Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, has declared a state of emergency in the areas of Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls and the Connaigre Peninsula.

As part of this declaration, 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 meet and coordinate the response with the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor and the Town of Bishop’s Falls.

Forest fires are causing smoke and deteriorated air quality in areas of the central region. This is a precautionary measure, and there is no immediate fire hazard to homes or residents.

Municipalities in the central region are encouraged to ensure their emergency management plans are up to date.

Central Health will be supporting efforts to move those who require additional care so that they are not in the immediate vicinity of the smoke. For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided here: 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.

For information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

Updates on resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation.

Officials will provide a further update at a media availability tomorrow. Details on the availability will be provided once finalized.

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

Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: State of Emergency Declared in Central Newfoundland as a Precaution due to Forest Fires in the Region appeared first on News Releases.

The Canadian Red Cross and Salvation Army are continuing to deliver emergency services for individuals who are stranded on the Trans-Canada Highway due to the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway.

The Canadian Red Cross is coordinating emergency lodging for individuals who live in the areas affected by the Bay d’Espoir Highway closure. A congregate shelter has been set up at the Windsor Pentecostal Church at 97 King Street, Grand Falls-Windsor.  Please note the shelter has moved to this new, larger location to accommodate more people who may be in need. Individuals can access the shelter at any time after 6:00 p.m. today (Saturday, August 6).

For more information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

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

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Services Available for Individuals Stranded Due to Closure of Bay d’Espoir Highway appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is attending meetings in Niagara, Ontario, with his Federal, Provincial and Territorial counterparts responsible for sport, physical activity and recreation.

After the meetings conclude, the minister will be attending the 2022 Canada Summer Games opening ceremonies today (Saturday, August 6). The opening ceremonies take place at the Meridian Centre, 1 David Howe Way, in St. Catharines, Ontario, starting at 8:00 p.m. EST (9:30 p.m. Newfoundland Standard Time).

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Crocker Attending Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meetings and Opening Ceremonies for the Canada Summer Games appeared first on News Releases.

Under the authority of section 99 of the Forestry Act, the Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is proclaiming an outdoor fire ban prohibiting the setting of fires on forest land or within 300 meters of forest land, on the central and eastern areas of the island portion of the province, to be in effect between the hours of midnight on August 6, 2022, to midnight on August 16, 2022.

Recent dry weather, wind, and hot temperatures experienced throughout these districts have heightened the forest fire threat, and there are a number of large active fires burning in the province. Under such conditions, the department is taking appropriate measures to address and prevent forest fires.

For more information, please contact your local District Forestry and Wildlife Office.

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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: Open Fire Ban Proclaimed for Island Portions of the Province appeared first on News Releases.

The Canadian Red Cross and Salvation Army will deliver emergency services for individuals who are stranded on the Trans-Canada Highway due to the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway.

The Canadian Red Cross is coordinating emergency lodging for individuals who live in the areas affected by the Bay d’Espoir Highway closure. A congregate shelter has been set up at the Salvation Army Citadel, 33 Circular Road, Grand Falls-Windsor. Individuals can access the shelter at any time after 6:00 p.m. today (Friday, August 5).

For more information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

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

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Services Available for Individuals Stranded due to Closure of Bay d’Espoir Highway 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:

Environmental Impact Statement Required and Environmental Assessment Committee Appointed:

Port au Port-Stephenville Wind Power and Hydrogen Generation Project (Project Nujio’qonik GH2)                           (Reg. 2202)
Proponent:  World Energy GH2 Inc.

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

• Confirmation of the final proposed locations of wind turbines, worker accommodations, offices, explosive storage facilities, access roads, power lines, and substations, as well as their distances from, and potential impacts on, nearby receptors.
• Identification of land use overlaps with protected areas, private land, mining operations, mineral licenses and leases, recreational and traditional land uses, and any potential project redesign.
• Potential effects on flora and fauna in the project area, as determined by:
  • A bat monitoring program which includes the active season (April 15 – Oct 31) and obtains complete information on spring migration, summer resident bat activity, and fall migration;
  • Targeted pre-construction breeding surveys for Common Nighthawk and Short-Eared Owl;
  • A comprehensive survey for plants/lichen, including species listed under the NL Endangered Species Act as well as Species at Risk Act; and
  • Baseline surveys for moose, caribou, and muskrat.
• Confirmation of proposed primary and secondary water sources, and hydrological modelling to determine sustainability of yield, quality and effect on other local users.
• Baseline geological information to support the planned storage / sequestration of chemicals produced throughout the project life, including CO2 and ammonia.

An Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the minister and to draft guidelines for the proponent in preparing the EIS. The EAC includes representatives from the following provincial and federal government agencies:

• Department of Environment and Climate Change
  • Environmental Assessment – Chair
  • Climate Change Branch
  • Natural Areas
  • Pollution Prevention Division
  • Water Resources Management Division
• Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Department of Health and Community Services
• Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
• Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
• Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
• Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The public will be invited to provide comment on the draft guidelines. For further information on this project, please contact Eric Watton at (709) 729-0834 or email ericwatton@gov.nl.ca.

 PLANS APPROVED:

Hopeall Abattoir                                                                                          (Reg. 2105)
Proponent: Aylward’s Farm

On July 28, 2022, the minister approved the waste management plan for the Hopeall Abattoir. Approval of the plan is a condition of release from environmental assessment. The plan is available on the Department’s project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2105/.

Green Bay Sawmill Production                                                              (Reg. 2190)
Proponent: Green Bay Logging Limited

On July 28, 2022, the minister approved the waste management plan for the Green Bay Sawmill Production project. Approval of the plan is a condition of release from environmental assessment. The plan is available on the Department’s project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2190/.

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings at a recognition ceremony for Doug Redmond, Honorary Life Member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Soccer Association on Sunday, August 7.

The ceremony will begin at 2:15 p.m. at the King George V Pitch, 2 Carnell Drive, 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 Bring Greetings at Newfoundland and Labrador Soccer Association’s Recognition Ceremony for Doug Redmond appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-014 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-2022-014 Report Date: July 28, 2022 Public Body: Department of Finance Summary: Two Complainants made three access to information requests under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015, to the Department of Finance for copies of the Rothschild & Co. report and associated correspondence. The Department declined to provide the records citing sections 27 (cabinet confidences), 29 (policy advice and recommendations), 35 (disclosure harmful to the financial or economic interests of a public body), 38 (disclosure harmful to labour relations interests of public body as employer), and 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). The Complainants disagreed with this decision and made complaints to this Office. The Commissioner determined that the records fit the exception under section 27, and as such, the Department was correct in withholding the records in their entirety.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-014 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-013 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-2022-013 Report Date: August 2, 2022 Public Body: Department of Environment and Climate Change Summary: The Complainants made two separate access requests under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Environment and Climate Change. The Department did not respond to either request within the 20 business days as required by the Act. Each of the Complainants filed a complaint with this Office asking that the Department’s deemed refusal be investigated. The Commissioner found that the Department had not complied with its obligations under the Act. The Commissioner found the Department’s sharing of ATIPP staffing resources with another department on a long-term basis inconsistent with the Act. The Commissioner recommended the Department provide a final response as it relates to one complaint where none had yet been provided. The Commissioner recommended that the Department review its policies, assign additional staff as early as possible, maintain communication with applicants and our Office, and to comply with its statutory duties in the future.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-013 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will hold a media availability today (Friday, August 5) to discuss the ongoing wild fires in the Central region. Minister Bragg will be accompanied by the Incident Commander, Jason Glode.

The availability will take place at 3:00 p.m. in Gander at the Fire Protection Centre, 800 Matrix Boulevard. Media covering the availability will be offered a tour of the centre.

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Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Availability: Minister Bragg Available to Discuss Wild Fires in Central Region appeared first on News Releases.

Based on the weather forecast and fire predictions, motorists are advised that the Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will be open from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. (noon) until Sunday, August 7. The Provincial Government is monitoring the weather forecast and fire conditions and will update the public if any changes to this schedule are required for safety reasons. The schedule will be reassessed on Monday, August 8.

It is anticipated over the short-term that temperatures will continue to be high and winds to be at a high speed in this region. Smoke is expected to be prevalent and the dry conditions may affect the development of the forest fire.

Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take measures to ensure personal safety and the safety of fire and road personnel. There is a significant amount of smoke which may obscure visibility and lead to difficult driving conditions.

If residents of the area have medical appointments from now until Monday, August 8, with Central Health that they cannot attend due to the fire, they should call Central Health to reschedule the appointment. More information from the Health Authority is provided here: Central Health operations update.

The Provincial Government partners with the Canadian Red Cross, among other organizations, to provide emergency and disaster services. The Canadian Red Cross will provide help if possible with lodging, reception, emergency clothing or food, etc. For more information on assistance, call the organization at 1-800-222-9597.

Please see the fire hazard level in your region, and avoid roads that are in and around active forest fires. Be vigilant, and check the fire hazard index daily here.

