. Because you know how best to spend it, for your family, right now, when you need it.

My Government is also looking ahead to the future. Accordingly, My Government will establish the Newfoundland and Labrador Future Fund that will be used to invest revenue from short-term, one-time, and non-renewable sources for the benefit of our next generations.

My Government looks forward to making the first contribution to the Future Fund this year. This will ensure the benefits of the current fiscal situation will provide solid footing for challenging years to come. Just imagine, had this foresight existed in the past, the saving grace it could have been during tough fiscal times.

My Government remains committed to achieving surplus. It will achieve this with continued strong and responsible financial management. My Government has made legislative changes to strengthen the Office of the Auditor General and its oversight of government entities, and changes to the Financial Administration Act to include a new focus on debt repayment, more effective debt financing, and the future fund. Through prudent fiscal governance it is keeping government’s expenditures fair, continuing transformational initiatives, and ensuring maximum of every provincial dollar spent on public services. Through responsible debt management, My Government will continue to lower the cost of debt servicing, and enhance government’s treasury management expertise. This approach is working, as evidenced by recent improved outlooks from the major credit reporting agencies.

 

INCREASING ACCESS TO QUALITY HEALTH CARE

My Government is taking concrete actions to improve health care services and ensure the appropriate care is available at the appropriate time to those who need it.

While recognizing these challenges are not unique to Newfoundland and Labrador, My Government is committed to implementing a Newfoundland and Labrador solution that meets the needs of residents while considering the work environment and needs of our valued health care professionals. Much work has been done, with much more underway.

Community-based teams are the foundation required to transform primary health care. A collaborative community team features a diverse team of health care professionals that provides a wide range of patient services to meet the needs of individuals and communities.

Teams may include health care professionals such as physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and other allied health professionals such as social workers, pharmacists and dietitians. Several of these teams have now been established across the province, and more initiatives are in various stages of development and implementation. My Government will continue to build off the success of team-based care to address specific needs in communities.

Recognizing the need for people to receive important health services as quickly as possible, My Government created a surgical task force to address the surgical backlog. It also developed an innovative partnership with the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, and launched same-day knee and hip replacement surgery to speed up access.

My Government remains committed to providing primary care and emergency room services to both urban and rural parts of the province where staffing challenges exist, and virtual care is an option to address these challenges. All stakeholders are working together to implement solutions.

The process to procure a new, integrated health information system has commenced, that will allow sharing of critical health care information across the province. This system will engage residents in their health journey by providing digital access to their health care information and enhanced services, such as insights into the referral or test ordering process.

My Government has increased investment and innovation in the delivery of mental health and addictions treatment by establishing mental health teams, expanding mobile crisis response services, and adding enhanced mental health and addictions crisis support to 811.

The health and safety of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians remains the priority for My Government. An ambulance system that meets the needs and addresses the challenges of our province is paramount, as recommended by Health Accord NL.

 

RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION

Central to all of these initiatives are the hard-working health care professionals that provide quality care to Newfoundland and Labrador. My Government has initiated several concrete measures to increase the number of health care providers in the province.

A Provincial Health Professional Recruitment and Retention Office was established, and launched the Extraordinary Every Day recruitment campaign.

Investment continues in post-secondary programs to increase the number of qualified licensed practical nurses, personal care attendants, registered nurses, and medical graduates, with a focus on rural areas.

In order to attract and retain physicians, My Government has offered numerous incentives, including:

• A Come Home Year incentive to bring health care professionals back to the province offering up to $100,000 with a three- to five-year return-in-service agreement, and is available to primary and advanced care paramedics, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians;
• $150,000 to new family physicians who open or join a practice in exchange for a five-year service agreement;
• Income guarantee initiative launched for new family physicians in exchange for a two-year service agreement;
• Increased compensation rates for physicians covering emergency departments in smaller rural health centres; and
• Eligible Ukrainian physicians can receive up to $10,000 to offset licensing costs in exchange for a two year service agreement.

My Government has also implemented a one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce, and an additional five undergraduate seats have been added to Memorial University’s Medical School for Newfoundland and Labrador students.

Compensation rates for covering emergency rooms in smaller rural health centres were increased as a temporary measure to help retain existing physicians at these sites, as well as attract other locum physicians during periods of vacancy. As well, in Labrador, Category A rates were increased in the last Memorandum of Agreement.

My Government participated in a Nursing Think Tank held in April with the Registered Nurses Union of Newfoundland and Labrador, and developed financial incentives and initiatives to address immediate nursing challenges. These included retention bonuses, signing bonuses for casual registered nurses to encourage them to accept a full-time or part-time position in an area of need, double rate overtime for vacation period, reimbursement of licensing fees for retired registered nurses, a registered nurse locum premium, 24/7 mental health supports, exploring child care options, and bursaries for third-year nursing students. Requests for Proposals were also issued to help improve the workplace environment, and the recruitment and retention of registered nurses and nurse practitioners.

My Government is working to remove barriers for international students, graduates, and professionals. Legislative amendments will be introduced to simplify the licensure requirements for internationally-trained and qualified doctors and nurses to qualify here in Newfoundland and Labrador. A new Bursary Program will help internationally-educated nurses meet Canadian standards, and five new seats will be added to the Family Medicine Residency Program for International Medical Graduates at Memorial University. Students around the world are excited by these programs, and are already applying.

My Government has introduced financial incentives and more employee supports in paramedicine to help alleviate pressures experienced by emergency services staff. With an investment of $2 million for another 24/7 ambulance and more than 20 new permanent positions, as well as $5.4 million for air ambulance services, My Government will increase access and reliability. Medical Transportation Assistance Program enhancements will support fair and equitable access to medical programs.

Ensuring that appropriate infrastructure is in place to meet the health care needs of our people is critical to the success of the health system. Given the changing demography and ever-changing face of health care through technology and innovative solutions, My Government is taking the initiative to reimagine and realign the delivery of acute care services to ensure that it aligns with the province’s future health care requirements.

