Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, will make an announcement tomorrow (Tuesday, July 26) on the National War Memorial Centennial Project.

The announcement takes place in the East Block Lobby of Confederation Building, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.

Premier Furey and Minister MacAulay will be joined by their Honours, the Honourable Judy M. Foote P.C., O.N.L., Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador and Honourary Colonel of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, and His Honour, Howard W. Foote; the Honourable Seamus O’Regan Jr., federal Minister of Labour and MP for St. John’s South-Mount Pearl; the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, federal Minister of Rural Economic Development and MP for Long Range Mountains; Joanne Thompson, MP for St. John’s East; the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation; Frank Sullivan, Past President of the Royal Canadian Legion – Newfoundland and Labrador Command; and, Lieutenant – Colonel Lawrence Hatfield, First and Second Battalions, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment.

Media participating are asked to please RSVP to Tina Newhook (tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca) by 5:00 p.m. today (Monday, July 25).

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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey and Minister MacAulay to Make Announcement on National War Memorial Centennial Project appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will speak at the Blue Economy Deep Dive – Networking Luncheon tomorrow (Tuesday, July 26).

The event takes place at the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Innovate Canada showcases work taking place across Canada’s oceans industry from aquaculture and fisheries to ocean defence, from marine renewable energy to shipbuilding and much more.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Speak at Blue Economy Deep Dive Luncheon 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:

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

Holyrood Pond RV and Day Park                                              (Reg. 2205)
Proponent: Frank Tobin and Rennie Tobin

The proponent is proposing to construct a recreational vehicle park with a day park at Holyrood Pond in Gaskiers located on Route 90, St. Mary’s Bay. The proposed site is 23.5 hectares. 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 July 21, 2022. The deadline for public comments is August 26, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by September 4, 2022.

Happy Valley-Goose Bay Regional Abattoir                           (Reg.2206)
Proponent: Dinsmore Farm

The proponent is proposing to construct and operate a regional abattoir at an existing farm, Dinsmore Farm, located on Northwest River Road in the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador. The abattoir will operate year-round and provide services to local farmers. 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 July 21, 2022. The deadline for public comments is August 26, 2022 and the minister’s decision is due by September 4, 2022

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT SUBMITTED:

Carmanville New Pond Cabins ATV Trail                                (Reg. 2186)
Proponent: Wayne Hicks

The proponent has submitted an environmental preview report (EPR) for the above undertaking as required by the minister. The EPR document is available on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2186/. Public comments regarding the EPR are welcome and may be emailed to the Chair of the Environmental Assessment Committee, Paul Carter, at pcarter@gov.nl.ca, or to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca or they may be mailed to the address below.

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 must be received by August 26, 2022. The minister’s decision on the EPR is due by September 3, 2022.

UNDERTAKING RELEASED:

Indian Bay Heritage Walking Trail                                            (Reg. 2201)
Proponent: Town of Indian Bay

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the Project on the environment.
• The Water Resources Management Division requires:
• • A Trail Development Management Plan to be submitted to the Department prior to commencement of construction. The Plan must include: detailed mapping of the trail route and identification of any special drainage features, a detailed description of trail construction methods and materials used, and detailed short-term and long-term maintenance plans including a closure plan during adverse weather events.
  • Deterrents (physical barricades) to be placed at trail entrances to prevent the use of the trail by ATVs, snowmobiles and other motorized vehicles. Trail maintenance and upgrades are limited to sections of the trail that predate protection of the Protected Public Water Supply Area (1981).
  • The proponent is to provide proof (aerial photograph) that the trail existed prior to protection. There shall be no new trail construction within the 150-metre buffer.
• 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 to EAProiectComments@qov.nl.ca.
• 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. Email Project updates to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca.

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

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 the Witless Bay Come Home Year Opening Ceremony tomorrow (Saturday, July 23).

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the softball field located on the Southside Track, Witless Bay.

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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 the Witless Bay Come Home Year Opening Ceremony appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, recently joined the Englee Town Council, residents and visitors for the opening ceremonies of Come Home 2022 celebrations. The celebrations kicked off on June 21 and will take place throughout the coming weekend.

Through the Municipal Come Home Year Celebration Grant communities throughout the Northern Peninsula and across the province have undertaken various projects in preparing for their Come Home Year celebrations.

The Town of Englee was provided funding to beautify the town for visitors, including repairs and upgrades to trails and upgrades to the local park. Other communities receiving funding in the region include Roddickton-Bide Arm, Port Saunders, Main Brook, Port au Choix, Anchor Point, Bird Cove, Conche, Hawke’s Bay, St. Anthony, and St. Lunaire-Griquet.

To support the high level of interest and the number of applications received from across the province, overall funding for the Municipal Come Home Year Celebration Grants was increased from $250,000 to approximately $355,000. Over 180 towns throughout the province have received a grant through the initiative. The full list of approved projects is available here.

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“The Municipal Come Home Year Celebration Grant has helped over 180 communities throughout the province prepare for and showcase what they have to offer during their Come Home 2022 special events. It has been wonderful seeing completed projects in so many communities. Congratulations to community leaders and residents who are doing a tremendous job of welcoming visitors to the province.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

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Learn more
Municipal Come Home Year Celebration Grant

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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5449, 691-9446
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

The post Come Home Year Celebrations in Full Swing on the Great Northern Peninsula appeared first on News Releases.

