Government of Newfoundland News

Today, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, announced the recipients of the 2022 Seniors of Distinction Awards, which recognizes the contributions, achievements and diversity of seniors throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s recipients are as follows:

• George M. Doyle of St. Lawrence (posthumous award)
• Barbara Ellis of St. John’s
• Rosie Lucy of Hopedale
• Elizabeth Murphy of St. John’s
• Wayne Noel of St. Anthony
• Eldon Swyer of Little Rapids
• Bryson Webb of Port aux Basques

For more information on each of the 2022 Seniors of Distinction, please see the backgrounder below.

The Seniors of Distinction Awards are presented annually to current or past residents of the province, 50 years of age or older, who have made significant personal, professional or volunteer contributions to their communities. This year’s award ceremony will take place during fall 2022.

Quotes
“Let me extend heartfelt congratulations to the recipients of the 2022 Seniors of Distinction Awards. Each of these individuals have made a profound impact on their communities and our province. I commend each of the Seniors of Distinction for showing such tremendous character that is inspiring to us all.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“The Seniors of Distinction Awards are so important because they recognize the many contributions of seniors and older adults and are an inspiration for others to participate in the betterment of their communities throughout the lifespan. This year’s award recipients exemplify the true spirit of service to individuals and communities here at home and abroad.”
Pamela Anstey
Chair, Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors

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Learn more
Seniors of Distinction Awards

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @CSSD_GovNL

Media contacts
Michelle Hunt Grouchy
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-5148, 682-6593
michellehuntgrouchy@gov.nl.ca

Pam Anstey
Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors
pacas@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Recipients of the 2022 Seniors of Distinction Awards

George M. Doyle
George M. Doyle of St. Lawrence passed away on September 20, 2019. For over four decades, George demonstrated leadership, commitment and volunteered his time to municipal council as a community activist. He served four years as Mayor, four years as Deputy Mayor, and over 23 years as a Councillor. During his years of service, he was very active in the Joint Town and Community Council and the Greater Lamaline Area Development Association. George was an advocate for employees of the Alcan NewFluor Works mine, and was an advocate for the construction of the St. Lawrence Miner’s Museum. He was president of the St. Lawrence Workers Protective Union from 1964 to 1976. He was an active member of the St. Lawrence Harbour Authority and Fish Plant committees. He worked tirelessly with the harbour authority committee and was instrumental in acquiring funding for the development of a 350 foot wharf and state of the art Fishermen’s Rest building. The building serves fishers with amenities such as washers, dryers and WIFI. He was described as a man of great character, perseverance and strength.

Barbara Ellis
Barbara Ellis of St. John’s has dedicated most of her life to improving the well-being of others. As a retired physiotherapist, Barbara’s working career was fueled by a passion for helping people strengthen their minds and bodies and keep as active as possible. In retirement, she has continued to keep people fit and active in mind and body as a volunteer. She teaches aqua fitness in Florida during the winter and, when at home in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a volunteer aquafit and group strength training instructor at the Ches Penney Family YMCA in St. John’s. In these roles, Barbara motivates and coaches other seniors and older adults to stay active through activities that support strength, balance and movement, which provide benefits for everyday activities. Barbara first joined the YMCA as a member at the age of 13 and has been a YMCA volunteer for the past 10 years. She is a strong believer in keeping your mind sharp and in trying new things, and endeavours to instill these values in all those she encounters, particularly seniors and older adults. Barbara is also a volunteer at her church and a Rotarian. Throughout her lifetime, she has also volunteered with the Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association, Girl Guides of Canada, Canadian Physiotherapy Association, Ronald McDonald House, and The Gathering Place. Leading by example, Barbara provides inspiration to others that you can be fit and active in your community at any age.

Rosie Lucy (Grammy)
Rosie Lucy of Hopedale has worked much of her life as a public health aide. She is an Inuit elder who has been gifted with the art of sewing. She created Inuit crafts such as moose hide slippers and mittens. She is recognized for her contributions to Inuit people, particularly as a foster parent for almost 40 years. Rosie raised nine of her own children, as well as grandchildren and other children in care. She has helped parents who were challenged with responsibilities of parenthood. Rosie has helped many children grow into independent individuals who now contribute to the community of Hopedale. Rosie is described as a role model and true example of the positive impact that one person can have on the lives of so many. Even through a 2011 cancer diagnosis, Rosie continued as a foster mother. In 2020, she reluctantly closed her foster home following a second cancer diagnosis. Rosie has devoted her life to raising children and instilling them with pride – pride of what it means to be an Indigenous person and embrace their uniqueness. She is described as very humble and kind. Her profound impact on the lives of the people of the north coast of Labrador, and beyond, will be felt for generations to come.

