Government of Newfoundland News

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have once again opened their arms to welcome 76 Afghan federal government-assisted refugees. Many of these newly arrived residents, who served and sacrificed alongside Canadian armed forces in Afghanistan, deserve an embrace of freedom and peace that our duty of citizenship calls us to offer.

These individuals and families departed Islamabad, Pakistan on a Government of Canada charter flight late on September 8 and landed at Halifax Stanfield Airport at 5:00 a.m. Friday September 9. The 76 individuals and families, with Newfoundland and Labrador as their final destination, proceeded on commercial flights over the following days with the last flight landing at St. John’s International Airport at 2:00 p.m. on September 11. On a day that has come to symbolize the very best of our province, we once again provided a safe haven to those fleeing fear.

The staff of the Association for New Canadians continue their tireless work to settle these individuals and families who are bravely preparing to begin their new lives. Anyone interested in donating or volunteering to help welcome our newest residents is asked to contact the Association for New Canadians.

This is just the latest group of people looking to Newfoundland and Labrador as a place to build a peaceful and prosperous life. Let us clear a path so their dreams can become reality because when they succeed, we all succeed.

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Association for New Canadians Website

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

The post Minister Byrne Extends Welcome to Newly Arrived Afghanistan Refugees appeared first on News Releases.

September 30 marks a Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Newfoundland and Labrador when we honour survivors and raise awareness about the terrible legacy of residential schools in Canada, including this province.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to take time to learn about residential schools and reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.

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

Businesses and other organizations in the province are encouraged to commemorate the Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As part of the ongoing process to identify a meaningful way to observe this day going forward, consultations will continue with Indigenous Governments and Organizations, and the business and labour sector on the prospect of declaring September 30 a public day of reflection under the Labour Standards Act.

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

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

The observance of a day dedicated to honouring the survivors, families and communities who were deeply impacted by residential schools, and children and youth who did not return home, was a Call to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. In keeping with the spirit and intent of the Call to Action, governments across the country are observing this day.

Quotes
“On September 30, the provincial public service will again observe a Day for Truth and Reconciliation. All government offices, schools and other entities will be closed. During that day of reflection, I encourage each of us to learn more about the impacts of residential schools in Canada, and to take this opportunity to learn more about Indigenous peoples. It is in the act of educating ourselves that we can begin the journey towards reconciliation.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and President of Treasury Board

“We share a collective responsibility to learn and understand how residential schooling in Canada had a traumatic and profound impact on survivors, families and communities. September 30 is also a day to honour those children and youth who did not return home to their families and communities. More than just reflecting and remembering, we must commit and strive to do better.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“This day is a time to honour survivors and raise awareness about the dark history of residential schools in Canada. I encourage everyone in the province to take a moment, or whatever time is possible within their own circumstances, to think about this day and to reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

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Learn More
Orange Shirt Day

Indigenous Governments and Organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador

Federal Government Statutory Holiday

Media Contacts
Victoria Barbour
Treasury Board Secretariat
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

Allan Bock
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-4449, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca

Lynn Robinson
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government to Observe a Day for Truth and Reconciliation appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will participate in the annual meeting of Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for Local Government today (Wednesday, September 14). The meeting is being held virtually.

Topics for discussion include municipal priorities, impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on municipalities and governance reforms.

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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Participate in Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Local Government appeared first on News Releases.

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a media availability today (Wednesday, September 14) to discuss the fall COVID-19 vaccination plan.

The availability will take place in Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 2:00 p.m.

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.

In honour of more than 70 years of service and dedication to the people of the province, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is declaring Monday, September 19, 2022 as a day to honour the memory of Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

On this day, provincial government offices, schools and other entities will be closed. This day will be observed one-time only on Monday, September 19, 2022. This will allow public service employees the time to pay their respects to Her Majesty and commemorate Her reign, while marking the final day of the period of national mourning.

Businesses and other organizations in the province are encouraged to commemorate Her Majesty in a manner that works best for them.

Flags at provincial government buildings across the province are being flown at half-mast in Her Majesty’s honour.