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

An investiture ceremony on September 28, 2022 at Government House will see eight people named to the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. This will be the 15th investiture ceremony since the first appointments were made in 2004, bringing the total number of recipients to 135.

This year’s recipients and the categories in which they are being honoured are:

• Robert W. Cormier, C.M. – French Language and Culture
• Catherine Donovan – Health Care
• Alan Thomas Doyle, C.M. – Humanitarian Activities
• Janice Fitzgerald – Health Care
• Carla Emerson Furlong – Music and Cultural Preservation
• Joseph D. Goudie, S.M.V. – Cultural
• Proton Rahman – Health Care
• Maxwell (Max) Short – Public Service

The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is the province’s highest honour and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an exemplary manner the province and its residents. More information the award can be found in the backgrounder below.

Appointments to the Order are made by the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador as Chancellor of the Order on the recommendation of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Advisory Council. For more information about the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, or to nominate someone, visit www.gov.nl.ca/onl.

Quotes
“As Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, I am looking forward to investing eight fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians into the Order. The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to our province and people, and is the province’s highest level of recognition. It will be an honour to thank each of them personally at the investiture ceremony on September 28 for the many efforts they have made, and continue to make, to ensure our province is the best it can be. These eight individuals are determined to make a difference where and when they can, for which I thank them on behalf of all the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Judy M. Foote, P.C., O.N.L.
Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador

“I congratulate these eight outstanding Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who will be invested into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador at a ceremony in September. Many of these names will be very familiar to people in our province, as the contributions from each of these dedicated individuals have and continue to enrich our lives. Our province and country are a better place to live because of their decades-long commitment.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contacts
Samantha Harding
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
709-729-2669
samanthaharding@gov.nl.ca

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

BACKGROUNDER

About the Award
The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is the highest honour of the province. The object of the Order is to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an outstanding manner Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents. The first investiture took place in 2004.

Any Canadian citizen who is a present or former long-term resident of Newfoundland and Labrador is eligible for nomination to the Order. According to the legislation governing the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, the exceptions are public officials such as; judges, members of the Senate, House of Commons, House of Assembly or legislative assembly of a province, members of municipal, town, regional councils or local service district committees who may not be nominated while they are in office. Posthumous nominations are not accepted. Organizations, groups, or couples may not be nominated; the Order is for individuals only. Additionally, an individual who is not a Canadian citizen or current or former long-term resident of the province, but who has demonstrated excellence in their field of endeavour, and who has benefited the province and its residents in an outstanding manner, may be nominated as an honorary member.

If you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents, you are encouraged to nominate them for the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

At a formal ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, as Chancellor of the Order, will present each recipient with a medal bearing the shield of Newfoundland and Labrador surmounted by the Crown. A member will receive a certificate signed by the Chancellor and sealed with the seal of the Order, as well as a miniature medal and a lapel pin. The medal is worn with a blue, green, white and gold ribbon. Members of the Order are entitled to use the initials O.N.L. after their names.

The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Advisory Council selects members to be invested into the Order each year after considering all nominations received.

Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Insignia
The insignia of the Order is in the shape of a stylized pitcher plant (sarracenia purpurea Linnaeus), which was declared Newfoundland and Labrador’s floral emblem in 1954. The petals are crafted with the provincial mineral, Labradorite. The pitcher plant is found primarily in bogs and marshland throughout the province. It has a large wine-red flower with a red and gold centre, and hollow pitcher-shaped leaves are attached to the base of the stem.

The insignia of the Order has at its centre the Arms of the Province, granted by King Charles I, in January 1638. The Arms incorporate some of the most ancient heraldic symbols, the unicorn representing Scotland and the lion representing England.

The gold elements of the medal represent the excellence of achievement that the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes. The Crown is taken from the official standard of the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. It symbolizes honour and merit, and recalls Newfoundland and Labrador’s place as a province of Canada, a constitutional monarchy, and as part of the Commonwealth. The insignia of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador was approved by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II on June 3, 2003.

The post Eight People to be Invested into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

Construction will begin this summer on the replacement of culverts at multiple locations on the Trans-Canada Highway between Pasadena and Corner Brook. A contract valued at $2.5 million has been awarded to Marine Contractors to replace culverts at 22 locations in the area.

The project is the first phase of work to replace culverts on the Trans-Canada Highway in the region. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates additional culverts being replaced in future construction seasons.

More details on the project, including starting date and possible diversions and detours will be provided as they become available.

When work begins, motorists should travel at a reduced speed in either lane until they reach the merge point and then alternate into the open lane before cautiously travelling through the construction zones. Motorists should also refrain from moving from lane to lane to overtake other vehicles.

The work is a part of the department’s multi-year roads plan to improve highway infrastructure throughout the province. Projects are based on factors such as safety; traffic volumes; impacts of climate change; commercial, industry, and tourism impacts; populations serviced; and input from the department’s engineers.

Work to replace a culvert on the highway near Little Rapids was completed earlier this construction season.