Elizabeth (Bette) Murphy
Bette Murphy of St. John’s has been a volunteer for most of her life. She has gone door to door for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Kidney Foundation and Christmas Seals Campaign, and shared her sewing skills with children at Our Lady of Mercy School during the late 1970’s. Most would agree; however, that her most significant mark has been left on the sport of softball in Newfoundland and Labrador and female softball in particular. In 1966, Bette served as Secretary of the inaugural St. John’s Ladies Softball League and was appointed by the City of St. John’s to the inaugural St. John’s Recreation Commission. She contributed immensely to the growth of softball in Newfoundland and Labrador as a player, coach, manager and executive at the municipal, provincial and national levels. She even served as Chair of the Media Committee for the 1994 Women’s World Softball Championship at the Caribou Complex in St. John’s extending her influence into the international sphere. Bette is a member of the St. John’s Hall of Fame and is an honorary life member of Softball Newfoundland and Labrador. Beyond softball, Bette served on the National Advisory Board for Fitness and Amateur Sport from 1974 to 1976, and was selected as a judge for the 1984 Miss Teen St. John’s pageant. She has also made significant contributions to youth bowling, soccer and the Peter Pan Lawn Bowling League. At 85, Bette remains active in five-pin and lawn bowling and is admired for her flawless fashion sense, humble demeanor and understanding of others and their unique situations.

Wayne Noel
Wayne Noel of St. Anthony has spent a lifetime contributing to making life better for others. Born and raised in Goose Cove East on the Great Northern Peninsula, he lost his father at the age of 17 while attending university. He made the decision to move back home to be there for his mother and family. Shortly after his family moved to St. Anthony and Wayne began work for the Grenfell Mission. His career in health care spanned more than forty years of service where he advanced to a leadership role in materials management. A believer in building strong and healthy communities, Wayne was instrumental in the re-establishment of an ice rink and the creation of the first indoor swimming pool for the community in the 1970s. In the 1980s and 90s, he was instrumental in economic development in St. Anthony, including the creation of St. Anthony Basin Resources Inc., a social enterprise which supports community development initiatives within the region. Through the decades, he has served on Town Council, the Grenfell Historical Society and has been heavily involved in many other community organizations and events including the longest snowmobile ride in the world as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2003. Wayne continues to be involved in community and economic development to this day.

Eldon Swyer
Eldon Swyer of Little Rapids played a very active role in the School Administrators’ Council both locally and provincially and was a member of the Advisory Council of Grenfell College for a number of years. He also served as chairman of the Labrador City Public Library Board and was instrumental in the building of a new town library. He was also founding Chairman of the Labrador-Northern Newfoundland Regional Library Board and served as a member of the Provincial Library Board for several years. In recognition of his contribution to the betterment of the community, the Town of Labrador City presented Eldon with a Builders Award. Upon his retirement in June 1988, Mr. Swyer received many accolades from staff, students, Community Groups and others at large. His Holiness, John Paul II cordially granted a special Apostolic Blessing as follows: “to Mr. Eldon Swyer, Principal of Labrador City Collegiate, for his many years in education, his dedication, his ecumenical spirit and his wisdom in promoting human, cultural and religious values, invoking constant grace and divine protection upon his family and all his future projects.” Eldon will be 91 in November and continues to be an active volunteer with the Corner Brook Lions Club.

Bryson Webb
Bryson Webb of Port-aux-Basques has served as Board Chair of the Western Regional Health Authority since October 2017. This is a volunteer position that caries significant responsibility. In this role, Bryson is the voice of the board to staff, stakeholder groups and the community at large. Bryson’s other duties include recruitment, orientation and board mentoring and development. Most recently, Bryson has led Western Health through a community consultation process whereby seven communities were engaged. Some of Bryson’s other volunteer experience includes: the Canadian Nurses Association; Ministerial Advisory Committee on Primary Healthcare Enhancement Project; the Community Employment Corporation; and the Dr. Charles LeGrow Health Centre Foundation. Bryson is described as a prime example of someone who has unselfishly devoted his time, knowledge and talent to volunteerism, particularly in the area of health care. He has done so for many years since his retirement in 1996.

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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:

Deer Lake Dairy Secondary Processing Facility                              (Reg. 2203)
Proponent: The Real Dairy Company of Newfoundland Ltd.