In addition to continuing work on the west coast hospital, My Government is improving and expanding the emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre. The new emergency department will serve patients at the Health Sciences Centre and new adult mental health and addictions hospital, and include a psychiatric assessment unit, high acuity-trauma unit, care initiation area, ambulance parking garage, diagnostic imaging area, administration area, and a new entrance and registration area.

But this is only the beginning. A general lack of inpatient beds and access to surgical capacity is a barrier to care. To address these issues, My Government will be working with the provincial health authority to implement a number of intermediate and long-term solutions to modernize the existing infrastructure, including evaluating potential expansions of operating room and bed capacity in the province’s busiest hospitals.

 

HEALTH CARE REFORM

While dealing with these immediate health care needs, Newfoundland and Labrador is taking the lead in addressing systemic health care issues that are being experienced throughout Canada and around the world. We are not immune to these challenges, but we are moving with a sense of urgency to reimagine our health care system, including addressing the key social determinants of health, and leading the country in navigating this national crisis.

My Government acknowledges that a person’s health is influenced by the conditions in which they are born, live, eat, exercise, learn, work, and play. It is influenced by their feeling respected and safe, and by their being able to age with dignity. To a lesser degree, it is influenced by the health care system and biology.

My Government is working to improve the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians by making changes in the social, economic, and environmental conditions that affect our health, and by rebalancing our health care system across community, hospitals, and long-term care.

SENIORS

My Government recognizes that the demography is vastly different than decades ago, despite the fact that our systems, including health care, have remained relatively unchanged by comparison. Today, seniors outnumber children considerably and this trend is expected to continue over the coming years.

A number of recommendations arose from the Health Accord, including to develop and implement a formal Provincial Frail Elderly Program; support the further development of age-friendly communities and to end ageism; implement a continuum of care for older adults; and develop and implement provincial legislation, regulation, and policy to provide care and protection for older people. To take this even further, My Government will establish a Cabinet committee on seniors to be led by the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development. Supported by a cross departmental virtual secretariat, and building off the work of Health Accord NL, this team will revolutionize how we address seniors’ issues, from medical issues regarding the frail elderly to wraparound services to help seniors age in place with dignity.

PAY EQUITY

My Government continues to make the advancement of women and gender-diverse people a priority and will introduce legislation on pay equity during this session to complement the many other measures that have been implemented to close the wage gap and advance equity. Enacting pay transparency and equity initiatives demonstrates further concrete action to support women and gender-diverse people who have traditionally faced inequitable employment practices.

 

RECONCILIATION

With the recent marking of the second annual Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, it was a time for reflection on the province’s relationship and history with Indigenous people.

My Government remains committed to consultations with Indigenous groups and weekly meetings with leaders that support open and frank discussions on important issues.

Considerable work is being done through the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Gatherings and recommendations provided from the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee will inform actions that may be taken to address the primary concerns of Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, and communities, including the prevention of systemic violence and discrimination. My Government will continue to work with partners from across the country to advance the National Action Plan on Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

My Government and the Innu Nation have launched the Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System. The ultimate goal of the Commission will be to make necessary changes that guarantee the protection and safety of all Innu youth in care.

 

IMMIGRATION

My Government is pleased that the population of Newfoundland and Labrador has grown for five consecutive quarters. This reversing trend leads to a stronger and more diverse province and lends to optimism for the future.

This growth is being fueled by immigration, which has become a resounding success due to programs and policies we have introduced. We are well on our way to welcoming more than 5,100 newcomers annually; perhaps even earlier than the 2026 target announced last year.

My Government was a national leader in welcoming refugees from Ukraine: first setting up a Ukrainian Family Support Desk here at home and then establishing one on the ground in Poland to assist Ukrainians fleeing war in their homeland. Employees assigned to the Ukrainian Family Support Desk have done an exemplary job since March to promote Newfoundland and Labrador, answer questions, and help potential immigrants navigate the complex regulations and laws that would permit them to come to Canada. My Government also acted quickly to ensure that Ukrainians arriving here had access to the Medical Care Plan and the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program and valid driver’s licences.

My Government thanks the many community organizations, businesses and individuals who have assisted, and continue to assist, by providing jobs, offering guidance and donations and opening their homes. Newfoundland and Labrador’s legendary hospitality has been on full display once again, and we are proud to share that the third airlift of Ukrainian refugees is expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Of course, Newfoundland and Labrador has always welcomed immigrants from other parts of the world. Just last month, refugees from Afghanistan arrived to join the growing community that already call Newfoundland and Labrador home.

My Government made recent budget commitments to eliminate fees under the Provincial Nominee Program and for staff with the provincial Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism to provide an array of free services to newcomers and employers. These include assistance with preparing and submitting applications through the Atlantic Immigration Program and the Provincial Nominee Program. Such measures have resulted in our province welcoming a record number of permanent residents to Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

CULTURAL INDUSTRIES

Socially, culturally, and economically, the arts community makes an incredibly important contribution to our communities, and our province.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s special story is told through music, writing, dancing, art, craft, film, and television. The creative sector grows jobs and attracts tourists to Newfoundland and Labrador.

My Government sees the exciting potential of the province’s expanding film and television sector and the approximately 1,400 people that it employs. Through initiatives such as the Film and Television Equity Investment Program, an all-spend film and video production tax credit, and a new Film and Media Production Centre at College of the North Atlantic in St. John’s, it is catalyzing continued growth of this sector.

I would be remiss if I did not use this occasion to acknowledge the life-long effort of Paul Pope who we sadly lost this past spring. He was a dynamic force and his lasting legacy will be felt in the province’s burgeoning film and television industry.

CLEAN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH

Newfoundland and Labrador’s key industries have also been expanding, in sustainable and beneficial ways. My Government will ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador remains a leader in Canada in addressing climate change and supplying clean energy to the world.

My Government recently welcomed the Prime Minister of Canada and the German Chancellor for the signing of a Declaration of Intent to establish a Canada-Germany Hydrogen Alliance, and Newfoundland and Labrador has since signed an agreement with the City of Hamburg. These historic agreements display to the world the significant potential of the province’s renewable energy resources, including wind and hydrogen development, and signal My Government’s commitment to entering the global marketplace.