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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“There are many areas of our province where there are no other highways available to use in the event of a washout so it is very important to invest in securing the road infrastructure. Our work near Port aux Basques and Bay St. George, these culverts announced today, and our three ongoing bridge replacements on the Trans-Canada Highway are ensuring our most important route for the transporting of people and goods remain intact.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless}
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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

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

The post Culverts to be Replaced on Trans-Canada Highway East of Corner Brook appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced that Jennifer Williams has been appointed as Team Lead for the Churchill River Energy Analysis Team following the resignation of Brendan Paddick.

The Team has been given the mandate of undertaking a detailed analysis of the hydro-electric opportunities that exist on the Churchill River. This includes detailed forecasting of electricity prices, potential capital costs, energy trends, and other relevant factors that could affect the potential value that could be achieved from the Churchill River.

The work of the analysis team will help strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s negotiating position in advance of 2041, and support the work of the Expert Panel on 2041.

The Team will be supported by officials from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador with experience in finance, legal, electricity and intergovernmental relations; Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro officials with knowledge about the opportunities on the Churchill River; and other government officials or NL Hydro resources as requested by the Team Lead.

The Terms of Reference for the Churchill River Energy Analysis Team can be found in the backgrounder below.

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“Continuing with the work of the rate mitigation team, the analysis team will interact with the Expert Panel on 2041 and work towards the mutual goal of preparing Newfoundland and Labrador for 2041 and beyond. I am pleased that Jennifer Williams has agreed to take on this important role and have every confidence in her leadership. I also thank Brendan Paddick for bringing his experience and insight to this committee, as well as the impressive contributions he made to the people of our province through his leadership on the rate mitigation team, securing a $5.2 billion deal to keep power rates affordable.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
Expert Panel on Churchill Falls 2041 Announced

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

BACKGROUNDER

Terms of Reference
Churchill River Energy Analysis Team

CONTEXT

1. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has a strong interest in determining the full economic potential of the Churchill River, which includes the existing plant at the Upper Churchill (5,428 MW), Gull Island (2,215 MW) and potential upgrades at the power house at Upper Churchill (approximately 1,300 MW) in conjunction with any opportunities that may exist in relation to Muskrat Falls (824 MW).
2. By determining the full economic potential of the Churchill River, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will be best positioned to maximize future opportunities for the Province and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. This includes preparing information that will allow the Province to be in a strong position with respect to the Upper Churchill as 2041 approaches.

MANDATE

3. To undertake a detailed analysis of the hydro-electric opportunities that exist on the Churchill River. This includes detailed forecasting of electricity prices, potential capital costs, energy trends, and other relevant factors that could affect the potential value that could be achieved from the Churchill River.
4. To undertake analysis of bulk electricity export opportunities, value added bulk export, expanding domestic use, and new industrial development as it relates to the Churchill River and electricity output therefrom.
5. To provide completed analysis that ensures maximum long-term benefits from the Churchill River assets.

OBJECTIVES

6. To strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s negotiating position in advance of 2041.
7. To identify meaningful opportunities that leads to the development of the Churchill River in the interests of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.
8. To provide clear analysis on electricity market trends, including the cost and access to transmission.
9. To value potential future developments and electricity sales.
10. To identify opportunities that will maximize the Province’s position as a green energy producer that supports a carbon neutral world in advance of 2050.
11. To provide support to the Team Lead, who will work with the Churchill River Management Expert Panel.

STRUCTURE

An Energy Analysis Team will be created to undertake the required analysis. The Team Lead will be supported by a team of: (i) seconded officials from within the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, with experience in finance, legal advice, electricity, and intergovernmental relations, (ii) seconded resources from Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro knowledgeable about the opportunities on the Churchill River and (iii) such other government officials or NL Hydro resources as the Team Lead reasonably requests as necessary to fulfil the Mandate and Objectives. The team will also include external legal, financial, and forecasting experts to be determined by the Team Lead.

GOVERNMENT REPORTING

Progress on the analysis will be reported to a committee that includes the Clerk of the Executive Council, the Deputy Minister of Finance, the Deputy Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, and the Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs.

BUDGET

The Team Lead will serve without receiving compensation, except for out-of-pocket expenses. It is anticipated that very limited travel may be required. In those cases, funding will be provided. Preference is given to virtual meetings wherever possible. Officials seconded to the Negotiating Team from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and NL Hydro will receive remuneration as per their existing employment terms from their current employer. Resources will be made available to the Energy Analysis Team to ensure that external financial, legal, forecasting, or engineering advice can be provided in a timely manner to support the valuation analysis.

The post Minister Parsons Announces Appointment appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour, today announced an independent review of the collective bargaining model contained in sections 19.1 – 19.14 of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act. The terms of reference for the review are included in the backgrounder below.

David Conway, former chair of the Labour Relations Board, has been appointed to undertake the review. Mr. Conway will be informed by input from fish harvesters, processors and their respective organizations as well as other interested parties. A bio for Mr. Conway can also be found in the below backgrounder.

Interested parties are invited to provide input by emailing ficbareview@gov.nl.ca.