Departments are closely monitoring conditions and busy preparing and strategically deploying crew placements and air support where it is needed most. Thank you to the many partners for their support in fighting these fires.

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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: Update Provided on Status of Bay d’Espoir Highway appeared first on News Releases.

To address the substantial number and sizes of forest fires around the island portion of the province, the Provincial Government has secured assistance from the Government of Quebec.

The Province of Quebec will position two water bombers, one Bird Dog aircraft, one air attack officer and two technicians in Gander for tomorrow (August 4). In total, seven crew members and three aircraft will be dispatched to the Central region for a five to seven-day period.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a member of the Canadian Inter-Agency Forest Fire Centre, and the request for assistance is administered through Centre’s Mutual Aid Resource Sharing (MARS) agreement. MARS is a formal agreement between provinces that provides for the efficient sharing of forest firefighting resources throughout the country.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s fire suppression resources remain in place and continue to fight any potential forest fires. This includes water bombers, helicopters and fire suppression teams strategically located throughout the province.

Quotes
“Hotter than usual temperatures have led to more wildfires at greater sizes this year than usual. I extend the greatest thanks to the Province of Quebec for lending their assistance. With the additional resources, we will be better able to fight the forest fires and continue to ensure the protection and safety of residents and wildlife in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“We commend our water bomber pilots and all firefighting crews for their bravery and time spent working in challenging conditions. As our pilots have previously provided assistance in other provinces, we are thankful for the assistance we are now receiving. We all know the fire situation can change fast and we encourage everyone to stay safe.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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Learn more

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Media contacts
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

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

The post Province to Receive Intra-Provincial Assistance to Address Wildfires appeared first on News Releases.

The T’Railway Provincial Park between Saint Fintan’s and Port aux Basques has reopened to the public. The area was closed for repairs after significant damage was sustained in the area during a severe rain event last fall.

To report any damage or concerns related to the T’Railway, please contact ParksNL by emailing trailway@gov.nl.ca or by calling 709-637-2040.

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

The post Public Advisory: T’Railway Provincial Park on the Southwest Coast has Reopened appeared first on News Releases.

Experience a taste of Newfoundland and Labrador’s craft brew offerings during Come Home 2022 with the new Craft Brewery Passport. With 18 participants in locations ranging from Labrador City to Quidi Vidi and many places in between, this partnership between the Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Brewers Association and Come Home 2022 supports the touring of our province’s beautiful communities while supporting local businesses.

The Craft Brewery Passport contains information about all of Newfoundland and Labrador’s craft breweries, including where they are located and the top three products they produce.

At each participating brewery, cidery, and/or distillery, participants will receive a stamp. The first person to get stamps from all 18 breweries will win a prize valued at $100 from each craft brewery.

The Craft Brewers Passport is available at all participating craft breweries, distilleries and cideries in the province. The full list of locations is available in the backgrounder below.

Come Home 2022 festivals and events are taking place all throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for the remainder of 2022. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians everywhere can visit ComeHome2022.ca to sign up for the Come Home 2022 e-newsletter, which shares updates on festivals and events throughout the year. They can also follow ComeHome2022 on Facebook and Instagram to get up-to-date celebration information.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s craft brewery game has never been stronger. With so many distinctive establishments throughout the province, launching this passport during Come Home 2022 is a win-win situation. Residents and tourists alike will enjoy visiting the breweries for their beverage and culinary experiences, and the communities and surrounding businesses will see benefits, as well.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“When you visit any of Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing number of craft breweries, distilleries and cideries throughout the province, it is clear that these businesses complement existing tourism experiences while contributing to economic development. I encourage tourists and residents to visit local establishments to experience first-hand what each has to offer.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“It’s such a great feeling to see people traveling to and around our province once again! Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Craft Beer Passport is a perfect way to remember your visits to Newfoundland and Labrador’s best tasting rooms.”
Justin Fong
Chair, Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Brewers Association

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Learn more
Come Home 2022

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @TCAR_GovNL and @IET_GovNL

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Like Come Home 2022 on Facebook

Follow Come Home 2022 on Instagram

Note: A photo accompanying this release can be found online at www.gov.nl.ca/releases/.