Earlier this year My Government lifted the moratorium on commercial and energy wind developments and released guidelines for entities exploring wind energy projects. These guidelines include a two-phased approach with a call for land nominations followed by a call for land bids.

Projects will also go through a thorough and robust environmental assessment process that can be completed in a timely manner so Newfoundland and Labrador can be one of the first out of the gate in this competitive marketplace.

The interest in wind energy is significant with businesses, investors, and industry associations all approaching government with ideas or proposals. The province’s location as the gateway to Europe, plentiful wind resources and world-class expertise in resource development will be considerable assets for Newfoundland and Labrador to thrive.

This exciting new industry will complement My Government’s support of established natural resource industries. The oil and gas industry remains a major contributor to the economy, and source of well-paying employment for many. New developments including the Bay du Nord project demonstrate how Newfoundland and Labrador can be a global leader in low-carbon oil at this time when the world needs it most.

Industries such as fisheries, mining, forestry, and agriculture will continue to sustain the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador as they continue to grow through investments in technology, skills training, and green initiatives.

 

INFRASTRUCTURE

Newfoundland and Labrador has seen considerable infrastructure improvements in recent years to better serve residents. These include new long term care facilities in Corner Brook, Gander, and Grand-Falls Windsor, and St. John’s and mental health infrastructure in Labrador. Considerable work continues on the new hospital for the west coast region, and a new mental health and addictions facility, and expansions at the Health Sciences Centre.

These investments in infrastructure produce massive returns by creating well-paying jobs and improving programs and services.

My Government recognizes that for the first time in decades, school enrolment is increasing and will ensure there are proper facilities in place for new and existing students through new school construction and the redevelopment of existing facilities.

Work is underway on a new provincial correctional facility to replace the penitentiary in St. John’s, as well as a new public building and courthouse for the Bay St. George region.

Just this summer, the paving of the Trans-Labrador Highway was completed, marking a significant accomplishment in transportation infrastructure. The completion allows residents, tourists, and commercial traffic to travel on more than 1,100 kilometres of paved highway between the Labrador Straits and Labrador West. In addition, work is continuing towards the feasibility of completing a road to the North.

My Government acknowledges that climate change is impacting the capacity of transportation infrastructure to handle severe weather events. It will continue to improve the road network throughout the province by resurfacing highways and replacing bridges and culverts. It will continue to support municipalities so they can also make improvements within their boundaries.

 

CONCLUSION

Newfoundland and Labrador just experienced a fantastic summer and encouraged people from around the world to Come Home. As is our way, we warmly welcomed thousands to every nook and cranny across this great province. The hospitality industry persevered through the challenges of the pandemic and rose to the occasion this year, ensuring a banner year for travel and tourism.

We put our best foot forward to remind those Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who now live away, why they remain attached to their home province. We also showed those who aren’t from here, just what makes this place so special and unique. We are sure to see many of them again.

Come Home 2022 proved there is hope. It showed that despite any challenges, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians remain resilient and optimistic.

My Government will continue to fuel that hope and optimism by working to ensure this glorious piece of the world remains a place that we are proud to call home.

Speaker and Honourable Members of the House of Assembly:

I invoke God’s blessing upon you as you commence the work of the Second Session of the Fiftieth General Assembly.

May Divine Providence guide you in your deliberation.

The post Speech from the Throne appeared first on News Releases.

With peak autumn colours on display and cooler weather making wildlife more active, fall is a great time to visit Salmonier Nature Park. Fall hours for the public are in effect until Monday, October 10. Gates are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the park closing at 4 p.m.

School groups, youth organizations and service groups are invited to schedule a fall visit to Salmonier Nature Park for guided tours or curriculum-linked presentations until October 31.

Fall outreach programming begins November 1. For a list of programs or to schedule a virtual or in-person visit, email salmoniernaturepark@gov.nl.ca.

Approximately 40,000 people visit Salmonier Nature Park annually, including nearly 5,000 youth who participate in on-site school programming. Educational displays focusing on Newfoundland and Labrador’s wildlife species and natural heritage are on display in the visitor’s centre, and 84 species of birds, 15 species of mammals and over 170 species of vascular plants have been recorded within the park’s boundaries. Visitors can walk through boreal forest on a three-kilometre long boardwalk trail to view a variety of common species including arctic fox, Canada lynx, Newfoundland marten, woodland caribou, great-horned owls and other wildlife in their natural surroundings.

Budget 2022 allocated $2 million over four years for infrastructure upgrades at the park. This year, $500,000 will go towards upgrading the boardwalk trail system and wildlife enclosures, biosecurity enhancements to the park’s animal care building and improving parking facilities and service roads.

Quote
“Salmonier Nature Park is a very special place, and the fall of the year is a great time to enjoy the wildlife at the park in this amazing natural setting. Our education programs are second to none and are tailored to the learning outcomes and interests of every group who visits. I encourage everyone to pay a visit to Salmonier Nature Park this fall and experience everything this wonderful facility has to offer.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more
Salmonier Nature Park

For the Love of Animals: Investing in Wildlife Rehab, Research and Education at Salmonier Nature Park

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Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca

 

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Today, the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, announced an additional measure to help residents with the high cost of living. A one-time cheque of up to $500 will be provided to residents of the province who have reached the age of 18 years old as of December 31, 2022 and who filed a 2021 tax return with an adjusted income of $125,000 or less.

The cheque, which will be provided to approximately 392,000 residents in the province, will be income tested based on an individual’s adjusted income (which refers to line 23600 of the income tax return for most taxfilers). Those with adjusted income of less than $100,000 will receive $500 and those with adjusted income between $100,000 and $125,000 will receive a partial payment ranging between $250 and $500.

No application is required. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will issue cheques beginning later in 2022 to eligible individuals based on 2021 income tax return filings with the Canada Revenue Agency. Residents who have not yet filed their 2021 tax return may do so up until December 31, 2022 to be able to receive this benefit.