A book of condolences for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II is available in the main lobby of East Block, Confederation Building in St. John’s for residents to sign daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..

Quotes
“The passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II marks a loss to many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Declaring a day of honour provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the many ways she steadfastly served our province and country these past 70 years. May her memory live on as a reminder of her tireless service and dedication.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II was the epitome of grace, of strength, of stability, of duty. She was always there – in times of war, peace and celebration. On the day of her funeral, we encourage our public service to reflect on her 70 years of service”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board

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Learn More

Public Advisory: Book of Condolences Available to Sign at Confederation Building

Premier Furey Offers Condolences on the Passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

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

Victoria Barbour
Treasury Board Secretariat
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government Declares a Day to Honour Queen Elizabeth II appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, participated in an event today recognizing exceptional public service employees who were presented with the Public Service Award of Excellence. Premier Furey was joined by Krista Quinlan, Clerk of the Executive Council.

This year there were 27 people honoured consisting of seven individuals and three teams:

Individuals:

• William Donnelly, Education
• Mark Lawlor, Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Carey Majid, Q.C., Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission
• Eric Minka, Children, Seniors and Social Development
• Christine Nurse, Transportation and Infrastructure
• Erin Ramsay, Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Lanie Woodfine, Children, Seniors and Social Development

Teams:

• Community Water and Wastewater Team, Environment and Climate Change – Chris Blanchard, Paula Dawe, Genny DeCoste, Gerry Lahey, Darren Patey, Jim Pollett and Deneen Spracklin
• Flood Forecasting Development Team, Office of the Chief Information Officer – Cyril Bonnell, Adele Costello, Jason Langdon, Stephen Lomond, Chris Mackey, Necie Mouland and Michelle Neville
• RNC CBS Patrol Services Team, Royal Newfoundland Constabulary – Constable Daniel Cadigan, Constable Kyle Fowler, Constable Brittany Hierlihy, Constable Stephen Martin, Constable Alexander O’Keefe and Constable Jake Sharpe

This is the twentieth year that the Public Service Award of Excellence has been presented. It is the highest honour that can be bestowed on public service employees and recognizes individuals and teams for exceptional work performance and honours achievements in innovation, leadership, relationship building, and excellence in service delivery.

More information on the Public Service Award of Excellence, including biographies of current and past winners can be found by visiting www.gov.nl.ca/excellence/.

Quotes
“I congratulate the outstanding individuals and teams for receiving the Public Service Award of Excellence today. I thank each of them for their commitment and dedication to their work, and to the important services they provide for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is an honour to work with each and every one of the members of our exceptional public service.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Public Service Award of Excellence represents the hallmark of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s recognition of employee excellence. In 2022, we are marking the 20th year of the Public Service Awards of Excellence. Since its inception, the program has recognized 112 individuals and 51 teams of remarkable public service employees. It is an honour to congratulate the latest recipients today who have demonstrated their leadership and dedication to serving the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Krista Quinlan
Clerk of the Executive Council

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Learn more

Public Service Award of Excellence

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

The post Premier Furey Recognizes Recipients of Public Service Award of Excellence appeared first on News Releases.

New wildlife regulations to improve the hunting and trapping experience in Newfoundland and Labrador are in effect for the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Season:

• The big game moose hunting season opened on Saturday, September 10 and continues until December 31. It is important for coyote hunters and trappers to be aware that during this time they are not permitted to use center fire rifles calibers up to .225 for taking coyote and wolf on the island portion of the province.
• Hunters with a valid small game licence will be permitted to shoot red squirrel. This change is in effect with the opening of small game season. Opening dates are listed at:
  • 2022-23 Small Game Season Dates: Island of Newfoundland
  • 2022-23 Small Game Season Dates: Labrador
• Hunters are required to purchase a separate shooting licence for ptarmigan. This will assist the department in connecting with hunters and determining better accuracy in terms of populations. In addition, daily bag and possession limits for Rock Ptarmigan have been established for the island. Please review small game bag limits at 2022-23 Small Game Season and Bag Limits: Island of Newfoundland.
• Effective January 1, 2023, big game black bear hunters who wish to use foot-holding trapping devices currently permitted under the Wild Life Regulations must first complete a Trapper Education Course, and hold a valid trapping licence. The implementation date of this legislation gives bear hunters time to complete the new training requirement prior to the spring 2023 black bear season.
• As announced on August 26, licenced hunters and trappers who hold a valid licence can hunt or trap using a firearm on a Sunday within their respective management areas throughout the entire open season.