Quotes
“The current collective bargaining model was introduced in 2006, and it is incumbent on me, as Minister Responsible for Labour, to ensure that we have legislation that Is responsive to the needs of the industry. I have asked Mr. Conway to meet with relevant stakeholders and other interested parties to seek their views and suggestions with respect to the current collective bargaining model. I look forward to receiving his report and I anticipate the feedback from these consultations will provide us with valuable information.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

“Efficient and effective fish price setting is key to ensuring fisheries commence in a timely manner for the maximum benefit of the province’s fishing industry. I look forward to this review and identifying opportunities to improve the fish price setting process that better serves processors and harvesters.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture

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Learn more

Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act

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

Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Terms of Reference for Review of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model

PURPOSE:

To review the fishing industry collective bargaining model contained in Sections 19.1-19.14 of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act

BACKGROUND:

The Minister Responsible for Labour has initiated a review of the collective bargaining model contained in sections 19.1 to 19.14 of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act.

The Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act (FICBA) regulates collective bargaining between fish harvesters and processors. In 2006, Government authorized the creation of a three-person Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel (Panel) for the purpose of:

1. facilitating access by parties to collective bargaining to market information relating to the sale of fish;
2. establishing criteria that are not inconsistent with this Act relating to collective bargaining under this Act;
3. providing assistance to parties engaged in collective bargaining under this Act;
4. setting prices and conditions of sale for a fish species where parties have engaged in collective bargaining and have been unable to agree or where parties have refused to engage in collective bargaining;
5. reviewing and report on  matters related to the price and conditions of sale of a fish species that may be referred to it by the minister responsible for fisheries and aquaculture; and
6. making recommendations on matters falling within its mandate to the minister responsible for fisheries and aquaculture and the minister responsible for fisheries in the Government of Canada.

FICBA prohibits the right to strike or lockout, and requires the Panel to use either final offer selection or conventional arbitration in making their decisions.

STATEMENT OF WORK:

In concluding the work, the Consultant will:

1. Review sections 19.1-19.14 of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act to determine if the collective bargaining model is still effective and responsive to the needs of the industry;
2. Conduct consultations with fish harvesters and processors and their respective organizations and any other interested parties with regard to the current collective bargaining model;
3. Report back to the Minister Responsible for Labour outlining the results of the review and, if deemed necessary, recommendations for change; and
4. Include in the report a list of all persons and groups who made representation during the consultation process and a summary of the information provided.

Biography of Mr. David Conway

David Conway graduated from McGill University with a BA in Economics and an LLB from the University of New Brunswick. He was called to the Ontario bar before being called to the bar in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Conway practices labour law and administrative law, and acts exclusively as an adjudicator, arbitrator and independent legal counsel. He is the past Chairperson of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board.

Mr. Conway has experience in various types of proceedings, including arbitrations, judicial reviews, workers’ compensations hearings, employment insurance hearings, human rights proceedings, provincial negotiations and statuary review. Mr. Conway has taught labour relations at the graduate level at Memorial University and he is a member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Disciplinary Panel. Mr. Conway is also the past Co-Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Management Arbitration Committee.

The post Minister Davis Announces Review of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, announced that applications are being accepted for the 2022-23 Accessible Vehicle Grant. This grant aligns with the Provincial Government’s continued commitment to improve accessibility by providing an accessible transportation option for persons with disabilities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Individuals or families who wish to acquire or adapt personal vehicles for accessibility can apply for funding up to a maximum of $25,000. The Accessible Vehicle Grant is income tested and can provide:

• 100 per cent funding up to $25,000 to eligible applicants with annual net incomes of $46,500 or less; or
• Partial funding using a sliding scale formula for eligible applicants with annual net incomes between $46,500 and $64,000.

The grant program also considers disability-related costs, not currently covered by another funding source, when determining financial eligibility.

In 2021-22, 18 Accessible Vehicle Grants were provided to assist individuals and families with reducing the costs associated with disability.

The Accessible Vehicle Grant is continuing to create a more inclusive and accessible Newfoundland and Labrador, which supports the Health Accord’s goal of building a provincial pathway to inclusion for a more inclusive health system and society in which each person feels valued and respected.

To obtain a copy of the guidelines and application form, please visit the department’s website; email DPOgrants@gov.nl.ca; call toll-free 1-888-729-6279; or text 709-725-4463. Video Relay Service calls are also welcome and applications are available in alternate formats.

As part of Budget 2022, the Provincial Government is investing $350,000 for the Accessible Vehicle Grant for 2022-23.

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“Our government recognizes that a lack of accessible transportation can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility disabilities. The Accessible Vehicle Grant helps to create accessible transportation options for individuals and families throughout the province to fully participate in society. For those interested in availing of this grant funding, please reach out to my department to learn more and submit an application today.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

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Learn more
Accessible Vehicle Grant

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

The post Accessible Vehicle Grants Available for Individuals and Families appeared first on News Releases.

High school transcripts, including final marks, are now available to students throughout the province. In an effort to reduce waste, transcripts are available digitally through the PowerSchool portal, which all students can access here.

Ninety-four per cent of this year’s eligible graduates have met the requirements for graduation.

For more information on accessing transcripts, please contact the High School Certification Office at 729-7919 or 729-7918 or by email at highschooltranscript@gov.nl.ca.

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“Congratulations to high school students on your academic achievements, especially our graduating students. Your hard work and perseverance has paid off and now you’re on your way to new opportunities and experiences. I wish you all the best as you embark on this next phase of your lives.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

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Le gouvernement provincial fournit les relevés de notes du secondaire pour l’année 2022

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Media contact
Tina Coffey
Education
709-729-1906, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government Releases 2022 High School Transcripts appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour, today announced that the Provincial Government is providing mediation services to the Fish Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW) and the Association of Seafood Producers (ASP) in an effort to find a resolution regarding issues surrounding the 2022 shrimp fishery.