The proponent proposes to construct and operate a dairy secondary processing facility to process raw milk into butter and skim milk powder. The facility would process raw product collected primarily from local dairy farms in the areas of Cormack, Deer Lake and Bay St. George.  The facility would be located on 4-hectares of land in the Veteran’s Memorial Industrial Park, Deer Lake. Products would be available for local, national and international markets.  A description of the project can be found on the Department’s web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on June 28, 2022; the deadline for public comment is August 8, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by August 12, 2022.

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Star Lake to Valentine Gold Transmission Line TL271 Project    (Reg. 2136)
Proponent: Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro

The project was released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submissions to mitigate the effects of the Project on the environment.
• This release pertains specifically to the construction and operation of the preferred route as described in the Environmental Preview Report.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (FFA) requires the following:
  • Vegetation and construction work schedules shall be coordinated based on the most recent camera and collar (live) data to ensure actual sensitive wildlife/ caribou times are avoided;
• A copy of NL Hydro’s Environmental Protection Plan shall be provided to FFA for review and shall include details on how observation of caribou within 500m of Project activities will be accomplished;
• Surveys for bat maternity colonies/roosts shall occur prior to tree removal during the active season (May 01 to Sept 30) and survey results must be approved by FFA.
• The proponent shall consult the Wildlife Division regarding any in-water activities / construction that will occur during sensitive fisheries timing windows;
• The proponent shall submit a digital GIS file of the completed right of way, culvert, bridge locations and access roads (clearly identifying decommissioned and non-decommissioned sections) to FFA prior to the start of Project construction.
• The Electricity and Alternative Energy Division of the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology advises that, as Marathon Gold Corporation will be the sole customer of TL271, the proponent shall ensure that other ratepayers are protected from the rate impact of the Project, including the cost of decommissioning the line (TL271).
• The proponent is required to advise the Environmental Assessment Division when each of the conditions of release has been met, if required, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent is required to update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the Project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the Project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates, if requested.

Hampden Residential Property (Fred Osmond)                                (Reg. 2198)
Proponent: Fred Osmond

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.
• No vegetation clearing is to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and 200 metres 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, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates, if requested.

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

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

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

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

Starting tomorrow, July 5, 2022, residents in Newfoundland and Labrador who receive the income supplement and seniors’ benefit will receive a 10 percent increase in their quarterly payments.

Approximately 162,000 individuals and families receive the income supplement. This funding provides up to a total of $1,000 per year for a family of four.

Over 50,000 seniors and their families receive the seniors’ benefit. Eligible individuals will receive up to $1,444 annually.

No application for the benefits is required. However, eligible individuals must ensure their annual income tax return is filed in order to receive the benefits. Eligibility is based on family net income from the previous year.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced increases in the income supplement and seniors’ benefit in March 2022 as part of its overall plan to help residents with the cost of living. Since March 2022, government has announced $222 million in targeted short- and long-term investments.

More information on the income supplement and seniors’ benefit, including a calculator, is available here.

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

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will attend a ceremony at Newfoundland Memorial Park in Beaumont-Hamel, France, tomorrow (Friday, July 1) to commemorate the Battle of the Somme.

This morning, Minister Crocker joined the Royal Newfoundland Regiment and family members at the burial ceremony for Private John Lambert in West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Private Lambert’s remains were discovered in 2016 along with two other First World War soldiers. His remains were identified in 2020, with the assistance of The Rooms Archives.

The Provincial Government continues to support the First World War contributions of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment in France and Belgium. The Trail of the Caribou, which consists of five bronze caribou statues in Beaumont-Hamel, Masnières, Gueudecourt, Monchy-le-Preux, and Courtrai (Kortrijk), Belgium, commemorates the bravery shown by Newfoundlanders during the First World War.

Annually, on July 1, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians remember and mourn the loss of life on the Beaumont-Hamel battlefield in 1916 and commemorate the contributions of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment to the First World War. In St. John’s, there are two monuments to the regiment: the Fighting Newfoundlander in Bowring Park and the Newfoundland National War Memorial, a National Historic Site, downtown between Water Street and Duckworth Street.

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“It is an honour to represent the province in Beaumont-Hamel and to pay respect to the fallen soldiers. Our province will forever be connected to France as we remember the bravery, patriotism and sacrifice of the Newfoundland Regiment during the First World War.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

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

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Progress continues to be made on the cardiac surgery waitlist in Newfoundland and Labrador, following the agreement signed in May between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. To date, planning for approximately 20 patients is underway for transport to Ottawa for surgery, two surgeons from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute visited Newfoundland and Labrador in June and completed cardiac surgeries, and an additional two surgeons are scheduled for July. In addition, Eastern Health has recruited a new cardiac surgeon who will be starting in July.