This initiative, with an estimated cost of $194 million, is part of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s overall plan to help residents with the cost of living, and aligns with the direction of the Health Accord to improve economic security in this province.

While these measures are necessary right now, decisions to help Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are made with the province’s fiscal situation in mind – addressing our past, present and future. Government will also be establishing and making the first contribution to the Future Fund this year. This will ensure the benefits of the current fiscal situation will ensure solid footing for challenging years to come.

Since March 2022, government has announced nearly half a billion dollars in targeted cost-of-living measures (a full list is included in the backgrounder below).

For more information, please email taxpolicy@gov.nl.ca or phone 709-729-3166.

Quotes
“As our first order of business in this session of the House of Assembly, we are ensuring that a one-time cost of living relief will be given to approximately 392,000 residents of our province. This is an investment aimed at helping you and your family at a time when you need it most as people around the world face challenges from rising costs, and as we continue to prioritize investments that will improve the economic security in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Together with other initiatives, such as the home heating supplement, the temporary reduction of the provincial tax on gasoline, and increases to the income supplement and seniors’ benefit, your government is helping to address the higher cost of living due to higher oil prices and pandemic-related supply shortages. The relief announced today is just one of nearly a half billion dollars in targeted cost of living measures we have announced since March 2022.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance

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Learn more
Provincial Government Launches Home Heating Supplement Program (Furnace and Stove Oil)

News Release: Budget 2022 Helps with the Cost of Living; Addresses Government’s Financial Challenges

News Release: Government Announces Five-point Plan to Help Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with the High Cost of Living

Government Introduces Additional Measures to Help Residents with the Cost of Living – News Releases

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

Victoria Barbour
Finance
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Cost of Living Investments

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced $416 million in targeted short- and long-term investments since March 2022 to help residents with the cost of living, including:

Short-term:

• One-time cost of living relief up to $500 for residents of the province who have reached the age of 18 years as of December 31, 2022 and who filed a 2021 tax return with an adjusted income of $125,000 or less;
• Temporarily lowering the price at the pump by 8.05 cents per litre (includes HST). This is possible through a reduction in the provincial tax on gasoline and diesel by 7 cents per litre ($44 million);
• Home heating supplement program. The supplement ranges between $200 and $500, is available to residents of the province whose adjusted family income for 2021 was $150,000 or less and have directly incurred costs for the purchase of furnace or stove oil to heat their home;
• In April 2022, provided a one-time benefit for those receiving income support ($5 million);
• Elimination of the 15 per cent retail sales tax on home insurance ($37.8 million); and,
• 50 per cent reduction in registration fees for passenger vehicles, light duty trucks and taxis for one year ($27 million).

Transition:

• Funding for electric vehicle rebates and charging infrastructure ($1.9 million);
• Funding to help homes transition from oil to electricity ($2 million);
• Three increases to the minimum wage based on the recommendation of the Minimum Wage Review Committee:

• On October 1, 2022 the minimum wage increased by 50 cents, bringing it to $13.70 per hour;
• On April 1, 2023, the minimum wage will increase by 80 cents bringing the rate to $14.50 per hour; and,
• On October 1, 2023, the minimum wage will increase by 50 cents, bringing it to $15.00 per hour.
• A one-year transitional support program for smaller employers at a cost of approximately $5 million.

Long-term:

• 10 per cent increase to the Income Supplement ($6.8 million);
• 10 per cent increase to the Seniors’ Benefit ($6.5 million);
• Lower child care costs from an average of $35 per day in 2020, to $25 in 2021, to $10 a day starting in January 2023 ($46 million);
• An increase in the Pre-Natal Infant Nutrition Supplement ($0.3 million);
• Physical Activity Tax Credit (estimated $7.0 million); and,
• Expansion of the Bus Pass Program to seniors over age 65 who are receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement and youth receiving services from the Youth Services Program ($2.1 million).

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Investigations by officers with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Resource Enforcement Division have resulted in charges pending against several individuals for violations of the Off-Road Vehicle Act and the Wild Life Act.

On September 17, 2022, Resource Enforcement Officers from the Clarenville and St. John’s detachments conducted air and land patrols in response to reports of illegal activity in and around the Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserve. As a result of the investigation, an individual was detained for operating an off-road vehicle in the reserve and operating of an off-road vehicle out of an approved area. The vehicle was seized and charges are pending.

Other patrols near the Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserve resulted in identifying a number of licence and firearm violations under the Wild Life Act, along with several infractions of the Off-Road Vehicle Act. Charges are pending. Infractions included transporting a loaded firearm on a vehicle, not having a licence or Outdoor Identification Card on their person, operating an off-road vehicle out of an approved area, no entry permit for a Wilderness Reserve and operation of an off-road vehicle within a reserve. A firearm and an off-road vehicle were seized.

The public is reminded that it is illegal to operate an off-road vehicle outside of an approved area or be in possession of an off-road vehicle within a reserve. In addition, a person or group may not enter a reserve without a permit.

The public is encouraged to report suspected illegal hunting activity or off-road vehicle use, as information provided by the public can play an important role in assisting investigations being carried out by Resource Enforcement Officers.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity anonymously at any time by calling 1-877-820-0999 or 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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Media contact
Erin Shea
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Agriculture
709-729-3733
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

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A tender has been issued to replace Romaine’s River Bridge on the Port au Port Highway, Route 460, in Western Newfoundland.

The tender calls for work to construct a new concrete girder, two-span bridge with a concrete deck to be constructed south of the current bridge, the realignment of the highway and the removal of the existing bridge.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates construction will begin this winter and will be completed in 2024.

This bridge replacement is in addition to more than 40 bridges rehabilitated this construction season, as well as six bridge replacements currently under construction on provincial highways, including Rushy Pond Bridge, Aspen Brook Bridge, and Shoal Harbour River Bridge on the Trans-Canada Highway; Coots Pond Bridge on Salmonier Line (Route 90); Hughes Brook Bridge on North Shore Highway (Route 450); and North River Bridge in Clarke’s Beach (Route 70).