A meditator with the Labour Relations Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change has been assigned to facilitate these meetings.

Quote
“It is in the best interest of the parties to provide mediation services in an effort to find a resolution that balances the interest of both sides. I urge the FFAW and ASP to make a determined effort to work with the mediator to address outstanding issues as soon as possible.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour

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

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The Honourable John Hogan, QC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, is pleased to announce the province’s newest appointments to the Queen’s Counsel by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

The honourary title of Queen’s Counsel recognizes senior lawyers for exceptional merit and contribution to the legal profession. These lawyers have served a minimum of 10 years as a member of the bar, have gained the respect of the legal community and are in good standing with the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Appointments are made after consultation with the Legal Appointments Board as outlined in the Queen’s Counsel Act.

Those appointed to Queen’s Counsel are Kenneth J. Brothers, Denis Mahoney, Beth McGrath, Gary P. Mooney and Stacey O’Dea. Biographies of each appointee can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“I would like to congratulate the lawyers being appointed to the Queen’s Counsel. The lawyers that are receiving this recognition have provided significant contribution to the justice system and the community in this province. I want to thank this year’s appointees for their continued dedication, leadership and commitment to law.”
Honourable John Hogan, QC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

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

BACKGROUNDER

Biographies Queen’s Counsel Appointees

Kenneth J. Brothers
Kenneth J. Brothers was born and raised in Corner Brook. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts (English). A four year letterman with University of Michigan hockey program, while at Michigan he was awarded the Carl Issacson award for high scholastic achievement and athletic ability, the Coach Allen M. Renfrew award for continuing post graduate studies as well as Academic All Big Ten honours.

A graduate of the Dalhousie University Schulich of Law in 1995, he articled under Justice William H. Goodridge and Robert M. Matthews, Q.C. and was called to the bar of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1996. Kenneth has spent his entire career in private practice in Corner Brook where he has focused on residential real estate, personal injury and estate law. He is a former Chair of the Canada Pension Plan Review Tribunal, municipal tax Commissioner and board member for the Corner Brook Civic Centre.

A former captain of the Corner Brook Royals, the Corner Brook Barons and an athlete at both the Canada winter and summer games Kenneth is a supporter of the arts, academics and athletics in the province.

Kenneth resides in Corner Brook with his wife, Trudy, their daughter Keely and son Will.

Denis Mahoney
Denis Mahoney completed his articles of law and was admitted to the Bar in 1994. He served as a senior labour and employment partner in the St. John’s office of McInnes Cooper and a member of the firm’s Board of Directors until his retirement from private practice on December 31, 2021. During his lengthy tenure with the firm, Denis served in a variety of leadership roles including inaugural board director, member of the firm wide management team and Regional Lead Partner of the St. John’s office. Effective January 1, 2022, Denis was appointed as Deputy Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Deputy Attorney General with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Denis has served on a number of committees and boards and has volunteered with several organizations including the 2025 Canada Games Host Society Inc., Memorial University’s Board of Regents, the province’s Labour Management Arbitration Committee, St. John’s Board of Trade, the Strategic Partnership Coalition, Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association, TaskforceNL Inc., and the Boys and Girls Club in St. John’s.

Denis holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Queen’s University (1993) as well as a Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) Co-operative Degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland (1987).  In 2020, he received the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

Beth McGrath
Beth McGrath is a Partner with the law firm McInnes Cooper, practicing in the areas of corporate and business law, energy and natural resources, corporate governance and securities law.

Beth graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Acadia University where she was awarded the Acadia University Medal for highest academic achievement in the faculties of Professional Studies. She received a Bachelor of Laws degree from Dalhousie University Law School and was awarded the Honourable H.G. Puddester Prize Scholarship for both academic and leadership ability. She earned the Hunt Award for the highest overall marks in the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar Admission Course exams and was the co-recipient of the Penney Award for academic performance in family law.

Beth completed the Business Leadership for Women Lawyers program at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. She is a part-time instructor of business and contract law within the Faculty of Business at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador and presents regularly on corporate law at the Law Society’s annual Bar Admission Course. She is also a guest instructor for the Director’s Education Program Course through the Institute of Corporate Directors on corporate governance.

Beth is Past President of the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the Canadian Bar Association and past National Chair of the National Executive of the Young Lawyers – Canadian Bar Association. She has also served on the National Board of the Canadian Bar Association.

Beth was selected as a Lexpert® Rising Star for 2016, a national award celebrating Canada’s leading lawyers under 40. She is ranked by Best Lawyers™ in Canada for her practice in corporate law and mergers and acquisitions law, and by Chambers Canada for her corporate/commercial practice. She is a director of the St. John’s Port Authority and director of Energy NL and has served on a variety of community-based organizations, including Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation, YMCA (NL) and Victorian Order of Nurses.

Beth lives in St. John’s with her husband Andrew and their two boys Benjamin and John Raymond.

