Government of Newfoundland News
Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media to Discuss Monkeypox Vaccination
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a media availability today (Thursday, August 18) at 11:00 a.m. to discuss expanded eligibility for Monkeypox vaccination.
The availability will take place in Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 11:00 a.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
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Media Advisory: Minister Bragg to Speak at Aquaculture Conference Closing Gala
The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is scheduled to speak at the Aquaculture Canada and WAS North America 2022 conference closing gala tomorrow (Thursday, August 18) in St. John’s.
The event is taking place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower St., beginning at 7:30 p.m.
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Media contact
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca
The post Media Advisory: Minister Bragg to Speak at Aquaculture Conference Closing Gala appeared first on News Releases.
Public Advisory: Intermittent Closures Planned for Trans-Canada Highway near Clarenville
Motorists travelling on the Trans-Canada Highway should anticipate intermittent, brief highway closures near the new Shoal Harbour River Bridge located west of Clarenville beginning tomorrow (Thursday, August 18).
The closures are necessary due to bridge girders being lifted onto the construction site and for the safety of motorists in the area.
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates closures to be approximately 20 minutes each and to be ongoing through Saturday.
Motorists are encouraged to plan for some traffic delays and use alternate routes.
A contract valued at $9.2 million was awarded to Trident Construction Ltd. in 2021 to replace the bridge, which is expected to be completed in 2023.
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.
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Media contact
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
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Additional Seats Added to Family Medicine Residency Program for International Medical Graduates
Five new seats will be added to the Family Medicine Residency Program for International Medical Graduates at Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine. Successful applicants will begin their training on July 1, 2023. These additional seats provide a pathway for International Medical Graduates who want to return to Canada to practice medicine and will help to increase the supply of medical professionals.
International Medical Graduates are graduates of international medical schools who can apply to complete their postgraduate residency training at a Canadian medical school like the one at Memorial University. Currently, there are 80 residency seats in total that are allocated across the various training programs offered by the Faculty of Medicine. The Family Medicine residency program accounts for 35 of these seats.
The five additional residency seats will now be reserved for International Medical Graduates by way of this dedicated stream in the Family Medicine residency program. Family Medicine currently has five streams: Eastern, Central, Western, Northern and Nunavut. Each stream focuses on providing unique teaching and learning experiences related to the communities in the area.
This is the latest initiative of the Provincial Government to address the shortage of health care professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador. Other recent measures can be found in the backgrounder below.
Quotes
“Each stream in the Family Medicine residency program offers a unique rural and remote learning environment specific to the communities they serve. It is our hope that these extra seats will help address physician recruitment and retention challenges in the province, particularly in rural and remote regions. It also represents another pathway for Canadian medical school graduates to return to Canada to practice.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Providing this opportunity for residents may increase the likelihood that they may stay in the province to practice as a family physician upon graduation. We must continue to work together on creative solutions like this one in our efforts to attract and keep health care professionals.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“We thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for providing the support needed to increase the number of medical residents which will benefit our communities. We know that these new family medicine residents will embrace Newfoundland and Labrador as their home and stay here to practice medicine in the long term.”
Vianne Timmons, PhD, OC
President
Memorial University
“As the only medical school in the province, Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine plays an important role in supporting physician recruitment and retention. This expansion of our family medicine program will provide an opportunity to give hand-on experiences to Canadian citizens or permanent Canadian residents to complete their residency program in Newfoundland and Labrador with the goal that they remain here to practice.”
Dr. Margaret Steele
Interim Provost, Vice-President (Academic)
Dean of Medicine
Memorial University
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Learn more
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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca
Michelle Osmond
Manager, Digital Communications and Content Management
Memorial University
709-728-2364
mlosmond@mun.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Recent Measures to Address the Shortage of Health Care Professionals
- Committed to a suite of measures to expand the supply of health care professionals: creation of new Collaborative 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 (RIS) agreement with government.
- The Family Practice Start-Up Program will provide $100,000 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 RIS 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.
- Initiatives announced in March 2022 to address the challenges facing nurses in the province, including the nursing think tank; RFPs for core staffing review, health HR 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 MUN medical School for Newfoundland and Labrador students.
- Launched 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 ERs 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 agreement.
- A one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce. Through this program, the Provincial Government will cover the cost of licensing fees and liability protection for eligible retired family physicians, as well as provide a pro-rated rural retention bonus for physicians in eligible communities for every month of service they provide under this program. Additionally, the NLMA will waive membership fees for currently retired physicians who opt to return to practice under the program.
The post Additional Seats Added to Family Medicine Residency Program for International Medical Graduates appeared first on News Releases.
Team NL Wins Three More Medals in Swimming and Declan Walsh Receives First-Ever Pat Lechelt True Sport Award at the 2022 Canada Summer Games
The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is once again congratulating Team NL swimmers Nathan Luscombe of Grand Falls-Windsor, Thomas Pelley of Paradise and Chris Weeks of St. John’s, on their Silver medal wins last week at the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ontario.
Nathan won Silver in the Men’s 50 metre Freestyle Para. This is Nathan’s second medal at the Games. Thomas won Silver in the Men’s 50 LC metre Freestyle SOC. This is Thomas’ third medal at the Games. Chris won Silver in the Men’s 50 metre Freestyle. This is Chris’ third medal at the Games.
Minister Crocker is also congratulating Team NL tennis player Declan Walsh of St. John’s on receiving the first-ever Pat Lechelt True Sport Award. Lechelt was a mainstay with Alberta’s Mission Team at every Canada Games from 1989 to 2019. She served primarily as Chef de Mission or Assistant Chef de Mission. Pat passed away in 2020.