All hunters and trappers are required to follow firearm and hunting safety practices at all times, and are encouraged to wear blaze orange while hunting. Additional information related to wildlife regulations, hunting season dates, bag limits and other hunting safety reminders is available in the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Moose Management Area maps showing moose densities in recently surveyed areas and current population information are now available here. More information on moose management is available in the 2022-2026 Moose Management Plan.

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

The post Public Advisory: New Regulations in Effect for Hunting and Trapping Season appeared first on News Releases.

In an effort to find creative solutions to address the physician shortage in the province, the Provincial Government and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador are working on a number of initiatives to address the local situation. The Provincial Government is continuing in its efforts to attract and retain physicians through a number of measures, including finding ways to remove barriers for those who have moved to Newfoundland and Labrador from other parts of Canada and other countries.

The initiatives include:

• Exploration of new alternate pathways for licensing;
• Full review of all licensing and registration criteria for physicians, in an effort to identify any barriers which may currently exist;
• Streamlining of the licence application process; and,
• Working with other Canadian medical regulatory authorities regarding licence mobility.

These initiatives continue to support the mandate of the College, while also potentially benefiting the provincial health care system overall by increasing the available pool of practicing physicians.

While recruitment and retention challenges are not unique to Newfoundland and Labrador, government continues to work closely with the Regional Health Authorities and all stakeholders on how to best address these matters. Government remains dedicated to working collaboratively with stakeholders like the College of Physicians and Surgeons toward better health outcomes for the residents of the province.

The recruitment and retention of health care professionals has been – and continues to be – a challenge, not just in Newfoundland and Labrador, but indeed globally. Health Accord NL was created in November 2020 to reimagine the health care system to best deliver services to people in communities across the province. It was mandated to deliver a 10-year Health Accord with short, medium, and long-term goals for a health care system that better meets the current needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. A number of the initiatives are already underway, with additional recommendations announced as part of Budget 2022.

Details on these initiatives can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes

“For some time now, we have been employing a number of measures to try to find new and creative ways of both delivering services, as well as attracting physicians to our province and encouraging the ones already here to stay. Initiatives like the ones we are exploring with the College of Physicians and Surgeons are integral to solving these issues and helping ensure the long-term sustainability of our health care system.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with the minister and the Department of Health and Community Services. The College is currently reviewing all licensing standards and processes to improve the application process, while ensuring that physicians who are licensed have the necessary knowledge, skills and competencies to provide safe and quality medical care to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Tanis Adey, Registrar
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador

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

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador
709-726-8546
cpsnl@cpsnl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Recent Measures to Address the Shortage of Health Care Professionals