Planning continues on the replacement of other bridges on provincial highways.

The replacement of Romaine’s River Bridge is in addition to other highway improvements that are set to begin on the Port au Port Peninsula. A contract valued at approximately $1.7 million has also been awarded to Marine Contractors Inc. to pave two kilometres of the Port au Port Highway (Route 460) through the community of Cape St. George and to pave three kilometres on Lourdes Road (Route 463) between Cape St. George and Mainland.

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

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca  and on the NL 511 mobile app

Quote
“Romaine’s River Bridge is an important piece of infrastructure for everyone who lives on the Port au Port Peninsula and for people visiting the region. Now that planning has been completed, we are happy to see this tender issued and we look forward to work being completed.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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Learn more
Provincial Roads Plan Outlines Highway Construction Projects for Two Construction Seasons

Work to Begin on Overpasses, Bridges in Corner Brook

Contract Awarded for Bridge Replacement on Trans-Canada Highway Near Grand Falls-Windsor

Contract Awarded to Replace Central Newfoundland Bridge

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

 

The post Tender Issued to Replace Romaine’s River Bridge on Port au Port Highway appeared first on News Releases.

Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, will table the first of two performance audit reports on Nalcor Energy in the House of Assembly tomorrow (Thursday, October 6, 2022).

A technical briefing for media will take place tomorrow (Thursday, October 6, 2022), beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the Office of the Auditor General’s boardroom, 7 Pippy Place, St. John’s. Media representatives planning to participate are asked to RSVP to Chrysta Collins (chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca).

The Auditor General will be available to the media beginning at 3:00 p.m.

Media planning to participate are asked to be at the Office of the Auditor General no later than 1:15 p.m.

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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

 

The post Media Advisory: Auditor General to Table Report on a Performance Audit of Nalcor Energy appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will announce an additional cost of living measure today (Wednesday, October 5).

The event will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building at 11:00 a.m. The announcement will also be live-streamed on Facebook.

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

Victoria Barbour
Finance
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce Additional Cost of Living Measure appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology and MHA for Burgeo – La Poile and the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety provided an update on recovery efforts in response to the impacts of Hurricane Fiona today (Tuesday, October 4).

To date, 805 households have registered with the Canadian Red Cross. 260 homes have been reported as damaged by Hurricane Fiona. Structural assessments have been completed on 254 homes in the region and assessments in Burgeo are beginning today.

Contractors continue to remove debris stemming from the damage, and moving stockpiles to a regional waste management site.

All roads are currently open. Repair work on damaged roads in Burnt Islands is nearing completion, including repairs to damage to two areas on Main Road and the causeway to the community.

Route 470 remains open to one lane, while repairs to Route 408 begin today.

Inspections on a damaged seawall protecting the water supply in Ramea have been undertaken. There are no current impacts to the water supply system.

In addition, more than 300 calls have been made to the Fiona Response Coordinator, including 167 different households in the region inquiring about information on assistance and 86 from organizations, such as not-for-profit organizations, schools, and volunteers offering assistance.

The Incident Command Centre can be contacted by calling 1-800-863-6582 or emailing FionaResponse@gov.nl.ca for assistance.

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Media contact
Brian Scott
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-3015
brianscott@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Update Provided on Recovery Efforts in Response to Hurricane Fiona appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, will bring greetings on behalf of the Provincial Government at the Rabbittown Community Centre and Community Association Annual General Meeting and Volunteer Banquet tomorrow (Wednesday, October 5, 2022).

The event will take place at the Rabbittown Community Centre, 26 Graves Street, St. John’s, starting at 4:30 p.m.

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Media contact
Kathy Dicks-Peyton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4860, 699-1982
kathydickspeyton@gov.nl.ca

 

The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Attend the Rabbittown Community Centre and Community Association AGM appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Provincial Government is recognizing the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

In the spirit of truth and reconciliation, our government acknowledges that violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people is a national crisis. The Provincial Government will continue to work alongside Indigenous Governments and organizations to reduce and prevent gender-based violence in our province.

In addition to providing core operational funding to the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network, the Office of Women and Gender Equality provides annual funding for the coordination of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Gathering. A final report based on the knowledge shared at the most recent Gathering, titled Hear Our Voices, was presented to government in July 2022.

Recommendations from Hear Our Voices are currently being reviewed for actions that may be taken to best address and prevent systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals in our province. No actions will be taken by the Provincial Government on the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee’s recommendations without collaboration with the province’s Indigenous people.

Additionally, the Office of Women and Gender Equality continues to work with federal, provincial, and territorial colleagues to advance the National Action Plan on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to creating a province that is safe for all people. Community agencies, Indigenous Governments and organizations and violence prevention advocates are key partners in the ongoing work to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Quotes
“Our Government is committed to truth and reconciliation, and an integral component of reconciliation is to advance work regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. As we reflect on the important work that lays ahead, we also honour the members of the Indigenous community who have experienced or who have had their lives stolen due to violence.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Our commitment to working with Indigenous Governments and organizations to implement the Calls to Justice of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is grounded in listening, learning and understanding the experiences of Indigenous people – particularly Indigenous women and two spirit individuals. We want to be part of responsive actions that address root causes.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“As a government we continue to work to support initiatives that directly target violent behavior and fight the social normalization of violence. Our priority remains the safety and well-being of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our government will continue to work with our federal, provincial, and territorial colleagues to address violence experienced by Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals in our province and country.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Learn more
Office of Women and Gender Equality

Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

Department of Justice and Public Safety

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Media contacts
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca

Allan Bock
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-7935, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca

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

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The following is being distributed at the request of Her Honour, the Honourable Judy M. Foote P.C., O.N.L, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador:

At a ceremony today at Colonial Building, the Honourable Judy M. Foote, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, congratulated the remarkable recipients of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s recipients are Robert W. Cormier, C.M., Dr. Catherine Donovan, Alan Thomas Doyle, C.M., Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Carla Emerson Furlong, Joseph D. Goudie, Dr. Proton Rahman and Maxwell (Max) Short. Seven of the individuals were present at today’s ceremony, and a presentation will be made to Alan Thomas Doyle, C.M. at a later date.