This award, created to honour Pat’s memory and her contributions to the Games, is given to an athlete during each week of the Games who exemplifies the True Sport principles on and off the field of play. This weekend at Niagara Place, the Canada Games Council presented the first-ever Pat Lechelt True Sport Award to Declan.
The first week of competition at the 2022 Canada Summer Games has ended, and to date, Team NL has won eight medals. During week two, athletes from Newfoundland and Labrador will be competing in athletics, box lacrosse, canoe/kayak, cycling (road), diving, golf, rowing, sailing, soccer, softball and volleyball.
Approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers and mission staff will participate in the 2022 Canada Summer Games. Team NL is represented by 22 teams, participating in 17 sports. For more information, the latest updates and results for Team NL during the 2022 Canada Summer Games, please visit www.teamnl.ca.
Quote
“Team NL gave an incredible showing at the 2022 Canada Summer Games last week and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the Games will bring. Keep it up, Team NL! I also want to send special congratulations to Declan. What an honour to be the first-ever recipient of the Pat Lechelt True Sport Award. Keep working hard and keep reaching for the stars. You’re on a great path.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Learn more
Team NL
News Release: Team NL Heading to 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara in August
News Release: Team NL Swimmer Nathan Luscombe Wins Bronze Medal at the 2022 Canada Summer Games
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL
Like us on Facebook
Media contact
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca
The post Team NL Wins Three More Medals in Swimming and Declan Walsh Receives First-Ever Pat Lechelt True Sport Award at the 2022 Canada Summer Games appeared first on News Releases.
Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce Additional Measure to Address Recruitment and Retention of Physicians
The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will announce an additional measure to address recruitment and retention of physicians today (Tuesday, August 16) at 2:15 p.m.
He will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, Dr. Sohaib Al-Asaaed, Post Graduate Medical Education Associate Dean, and Dr. Mikaela Murphy, a second-year family medicine resident.
The availability will take place in Room M5M101, Faculty of Medicine, St. John’s Campus, Memorial University.
The availability will be streamed live on Facebook.
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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca
The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce Additional Measure to Address Recruitment and Retention of Physicians appeared first on News Releases.
Media Advisory: Minister Bragg to Participate in World Aquaculture Society Conference Panel Discussion in St. John’s
The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will be participating in a panel discussion tomorrow (Tuesday, August 16) as part of the World Aquaculture Society 2022 conference taking place this week in St. John’s.
The event titled ‘The Art and Science of Aquaculture Politics’ is taking place at the St. John’s Convention Centre (Bannerman 3), 50 New Gower St., beginning at 11:00 a.m.
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Media contacts
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca
The post Media Advisory: Minister Bragg to Participate in World Aquaculture Society Conference Panel Discussion in St. John’s appeared first on News Releases.
Name of Colonial Building Provincial Historic Site to Remain Unchanged
The Provincial Government today announced that the name of the Colonial Building Provincial Historic Site in St. John’s will remain unchanged.
A review is being conducted to ensure public monuments and observances respectfully recognize and commemorate the province’s history. As part of this review, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation sought public input on the name of the Colonial Building to help determine whether to change the name, and what the new name should be, if changed.
The department sought public input on the name through a questionnaire offered on engageNL. Participants were provided information on the history of the Colonial Building and asked a short series of questions related to the potential renaming. They could select a preferred name from the two suggested options – Parliament House and House of Parliament – or provide a third option for consideration.
The majority of respondents at 69 per cent preferred that the Colonial Building retain its current name. The remaining respondents at 26 per cent preferred that the Colonial Building change its current name, with a preference of 40 per cent for Parliament House.
In reviewing the data, the department gave consideration to all of the comments received. A copy of the What We Heard report can be found on the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation’s website here.
The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation plans to have the story of Indigenous governance in this province told accurately and represented at the site, and it will conduct Indigenous consultations to achieve that objective.
The Colonial Building was the permanent seat of the provincial legislature from 1850 to 1959. It was designated a Provincial Historic Site in 1974. A comprehensive restoration of the building is nearing completion and the plan is to open to the public in September as a Provincial Historic Site visitor attraction. The re-opened Colonial Building will be an immersive and interactive visitor experience that will include guided tours and exhibits.
Quotes
“Thank you to all of those who participated in the consultation process on the Colonial Building Provincial Historic Site. This site represents a significant piece of Newfoundland and Labrador’s political history. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to this beautiful historic building.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“While recalling the establishment of Responsible Government in this province, we must remember before that, there were Indigenous Peoples who lived here under their own forms of government. Therefore, we need to intend to tell those stories and learn from them, in this newly-renovated building, to reinvigorate our democratic institutions.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
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Learn more
What We Heard
News Release: Public Invited to Participate in Consultations on Colonial Building Name
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @TCAR_GovNL and @OLA_GovNL
Like us on Facebook
Media contacts
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca
Allan Bock
Labrador Affairs Secretariat and Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-7935, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca
The post Name of Colonial Building Provincial Historic Site to Remain Unchanged appeared first on News Releases.
Public Advisory: Forest Access Roads in the Paradise Lake and Bay d’Espoir Highway Areas Being Opened
The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has made arrangements to open a number of forest access roads in the area of Paradise Lake and Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360), so that residents may access their cabins and campers.
The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) continues to remain open to traffic. However, not all forest access roads or cabins are accessible.
If you are planning to use forest access roads in the vicinity of these fires, please examine the below map to determine whether your cabin or camper is accessible. The map shows closed forest access roads in yellow. The two fires shown in white crosshatch are active forest fire areas and are not accessible. The ‘STOP’ symbols represent the points at which the public may not go any further as they are considered unsafe.