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

Kelly-Anne Roberts
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5248, 327-7005
kelly-anneroberts@gov.nl.ca

Come Home 2022 Craft Brewery Passport at Dildo Brewery Minister Steve Crocker, Minister John G. Abbott, Justin Fong of Quidi Vidi Brewery and Phil Maloney of Bannerman Brewery showing their Come Home 2022 Craft Brewery Passports

BACKGROUNDER

Participants can obtain stamps for the Craft Brewers Passport at the following locations:

• Baccalieu Trail Brewing Co. – 1 Conception Bay Highway, Bay Roberts
• Bannerman Brewing Co. – 90 Duckworth Street, St. John’s
• Boomstick Brewing Co. – 55 West Street, Corner Brook
• Bootleg Brew Co. – 92 West Street, Corner Brook
• Crooked Feeder Brewing Co. – 351 Veterans Drive, Cormack
• Dildo Brewing Co. – 7 Front Road, Dildo
• Iron Rock Brewing Co. – 118 Humphrey Road, Labrador City
• Landwash Brewery – 181 Commonwealth Avenue, Mount Pearl
• Ninepenny Brewing – 75 Conception Bay Highway, CBS
• Newfoundland Cider Company – 7 Stringer’s Lane, George’s Brook-Milton
• The Newfoundland Distillery Co. – 14 Conception Bay Highway, Clarke’s Beach
• Port Rexton Brewing Co. – 6 Ship Cove Road, Port Rexton
• Quidi Vidi Brewery – 35 Barrows Road, St. John’s
• Ragnarock Northern Brewing Company – 223-227 West Street, St. Anthony
• Rough Waters Brewing Company – 83 Wights Road, Deer Lake
• Secret Cove Brewing Co. – 92-96 Main Street, Port au Port East
• Split Rock Brewing Co. – 119 Main Street, Twillingate
• YellowBelly Brewery – 88 Water Street, St. John’s

Other brewers listed in the passport include:

• Banished Brewing Limited (@banishedbrewing)
• Storm Brewing (@STORMBrewing709)
• Western Newfoundland Brewing Co. (@westernnlbrewing)

The post Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Brewers Association Partners with Come Home 2022 to Launch Craft Brewers Passport appeared first on News Releases.

Request for Proposal applications are available for four parcels of farmland located near King’s Point in the Green Bay area of the province.

Request for Proposal guidelines for the four parcels, including overview and suitability maps of the land available for development, are available online at Land for Agriculture.

The deadline to submit proposals is Monday, August 22, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. For more information, please call 709-637-2081 or email jasonmacdonald@gov.nl.ca.

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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: Request for Proposal Applications Available for Farm Land Near King’s Point appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, will bring greetings at the dedication and wreath laying ceremony hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Branch of the Last Post Fund, tomorrow (Thursday, August 4). She will be joined by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development.

The event will take place at the new Memorial Gardens Field of Honour, 25 Beaumont Hamel Way in Galway, St. John’s beginning at 11:00 a.m.

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

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

 

The post Media Advisory: Ministers Stoodley and Abbott to Participate at Dedication and Wreath Laying Ceremony appeared first on News Releases.

Digital Government and Service NL today announced that Triple J Aggregates Limited of Conception Bay South and a supervisor have been charged with violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations, in relation to a fatality which occurred in September 2020, at a quarry near St. John’s.

The company is charged with 11 violations for alleged failure to:

1. Ensure the health, safety and welfare of his or her workers.
2. Provide information, instruction, training, supervision and facilities that are necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of his or her workers.
3. Ensure that all buildings, structures, excavation, machinery, workstations, places of employment and equipment are capable of withstanding the stresses likely to be imposed upon them, and of safely performing the functions for which they are used or intended.
4. Ensure that work procedures promote the safe interaction of workers and their work environment to minimize the potential for injury.
5. Ensure where an unsafe condition is discovered by a person, that it shall be reported as soon as practicable to a supervisor, who shall ensure that appropriate action is taken, without delay, to prevent a worker from being injured.
6. Ensure that each tool, machine and piece of equipment in the workplace is capable of safely performing the functions for which it is used.
7. Ensure that each tool, machine and piece of equipment in the workplace is selected, used and operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions, where available, safe work practices, and the requirements of the OHS regulations.
8. Ensure that machinery and equipment is fitted with adequate safeguards to ensure that an employee cannot access a hazardous point of operation.
9. Effectively safeguarded machinery or equipment in use for normal production work, to protect the workers from the risk of injury from the movement of the machinery or equipment, or exposure to an energy source, where a work activity creates a risk.
10. Ensure where lockout of energy isolating devices re required, the devices shall be secured in the safe position using locks in accordance with procedures that are made available to all workers who are required to work on the machinery or equipment.
11. Provide and maintain on a conveyor belt guards on the load bearing rollers, return rollers and idler assemblies within 2.13 metres of the ground, a walkway or platform.