• A one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce.
• Committed to a suite of measures to expand the supply of health care professionals: creation of new collaborative community team clinics; increase in virtual care services to assist with the provision of urgent care; commitment to further increase the number of graduates from Licensed Practical Nursing Programs by 40 per cent, and Personal Care Attendant Programs by 20 per cent.
• Two new programs launched to support family doctors in the province and help improve access to primary health care:
  • The New Family Physician Income Guarantee initiative guarantees a minimum income equivalent to that of a salaried family physician to new family doctors who bill on a fee for service basis and open a family practice clinic – or join an established clinic – for the first two years of their practice. This will ease some of the uncertainty associated with the business aspects of opening a clinic by increasing financial certainty. Funding recipients will be required to enter into a two-year return-in-service agreement with government.
  • The Family Practice Start-Up Program will provide $150,000 to new family practice physicians who open a family practice clinic, or join an existing family practice in the community, and stay in the practice for five years. Recipients who are approved for both programs must sign a five-year return-in-service agreement with government. Additionally, both programs will be linked to establishing a patient roster in the community, as well as the provision of after-hours care.  This is the highest incentive offered to family physicians at this time in Atlantic Canada.
• Initiatives announced in March 2022 to address the challenges facing nurses in the province, including the nursing think tank; Requests for proposals for core staffing review, health human resource plan, workforce research; and an Internationally Educated Nurses Bursary.
• A new Assistant Deputy Minister for the recruitment and retention office has been hired and the office has been established within the Department of Health and Community Services.
• An additional five undergraduate seats have been added to the Memorial University’s medical School for Newfoundland and Labrador students.
• Launched the Extraordinary Every Day, a health care campaign aimed at recruiting and retaining health care professionals.
• Staffing in the regional health authorities has been enhanced to further support recruitment and retention efforts.
• A number of financial incentives and employee supports have been implemented to help address the immediate nursing workforce challenges and help stabilize the workforce.
• Compensation rates for covering emergency rooms in smaller rural health centres (category B facilities) have been increased as a temporary measure until October 31, 2022 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 MOA.
• $30,000 to Eastern Health to support students in the Radiation Therapy Program for each of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years. This will double Eastern Health’s capacity to support students in the program.

The post Creative Solutions to Combat Physician Shortages Continue Through Collaboration with College of Physicians and Surgeons appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced the appointment of Earl Ludlow as the new Chancellor of Memorial University.

In addition to a nearly 40 year career with Fortis Group, Mr. Ludlow is a member of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, has been inducted into the Atlantic Provinces CEO Business Hall of Fame by Atlantic Business Magazine and was designated as the Humanitarian of the Year by the Canadian Red Cross in 2010. He is a graduate of Memorial, holding both a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) and a Masters of Business Administration from the university. A full bio for Mr. Ludlow is found in the backgrounder below.

The chancellor is the ceremonial head of the university and plays an important role in university governance, serving as a member of Senate as well as an ex-officio member of the Board of Regents. The chancellor is also charged with promoting the university’s well-being and participating in university life. One of the most notable responsibilities of the chancellor is presiding over convocation and granting degrees to all graduating students.

Mr. Ludlow will assume his duties as chancellor effective immediately.

Quotes
“I am pleased to appoint Earl Ludlow to the role of Chancellor of Memorial University. Mr. Ludlow brings incredible credentials and global experience to this position. Beyond that, he is a proud Newfoundlander and Labradorian whose commitment to this province has been evident throughout his lengthy career. Earl has had extensive involvement with the university, including serving for two terms on the Board of Regents. I believe this experience inside and outside the university community will serve Mr. Ludlow well as he enters this role during a time of significant change and opportunity for the university.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“I look forward to working closely with Mr. Ludlow as Memorial’s new chancellor. His long-standing support of our university, and his commitment to bettering our province through volunteer work, will be tremendous assets as Memorial continues to work towards building a bright future for Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Vianne Timmons
President and vice-chancellor of Memorial University

“I am honoured to be appointed as the next Chancellor of Memorial University, an institution that holds a special place in my heart. Memorial is a cornerstone for this province’s past and future successes. It represents this entire province, and I am especially excited to join the university now as it further strengthens this bond with the recent creation of the Labrador Campus, in addition to the existing campuses in St. John’s and Corner Brook. I look forward to engaging with students, alumni and the rest of the university community over the years to come.”
Earl Ludlow
Chancellor of Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more

Premier Furey Acknowledges Contributions of Outgoing Memorial University Chancellor

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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960, 725-9231
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

Dave Sorensen
Memorial University
709-864-2143, 685-7134
sorensen@mun.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Biography of Earl Ludlow

Earl Ludlow, P. Eng., a native of Joe Batt’s Arm, has an extensive career as a community volunteer, including two terms on Memorial University’s Board of Regents and two terms as the Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, 1st Battalion. He has strong roots in Memorial University, including a long history of family involvement.

Earl has focused a great deal of his personal time volunteering, especially in education, health care, and Newfoundland and Labrador heritage. He is passionate about rural Newfoundland and Labrador.