If residents decide to use the newly opened forest access roads, they are asked to proceed cautiously and safely and to be aware that crews continue to address the forest fires in the broader region.
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Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca
The post Public Advisory: Forest Access Roads in the Paradise Lake and Bay d’Espoir Highway Areas Being Opened appeared first on News Releases.
Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) and Air Quality
Air quality related to forest fires in the central region of the island is currently low risk. This is expected to remain low for at least the next 48 hours. While the forest fires remain out of control, conditions are stable and continue to trend in a positive direction.
The current forecast is projecting the weather to be partly cloudy with light winds, elevated relative humidity and moderate temperatures throughout the day today (Saturday, August 13). The forecast for tomorrow (Sunday, August 14) is similar with a high chance of precipitation. Overall air quality is expected to remain good. This may be revised if fire and/or smoke conditions change. For more information on air quality, visit the Environment Canada Grand Falls-Windsor Air Quality Health Index.
The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) is now open with no scheduled update unless conditions change. Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.
The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is consistently receiving reports of residents going into their cabins in the area of the Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360), Paradise Lake, and Great Rattling (North and South) These people are disregarding the closed forest access roads in an active fire area. When people enter the area, it can compromise crews’ ability to fight the fires, as well as endangering the lives of residents, crew members, and even first responders. Resource Enforcement Officers are on site and will be patrolling the area.
An update on the roads and weather conditions will be provided should there be any significant change to the current situation.
Air quality
Forest fires can increase air pollution levels. Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health.
To protect yourself, if there is smoke in the area, you should keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable and turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home. For more information on what health impacts it can have and how to protect yourself, please see the backgrounder below.
Accommodations
The Canadian Red Cross shelter services established at the Hodder Memorial Centre in Deer Lake to support those impacted by the forest fires in Central Newfoundland have been suspended. Transportation services to Deer Lake have also been suspended, as these services are not required at this time.
If the need arises, shelter services and transportation will be re-established in a timely manner to meet the needs of individuals impacted.
Comfort stations are available to residents and are located at all provincial park locations. All comfort stations have showers, toilets, sinks and coin-operated laundry. There are Wi-Fi hotspots for use at the parks and water taps are available throughout. Please note, we are advising residents not to visit comfort stations that are in direct proximity to the Central Newfoundland fire, such as Notre Dame Provincial Park at the Lewisporte Junction. To find a provincial park location nearest you, please visit www.parksnl.ca/.
Important Contacts for Assistance
For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby smoke from the forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided in the Central Health operations update. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811 or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke.
A toll-free phone number has been established to help field inquiries pertaining to the Central Newfoundland forest fire emergency. The number is 1-833-845-0775 to reach the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) Phone Line for inquiries regarding supplies, transportation and general questions. The phone line will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A messaging service is available to assist with incoming calls outside the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
To help residents and tourists make informed decisions before they travel, please visit the NL511 website at www.nl511.ca. NL511 provides up-to-date information on driving conditions, highway cameras, major incidents, current ferry status updates, and weather. An NL511 app is also available for smartphones.
Be Prepared
Emergencies can happen at any time and without warning. All households should have an emergency plan and kit ready. Municipalities, local service districts, power utilities and health authorities have emergency and contingency plans that are activated when the need arises. Detailed emergency preparedness advice, including a downloadable emergency kit checklist, is available at www.gov.nl.ca/beprepared.
Mental Health
Emergency events, such as a forest fire, can lead to fear and anxiety. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, need support, or are looking for health information, call 811 at any time.
If you are feeling anxious and alone, you can also call the Provincial Lifewise Warm Line at 1-855-753-2560, seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to midnight, to speak with a trained peer support worker who is there and ready to listen.
You can also visit Bridge the Gapp to access age-appropriate programs and services that are available locally, confidential and free.
Call 811 to find the nearest Doorways Drop-in Counselling Clinics where counselling services (in person or by telephone) are available without an appointment or referral.
Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation. For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.
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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Air Quality during a Forest Fire
Milder and more common symptoms of smoke exposure include:
- Headaches
- A mild cough
- A runny nose
- Production of phlegm
- Eye, nose and throat irritation
These symptoms can typically be managed without medical intervention.
More serious symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Chest pains
- Severe cough
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing (including asthma attacks)
- Heart palpitations (irregular heart beat)
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to a health care provider, call 811, or seek medical attention. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 and seek immediate medical assistance.
Some people are at a higher risk of health problems when exposed to wildfire smoke including:
- Seniors
- Pregnant people
- Infants and young children
- People who work outdoors
- People involved in strenuous outdoor exercise
- People with an existing illness or chronic health conditions, such as:
- cancer
- diabetes
- mental illness
- lung or heart conditions
The best way to protect your health is to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke.
General:
- Pay attention to special air quality statements or other indicators of smoke levels in your community. If necessary, limit outdoor activity and strenuous physical activities.
- If you need to work outdoors, check with your provincial or territorial occupational health and safety organization or your local health authority. They can provide guidance on how to work safely outdoors during wildfire smoke events.
Indoors and at home:
- Keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable.
- Turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home.
- Use a clean, good quality air filter (for example, HEPA) in your ventilation system.
- Use an air purifier that uses HEPA filtration to remove smoke from your home. For more information on selecting an air purifier that is appropriate for your needs, refer to the “Using an air purifier to filter wildfire smoke” factsheet.
- Visit community centres, libraries, and shopping malls. These places often have cleaner filtered air and can provide a break from the smoke.
- Keep vehicle windows closed and set the ventilation system to recirculate.
Other recommendations to protect your health:
- Drink plenty of water to help your body cope with the smoke. Check on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more vulnerable to smoke.