The recipients are receiving the province’s highest honour for their ‘demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an outstanding manner Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents.’

With today’s recipients, there is now a select group of just 135 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians invested to the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Biographies for each person honoured at today’s ceremony can be found in the backgrounder below.

Each recipient of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is nominated for the award and is presented with a medal bearing the shield of Newfoundland and Labrador surmounted by the Crown. Members receive a certificate signed by the Lieutenant Governor, Chancellor and sealed with the seal of the Order, as well as a miniature medal and a lapel pin. Members of the Order are entitled to use the initials O.N.L. after their names.

More information on the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/onl.

Quotes
“The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, first approved by Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in 2003, is our province’s highest honour and a part of the official honours system of Canada. The eight exemplary Newfoundlanders and Labradorians invested today join a prestigious group of 135 individuals who have received the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador since the honour was first bestowed in 2004. These eight recipients demonstrate deep commitment and dedication to our province and their fields of expertise. The impact of their work resonates not only within Newfoundland and Labrador, but our country, and internationally. It is my honour to recognize these outstanding individuals with the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Judy M. Foote, P.C., O.N.L.
Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador

“These eight individuals represent the best of Newfoundland and Labrador and they are true mentors and ambassadors for the province. While they may come from different walks of life and have varying experiences and contributions, they share a common drive to make the world a better place. It was a privilege to recognize them today as they receive the province’s highest honour in the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. I offer sincere congratulations on behalf of the Provincial Government and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Reconnaissance des derniers récipiendaires de l’Ordre de Terre‑Neuve-et-Labrador

Media contacts
Samantha Harding
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
709-729-4494
samanthaharding@gov.nl.ca

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

BACKGROUNDER

Biographies of those invested into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador

Robert W. Cormier, C.M.
Robert W. Cormier lives in Cape Saint George where his extensive dedication to the French language has had a lasting impact on his community, and the French education system in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Cormier is a graduate of Memorial University’s Faculty of Education and worked for more than 30 years as a teacher, principal and program coordinator.

Mr. Cormier is a founding member of the first French Association in Newfoundland and Labrador, Les Terre-Neuviens Francais, as well as a founding member of La Fédération des francophones de Terre-Neuve et du Labrador, the provincial francophone federation. He has served as president of both organizations.

Mr. Cormier has worked tirelessly to promote and preserve the French language and culture in this province. He quickly realized the importance of Education as a means of not only preserving the language but also promoting and instilling pride in it. From personal experience, Mr. Cormier knew that, although the people of his own community spoke the French language, they had never been given the opportunity to learn to read and write it.

In his leadership role, Mr. Cormier helped obtain French First Language education for students in this province. In 1988, the former French Immersion program, which begun in Cape St. George in 1975, was transformed into the French First Language program which is now offered in the francophone schools across the province. These schools are managed by the Provincial Francophone School Board, an important tool in giving francophones control over their education.

Although Mr. Cormier is retired, he continues to serve the community as a volunteer member on the Board of Directors of Les Terre-Neuviens Francais and the Board of Directors of Long Range Community Business Development Corporation.

Mr. Cormier was awarded Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee Medal and invested into the Order of Canada in 2002.

Dr. Catherine Donovan
For more than 30 years, Dr. Catherine Donovan helped build the foundation for Public Health in Newfoundland and Labrador. She is a retired professor of public health and former Medical Officer of Health at Eastern Health who worked tirelessly to promote and protect the health of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Dr. Donovan is a graduate of Memorial University and the University of British Columbia.

Dr. Donovan exemplifies true resiliency. At the beginning of her career as Medical Officer of Health in the early 1990s, she helped contain a HIV outbreak in Conception Bay North through her leadership and public health advice. By the end of her career, she helped navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Donovan dedicated much of her career to promoting health; she served as the Principal Investigator for the Newfoundland and Labrador Heart Health Program and for more than 15 years chaired the Provincial Wellness Advisory Council.

Before her retirement in 2020, Dr. Donovan played an instrumental role in the development of the Masters of Public Health and the Indigenous Health program at Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine where she acted as Program Chair, Associate Dean and Associate Professor before she retired.

Dr. Donovan is the recipient of many awards including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal for the Contribution to the Promotion of Heart Health, the Jansen-Ortho Inc. Award for Advancing the State of the Art of Public Health in Canada and the Nathan Gosse Award for Significant Contribution to Environmental Public Health in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Alan Thomas Doyle, C.M.
Alan Thomas Doyle is a musician, composer, writer and humanitarian from St. John’s. His immense pride and passion for Newfoundland and Labrador is infectious and he uses his platform to help those who need it most.

Mr. Doyle has been involved in dozens of foundations, causes and organizations such as Daffodil Place, Team Broken Earth, Children’s Wish, the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre, Memorial University, Smiling Land Foundation, and the Canadian Cancer Association, just to team a few. In 2018, Mr. Doyle co-founded the Dollar A Day Foundation, which has distributed more than $3 million to dozens of mental health and addictions programs in every Province and Territory in Canada.

In addition to his work as a humanitarian, Mr. Doyle’s music has united so many while spreading the province’s rich culture and heritage around the world. He has sold over 1 million albums with his work in Great Big Sea and Solo releases all of which have featured the sounds and influences of Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Music. He wrote and recorded a song with the Newfoundland Regiment Band, “Into the Arms of Home”, which touched the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as it commemorated 225 years of the regiment.  He is a Best Selling Author and his most recent musical theatre project, Tell Tale Harbour, is the fastest selling production in the 60-plus years of the storied Charlottetown Festival.

Mr. Doyle was invested into the Order of Canada in 2018.

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald is the Chief Medical Officer of Health for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Dr. Fitzgerald has led the public health response to the pandemic, with grace, patience and resilience. Her work has been instrumental in our province achieving the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the country.