The company supervisor is charged with one violation for their alleged failure to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all workers under their supervision.

First appearances are scheduled for August 19, 2022 at Provincial Court in St. John’s.

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

The post Public Advisory: Occupational Health and Safety Charges Laid appeared first on News Releases.

By September 2022, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who wish to train for a career will see an easier path to supports thanks to improvements under the Skills Development Program.

Changes announced by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will result in an application process that is simplified and streamlined, resulting in increased benefits to assist adult learners and their families with the rising cost of living.

The following changes are expected to put an additional $16 million annually into the pockets of participating students:

• A maximum $500 per week top-up for Employment Insurance recipients;
• Combining living and transportation allowances into a simple single payment of $500 per week for individuals not receiving Employment Insurance; and
• Ending the historic requirement of spousal income assessment; putting a stop to the former practice of reducing non-training supports by 50 per cent if a spouse has income.

For examples that illustrate the additional benefits to adult learners and their families please see the backgrounder below.

Funded through the Canada – Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement, the Skills Development Program provides a financial benefit for training of Employment Insurance eligible individuals to obtain the skills necessary to secure employment. Supports are provided for costs of training such as tuition, books, fees, and health and dental insurance, as well as assistance with childcare or disability needs.

Supported training includes post-secondary programming and Adult Basic Education and literacy programming. If a participant’s Employment Insurance benefits expire while taking part in the Skills Development Program, they can transition to the new combined rate.

Quotes
“We are streamlining and simplifying the Skills Development Program to make it more generous and better meet the needs of those who bravely choose to embark on the education journey to a brighter future in this province’s evolving economy. By removing barriers, increasing benefits and cutting red tape, we are ensuring Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who are training for a new career can avail of all the necessary supports for themselves and their families.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“These changes to the Skills Development Program will have a positive impact on those who are seeking to enter into the workforce. Ending the historic requirement of spousal income assessment directly benefits women and gender diverse individuals as they upskill, reskill, or change career paths.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more

Skills Development Program

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @IPGS_GovNL

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

Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4756
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Scenarios Detailing Additional Benefits to Adult Learners and Their Families*

Scenario 1
An Employment Insurance recipient was assessed to receive $400 per week while in school. Under the new top-up, this individual will now receive an extra $100 per week.

Scenario 2
A married woman was assessed as needing $400 per week living allowance and $50 per week in transportation, for a total of $450 per week. However, since her spouse has income, her entitlements were automatically cut by 50 per cent to $225 per week. Under the new rules, this woman would be entitled to the full $500 per week stipend – an additional $275 per week.

Scenario 3
A single client coming off Income Support is receiving a living allowance of $199 per week. The individual is also receiving the maximum of $194 per week for transportation, bringing a total support of $393 per week. Under the new rates, this client will receive an additional $107 per week under the flat rate

*These scenarios are meant to serve as examples reflecting several typical situations and do not reflect all funding arrangements. Individual assessments vary and are completed on a case-by-case basis.

The post Removing Barriers, Increasing Benefits for Skills Development appeared first on News Releases.

In an effort to help improve both the workplace environment and the retention of nurses in the province, the Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador (RNUNL), will implement a number of financial incentives and employee supports to help address the immediate nursing workforce challenges and help stabilize the system.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services and Yvette Coffey, President of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador, will be available to the media today (Tuesday, August 2) at 1:00 p.m. to discuss these measures. The availability will take place in the lobby of East Block, Confederation Building, and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

The initiatives developed to address the immediate nursing workforce challenges are:

• Retention Bonuses– A retention bonus is available to RNUNL members (registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs)) for a minimum of a one-year return-in-service commitment. Eligible employees include those who are permanent or temporary employees and this incentive is available until October 31, 2022;
• Signing Bonuses for Casual Registered Nurses– A signing bonus is available for casual RNs to incentivize them to accept a full-time or part-time position in an ‘area of  need’ as defined by the Regional Health Authority with an associated return-in-service of one year minimum. This incentive is available until October 31, 2022;
• Double Rate Overtime for Vacation Period– This measure will support shifts being filled in advance to increase the ability of the Regional Health Authorities to  grant annual leave for RNs and NPs until October 31, 2022 and reduce the number of mandated and extended shifts;
• Reimburse Licensing Fees for Retired RNs– The College of Registered Nurses of NL $500 licensing fee and liability insurance will be paid for those who wish to return to work for a designated period and is available until October 31, 2022
• RN Locum Premium– A Registered Nurse Locum Premium Pilot has been established to support work in select locum positions in Labrador-Grenfell Health;
• 24-7 Mental Health Supports– A Mental Health and Addictions Supports group has been  assembled to promote mental health and well-being services, as well as develop new solutions providing 24/7 support;
• Child Care– Government has committed to explore child care options for employees who work non-standard hours; and,
• Bursaries for Third-Year Students in Bachelor of Science in Nursing– Bursaries are available for third-year students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Additionally, signing bonuses have also been reinstated to attract experienced health professionals. Signing bonuses are available for selected health occupations, targeting difficult-to-fill positions and tiered to address geographic considerations. A one-year return-in-service agreement is required for each signing bonus. Details and policies are available online here.