- Avoid vacuuming and burning candles, incense or other materials.
If smoke is present for more than a few days:
- Stay active when you can. Try finding a place with clean air to exercise indoors, for instance at the gym, the community centre or at home. Consult the AQHI to look for breaks in the smoke to find opportunities to go outdoors.
- Don’t forget to take care of your mental health. It’s not unusual to feel anxious, stressed out, sad or isolated during a smoke event. Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising and staying in contact with friends can help. Anyone who is having trouble coping with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression should seek help from a health care provider.
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Public Advisory: State of Emergency Due to Forest Fires in Central Newfoundland Ended
The Honourable John Hogan, QC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, has ended the states of emergency for the areas of Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls, the Connaigre Peninsula and Botwood effective 12:01 a.m., August 13, 2022.
It is important to remember that forest fires are ongoing and fire situations can be unpredictable. Residents are encouraged to stay safe, be prepared and monitor current conditions. Detailed emergency preparedness advice, including a downloadable emergency kit checklist, is available at www.gov.nl.ca/beprepared. Resources to combat the fire and support residents are still available and active. Expanded or additional resources can be deployed if the situation changes.
In consultation with partners, a number of criteria were considered when determining whether to lift the state of emergency. These include, but are not limited to, air quality in the area, fire behaviour and weather conditions. Officials monitor weather as it relates to wind speed and direction, cloud cover, relative humidity and temperature. The current forecast is showing favourable weather conditions and continuing to trend in a positive direction.
The Provincial Government continues to work with emergency management partners and others to address the ongoing forest fires in the Central region of the island portion of the province. Officials continue to coordinate the response with municipalities in the region. Municipalities in the central region are encouraged to continue applying their emergency management plans.
Updates on resources and assistance will continue to be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation.
Air quality
Air quality related to forest fires in the central region of the island is currently low risk. This is expected to remain low for at least the next 48 hours. While the forest fires remain out of control, conditions are stable and continue to trend in a positive direction.
The current forecast is projecting the weather to be partly cloudy with light winds from the south, elevated relative humidity and moderated temperatures throughout the day today (Friday, August 12). The forecast for the weekend is similar with a high chance of precipitation on Sunday, August 14. Overall air quality is expected to remain good. This may be revised if fire and/or smoke conditions change. For more information on air quality, visit the Environment Canada Grand Falls-Windsor Air Quality Health Index.
Forest fires can increase air pollution levels.
Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health. To protect yourself, if there is smoke in the area, you should keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable and turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home.
Roads
The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.
Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.
Accommodations
The Canadian Red Cross shelter services established at the Hodder Memorial Centre in Deer Lake to support those impacted by the forest fires in Central Newfoundland have been suspended. Transportation services to Deer Lake have also been suspended, as these services are not required at this time.
If the need arises, shelter services and transportation will be re-established in a timely manner to meet the needs of individuals impacted.
Comfort stations are available to residents and are located at all provincial park locations. All comfort stations have showers, toilets, sinks and coin-operated laundry. There are Wi-Fi hotspots for use at the parks and water taps are available throughout. Please note, we are advising residents not to visit comfort stations that are in direct proximity to the Central Newfoundland fire, such as Notre Dame Provincial Park at the Lewisporte Junction. To find a provincial park location nearest you, please visit www.parksnl.ca/.
Important Contacts for Assistance
For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby smoke from the forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided in the Central Health operations update. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811 or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke.
Two toll-free phone numbers have been established to help field inquiries pertaining to the Central Newfoundland forest fire emergency. The phone lines will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A messaging service is available to assist with incoming calls outside the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. These include:
- 1-833-845-0775: Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) Phone Line for inquiries regarding supplies, transportation and general questions.
- 1-833-960-4571: Central Health Phone Line for all health inquires.
To help residents and tourists make informed decisions before they travel, please visit the NL511 website at www.nl511.ca. NL511 provides up-to-date information on driving conditions, highway cameras, major incidents, current ferry status updates, and weather. An NL511 app is also available for smartphones.
Be Prepared
Emergencies can happen at any time and without warning. All households should have an emergency plan and kit ready. Municipalities, local service districts, power utilities and health authorities have emergency and contingency plans that are activated when the need arises. Detailed emergency preparedness advice, including a downloadable emergency kit checklist, is available at www.gov.nl.ca/beprepared.
Mental Health
Emergency events, such as a forest fire, can lead to fear and anxiety. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, need support, or are looking for health information, call 811 at any time.
If you are feeling anxious and alone, you can also call the Provincial Lifewise Warm Line at 1-855-753-2560, seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to midnight, to speak with a trained peer support worker who is there and ready to listen.
You can also visit Bridge the Gapp to access age-appropriate programs and services that are available locally, confidential and free.
Call 811 to find the nearest Doorways Drop-in Counselling Clinics where counselling services (in person or by telephone) are available without an appointment or referral.
Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation. For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.
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Media contact
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
The post Public Advisory: State of Emergency Due to Forest Fires in Central Newfoundland Ended appeared first on News Releases.
Environmental Assessment Bulletin
The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, has announced the following events relative to Part 10 Environmental Assessment of the Environmental Protection Act.
UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:
Steady Brook Tourism-Residential Subdivision (Reg. 2211)
Proponent: Humber Seasons Limited
The proponent is proposing to construct a tourism-residential subdivision development on a 2.2 hectare site located north of Dogwood Drive in the Town of Steady Brook. The development would consist of condominium buildings and row houses along with storage facilities. Construction would occur in phases with the first phase consisting of two blocks of three-unit row houses, an access road and utilities. Construction of this phase is expected to take 6-9 months. 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 August 12, 2022. The deadline for public comments is September 16, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by September 26, 2022.