Within the arrangement, University of Ottawa Heart Institute surgeons can operate here in this province or, depending on the circumstance, patients may travel to Ottawa. Members of the cardiac care team from both the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and Eastern Health collaborate and work together. The short-term strategy of sending patients to Ottawa will help address concerns with cardiac surgical backlogs which had increased due to COVID-19 and the recent cyber-attack.

As part of the ongoing efforts to address challenges within the health care system, a surgical task force was also recently established to look at the surgical backlog and provide a meaningful response. The task force will make recommendations to the Minister of Health and Community Services regarding innovative solutions to manage the surgical backlog.

Additionally, Health Accord NL was created in November 2020 to reimagine the health care system to best deliver services to people in communities across the province. It was mandated to deliver a 10-year Health Accord with short, medium, and long-term goals for a health care system that better meets the needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. A number of these initiatives are already underway, with additional recommendations announced as part of Budget 2022. Recruitment and retention pressures, particularly in rural areas, were addressed as part of Health Accord NL.

These initiatives are part of a suite of measures the Provincial Government has implemented over the past while to help improve the delivery of health services to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, as well as deal with the recruitment and retention challenges related to health care professionals. Some of the initiatives include:

• New collaborative care clinics have been established;
• Expansion of recruitment initiatives is ongoing;
• Focus placed on attracting qualified health care professionals from around the world;
• New Assistant Deputy Minister of Health Professional Recruitment and Retention is in place;
• Hired a new provincial midwife;
• Increased the number of graduating health care professionals;
• Five new seats added to Memorial University’s Medicine Program;
• Launched a plan for wait list for hip and knee joint replacement surgery;
• Increased investments for physician services;
• Improved access to mental health services;
• Collaboration with health care professionals to improve the workplace environment;
• Improved access to virtual care;
• Construction of new hospitals and long-term care homes; and,
• Improvements to ambulatory and paramedicine resources.

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“We remain focused on improving access to care for our residents and the development of a better coordinated, modern health care system that meets the needs of the people it serves. Working with our stakeholders, our priority continues to be the appropriate delivery of health services. The measures we have implemented – and continue to implement – are steps in the right direction.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

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

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Construction has started on extensions and renovations at the Labrador Correctional Centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay that will increase capacity and improve services.

The project consists of three living unit extensions for a total of 18 cells to accommodate 36 incarcerated individuals; improvements to the facility’s laundry, kitchen, and programming areas; and the addition of a medical suite.

A contract valued at $8.2 million was awarded to Moss Development Corporation in November 2021. The extensions will allow Adult Corrections the option to house female and male offenders in Labrador, reducing the need for transports to other facilities on the island.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates construction being completed by the end of 2024

Moss Development Corporation is also constructing a new six-bed mental health unit at the Labrador Health Centre in the community. Construction is anticipated to be completed later this summer.

As part of Budget 2022, government is investing $567 million in infrastructure, which includes more than $10 million in funding for a courthouse and correctional facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“This construction site will create employment for tradespeople in Labrador, and when the new extensions open, it will allow people in Labrador to receive correctional services closer to home. This investment and our funding for the new mental health unit in Happy Valley-Goose Bay is providing access to better services for people in this region.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“This expansion will improve the services and programs at this facility, as well as provide the ability for individuals to stay closer to home, all of which will help in rehabilitation. We look forward to the completion of this work and will continue to work with the community and Indigenous leaders on ways to improve the justice system in the community.”
Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public safety

“The construction of two significant infrastructure projects in Central Labrador will improve the delivery of programs and access to critical care and services for Labradorians. I am pleased to see that work is nearing completion on the long-awaited mental health unit at Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and the expansion project at the correctional centre increases capacity and reduces the necessity for transporting individuals to other facilities on the Island.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs

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Learn more
Former College of North Atlantic Campus to Become Bay St. George Courthouse

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

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

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

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings to the Canada Day Sunrise Ceremony tomorrow (Friday, July 1).

The ceremony will commence at 6:00 a.m. in the summit parking lot near Cabot Tower at Signal Hill National Historic Site, St. John’s.

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Media contact
Michelle Hunt Grouchy
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-5148, 682-6593
michellehuntgrouchy@gov.nl.ca

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The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture would like to acknowledge the 30th anniversary of the cod moratorium.