In April 2022, a two-day virtual Nursing Think Tank took place to identify issues and concerns, listen to the lived experience of registered nurses, determine opportunities and carve out a path forward to address the concerns and challenges facing the nursing  profession. Along with the RNUNL, the event included representatives from the Regional Health Authorities, College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions, the Schools of Nursing and representatives from several government departments.

Additional findings from the Nursing Think Tank will continue to inform the work of the Health Professional Recruitment and Retention Office within the Department of Health and Community Services. The office was established earlier this year to address the significant health care recruitment and retention challenges facing Newfoundland and Labrador.

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“We made a commitment to help address the workplace challenges faced by our nursing community and, working collaboratively with Ms. Coffey and the RNUNL, I am pleased with the suite of measures we announced today. Health care professionals like nurses and nurse practitioners contribute so much to our province, particularly as they went above and beyond throughout the pandemic. I believe these initiatives will lead to meaningful, positive changes and I look forward to continuing our work with the RNUNL.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We have worked together with the registered nurses’ union and Ms. Coffey to find creative means to help improve the workplace and address recruitment issues facing the nursing community. The Think Tank held with registered nurses this spring provided valuable insight into the challenges facing their profession. The goal of these solutions is to help alleviate the pressures on this sector, as we continue our efforts to improve health care delivery in the province, including a focus on recruitment and retention.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“There are more than 600 vacancies in our province. Burnout is incredibly high among registered nurses and patients in every community are impacted by the nursing shortage. These measures, which are a result of the Nursing Think Tank, will provide some short-term relief. Efforts to create healthier workplaces and address recruitment and retention must continue. RNU looks forward to continued collaboration with Premier Furey and Minister Osborne.”
Yvette Coffey
President of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more
News Release: Government and Nurses Collaborate to Help Address Challenges Facing the Nursing Profession

News Release: Initiatives Aim to Improve Primary Care Access in Newfoundland and Labrador

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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

Karyn Whelan
Registered Nurses’ Union
Newfoundland and Labrador
709-691-0889
kwhelan@rnunl.ca

The post Initiatives Announced to Help Address Registered Nursing Challenges in the Province; Media Availability at 1:00 p.m. appeared first on News Releases.

Applications are being accepted for this year’s Community Addictions Prevention and Mental Health Promotion Grants Program. Individuals, community groups and non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply for project funding before the application deadline on September 30, 2022.

The grants program is designed to support projects by individuals, community groups and non-profit organizations in the prevention of addictions and promotion of positive mental health. This year, an additional $60,000 has been added to the grants budget as part of Budget 2022 funding for the Life Promotion Suicide Prevention Action Plan, bringing the total support available for the grants to $200,000.

Aligned with recommendations from Health Accord NL, program funding is administered by the Provincial Government in partnership with the four regional health authorities. Each regional health authority has dedicated addiction prevention and mental health promotion staff available to provide advice, support and resources to applicants. Projects should align with one or more of these priority areas:

• Suicide Prevention;
• Life Promotion;
• Prevention of alcohol and other substance use related harms;
• Promotion of mental wellness.

More information on the Community Addictions Prevention and Mental Health Promotion Grants Program and applications can be accessed here.

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“We know the integral role individuals, community groups and organizations play in creating conditions that contribute to the optimal health and wellbeing of our residents. These grants build upon the strength of community leaders who are working in partnership with regional health authorities and government to improve mental health and prevent illness and substance use disorders. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to submit an application and help make a difference in their communities.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

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Learn more
Community Addictions Prevention and Mental Health Promotion Fund Application Form

News Release: Action Plan Focuses on Promotion of Life and Prevention of Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

The post Applications Available for Community Addictions Prevention and Mental Health Promotion Grants Program appeared first on News Releases.