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT GUIDELINES APPROVED:
Joyce Lake Direct Shipping Iron Ore Project (Reg. 2143)
Proponent: Joyce Direct Iron Inc.
The minister has approved the final guidelines for the preparation of the environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Joyce Lake Direct Shipping Iron Ore Project. The EIS guidelines document identifies the information that the proponent will be required to address in preparation of the EIS. The EIS guidelines document is available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2143/.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT ACCEPTED:
Cavendish Beef Farm (Reg. 2002)
Proponent: Viking Fur Inc.
A review has been completed of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on July 14, 2022. On August 10, 2022, the minister determined that the EIS complies with Part X of the Environmental Protection Act and the provincial EIS Guidelines and require no further work is required.
UNDERTAKING WITHDRAWN:
Placentia Hiking Trail (Reg. 2199)
Proponent: Placentia Chamber of Commerce
UNDERTAKING RELEASED:
Lower Terra Nova Fishway Refurbishment (Reg. 2200)
Proponent: Fisheries and Oceans Canada
The project was 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, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates, if requested.
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
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL
If you submit comments on a project that is under environmental assessment, please advise the Department if you DO NOT wish to share your comments with the project proponent.
Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449; 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca
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Public Advisory: Resource Enforcement Division Conducts Operations in Stoneville and New Perlican Targeting Salmon Poaching
Investigations into poaching of Atlantic Salmon conducted by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Resource Enforcement Division have resulted in the apprehension of several individuals.
On July 26, 2022 Resource Enforcement Officers with the Resource Enforcement Division, St. John’s Detachment, apprehended three individuals in New Perlican, Trinity Bay, after a net was set in coastal waters in the community. When officers retrieved the 80 foot long gill net, it contained one Atlantic salmon which was still alive and was subsequently released. The officers seized the net and the three men were released from the scene. Charges under the Fisheries Act are pending and the three will be required to appear in court at a later date.
On August 3, 2022 Resource Enforcement Officers with the Resource Enforcement Division, Gander Detachment, retrieved a gill net set in inland waters near Stoneville that contained 19 dead Atlantic salmon. The net measured 85 feet and had completely spanned the river. On August 5, 2022 two male individuals were apprehended for netting in inland waters after they had retrieved an Atlantic salmon from a gill net set in the river. This happened approximately one kilometer from where the gill net with the 19 Atlantic salmon was retrieved. The 105 foot net, along with a 70 foot net that was not set, a canoe and one Atlantic salmon were seized by the officers. Charges under the Fisheries Act are pending and the two will be required to appear in court at a later date.
The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing and hunting activity as information provided by the public plays a significant role in assisting investigations being carried out by Resource Enforcement Officers.
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, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca
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Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) and Air Quality
The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. This decision will be reassessed tomorrow morning (Saturday, August 13). Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.
Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.
Air quality related to forest fires in the central region of the island is currently low risk. This is expected to remain low for at least the next 48 hours. For more information on air quality, visit the Environment Canada Grand Falls-Windsor Air Quality Health Index.
The state of emergency remains in place.
Forest fires are ongoing and fire situations can be unpredictable. Residents are encouraged to stay safe above all and keep up-to-date on current conditions.
For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.
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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca
Brian Scott
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca
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Public Advisory: Emergency Shelter Services Now Suspended in Deer Lake
The Canadian Red Cross shelter services established at the Hodder Memorial Centre in Deer Lake to support those impacted by the forest fires in Central Newfoundland, are being suspended effective immediately.
Individuals currently staying at the shelter in Deer Lake will be transported to Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor or Botwood. Transportation services to Deer Lake are suspended, as these services are not required at this time.
If the need arises, shelter services and transportation will be re-established in a timely manner to meet the needs of individuals impacted.
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Media contacts
Khadija Rehma
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-3768, 730-2977
khadijarehma@gov.nl.ca
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
The post Public Advisory: Emergency Shelter Services Now Suspended in Deer Lake appeared first on News Releases.
Public Advisory: Update on Air Quality Related to Forest Fires
Air quality related to forest fires in the central region of the island is currently low risk. This is expected to remain low for at least the next 24 hours. While the forest fires remain out of control, conditions are stable and are trending in a positive direction.
The current forecast is projecting the weather to be mainly cloudy with a small chance of precipitation with light winds this evening (Thursday, August 11) through Friday. All air quality statements from Environment Canada have ended and overall air quality is expected to remain good. This may be revised if fire and/or smoke conditions change. For more information on air quality, visit the Environment Canada Grand Falls-Windsor Air Quality Health Index.
Individuals with concerns for their health and safety can leave the area either on their own or by using the transportation being provided to the congregate shelter in Deer Lake.
Air quality
Forest fires can increase air pollution levels. Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health.
To protect yourself, if there is smoke in the area, you should keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable and turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home. For more information on what health impacts it can have and how to protect yourself, please see the backgrounder below.
Transportation
Any individuals impacted by the state of emergency and air quality can avail of the buses to travel to the congregate shelter in the Hodder Memorial Centre, 8-10 Crescent Street, Deer Lake.
Buses transporting individuals to the congregate shelter in Deer Lake are accessible for mobility devices.
Transportation is available to the congregate shelter in Deer Lake from Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor and Botwood. The muster point/pick-up site in Bishop’s Falls is the Salvation Army Church, in Grand Falls-Windsor is the Joe Byrne Arena and Windsor Stadium, and in Botwood is the Salvation Army Citadel.
Today (Thursday, August 11), buses are running at approximately 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Beginning Friday, August 12, the bus schedule will change from twice a day to once per day departing at the time and locations below:
- Botwood: Salvation Army Citadel at 1:00 p.m.