On that well-known day of July 2, 1992, Newfoundland and Labrador was impacted irreversibly. For many, everything changed. The traditional way of life that had been centred around cod-fishing for nearly 500 years could not continue; people began to comprehend the vulnerability of the marine environment; and some turned to other industries such as trades or tourism to make their living.

In the 30 years since the moratorium began, Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishing industry has undergone a profound shift, from an industry driven mainly by groundfish such as cod, to one driven by shellfish. This shift was not solely due to low cod populations and fishing restrictions; it was also due to the growth and availability of other species such as crab and shrimp. Even as some groundfish stocks have been in moratoria, the fishing industry has continued to contribute significantly to the economy.

Today, there are approximately 17,000 seafood workers in 400 communities that rely on the fishery for their livelihood. Last year, the fishing season was one of the most successful in history, reaching over $1 billion in value.

To protect the fisheries and develop the seafood resources, the Provincial Government has continued to cultivate positive relationships with the Federal Government and a vast array of other partners. Together, industry, university, governments, and other stakeholders are building scientific programs that identify information gaps that contribute to a sustainable industry. Through investments in scientific research and shared funding, many people in many organizations are working hard to prevent resource declines such as the cod moratorium from occurring again.

The Provincial Government continues to encourage diversification by investing in innovation and new technology; enhancing seafood quality; advancing Newfoundland and Labrador’s reputation in the global marketplace; and encouraging international competitiveness. All this and more is provided through important funding opportunities such as the $325 million Atlantic Fisheries Fund. In provision of the Fund, the Provincial Government has allocated $4.8 million through Budget 2022. Funding partners are helping Atlantic Canada’s seafood sector transition to meet growing market demands for high quality products.

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“Since the cod moratorium began, it has been a hard road. I have seen the effects myself. The deep harbour in the fishing community where I’m from was once crowded with great vessels and fishers. Since the 1992 announcement, many residents and families left to take on a new trade in another place. When I consider what we have gained through the great difficulties of the moratorium, I think about how we have endured as communities and as a province – accomplished by sharing what we have and by working together to find solutions to the problems we all face. I look forward to continuing to support a cooperative approach and to work toward a sustainable fishing industry for everyone in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Media contact

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

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As work continues on the transition of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District into the Provincial Government, changes are underway to support the next phase as the process shifts from the initial concept phase to integration. These changes will continue the long-term shift to a more modern provincial learning environment, and will ensure investments in education are focused on the classroom.

Effective today, a new board responsible for integration will replace the interim Board of Trustees appointed in November 2021. This “Integration Board” will include executive representation from Provincial Government departments that will oversee the integration process, including:

• Dr. Greg O’Leary, Deputy Minister of Education (Board Chair)
• David Heffernan, Chief Information Officer
• Michelle Jewer, Deputy Minister of Finance
• Elizabeth Lane, Secretary to the Treasury Board
• Cory Grandy, Deputy Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
• Denis Mahoney, Deputy Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Deputy Attorney General

This board brings together expertise from across the Provincial Government, and will implement operational changes, policy changes and administration changes as the integration progresses. The board will also guide legislative changes to be brought to the House of Assembly for consideration.

Additionally, an Integration Team will be formed to replace the Transition Team appointed in November 2021, which has completed its work in advising the interim board of recommended executive restructuring at the English School District. These changes occurred in early June 2022.

The Integration Team will include staff from key Provincial Government departments and executive and director level staff at the district. This Integration Team will engage with staff at the district to ensure a full understanding of operations to determine how best to support these staff and their roles as they shift into the Provincial Government.

There will be no impact from these changes to school operations. All school-facing functions, including the daily operations of schools, teacher hiring and allocation, school transportation, and more will remain unchanged for the 2022-23 school year. The intent of the full transition is to move these functions into the Provincial Government, with no evident impacts to school operations.

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“I want to thank the members of the outgoing Interim Board and the Transition Team for their work over the past eight months in reviewing operations and making initial changes to the executive structure. Going forward, our focus is shifting from concept to implementation, and we are putting in place structures with the knowledge and experience to make this happen. This integration process will support staff through this change while maintaining key services for students, teachers, staff and school communities.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Education

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Learn more
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL  

Media contact
Marc Budgell
Education
709-729-0048, 689-0430
marcbudgell@gov.nl.ca

The post Newfoundland and Labrador English School District Transition Enters Integration Phase appeared first on News Releases.

As part of Come Home 2022 celebrations, the daily vehicle permit ($10) will be waived for all day use visitors to Provincial Parks on Canada Day (Friday, July 1) and Canada Parks Day (Saturday, July 16).