Earl is a member of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, has been inducted into the Atlantic Provinces CEO Business Hall of Fame by Atlantic Business Magazine and was designated as the Humanitarian of the Year by the Canadian Red Cross in 2010. Earl earned a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) in 1980 and a Masters of Business Administration from Memorial University in 1994. He is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering and the recipient of the Award of Merit from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador.

He is the former Chairperson of the Independent Appointments Commission and served on the Premier’s Economic Recovery Team. He retired as Executive Vice President, Eastern Canadian and Caribbean Operations and Operational Advisor to the President and Chief Executive Officer of Fortis Inc.  This ended a career with the Fortis Group spanning nearly 40 years.

The post Premier Furey Announces New Chancellor for Memorial University appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will deliver the keynote address at the Newfoundland and Labrador 50+ Federation’s 45th  Annual Convention at 1:30 p.m. tomorrow (Wednesday, September 14).

At 8:00 a.m., Paul Pike, MHA for Burin-Grand Bank and Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier, will be bringing greetings on behalf of the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The convention is being held at the Marystown Hotel and Convention Centre, 180-190 Ville Marie Drive, Marystown.

The Newfoundland and Labrador 50+ Federation Inc. is an umbrella organization that represents 130 clubs and approximately 6,900 members throughout the province. The 50+ Federation’s mission is to link member clubs and disseminate information pertinent to quality of life for seniors and older adults of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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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 Attend 45th Annual Convention of the Newfoundland and Labrador 50+ Federation appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will bring greetings at the opening night of ‘Come From Away: The Concert’ in Gander this evening (Tuesday, September 13).

The concert begins at 8:00 p.m. at the Steele Community Centre. Premier Furey will address audience members attending the sold-out show shortly before the curtain goes up.

The premier will be joined by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, and the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education and MHA for Gander.

‘Come From Away: The Concert’ will perform three shows in Gander before moving on to St. John’s for three more sold-out performances (September 19, 20 and 21).

Media are invited to attend and are asked to please RSVP to Adrienne Luther (adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca).

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

Adrienne Luther
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 730-2953
adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Bring Greetings at Opening Night of ‘Come From Away: The Concert’ in Gander appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-017 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-2022-017 Report Date: September 9, 2022 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Justice and Public Safety for records relating to his incarceration. The Department provided records but severed some information, claiming sections 31 (disclosure harmful to law enforcement), section 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy) and section 41 (disclosure of House of Assembly service and statutory office records). The Commissioner determined that the exceptions were properly applied and recommended that the Department continue to withhold the redacted information.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-017 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) related to Marble Mountain.

The purpose of the RFP is to seek professional guidance on recommended upgrades and additions best suited to facilitate year-round operations and better position the Marble Mountain resort for prospective new owners. This work will inform the divestiture process to find potential investors interested in purchasing the resort and turning it into a profitable four-season year-round tourism operation.

The RFP process aims to enable the Provincial Government to fully understand:

• The extent of upgrades required for it to be a successful four-season, year-round operation;
• The cost of carrying out those upgrades;
• The cost and staffing levels required to develop and run new attractions;
• The types and numbers of visitors expected; and,
• A financial plan.

As a result of this work, the RFP will enable government to broaden the potential pool of investors – compared to the previous RFP, which only saw three proposals brought forward – and thoroughly vet prospective buyers against an in-depth analysis and credible four-season year-round development plan.

Marble Mountain is a significant economic generator for the western region. The province is committed to finding an investor and accepting a plan that is in the best interest of the west coast. Recent events at Marble Mountain outside of its regular winter ski season have proved to be a success including concerts, the opening of Bishop’s Tavern, partnerships with Boomstick Brewing Company, and sport events like the first annual Long Range Enduro.

The RFP will be available online later today here.