- Bishops Falls: Salvation Army Church at 1:45 p.m.
- Grand Falls-Windsor: Joe Byrne Arena at 2:30 p.m. and Windsor Arena at 2:45 p.m.
Residents can take their pet(s) on the bus departing from Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor or Botwood however, the pet(s) must be in a proper carrier when you arrive at the pick-up site and during transport on the bus. Upon arrival in Deer Lake, a volunteer will help transport the pet(s) to the pet shelter at the Deer Lake Fire Hall.
The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.
Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.
Comfort stations are available to residents and are located at all provincial park locations. All comfort stations have showers, toilets, sinks and coin-operated laundry. There are Wi-Fi hotspots for use at the parks and water taps are available throughout. Please note, we are advising residents not to visit comfort stations that are in direct proximity to the Central Newfoundland fire, such as Notre Dame Provincial Park at the Lewisporte Junction. To find a provincial park location nearest you, please visit www.parksnl.ca/.
Important Contacts for Assistance
For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby smoke from the forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided in the Central Health operations update. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811 or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke.
Two toll-free phone numbers have been established to help field inquiries pertaining to the Central Newfoundland forest fire emergency. The phone lines will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A messaging service is available to assist with incoming calls outside the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. These include:
- 1-833-845-0775: Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) Phone Line for inquiries regarding supplies, transportation and general questions.
- 1-833-960-4571: Central Health Phone Line for all health inquires.
To help residents and tourists make informed decisions before they travel, please visit the NL511 website at www.nl511.ca. NL511 provides up-to-date information on driving conditions, highway cameras, major incidents, current ferry status updates, and weather. An NL511 app is also available for smartphones.
Be Prepared
Emergencies can happen at any time and without warning. All households should have an emergency plan and kit ready. Municipalities, local service districts, power utilities and health authorities have emergency and contingency plans that are activated when the need arises. Detailed emergency preparedness advice, including a downloadable emergency kit checklist, is available at www.gov.nl.ca/beprepared.
Mental Health
Emergency events, such as a forest fire, can lead to fear and anxiety. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, need support, or are looking for health information, call 811 at any time.
If you are feeling anxious and alone, you can also call the Provincial Lifewise Warm Line at 1-855-753-2560, seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to midnight, to speak with a trained peer support worker who is there and ready to listen.
You can also visit Bridge the Gapp to access age-appropriate programs and services that are available locally, confidential and free.
Call 811 to find the nearest Doorways Drop-in Counselling Clinics where counselling services (in person or by telephone) are available without an appointment or referral.
Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation. For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.
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Media contact
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Air Quality during a Forest Fire
Milder and more common symptoms of smoke exposure include:
- Headaches
- A mild cough
- A runny nose
- Production of phlegm
- Eye, nose and throat irritation
These symptoms can typically be managed without medical intervention.
More serious symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Chest pains
- Severe cough
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing (including asthma attacks)
- Heart palpitations (irregular heart beat)
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to a health care provider, call 811, or seek medical attention. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 and seek immediate medical assistance.
Some people are at a higher risk of health problems when exposed to wildfire smoke including:
- Seniors
- Pregnant people
- Infants and young children
- People who work outdoors
- People involved in strenuous outdoor exercise
- People with an existing illness or chronic health conditions, such as:
- cancer
- diabetes
- mental illness
- lung or heart conditions
The best way to protect your health is to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke.
General:
- Pay attention to special air quality statements or other indicators of smoke levels in your community. If necessary, limit outdoor activity and strenuous physical activities.
- If you need to work outdoors, check with your provincial or territorial occupational health and safety organization or your local health authority. They can provide guidance on how to work safely outdoors during wildfire smoke events.
Indoors and at home:
- Keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable.
- Turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home.
- Use a clean, good quality air filter (for example, HEPA) in your ventilation system.
- Use an air purifier that uses HEPA filtration to remove smoke from your home. For more information on selecting an air purifier that is appropriate for your needs, refer to the “Using an air purifier to filter wildfire smoke” factsheet.
- Visit community centres, libraries, and shopping malls. These places often have cleaner filtered air and can provide a break from the smoke.
- Keep vehicle windows closed and set the ventilation system to recirculate.
Other recommendations to protect your health:
- Drink plenty of water to help your body cope with the smoke. Check on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more vulnerable to smoke.
- Avoid vacuuming and burning candles, incense or other materials.
If smoke is present for more than a few days:
- Stay active when you can. Try finding a place with clean air to exercise indoors, for instance at the gym, the community centre or at home. Consult the AQHI to look for breaks in the smoke to find opportunities to go outdoors.
- Don’t forget to take care of your mental health. It’s not unusual to feel anxious, stressed out, sad or isolated during a smoke event. Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising and staying in contact with friends can help. Anyone who is having trouble coping with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression should seek help from a health care provider.
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Road Construction to Begin in Western Newfoundland
Work is beginning this construction season to improve approximately eight kilometres of highway between Wiltondale and Woody Point in western Newfoundland.
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has awarded a contract valued at approximately $4 million to JCL Investments Inc. for work on Bonne Bay Road (Route 431) and Woody Point Road (Route 431-11).
Work includes culvert replacements, paving, and ditch work on a section of Bonne Bay Road between Glenburnie and Cox’s Lane in Woody Point and a section of the road near its intersection with the Northern Peninsula Highway (Route 430).
While work is ongoing, motorists should travel at a reduced speed, watch for traffic control, and anticipate some traffic delays.
This work is in addition to a contract awarded in June for upgrades to approximately 10 kilometres on the Northern Peninsula on Route 430 and West Link Road (Route 430-15).