Provincial parks in Newfoundland and Labrador are some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the province and offer a variety of ways to explore nature, such as trails, beaches and rivers. People are encouraged to get outside and enjoy a picnic, paddle, swim, bike ride or hike in one of the province’s parks.

For more information on Provincial Parks, please visit www.parksnl.ca.

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

The post Public Advisory: Free Day Use at Provincial Parks on July 1 and July 16 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will attend the grand opening of the NorPen Status of Women Council office tomorrow (Thursday, June 30), at 1:00 p.m. at the Port Saunders Town Centre gymnasium, 212 Main Street, Port Saunders.

The NorPen Status of Women Council offers services such as information and referral, programs, workshops, advocacy and activities to raise awareness of violence, injustice and inequality.

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

 

The post Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Attend NorPen Status of Women Council Event appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, delivered the keynote address today at Expo Labrador 2022 in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

While at the conference, Minister Parsons announced nearly $141,000 in support for five recent economic development projects.  Support for these projects demonstrates a focus on small businesses and economic development partners in Labrador, and contributes to the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthen the province’s economic foundation.

• DJ Group of Companies, owner and operator of the Atsanik Hotel in Nain and the Amaguk Hotel in Hopedale, received $45,761 to advance operational improvements in its two properties.
• Nunacor, which assists with business development opportunities on behalf of NunatuKavut, and helps generate sustainable dividends for reinvestment in its communities, received $41,900 for marketing activities, including a new website and branding.
• Located on the scenic Pinware River in southern Labrador, Big Land Fishing Lodge is an adventure tourism company that caters to salmon and trout fishers. It received $27,647 to advance a series of marketing initiatives.
• Presented by the Labrador West Chamber of Commerce, MINEx Symposium in September 2022 will focus on regional, national and international development, diversification and innovation of the mining industry in Labrador West. To support the delivery of the conference and related marketing materials, it received $21,044.
• The Labrador Research Forum, which is a biennial forum that highlights knowledge, experiences and innovative research activities conducted in Labrador, received $4,450

Quotes
“Our government is pleased to be a partner in supporting economic development initiatives across Labrador, aimed at strengthening the region’s economy. It is great to be in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, surrounded by so many creative innovators and industry leaders, to celebrate the many opportunities that lay ahead in Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“The Provincial Government is pleased to invest in people and communities in the Big Land. These projects demonstrate that small businesses and organizations in Labrador are capitalizing on opportunities to grow the economy in Labrador.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“This has been a very positive project for our company, and we anticipate a great deal of new business initiatives from their findings. Thank you once again to the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology for their support.”
Donna Stokes- Lane
Project Manager, DJ Group of Companies

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Learn more
Regional Economic Development

Business Development Support Program

Atsanik Hotel

Amaguk Hotel

Nunacor

Big Land Fishing Lodge

MINEx Symposium

Labrador Research Forum

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

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

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

Donna Stokes-Lane
DJ Group of Companies
info@djgrouplabrador.com

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The following is being released at the request of The Council of Atlantic Premiers:

Atlantic Premiers met today to continue working together to better manage health care, address the impact of inflation on the region’s economy and identify opportunities to enhance energy security and self-sufficiency to meet the region’s long-term needs.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia welcomed Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island, and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador to Pictou, Nova Scotia.

Premiers acknowledged British Columbia Premier Horgan’s contribution as Chair of the Council of the Federation and wished him well on his recently announced retirement.

Premiers expressed solidarity with Ukraine and its people, who continue to suffer the effects of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of their country. All four Atlantic provinces welcomed Ukrainian refugees, and look forward to the positive contribution they will make to the region’s economy and social fabric.

Premiers noted a recent report by the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council shows the strength of the region’s economy, though labour shortages and affordability present significant challenges to residents and businesses. Premiers discussed ongoing supply chain interruptions due to global events, the impacts of climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These events are creating challenges for Atlantic Canadians in accessing affordable food and housing, as well as the impact of rising fuel costs. While global issues are contributing to these pressures, Premiers remain committed to addressing affordability, increasing the housing supply and improving food security for the region.

Premiers discussed moving forward with actions under the Atlantic Health Care Accord including engagement of Atlantic colleges responsible for physician licensing to work urgently to address the barriers facing the recruitment and retention of international health care workers, and to allow physicians to move seamlessly within the region.

Premiers also renewed their commitment to action through the Council of the Federation, where Canadian Premiers are calling for a revitalized health funding partnership with the federal government. Premiers continue to call on the federal government to increase their share of health funding from 22% to 35% through an increase in the Canada Health Transfer. This increased funding would have a significant impact on the ability of provinces to provide quality health care services and respond to the strain on health care systems.