Dr. Fitzgerald was notably a leader that residents of the province could rely on through hundreds of live COVID-19 briefings, alert system implementations and the navigation of public health measures.

Her mantra of “Hold Fast” reassured countless seniors and those with chronic illnesses. Her friendly videos educated residents during a stressful period and also brought comfort to families, especially those with children, whose lives had changed drastically during the pandemic.

Carla Emerson Furlong
Carla Emerson Furlong is a noted musician who has made outstanding contributions to the arts and culture of Newfoundland and Labrador and indeed, Canada. In addition, she spent decades as an avid volunteer in the community.

Ms. Furlong studied at the Royal Conservatory of Music and Juilliard. She studied under famous American harpist Marcel Grandjany. Despite her studies being interrupted by World War II, Ms. Furlong graduated from The Juilliard School in 1948. During the war, she served as a Cypher Technician in St. John’s.

In 1950, Ms. Furlong was appointed harpist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and performed with Halle Orchestra, and toured Great Britain with Vic Oliver’s Variety Show.

Ms. Furlong was instrumental in establishing the Harp Department at the Royal Conservatory of Toronto, performed with the Toronto Symphony and the Ottawa Philharmonic Orchestra, and recorded CBC Television and Radio shows. In 1962, she returned home to join the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra as principal harpist and helped establish the School of Music at Memorial University.

For more than 40 years, Ms. Furlong guided locals and visitors to learn about the architectural significance of the Anglican Cathedral. She generously gave her time to the Avalon Battalion Band of the Church Lad’s Brigade, Kiwanis Music Festival, as well as mentored students for examinations for the Trinity College and the Royal Conservatory of Music.

Ms. Furlong was a sought-after harp instructor. People travelled considerable distances to study with her until she stopped teaching, one year ago, at the age of 99.

Joseph D. Goudie
Joseph Goudie is a proud Métis elder widely recognized for his public service and outstanding heritage and cultural contributions to Labrador. His long and storied career began at CBC Radio in Happy Valley-Goose Bay as a broadcaster. In 1975, Mr. Goudie was the second Indigenous member elected to the House of Assembly, and made history as the first Labradorian to serve in cabinet. He spent more than thirty years perfecting craftsmanship as a master traditional Labrador canoe builder.

Throughout his life, Mr. Goudie raised awareness of Labrador’s unique cultures and tirelessly promoted its rich and diverse heritage to the world. Prior to entering politics, Mr. Goudie founded the Labrador Heritage Society and became its president. In that capacity, he was instrumental in the start of Them Days magazine, which is still active today.

His leadership and legacy continue in many cultural and heritage institutions such as Parks Canada and the Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve, Labrador Heritage Society, Labrador Metis Association, Labrador Winter Games, The Trapline Marathon, and the Great Labrador Canoe Race.

Mr. Goudie was awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in 2017.

Dr. Proton Rahman
Dr. Proton Rahman is internationally-renowned in the field of health care. He was the Associate Dean of Clinical Research at the Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University. He is also a clinician scientist, professor of medicine, and staff rheumatologist at Eastern Health. Dr. Rahman is a graduate from Memorial University and the University of Toronto. His groundbreaking research and leadership has had a profound impact on patients around the world.

He is well recognized for his translational genetics research and has identified several novel susceptibility genes in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, as well as new genetic markers for disease progression and pharmacogenetics in other inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Dr. Rahman established a research program at Memorial University, pioneered the development of the Newfoundland and Labrador Genealogical Database, and lead the Janssen and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Innovation Partnership. He obtained over $68 million dollars in research grants and is published in top genetics and rheumatology scientific journals.

Dr. Rahman is the recipient of many awards including the University Research Professor, Distinguished Canadian Rheumatology Investigator Award, President’s Award for Outstanding Research, Arthritis Society of Canada Scholar, Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator Award, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.

His efforts in leading the COVID-19 Predictive Analysis Team helped shape and guide the province’s pandemic response.

Maxwell (Max) Short
Maxwell (Max) Short has spent six decades advocating for the quality of life of fishing families across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Short is familiar with the fisheries industry having started at a young age after his family resettled from a northern community in the province. In the early 1950s, he fished with his father and grandfather in the Gulf of St. Lawrence where he developed his passion.

He made the transition from the fishing boat to the office in the 1970s, where he showed leadership and influence that fostered his many connections with the Federal Government. Mr. Short’s work was instrumental in securing the Federal Government’s support for fish harvesters and plant workers during the cod moratorium in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Short was a member of the Northern Cod Commission, the Canadian delegation to the North Atlantic Salmon Commission (NASCO), the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO), and the Canada/France Advisory Commission. He was also a Canadian Commissioner to the Canada/Norway Sealing Commission.

From 1994 to 2003, Mr. Short was the special advisor to the Ministers of Fisheries and Oceans.

L-R (top row): Dr. Proton Rahman; Dr. Janice Fitzgerald; Robert Cormier, C.M.; Joseph D. Goudie
L-R (bottom row): Dr. Catherine Donovan; The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador; The Honourable Judy M. Foote, P.C., O.N.L., Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador; Maxwell (Max) Short
Missing from photo: Carla Emerson Furlong, Alan Thomas Doyle, C.M.

The post Latest Recipients of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Recognized appeared first on News Releases.

In keeping with the spirit and intent of the Provincial Government’s Come Home 2022 campaign aimed at encouraging former residents of Newfoundland and Labrador now living away to come home, a Come Home 2022 incentive is now available to help bring health care professionals back to the province. Aimed at physicians, nurses and paramedics, the initiative is available to individuals from Newfoundland and Labrador who have been living outside the province for at least six months.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will be available to the media today (Tuesday, October 4) at 12:30 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.

In order to qualify for the program, at least one of the following criteria must be applicable:

• Born in Newfoundland and Labrador;
• Trained in Newfoundland and Labrador;
• Performed residency in Newfoundland and Labrador;
• Educated in Newfoundland and Labrador;
• Previously practiced in Newfoundland and Labrador; or,
• Have other ties to Newfoundland and Labrador considered on a one-off basis, using the professional judgment of the Regional Health Authority in the spirit and intent of this incentive.