Quote
“While Marble Mountain already plays a significant role in the economy of the western region, we believe there are opportunities to expand its potential, including increased visitation and spending year-round. The team in place has made great progress in maximizing the resort’s year-round opportunities, and I thank them for their work. The private sector is ideally positioned to operate and develop Marble Mountain into a four-season year-round operation and we are focused on ensuring the right value for this asset. Therefore, this work will inform the Marble Mountain divestiture process and assist us in determining the next steps.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Bidding Opportunities

Marble Mountain

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Media contact
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca

The post Request for Proposals Issued Related to Marble Mountain Transition Planning appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government and the College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador today announced a number of collaborative initiatives in an effort to expand the scope of practice for nurses, and also make it easier for Canadian and international registered nurses to become licensed in the province.

Some of the initiatives include:

• Exploration of amendments to the Registered Nurses Regulations which will permit prescribing by Registered Nurses in accordance with a framework that would be provided by the College;
• Potential amendments to the Registered Nurses Act, 2008 and/or the Registered Nurses Regulations in order to facilitate licensure of nurses currently practising in another province or territory to enable multijurisdictional licensure; and,
• Streamlining of processes such as education reviews and English language requirements.

These initiatives are in addition to a recent collaboration between government, the College and Regional Health Authorities to address waitlist issues with the Internationally Educated Nurses bridging program. A special cohort launched in 2021, and 23 individuals are expected to finish the program in November of this year.

The recruitment and retention of health care professionals has been – and continues to be – a challenge, not just in Newfoundland and Labrador, but indeed globally. Health Accord NL was created in November 2020 to reimagine the health care system to best deliver services to people in communities across the province. It was mandated to deliver a 10-year Health Accord with short, medium, and long-term goals for a health care system that better meets the current needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. A number of the initiatives are already underway, with additional recommendations announced as part of Budget 2022. Details on these initiatives can be found in the backgrounder below.

Recognizing the difficulties the province is faced with in terms of attracting and retaining these professionals, government also established the Provincial Health Professional Recruitment and Retention Office, housed within the Department of Health and Community Services. The office is focused solely on building a world-class recruitment and retention program for health professionals with the appropriate skill sets and a desire to work in the province.

Quotes
“We acknowledge the recruitment and retention challenges facing our health care sector, and that is why it is so important for us to have collaborative relationships with our stakeholders, such as the College of Registered Nurses. While these issues are being experienced globally, we are working toward local solutions, including trying to reach health care professionals nationally and internationally who feel that this province would be a wonderful place for them to live and work. Creative solutions like these ones are key to our success.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The College of Registered Nurses embraces new and innovative approaches to all aspects of our operations. We are pleased to work in collaboration with the Provincial Government on several initiatives that will aim to reduce barriers and improve processes. As the largest health care regulator in Newfoundland and Labrador, we will work hard to ensure we embrace change whilst never compromising the professional standards that the people of our province depend on.”
Lynn Power
Executive Director, College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contacts
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6554, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca

James Sheppard
Manager of Public Affairs
College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador
709-753-6198
jsheppard@crnnl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Recent Measures to Address the Shortage of Health Care Professionals