Immigration and the retention of international students who choose to come to Atlantic Canada to further their education are critical to the continued growth of the region. Atlantic Premiers discussed Atlantic immigration policy priorities and urged the federal government to work with them to enhance the region’s capacity to develop, deploy and retain a skilled workforce. Premiers are committed to work with the federal government to address labour market needs and address barriers to immigration that will strengthen Atlantic Canada’s position as a destination of choice for immigrants.

The global situation has brought attention on Canada’s dependence on imports to meet our energy needs. The Atlantic provinces are uniquely placed to become a hub for export to international markets in traditional and sustainable energy sectors. Atlantic provinces will continue to work together to demonstrate leadership in the pursuit of emission reductions, clean power generation and transmission, and future-oriented energy development. In particular, Premiers discussed potential renewable energy opportunities, including hydrogen development and use, as well as wind, solar and tidal power, and small modular nuclear reactors. Atlantic Premiers acknowledged the Atlantic Loop will benefit the region but concerns regarding the costs and timelines were expressed. The loop will not fully satisfy the region’s future energy needs, which will require multiple energy sources. Energy planning will be required to improve affordability and while balancing environmental goals. The Atlantic provinces remain four willing partners; they call for further clarity and commitment from the federal government to support these major investments and to meet federal climate targets and timelines. Premiers highlighted the urgency for this clarity and the importance of maintaining reasonable and fair electricity rates.

Continued collaboration with the federal government is key to achieving national and local emissions targets, as well as working towards future sustainable development goals. Premiers look forward to upcoming Atlantic Growth Strategy discussions with federal ministers on July 24-25, 2022, in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. The Atlantic Immigration Program and the Clean Power Road Map for Atlantic Canada and Atlantic Loop initiative are examples of collaboration under the Strategy. Premiers look forward to renewing this partnership in areas such as immigration and workforce development, health innovation, infrastructure, climate change and clean growth, and trade and investment.

Premiers noted the role aquaculture plays in Atlantic Canada, and across Canada, in creating sustainable economic opportunities for many rural, coastal, and Indigenous communities. The ongoing changes to the federal approach to aquaculture in British Columbia were also discussed. While the federal government has responsibility in managing Canada’s fisheries, the aquaculture sector is well managed under provincial regulation in this region. Premiers are wholeheartedly committed to maintaining the existing system for licensing and overseeing aquaculture operations in Atlantic Canada.

Premiers announced the Atlantic Vision Conference, to be hosted by Premier King in partnership with the Public Policy Forum on October 13 and 14, 2022, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The 2022 Atlantic Vision Conference marks the 25th anniversary of the 1997 conference of the same name. It will provide an opportunity for leaders from various sectors to discuss how to shape the Atlantic economy, society, and environment to be more sustainable, inclusive, equitable, and diverse over the next 25 years.

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Les premiers ministres discutent de l’augmentation du coût de la vie, des soins de santé et des priorités de l’Atlantique

Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-3960

Catherine Klimek
Office of the Premier, Nova Scotia
902-717-1020

Nicolle Carlin
Office of the Premier, New Brunswick
506-453-7494

Adam Ross
Office of the Premier, Prince Edward Island
902-368-4400

The post Premiers Discuss Rising Costs of Living, Healthcare, and Atlantic Priorities appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, on behalf of the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will make a funding announcement in downtown St. John’s tomorrow (Thursday, June 30).

The event will take place near the courthouse at the corner of Water Street and Clift’s-Baird’s Cove, St. John’s, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Minister Abbott will be joined by Mayor Danny Breen, City of St. John’s, as well as other city representatives.

The event will proceed rain or shine.

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Media contact
Michelle Hunt-Grouchy
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-5148, 682-6593
michellehuntgrouchy@gov.nl.ca

 

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Successful big game draw applicants are reminded that the deadline to pay fees to ensure receipt of licences in time for the start of the 2022-23 hunting season is tomorrow (Thursday, June 30, 2022). Payments received after June 30 will be accepted but are not guaranteed to be processed before the season opens on September 10, 2022.

Successful applicants can pay fees online by logging into their Wildlife Information Management System accounts, or by contacting the Central Cashier’s Office at 709-729-3042.

Licensing staff have been diligently responding to phone calls and emails regarding access to the Wildlife Information Management System. Applicants are strongly urged to record and retain their user names and passwords when accessing the online system, as this is the primary issue for most inquires. Information on how to access passwords or log into accounts is available at Frequently Asked Questions. If the FAQs do not resolve the issue, contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025, 709-729-2630, or email wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca.