Once the criteria has been met, eligible applicants would then qualify for one of the following incentives:

• Physician – $100,000 for five year return-in-service agreement;
• Nurse Practitioner – $60,000 for three year return-in-service agreement;
• Registered Nurse – $50,000 for three year return-in-service agreement;
• Licensed Practical Nurse – $50,000 for three year return-in-service agreement;
• Advanced Care Paramedic – $50,000 for three year return-in-service agreement; or,
• Primary Care Paramedic – $50,000 for three year return-in-service agreement.

While this initiative is aimed at ex-patriate Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, incentives are also available for non-Newfoundland and Labrador residents at the following rates and service agreements:

• Physician – $50,000 for five year return-in-service agreement;
• Nurse Practitioner – $30,000 for three year return-in-service agreement;
• Registered Nurse – $25,000 for three year return-in-service agreement;
• Licensed Practical Nurse – $25,000 for three year return-in-service agreement;
• Advanced Care Paramedic – $25,000 for three year return-in-service agreement; or,
• Primary Care Paramedic – $25,000 for three year return-in-service agreement.

In order to qualify, applicants are required to have a job offer from one of the Regional Health Authorities, a private clinic or private ambulance operator. For physicians proposing to open their own clinic, a letter of intent is required.

Individuals who avail of the Come Home 2022 initiative for health care professionals are still eligible for other incentives previously announced for which they may qualify.

Quote
“We continue in our efforts to help stabilize the health care workforce in our province, and we feel our Come Home 2022 incentive is another meaningful initiative towards that end. There is nowhere in Canada like Newfoundland and Labrador, and no one knows that better than ex-patriates, so we want to incentivize them to come home. At the same time, we are also offering meaningful incentives to others who may want to live and work in this place we are fortunate to call home.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

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Media contact
Tina Coffey
Health and Community Services
709-729-6554, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca

 

The post Come Home 2022 Efforts Continue with Focus on Health Care Workers appeared first on News Releases.

Innovation Week 2022 creates an opportunity for techNL to raise awareness, create connections, and showcase innovators while creating a foundation for a strong tech sector ecosystem in Newfoundland and Labrador. To celebrate Innovation Week, the Provincial Government, through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation, today announced nearly $805,000 in funding support for four projects.

Martak Canada is a provincial company focused on providing quality products and services to the global shrimp processing industry. To assist with the second phase of its innovative ProPeeler technology, Martak received $131,900 through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation. This innovative project will further enhance the ProPeeler’s vision system through the use of artificial intelligence, allowing the company to progress to the commercialization stage. The company is also receiving advisory services and up to $406,156 in research and development funding from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program in support of the project.

SmartICE is an award-winning social enterprise that works in partnership with communities, academia, industry and government to provide a near real-time sea ice monitoring and information service that blends Inuit traditional knowledge with state-of-the-art technology. To support the development of the next generation of its SmartBUOY technology, SmartICE received $400,181 through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation. This funding will allow the SmartBUOY to be more robust and provide a wider range of environmental information for communities in Canada’s north as well as to industrial clients.

ReportMate is an artificially intelligent platform that transforms medical file processing. To support the company’s project to improve medico-legal report writing using techniques such as Optical Character Recognition and Natural Language Processing, ReportMate received $192,414 through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation. ReportMate is also receiving advisory services and up to $240,000 in research and development funding from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program in support of the project.

EcoBloc is an ultrasonic rodent exclusion solution that is more humane than traps, safer than poisons, environmentally sustainable, and completely inaudible to humans. To assist with expanded marketing solutions such as distribution, product design, and internationalization efforts, EcoBloc received a non-repayable contribution of $83,975 through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation. This funding support will allow the company to obtain business development software, purchase industry association membership fees, attend trade shows and develop marketing materials.

From October 4 to 6, industry leaders, partners, stakeholders and students will collaborate, network and celebrate the ninth annual Innovation Week in the province. The technology and innovation sector is a significant employer, with approximately 600 firms and over 8,000 employees in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“While I am dealing with the devastation from Hurricane Fiona, I still want to acknowledge Innovation Week in our province. With limitless growth potential, the tech sector has grown into one of our provinces most influential and flourishing sector assets, and these four projects certainly demonstrate the depth and diversity of our emerging industry.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“The support, mentorship and funding ReportMate received through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation and the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program have been instrumental in helping us scale and launch our company – after making our first hires in 2021, we are projected to grow to a team of 16 by the end of 2022, and this scale up would not have been possible without the collaboration and support of these organizations. Technology is going to continue to play a big part in the growth and future of Newfoundland and Labrador.  As a province we have a history of being innovative when things get tough, fighting and working hard to succeed, against all odds. I think we’ve seen that same spirit and drive put into every company within our tech sector and as a result I believe we will be known globally for our innovations, even more than we are today. We have created a supportive environment to help founders grow businesses in our province and the support from programs offered through the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation and the National Research Council of Canada are allowing us to compete on a global scale.”
Holly Hill
ReportMate Inc.

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Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, @IET_GovNL

Media contacts
Eric Humber
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5777, 725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca

Holly Hill
ReportMate
709-749-3480
holly@reportmate.ca

 

 

The post Supporting Technology Companies During Innovation Week 2022 appeared first on News Releases.

The Canadian Red Cross has a new location for the emergency shelter for people displaced from their homes in the Channel-Port aux Basques area that will open at 9 p.m. tonight (Monday, October 3) at the St. James Anglican Church Hall, 1 Church Lane, Channel-Port aux Basques.

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 online at Hurricane Fiona 2022 – Canadian Red Cross; by calling toll-free at 1-800-863-6582; or visiting the new emergency shelter site at St. James Anglican Church Hall.

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

 

The post Public Advisory: New Location for Emergency Shelter Opening Tonight for Individuals Impacted by Post-Tropical Storm Fiona appeared first on News Releases.