Gary P. Mooney
Gary P. Mooney is a member of the bars in Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta, Ontario and Nova Scotia. He specializes in re-engineering legal processes for financial institutions and is a pioneer in the digitization of legal services. Gary is the CEO of Canadian Lender Services Limited and the CEO and Chairman of MyClosing. He pioneered title insurance and the outsourcing of legal processing for financial institutions in Canada. In the late 1990s, Gary founded LandCanada Title and Settlement Services Inc. which he ran until 2004, before selling the company to Fidelity National Financial, a Fortune 500 company. He subsequently became the President and CEO of FNF Canada and Chief Agent of Chicago Title. He is now Chairman of LCTS and all its subsidiaries.

Gary served for ten years on the Executive Committee of the Board of the University of Toronto and on the Dean’s Advisory Committee at Osgoode Hall Law School. He was endowed the JDM Chair in Corporate Governance and Ethics at Osgoode Hall and the Schulich School of Business, as well as, the Alternative Learning Centre at St. Mary’s University.

Gary is a Newfoundlander and Labradorian and a St. Bon’s alumnus (1962). He is a foundational supporter of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Shallaway Choir and Stella Bury House. Gary has hosted events at the Toronto Club for Memorial University’s School of Medicine and provided scholarships for local students to attend Osgoode Hall in Toronto. Most recently, Gary served as a member of the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Economic Recovery Committee.

Stacey O’Dea
Stacey O’Dea graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Arts (1996) and obtained her Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick (2000). She began her career at McInnes Cooper in Moncton, New Brunswick, and was called to bar in New Brunswick in 2001. She joined the McInnes Cooper office in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador and was called to the Newfoundland and Labrador bar in 2002.

Stacey became a partner at McInnes Cooper in 2007 practicing primarily commercial litigation, intellectual property and natural resources law before becoming in-house legal counsel with Imperial Oil Limited in 2010.  Stacey is Legal Manager – Canada East (Imperial Oil) in St. John’s, where she is on the leadership team at ExxonMobil Canada and manages legal support to ExxonMobil Canada’s assets and interests offshore Newfoundland and Labrador. Her position includes being legal counsel to Hibernia Management and Development Company Ltd., operator of the Hibernia project.

Over the past 21 years, she has appeared before all levels of court in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the Federal Court of Canada, the London Court of International Arbitration, the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes, and numerous regulatory and administrative bodies, including commissions of inquiry. Her current practice in the energy sector includes elements of regulatory, commercial litigation/international disputes resolution, public international and commercial law in the context of upstream resource development projects.

Stacey has been an active community volunteer, participating on a number of local not-for-profit boards and school councils. She is a past director of the Canadian Energy Law Foundation and currently a director of the ADR Institute of Canada (ADRIC). Stacey is committed to contributing to the practice of law in Newfoundland and Labrador. She serves on the Bar Admission Committee as section chair of Lawyering Skills/Practice Management for the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador and facilitates a panel session at the bar admission course aimed at helping new lawyers succeed in practice. Stacey is also a past course instructor with the Memorial University Faculty of Business Administration. She is a member of the Canadian Bar Association, past section chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador branch for Insolvency as well as Intellectual Property sections.

Stacey lives in St. John’s with her husband Regan O’Dea, their two teenage children, Cian and Reese, a lively Gordon Setter and two uninspired cats. She has been committed to the practice of yoga since 2010 and enjoys biking.

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The public consultations scheduled to gather feedback into the Elections Act, 1991 that were scheduled for this week in Grand Falls-Windsor and Clarenville are being postponed to a later date. The new dates will be released once confirmed.

Sessions are being scheduled for across the province and once available will be posted at EngageNL. In-person sessions in St. John’s and virtual sessions are being planned for September and those details will also be released once finalized.

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

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is congratulating and wishing Team NL athletes good luck as they head to the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ontario, August 6-21. An athletes’ rally was held this evening at the PowerPlex in St. John’s.

At the athletes’ rally, it was announced that 16-year old Jaida Lee of St. John’s was selected as Flagbearer for Team NL at the Canada Summer Games opening ceremony. At the Canada Summer Games, Jaida will be the first-ever female to compete on an all-male baseball team in the history of the multi-sport competition. In 2021, Jaida helped lead Newfoundland and Labrador to the championship title at the Atlantic Female Under 16 Baseball Championship and was named top batter and pitcher at the event. She was also recognized by Baseball NL as the Female Athlete of the Year in 2021.

Approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers and mission staff will participate in the Canada Summer Games. Team NL will be represented by 22 teams, participating in 17 sports. Those sports include athletics, baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, cycling, diving, golf, rowing, rugby sevens, sailing, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, triathlon, volleyball and wrestling.

For more information, the latest updates and results for Team NL during the 2022 Canada Summer Games, please visit www.teamnl.ca.

Quotes
“Let’s celebrate Team NL as they head off to the 2022 Canada Summer Games! The Canada Games is the largest amateur sporting event in our country giving young, aspiring athletes the ability to compete against the best amateur athletes in the country on the national stage. We are proud of you and commend your commitment to training and preparation for representing Newfoundland and Labrador at the Games. Congratulations and good luck! Your time at the Games will leave you with many valuable lessons, friendships and memories, long after you return.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“I know that Team NL will represent the province well at the 2022 Niagara Canada Summer Games. Our athletes, coaches, and team managers have worked hard to prepare, and a rally event is a great way to celebrate our youth and sport. I encourage every Newfoundlander and Labradorian to continue to cheer on our athletes as they finish final preparations before heading off to Niagara in a few weeks.”
Gary Martin
Team NL Chef de Mission

“Newfoundland and Labrador has participated in every Canada Games since 1969 and we should be proud of the ability of our young athletes to have this amazing opportunity to represent our province on a national level. I wish everyone involved with Team NL much success at the Games and hope that all our athletes will enjoy their experience, aspire to learn so much about themselves, the Canadian culture and values of their fellow athletes, and compete to their fullest potential.”
Chris Schwartz
Board President of SportNL

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Team NL

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

Troy Croft
SportNL
709-576-4932
troy@sportnl.ca

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The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is providing tree seedlings free of charge to community groups, youth groups and service organizations throughout the province this summer to support tree planting projects and events.

