Government of Newfoundland News

Building on the outpouring of support Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are showing for Ukrainian refugees, the Provincial Government is asking homeowners to consider offering affordable homestays and housing to Ukrainian newcomers. Rooms, apartments, and rental units are required to resettle a growing number of Ukrainians who are choosing to live in Newfoundland and Labrador. Many individuals and families are seeking long-term accommodations. Affordable housing and opportunities for long-term employment are essential for ensuring the long-term retention of newcomers.

Offers of accommodation in the City of St. John’s, the City of Mount Pearl and the Town of Paradise, all areas serviced by Metrobus, are in a particularly high demand. Further, employers who are also able to connect a new hire to housing are most likely to secure a match.

The decision to offer homestays and housing is completely voluntary. Anyone willing to offer accommodations is asked to contact the Association for New Canadians by:

• Email: ukraine@ancnl.ca; or
• Phone: 709-325-0881 (this phone line is monitored Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. NST).

For additional ways to support Ukrainian newcomers, visit the Association for New Canadians Ukraine webpage.

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

The post Public Advisory: Call for Housing for Ukrainians appeared first on News Releases.

Work will begin this month on repairs for three overpasses and two bridges in Corner Brook.

A contract valued at approximately $1.8 million was awarded to Floyd’s Construction Limited in May for work on the Lewin Parkway to replace expansion joints, repair concrete, waterproof, and repave the Corner Brook Stream Bridge near Mill Road, the eastbound and westbound Humber Road overpasses, and the overpass above the Trans-Canada Highway.

The contract also includes concrete repairs and paving on Ballam Bridge on Route 440.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates this work to be completed later this construction season.

The work is in addition to repairs completed on the overpass leading from the Lewin Parkway to Riverside Drive, road side ditching, and a culvert replacement near the St. Marks Avenue intersection completed in 2021.

Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.

Quotes
“Repairing these bridges and ensuring we have reliable infrastructure is important for the safety of residents and tourists travelling on our highways. We look forward to more bridge work being completed as part of our multi-year roads plan this year.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The Lewin parkway is a vital piece of infrastructure for Corner Brook and this bridge work will help maintain it for years to come. With $6.9 million invested since 2019 to pave 16.5 kilometres of the Parkway, I’m pleased to be part of the team that continues to deliver historic infrastructure investments that benefit of the residents of Corner Brook.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and MHA for Corner Brook

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

Paving on Lewin Parkway to Continue this Construction Season

Contract Awarded for Bridge Replacement on Trans-Canada Highway Near Grand Falls-Windsor

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

The post Work to Begin on Overpasses, Bridges in Corner Brook appeared first on News Releases.

As part of Tourism Week 2022, the Provincial Government today announced more than $208,000 in business development program support for seven businesses. The investments will help enhance development opportunities for the tourism and hospitality industry in rural areas of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Dream Weaver Projects, operators of Paddy’s Shed and Smugglers Cove attractions on the Burin Peninsula, were approved for $93,453 for marketing activities aimed at enhancing the company’s accommodation capacity, allowing for the delivery of more activity-based experiences that tell the stories of the region.

Cormack’s Rocky Brook Acres is considered a hidden gem just off the beaten path in western Newfoundland. To enhance its online presence, the business will develop a new website, promotional material and signage. The company was approved for $28,648.

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. The company was approved for $27,647 for numerous marketing initiatives.

Operating since 2009, Sea of Whales Adventures offers premium boat tour experiences with high quality interpretation of the natural attractions on the Bonavista Peninsula. Based in Trinity, the company has been approved for $19,875 to enhance marketing activities.

Located in King’s Point, By the Sea Inn and Cafe welcomes visitors with seaside suite accommodations. To assist with expanded marketing activities, the company has been approved for $18,750 to develop a website and marketing materials.

Pollen Nation Farm is a small bee farm located in Little Rapids. It is committed to increasing the awareness and importance of bees through educational, interactive tours. The company was approved for $16,596 to advance promotional activities and material, such as packaging/labels, signage, website design and photography.

Centrally located in Grands Falls-Windsor, Hill Road Manor is situated within walking distance from many attractions in the community such as the Exploits River and Gorge Park. This business was approved for $3,750 to assist with a branding refresh, as well as increased marketing opportunities directed towards experiential tourism and local artisans.

The addition of more people and program-based experiential tourism to existing infrastructure and activities is a priority for tourism development. Support for these projects demonstrates a focus on small businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador and contributes to the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthen the province’s economic foundation.