• A one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce.
• Committed to a suite of measures to expand the supply of health care professionals: creation of new collaborative community team clinics; increase in virtual care services to assist with the provision of urgent care; commitment to further increase the number of graduates from Licensed Practical Nursing Programs by 40 per cent, and Personal Care Attendant Programs by 20 per cent.
• Two new programs launched to support family doctors in the province and help improve access to primary health care:
  • The New Family Physician Income Guarantee initiative guarantees a minimum income equivalent to that of a salaried family physician to new family doctors who bill on a fee for service basis and open a family practice clinic – or join an established clinic – for the first two years of their practice. This will ease some of the uncertainty associated with the business aspects of opening a clinic by increasing financial certainty. Funding recipients will be required to enter into a two-year return-in-service agreement with government.
  • The Family Practice Start-Up Program will provide $150,000 to new family practice physicians who open a family practice clinic, or join an existing family practice in the community, and stay in the practice for five years. Recipients who are approved for both programs must sign a five-year return-in-service agreement with government. Additionally, both programs will be linked to establishing a patient roster in the community, as well as the provision of after-hours care.  This is the highest incentive offered to family physicians at this time in Atlantic Canada.
• Initiatives announced in March 2022 to address the challenges facing nurses in the province, including the nursing think tank; Requests for proposals for core staffing review, health human resource plan, workforce research; and an Internationally Educated Nurses Bursary.
• A new Assistant Deputy Minister for the recruitment and retention office has been hired and the office has been established within the Department of Health and Community Services.
• An additional five undergraduate seats have been added to the Memorial University’s medical School for Newfoundland and Labrador students.
• Launched the Extraordinary Every Day, a health care campaign aimed at recruiting and retaining health care professionals.
• Staffing in the regional health authorities has been enhanced to further support recruitment and retention efforts.
• A number of financial incentives and employee supports have been implemented to help address the immediate nursing workforce challenges and help stabilize the workforce.
• Compensation rates for covering emergency rooms in smaller rural health centres (category B facilities) have been increased as a temporary measure until October 31, 2022 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 MOA.
• $30,000 to Eastern Health to support students in the Radiation Therapy Program for each of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years. This will double Eastern Health’s capacity to support students in the program.

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At a ceremony tomorrow (Tuesday, September 13), the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will recognize this year’s recipients of the Public Service Award of Excellence.

The ceremony will take place in St. John’s in the main theatre of the Arts and Culture Centre, at 2:00 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by Krista Quinlan, Clerk of the Executive Council.

Media who wish to attend are required to RSVP by contacting Jillian Hood at jillianhood@gov.nl.ca by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 13.

The event will be live streamed on YouTube.

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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Recognize Public Service Award of Excellence Recipients appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will attend a meet and greet with the new owners of the Masonic Temple at a reception tomorrow (Tuesday, September 13).

The event takes place at 7:00 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 6 Cathedral Street, St. John’s.

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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 Attend Masonic Temple Meet and Greet appeared first on News Releases.

Resource Enforcement of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture are seeking information related to the recent discovery of two moose carcasses off Route 100 (Cape Shore Highway) near the community of Cuslett, Placentia Bay.

Officers responding to a report from the public determined the two moose had been shot, some of the meat removed, and the main body of the moose left at the site. .

Investigators believe the incident occurred between Wednesday, September 7 and Thursday, September 8, prior to the start of the big game hunting season which opened on Saturday, September 10. Anyone who may have additional information about this incident or witnessed suspicious activity in the area are encouraged to contact the Resource Enforcement Division in St. John’s at 709-729-2192.

The public is reminded it is an offence under the Wild Life Act to harvest any species of game during closed time and to willfully or intentionally allow the flesh of wildlife taken and appropriate for food to be destroyed, wasted, or spoiled.

The public can 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
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-9786
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca

 

The post Public Advisory: Seeking Public Assistance on Discovery of Moose Carcasses appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announces the following relative to Part 10 Environmental Assessment of the Environmental

Protection Act:

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Maccles Lake Road Farm Expansion                                                   (Reg. 2217)
Proponent: Robert and Diane Gordon

The proponent is proposing to expand their existing farm near Maccles Lake Road by 108 hectares to become self-sufficient in forage production to meet the needs of their existing grass fed beef herd. The development of forage fields will require the removal of vegetation, stumps and stones; leveling; and, planting of forage crops. Forage crops will include grasses, legumes and grains and will involve the regular addition of soil amendments such as limestone, fertilizers and cow manure. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at www.gov.nl.ca/eccm/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on September 9, 2022; the deadline for public comments is October 17, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by October 24, 2022.

UNDERTAKING RELEASED:

Shoal Harbour Causeway Bridge Replacement                                (Reg. 2204)
Proponent: Town of Clarenville

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

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

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

Public comments may be forwarded to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_May-2022.pdf

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

Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449; 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

With the recent opening of the 2022-23 big game hunting season, hunters and trappers are encouraged to continue supporting wildlife management efforts by submitting crucial information from the annual hunt to the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

Wildlife managers use the valuable information hunters and trappers submit to make science-based recommendations about wildlife management, including quotas and regulatory changes.