Tree planting events present a great opportunity to encourage public participation in forest related activities, raise awareness about the value of the province’s forest resources and help reduce the impacts associated with climate change.

The department donates approximately 100,000 tree seedlings annually to community-based organizations throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Seedlings consist of high quality Black Spruce, White Spruce and Larch produced at the Provincial Tree Nursery located at the Center of Agriculture and Forestry Development in Wooddale.

In addition, the department will be donating seedlings to the Nunatsiavut Government, Innu Nation, NunatuKavut Community Council and the Canadian Junior Rangers program to support tree planting initiatives throughout Labrador.

Organizations interested in obtaining tree seedlings should contact the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture at 709-637-2349 or janavokey@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“Creating greater community awareness about the benefits of our forests and promoting participation in tree planting events supports government’s commitment to sustainable and responsible forest management. I encourage community groups throughout the province, particularly youth organizations, to take advantage of the opportunity to obtain tree seedlings free of charge and plan their own tree planting events this summer.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca

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The Provincial Government is now accepting applications for the Community Enhancement Employment Program. Not-for-profit organizations and local governments that wish to sponsor projects funded by the program are eligible to apply.

The Community Enhancement Employment Program provides funding to eligible sponsors including municipalities; Inuit Community Governments; local service districts; community and economic development organizations; and, other non-profit organizations. Individuals can be employed for up to 400 hours in order to become eligible for employment insurance benefits. In 2021-22, the program provided funding for 195 projects, supporting approximately 900 workers.

Applications for the 2022-23 Community Enhancement Employment Program are available here. Applicants can also email employmentsupport@gov.nl.ca or call toll free 1-866-508-5500.

The deadline for receipt of applications is August 5, 2022.

 Quote
“The Community Enhancement Employment Program is one initiative used in government’s continued efforts to support communities. The program provides opportunity for individuals to gain employment, and for communities and organizations to improve their towns.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

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Community Enhancement Employment Program

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

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will attend the Canada Games Athletes’ Rally tonight (Tuesday, July 19). The rally takes place at the PowerPlex, 90 Crosbie Road, St. John’s, starting at 6:00 p.m.

Minister Crocker will announce Team Newfoundland and Labrador’s flagbearer for the 2022 Canada Summer Games opening ceremonies.

Approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers and mission staff will represent Team Newfoundland and Labrador at the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, August 6-21.

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

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In keeping with its commitment to ensure residents of the province receive economic benefits from its natural resources, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced that the Provincial Government has signed a benefits agreement with Marathon Gold Corporation for its Valentine Gold Project.

In accordance with the benefits agreement, Marathon has established project offices in the province and will provide Newfoundland and Labrador residents and suppliers full and fair opportunity and first consideration for employment and procurement opportunities in relation to the construction and operation phases of the project. This includes a commitment that during the construction and operation phases no less than 85 per cent of the project workforce will be provincial residents. In addition, Marathon will work with provincial educational institutions on developing mining courses to help build qualifications for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. A summary of the benefits agreement is included in the Backgrounder below.

When completed, the Valentine Gold Project will be the largest gold mine in Atlantic Canada.

Located 80 kilometres southwest of Millertown in Central Newfoundland, the Valentine Gold Project is expected to generate more than $750 million in income to workers and businesses located within the province.

Construction of the mine and mill is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2022 (subject to federal environmental assessment release) and last for 24 months. According to the company, the Valentine Gold project will create approximately 11,000 person years of employment in the province, including an annual average of 725 persons. Based on an April 2021 Feasibility Study, the initial capital investment is estimated at $305 million, with the life-of-mine capital investment estimated at $662 million. Marathon Gold estimates this project will contribute nearly $3 billion to the provincial GDP, and approximately $400 million in incremental revenues to the Newfoundland and Labrador treasury.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s mining industry continues to experience significant growth and is a key economic driver. In 2021, mineral shipments were valued at $6 billion, the highest value on record for the province, and mining employment was the highest since 2013, generating over 8,000 person years of employment.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s mineral industry continues to be a key economic driver for the province and a focus for investment attraction efforts. This benefits agreement ensures that residents will be the primary beneficiary of our resources as we continue to work collaboratively with another mining company to grow the industry here. I look forward to seeing this mine operational and the associated economic benefits for the region and the province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“The Valentine Gold Project promises to be an important cornerstone of the Newfoundland and Labrador economy for many years, and will be particularly important to the communities of central Newfoundland. This Benefits Agreement reflects our commitment to maximizing the benefits that will flow to the province from the project, through employment, contracting, skills development, and the participation of groups traditionally under-represented in the mining industry. We are looking forward to final release from our federal Environmental Assessment, and the commencement of construction.”
Matt Manson
President and CEO, Marathon Gold Corporation.