Roads selected for the provincial roads plan are based on factors such as safety; traffic volumes; input from the department’s engineers; commercial, industry, and tourism impacts; populations serviced; and the impacts of climate change.
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.
Quotes
“This contract and contracts near Corner Brook, Pasadena, and Bay St. George are making highways safer and ensuring they stay connected. Woody Point is one of the province’s most visited communities and a highly sought after tourist destination. Completing this work will ensure more safe and secure travel in and out of these areas.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
MHA for Humber – Gros Morne
“Roads like Bonne Bay Road, the Northern Peninsula Highway, and many areas of the Trans-Canada Highway are the main roads in and out of the area, so it’s important that we further secure these roads. Completing this work and other work on the Northern Peninsula and Trans-Canada Highway is of great importance this construction season.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
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News Release: Contract Awarded to Improve Roads on Northern Peninsula
News Release: Paving to Begin on Trans-Canada Highway in Southwestern Newfoundland
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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
The post Road Construction to Begin in Western Newfoundland appeared first on News Releases.
Tender Issued for New Emergency Department at Health Sciences Centre
A tender has been issued to improve and expand the emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s.
Work on the project will include the redevelopment of 2,230 square metres of the current space and the construction of a new 2,690 square metre extension.
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.
Prior to major construction, there will be a temporary ambulance entrance set up and a temporary emergency triage, public waiting, and fast track areas for use by the public.
The department anticipates the tender closing this month and the work beginning later this year.
Construction progress on the new adult mental health and addictions hospital includes ongoing framing for drywall, mechanical and electrical rough-in and installation of the exterior building cladding and windows. The department anticipates construction of this hospital to be completed in late 2024.
Budget 2022 committed $154 million to improve health care infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador, including funding for new equipment at health care facilities and to continue construction of the new adult mental health and addictions hospital in St. John’s.
Quotes
“Building and redeveloping healthcare infrastructure improves the way we provide healthcare services in Newfoundland and Labrador. This is the busiest emergency department in the province and this investment will enhance emergency services for people who require urgent care at the Health Sciences Centre and services at the new adult mental health and addictions hospital.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Our focus remains the delivery of the best possible health care for the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the expansion and design improvements align with that focus. As our population changes, our health care needs change also, and we must ensure our standards for delivery of emergency department care are appropriate.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“Our $567 million investment in infrastructure this year includes $154 million for healthcare initiatives, which will go towards projects like this one. This redevelopment and extension at the Health Sciences Centre will lead to better healthcare infrastructure and create jobs for tradespeople during the course of construction.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmmcabe@gov.nl.ca
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca
The post Tender Issued for New Emergency Department at Health Sciences Centre appeared first on News Releases.
Provincial Government Encourages Residents to ‘Rethink Your Drink’
Today, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador launched ‘Rethink Your Drink’ – an awareness campaign to encourage healthier beverage choices.
The focus of the `Rethink Your Drink’ campaign is on encouraging residents to make healthier beverage choices – without the added sugar. ‘Rethink your Drink’ is just one of several initiatives being undertaken to support the health and wellness of residents of the province. More broadly, through Health Accord NL, government is taking meaningful action to improve the social, economic and environmental factors that impact personal health.
Excess consumption of sugar sweetened beverages can contribute to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other related health issues, including poor dental health. Making healthier beverage choices can help reduce the consumption of excess sugars associated with an increased risk of developing chronic diseases.
Effective September 1, 2022, government is also introducing a tax on sugar sweetened beverages. This is aimed at reducing consumption which aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organization (2017), the Canadian Healthy Eating Strategy (2016), the updated Canada’s Food Guide (2019), and the position statement from the Canadian Paediatric Society (2020), supported by the Dietitians of Canada, the Childhood Obesity Foundation, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and Diabetes Canada. Excerpts from these papers, as well as other supporting information, is provided in the backgrounder below.
Revenues generated will help fund the pre-natal infant nutrition supplement, school breakfast and lunch programs, and the physical activity tax credit, as shown in this budget document.
Quotes
“Encouraging Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to make healthier beverage choices is the key message in our ‘Rethink Your Drink’ awareness campaign. We chose this slogan because we hope it will come to mind when you reach for a beverage. We encourage everyone to consider how you may be able to choose healthier beverages without added sugar for you and your family. This is one step towards meeting government’s ambitious goal of making Newfoundland and Labrador one of the healthiest provinces by 2031.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance
“Canada’s Food Guide supports making healthier food and beverage choices and recommends water to drink. This campaign can help remind people to make healthy beverage choices for themselves and their families whenever possible. Our department is committed to creating more supportive environments for healthy eating in community, recreation and sport settings, in school and childcare, as well as at home. This is an important part of achieving better health outcomes in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“I’m delighted that the ‘Rethink Your Drink’ awareness campaign is being officially launched today in the District of Mount Scio. We all need to make healthier decisions. I hope that this program causes residents to think about what they are consuming and choose lower calorie options or drink water when possible.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, and MHA for Mount Scio
“Sugary drinks are the single largest contributor of sugar in the average Canadian diet. Eating a healthy diet, with lots of vegetables, fruit and fibre and low in added sugar, helps reduce the risk of cancer. Excise taxes are an effective way to reduce consumption of sugary drinks. We applaud the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for taking action to encourage healthier drink choices and being the first to introduce a tax on sugar sweetened beverages, and we hope to see other governments follow suit. Actions like these will help prevent more cancers and reduce the number of people diagnosed with the disease.”
Kelly Wilson Cull, Director, Advocacy
Canadian Cancer Society
“The Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association supports healthy choices for your oral health and overall health. Choosing healthy drink choices is as important as choosing healthy food choices. We recommend that you make water your drink of choice and reduce your intake of sugary drinks and sweets which could contribute to tooth decay.”