More information on big game licence allocations, season dates, and payment options is available in the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

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

The post Public Advisory: Hunters Reminded to Pay Big Game Fees by tomorrow to Ensure Prompt Receipt of Licences appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-009 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-2022-009 Report Date: June 24, 2022 Public Body: Department of Health and Community Services Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Department of Health and Community Services pursuant to the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 for records relating to the Premier’s billings as a fee-for-service physician. The Department declined to provide the records, relying on its yearly proactive disclosure of all fee-for-service physician billings. The Complainant disagreed with this decision and made a complaint to this Office. The Commissioner determined that section 22 (Published material) did not apply, and recommended the release of the records.

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

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Chair of the Management Commission, is providing an update related to the request of June 8, 2022 from the Lieutenant-Governor in Council with respect to a report of the Citizens’ Representative under Public Interest Disclosure regarding the Chief Electoral Officer.

The Management Commission held meetings respecting the request on June 14 and June 21, 2022, during which the Commission deliberated and issued decisions with recommendations to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council regarding:

• suspension of the Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner for Legislative Standards until an independent review of the findings and report of the Citizens’ Representative regarding the Chief Electoral Officer is completed; and
• acting appointments for the Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner for Legislative Standards positions in accordance with subsection 5.5(1) of the Elections Act, 1991 and subsection 34(8) of the House of Assembly Act.

The Management Commission is in the process of finalizing the details of the independent review of the findings and report of the Citizens’ Representative, including who will conduct the review, the terms of reference and related timelines. The Commission’s work on this matter is ongoing.

Deliberations on this matter have been conducted in-camera in accordance with subsection 19(1) of the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act, which requires the Management Commission to meet in-camera on personnel and legal matters. The Act provides that the substance of all decisions made at in-camera meetings become part of the public record. The decisions respecting these recommendations could not be reported publicly until the Lieutenant-Governor in Council made its decisions on the matter and appropriate human resources procedures and protocols were carried out.

An update respecting the independent review will be provided once details are finalized. The Commission is in the process of scheduling its next meeting, but a date is not confirmed at this time.

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Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Policy and Communications Officer
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

 

 

 

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will speak at the annual Expo Labrador Conference and Trade Show tomorrow (Wednesday, June 29).

The event takes place at the Royal Canadian Legion, 172 Hamilton River Road, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Minister Parsons will be joined by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Speak at Expo Labrador 2022 Conference and Trade Show appeared first on News Releases.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, is pleased to host a meeting of the Council in Pictou, N.S. on June 29. Premier Houston will be joined by his colleagues Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey, Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King, and New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs.

Information for Media
A news conference with the Atlantic premiers will be held at 2:45 p.m. on June 29 in the Juliana Room at Pictou Lodge, 172 Lodge Road, Pictou, N.S. Media will have the option of joining the news conference virtually.

Please note that:

1. All media representatives, including journalists, photographers, camera operators, and technicians, are required to register by submitting their name, affiliation, and contact information by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28 to Mary Moszynski at mary@cap-cpma.ca.
2. Please indicate whether you plan to attend in-person or virtually. If you plan to attend virtually, please indicate whether you would like to be called upon to ask a question. Please note that we will attempt to call upon as many journalists as possible, depending on time constraints.
3. Only registered media will receive updates to the meeting schedule and media opportunities via email or text message.

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For further information, contact:
Mary Moszynski
Council of Atlantic Premiers
Phone: 902-424-7600
Cell: 902-237-3270
Email: mary@cap-cpma.ca

The post Council of Atlantic Premiers to meet in Pictou, N.S. on June 29 appeared first on News Releases.

Starting on July 5, 2022, residents in Newfoundland and Labrador who receive the income supplement and seniors’ benefit will receive a 10 percent increase in their quarterly payments .

Approximately 162,000 individuals and families receive the income supplement. This funding provides up to a total of $1,000 per year for a family of four.

Over 50,000 seniors and their families receive the seniors’ benefit. Eligible individuals will receive up to $1,444 annually.

No application for the benefits is required. However, eligible individuals must ensure their annual income tax return is filed in order to receive the benefits. Eligibility is based on family net income from the previous year.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing increases in the income supplement and seniors’ benefit as part of its overall plan to help residents with the cost of living. Since March 2022, government has announced $222 million in targeted short- and long-term investments.

More information on the income supplement and seniors’ benefit, including a calculator, is available here.

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

The post Public Advisory: Increases Coming to Income Supplement and Seniors’ Benefit appeared first on News Releases.