• Hunter Return Forms – These forms provide a picture of the trends hunters observe in the field including harvest success rates, hunt duration, number and sex of moose observed, sex of harvested moose, and harvest locations. This information helps biologists monitor the status of moose populations and flags any changes in hunter behaviour or moose populations that may occur between annual aerial surveys. Successful hunters, including those from last season who have not yet done so, are encouraged to submit their hunter return forms as soon as possible.
• Moose and Caribou Jawbone Collection Program – Jawbones collected from harvested moose and caribou provide wildlife managers with information on the health and status of populations, including age and growth patterns, condition, productivity, and recruitment. All moose and caribou hunters are encouraged to cooperate; however, due to our limited harvest of caribou on the Island, it is very important that all resident and non-resident caribou hunters make a special effort to submit the lower jawbone of their harvest at the nearest Jawbone Drop Box. All participating big game hunters will receive a Cooperating Big Game Hunter Crest for supporting research and management objectives.
• Black Bear Tooth Collection Program – Analyzing the teeth of harvested black bears helps us better monitor bear populations, make management decisions, evaluate black bear hunting trends, and evaluate the age structure and reproductive success of their population. Successful bear hunters can return information using the tooth envelope and instructions included with their licenses. All participating black bear hunters will also receive a Cooperating Big Game Hunter Crest.
• Canid Collection Program – Samples collected from canid carcasses determine whether an animal is a coyote, wolf, or hybrid of both, which helps wildlife managers monitor for the presence of wolves/hybrids on the island, and determine the distribution of coyotes and number of wolves harvested in Labrador. This program benefits significantly from canid samples that have been harvested through trapping, and wolf and coyote hunters and trappers throughout the province can submit carcasses to their nearest Forestry and Wildlife district office. A $25.00 fee will be paid for canid carcasses.

All hunters and trappers are reminded to follow firearm and hunting safety practices at all times. Additional information related to wildlife regulations, hunting season dates, bag limits and other hunting safety reminders is available in the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Quote
“Licensed hunters and trappers are our eyes and ears on the ground, and our wildlife managers rely on their input to ensure a sustainable, balanced annual hunt. It is imperative that we garner support from the hunting public to provide harvest information, particularly from the island caribou hunt. I encourage all hunters to get involved with our wildlife management programs and submit their hunter return forms, big game jawbones, black bear teeth, or canid carcasses to the department to help manage and conserve our valuable wildlife populations.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Lean more
News Release: Sunday Hunting Permitted throughout Hunting and Trapping Season

Big Game Season: New for 2022-23

2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide

Moose Management Area Maps and Population Information

News Release: New Five-year Plan Outlines Sustainable Approach to Moose Management

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-2575
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Hunters Play Vital Role in Assessing Wildlife Populations appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality recently visited the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre to proclaim September 11-17, 2022 as Sexual Violence Awareness Week in the province.

Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness and provide information to the public around the issue of sexual violence.

The Provincial Government continues to work closely with community partners and violence prevention advocates to reduce all forms of violence, abuse and neglect in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In Budget 2022, the Provincial Government provided $3.2 million in operational funding for violence prevention and women serving organizations, including funding allocated to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre.

Visit the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre on Facebook to learn more about Sexual Violence Awareness Week and upcoming events.

Quotes
“The Office of Women and Gender Equality supports our community partners who are on the front lines, and works closely with our colleagues in the Department of Justice and Public Safety and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, to prevent sexual violence and help individuals experiencing sexual violence. We will continue to listen to those with lived experience and expertise as we strive every day to make our province safer.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“People from all walks of life experience sexual violence. This week is about using our collective voices to speak out about sexual violence, and to advocate for a society that listens, believes and responds appropriately to survivors of sexual violence.”
Sandra McKellar
Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre

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Learn more
Office of Women and Gender Equality

Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

Sandra McKellar
Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre
709-747-7757
executivedirector@endsexualviolence.com

The post Minister Pam Parsons Proclaims Sexual Violence Awareness Week appeared first on News Releases.