Amanda Squires, Executive Director
Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association
“For over 30 years, the School Lunch Association has been providing children with a hot nutritious lunch. This initiative speaks volumes to government’s continued support of our program and to the overall health and well-being of children in our schools.”
John Finn, Executive Director
School Lunch Association
“Health literacy is crucial for us to make the right wellness choices. Awareness programs like Rethink Your Drink empower people to take positive action towards better health.”
Mike Wahl, Ph.D.
Host, ‘The Wellness and Healthy Lifestyle Show’
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Learn more
Rethink Your Drink
Budget 2021 – Healthier Choices
Media contacts
Victoria Barbour
Finance
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca
Jessica Abdilla
Canadian Cancer Society
437-266-8972
Jessica.adbilla@cancer.ca
Amanda Squires
Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association
709-579-2362
amanda.nlda@nflda.net
John Finn
School Lunch Association
709-754-5323, 709-649-5558
jfinn@schoollunch.ca
Mike Wahl
The Wellness and Healthy Lifestyle Show
709-746-3355
info@wahlshow.com
BACKGROUNDER
Encouraging Healthier Beverage Choices
Canada’s Food Guide
Make water your drink of choice Canada’s Food Guide
World Health Organization
“Consumption of free sugars, including products like sugary drinks, is a major factor in the global increase of people suffering from obesity and diabetes,” says Dr. Douglas Bettcher, Director of WHO’s Department for the Prevention of NCDs. “If governments tax products like sugary drinks, they can reduce suffering and save lives. They can also cut healthcare costs and increase revenues to invest in health services.”
“Taxation of certain foods and drinks, particularly those high in saturated fats, trans fat, free sugars and/or salt appears promising, with existing evidence clearly showing that increases in the prices of such products reduces their consumption. Excise taxes, such as those used on tobacco products, that apply a set (specific) amount of tax on a given quantity or volume of the product, or particular ingredient, are likely to be more effective than sales or other taxes based on a percentage of the retail price”.
Garwood, P. (2016, October 16). WHO urges global action to curtail consumption and health impacts of sugary drinks. World Health Organization. WHO urges global action to curtail consumption and health impacts of sugary drinks
Heart and Stoke Foundation
“Sugary drinks are the number one source of added sugar in the Canadian diet, and too much added sugar is not good for heart health. Studies show that drinking sugary drinks twice daily increases the risk of developing heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, and raises the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by more than 30%.”
(2020, July 11). What should I drink. Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. What should I drink | Heart and Stroke Foundation
News release: Will a sugary drinks levy benefit Canadians? | Heart and Stroke Foundation
Canadian Dental Association
“Choosing healthy drink choices is as important as your food choices. Get in the good habit of comparing the nutrition facts table on drinks to choose products that are lower in sodium, sugars or saturated fat. Make water your drink of choice and reduce your intake of sugary drinks and sweets which could contribute to tooth decay.”
(2022). Nutrition. Canadian Dental Association. Canadian Dental Association (cda-adc.ca)
University of Waterloo
“By reducing obesity and overweight, a 20% tax on SSBs is estimated to prevent 12,053 cancer cases, 36,996 cases of ischemic heart disease, 4,833 strokes, and 138,635 cases of type 2 diabetes. Prevented incident and prevalent disease cases. For a 20% sugary drink tax, prevented diseases would include 21,777 cancer cases, 61,230 cases of ischemic heart disease, 8,151 strokes, and 215,846 cases of type 2 diabetes.”
Jones, A. C., Veerman, J. L., & Hammond, D. (2017). The Health and Economic Impact of a Tax on Sugary Drinks in Canada. University of Waterloo, Page 31. The-Health-and-Economic-Impact-of-a-Sugary-Drink-Tax-in-Canada-FULL-REPORT.pdf (childhoodobesityfoundation.ca)
Canadian Healthy Eating Strategy
“Evidence shows that many factors in our food environment influence our ability to make healthy food choices and to follow a healthy eating pattern. The food we have in our homes, schools, grocery stores, restaurants, as well as social influences and food marketing, have a major impact on our choices and make healthy eating a challenge for many of us. An increasing number of foods high in calories, fat, sodium and sugars are readily offered in multiple settings, thereby challenging our ability to make healthy choices.”
(2016, October 24). Healthy Eating Strategy. Health Canada. Healthy Eating Strategy – Canada.ca
Canadian Paediatric Society
“The excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) has been strongly associated with weight gain, chronic disease development, and dental caries. Recent research has correlated the raising of taxes on SSBs with decreased consumption in some jurisdictions. This policy could have significant positive impacts for public health.”
Pound, C. M., Critch, J. N., Thiessen, P., & Blair, B. (2020, January 30). A proposal to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages in Canada: Canadian Paediatric Society. A proposal to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages in Canada | Canadian Paediatric Society (cps.ca)
Dieticians of Canada
“Based on available evidence, policy efforts that decrease the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages have the potential to positively impact the health of Canadians. Taxation has emerged as one viable policy option to reduce the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages. An excise tax of at least 10-20% is expected to have a considerable impact on the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages.”
(2016, February). Taxation and sugar-sweetened beverages. Dieticians of Canada, Page 6. Dietitians of Canada
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Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360)
The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. This decision will be reassessed tomorrow morning (Friday, August 12). Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.
Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.
The state of emergency remains in place.
Forest fires are ongoing and fire situations can be unpredictable. Residents are encouraged to stay safe and keep up-to-date on current conditions.
For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.
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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca
Brian Scott
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca
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