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

BACKGROUNDER
Summary of Commitments

Benefits Agreement with Marathon Gold Corporation

Full and Fair Opportunity and First Consideration

• Provided to Newfoundland and Labrador residents and businesses for procurement and employment opportunities.
• Extends to contractors and subcontractors.
• Establish processes to communicate employment and procurement opportunities.

Enhanced Employment Commitments

• No less than 85 per cent of the Project workforce will be provincial residents.
• Use all commercially reasonable efforts to achieve 100 per cent provincial workforce.

Project Management and Engineering

• Establish and maintain project offices in the province.
• Requirement for lead engineering contractor to establish and maintain offices in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• No less than 85 per cent of Project management, engineering, procurement and construction management person hours will be performed in the province.
• Ensure hiring of Project personnel is coordinated and led by Marathon or its major contractors from offices in the province.

Supplier Development

• Collaborate with Government to facilitate participation from provincial Suppliers.
• Supplier Development and supplier information sessions held in the Province.
• Development of an inclusion strategy for local contractors to help with qualifying, bidding and on executing contracts.
• Development of timely communication tools to inform suppliers about the project.

Education and Training

• Construction phase commitment of 10 per cent of skilled trades will be registered apprentices with operations phase increasing to 15 per cent.
• Use of Provincial graduates and/or co-op students will be maximized.
• Collaborate with Government, education and training institutions and industry stakeholders to identify local skills shortages, and support joint strategies for development of programs that support mining.

Research & Development

• Hold research and development information sessions in the Province.
• Utilization of provincial institutions for R&D and also help build R&D capacities.
• Collaborate with Government and industry and contribute to feasible mining industry related research and development projects(s).

Gender Equity and Diversity

• Fully implement and abide by its Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan, which includes employment targets for women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and Indigenous persons.

Reporting

• Detailed quarterly and annual reporting throughout of the life of the Project.

Dispute Resolution

• Established process to resolve disputes with good faith discussions including time related notice periods.
• If the parties are not able to resolve the dispute, either party may take action permitted by law to resolve the dispute.

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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:

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

The proponent proposes the demolition and replacement of the Shoal Harbour

Causeway Bridge located on Balbo Drive in the Town of Clarenville. Balbo Drive will require additional road work to adjust the grade approaching the bridge. 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 July 15, 2022; the deadline for public comments is August 19, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by August 29, 2022.

UNDERTAKING RELEASED:

Swift Current Quarry                                                                                 (Reg. 2193)
Proponent: Dean Clarke Contracting Ltd.

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 Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the following;
  • The quarry must maintain a 30-metre reservation from all waterbodies (including wetlands).
  • Prior to commencing any work related to this project, a Water Resources Management Plan must be submitted for review and approval.  The Water Resources Management Plan should address the following concerns/questions:
    • If there are any brooks, rivers, ponds, streams or wetlands, present in or within 30 metres of the boundaries of the project site, then identify the type of water body and its distance from the site.
    • If any of the above-mentioned water bodies or wetlands are impacted by site operation, describe how the water body will be impacted. A permit/licence from the Water Resources Management Division may be required.
    • If there is any potential of onsite drainage water or dewatering water to discharge into a natural water body,  describe the precautionary measures, such as vegetative cover, filter strip, silt curtain, etc., that will be deployed to ensure the effluent or runoff meets the requirement of the Environmental Control Water and Sewage Regulations, 2003.
    • Describe water control measures to be deployed onsite for daily workings as well as for high-precipitation storms.
    • Describe sediment control measures to be deployed onsite to avoid discharging sediment-laden water into the natural waterbody.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following;
  • A revised quarry boundary as indicated in the minister’s decision letter.
  • A minimum 50 metre naturally vegetated buffer, which includes trees, shall be maintained along the scheduled Salmon River, Piper’s Hole River. The buffer is measured from the edge of non-hydrophytic (water-loving) vegetation.
  • For all other waterbodies:
    • Where possible, for slopes less than 30 percent, a minimum 30 metre naturally vegetated riparian buffer zone shall be established around all waterbodies, from the high water mark, that are identified on either the 1:50,000 scale National Topographic System maps, or the topographic mapping layer shown in the Provincial Land Use Atlas. No land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities will take place in this zone.
    • For slopes greater than 30 percent, there shall be a naturally vegetated riparian buffer zone calculated using the following formula: 30 metres + 1.5 metres x slope (%).  No land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities will take place in this zone.
  • Wetlands (located to the south and west of the proposed site):
    • Where possible, for slopes less than 30 percent, a minimum 30 metre naturally vegetated riparian buffer zone shall be established around the wetland, from the edge of non-hydrophytic (water-loving) vegetation. No land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities will take place in this zone.
    • For slopes greater than 30 per cent, there shall be a naturally vegetated riparian buffer zone calculated using the following formula: 30 metres + 1.5 metres x slope (%). No land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities will take place in this zone.
  • No vegetation clearing is to occur within 800 meters of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and 200 meters during the remainder of the year.  The 200 metre buffer also applies to all other raptor nests (e.g. Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest site must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
• The proponent is required to advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent is required to update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, one year from the date of the release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

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

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

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

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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