Quotes
“Fostering economic development is critical to diversifying, growing and strengthening our economy. During tourism week, we are pleased to announce our support for these businesses, to take advantage of strategic opportunities that will help generate economic growth, and create employment for the people of our province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Our province’s tourism and hospitality industry is one of the pillars of our economy. This business development program support is important as it will help these local companies build their competitiveness as travel demand continues to grow.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The Business Development Support Program has allowed our business to strengthen its marketing strategy for the upcoming season with increased signage, story boards and a new online booking platform. Programs such as this are invaluable to small business in allowing us to grow and expand our reach.”
Rosann Brake
Rocky Brook Acres

“The business development funding that our business received allowed us to move forward with marketing initiatives that we would not have been able to do without it.”
Shawna Prince
Sea of Whales Adventures

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Learn more
Business Development Support Program

Paddy’s Shed

Smugglers Cove

Rocky Brook Acres

Big Land Fishing Lodge

Sea of Whales Adventures

By the Sea Inn and Cafe

Pollen Nation Farm

Hill Road Manor

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

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

Rosann Brake
Rocky Brook Acres
gm@hiedeerlakehotel.com

Shawna Prince
Sea of Whales Adventures
shawna@seaofwhales.com

The post Supporting Market Development Initiatives by Tourism and Hospitality Businesses appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, today announced the launch of public consultations that will examine barriers to foreign qualification recognition in Newfoundland and Labrador, and identify opportunities for improvement from the perspectives of newcomers, occupational regulators, and employers while ensuring existing standards are maintained.

Improving foreign qualification recognition processes will help unlock the full economic potential of newcomers to Newfoundland and Labrador and increase the staffing of in-demand positions across many sectors of the economy. The consultations also support the ambitious Provincial Government immigration target of welcoming 5,100 newcomers per year by 2026.

Consultations will occur through engagement sessions with foreign-trained individuals and newcomers, provincial occupational regulatory bodies, educational institutions, Indigenous governments, industry associations and municipalities. Online consultations are open to the public and available through engageNL.

For a list of regulatory bodies and groups that will be engaged in the consultations, please see the enclosed backgrounder. Other groups that have an interest in foreign credential recognition are encouraged to provide a submission through engageNL.

Quotes
“Newcomers are arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador in record numbers, bringing with them impressive credentials that we desperately need. Out of every province in Canada they chose to come here, and duty calls us to help unlock their full potential. Newcomers and foreign-trained professionals deserve our serious attention to this issue and they will have it through these foreign credential recognition consultations.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

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Learn more
Improvements to Foreign Qualification Recognition

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

BACKGROUNDER

Regulatory Bodies and Groups to Be Engaged

• College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador
• College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador
• College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Social Workers
• Newfoundland and Labrador Council of Health Professionals
• Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board
• Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board
• Provincial Medical Oversight, Eastern Health
• Teacher Certification Committee
• The Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador
• The Association for New Canadians
• Post-secondary institutions
• Individuals with lived experiences who have worked or are working their way through the foreign qualification recognition process
• Other public stakeholders such as municipalities, community organizations, employer organizations, Indigenous governments.

The post Unlocking Potential: Launch of Foreign Qualification Recognition Consultations appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will participate in the Foster Families Symposium, hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association as follows:

• Bring greetings during the Symposium’s Opening Ceremonies tomorrow (Friday, June 3) at 7:00 p.m.; and
• Present years of service certificates during the Foster Parent Recognition Ceremony on Sunday, June 5, at 10:30 a.m.

Both ceremonies take place at the Capital Hotel, 208 Kenmount Road, St. John’s.

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

 

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Participate in Foster Families Symposium appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, announced a call for applications for the 2022-23 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program.

The application process is now open for incorporated municipalities, not for profit groups and Indigenous governments and communities to apply for up to $100,000 to develop, implement and evaluate accessible and inclusive community-based transportation programs.

To obtain a copy of the program guidelines and application form, please visit the department’s website. The deadline to apply is October 31, 2022.

Projects under the program should focus on helping to enhance and expand community transportation services for people who experience barriers to transportation, including age, ability and geography, often in combination with low income.

In 2021-22, the following five projects received funding through the Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program:

• Kitpu Transportation & Support Program, Benoit First Nation, Port au Port Peninsula west of Abrahams Cove
• Humber Run, Town of Pasadena, Humber Valley
• Coastal Rides Community Transportation Program, Connaigre Peninsula and Fortune Bay North
• Ride for Ages, Bay St. George South Ride for Ages Inc., Bay St. George South
• Seniors Winter Transportation, Nain Inuit Community Government, Nain

Please see the backgrounder below for more information on each of these projects.

As part of Budget 2022, the Provincial Government is investing $300,000 for the program for 2022-23.

Quotes
“Through accessible, affordable and inclusive transportation options like the Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program, seniors, persons with disabilities and individuals with low income can more easily access services and participate in their communities. I am pleased that we supported five projects in 2021-22 and I know there are many other opportunities throughout the province for these program funds to make a difference.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“As we concentrate on food security and senior support we are excited to be offering this much needed service to our aging Indigenous population. We are very appreciative of the support we have received form the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for this essential service. This important investment in seniors’ essential transportation is an investment on all levels in these trying times giving our elders and seniors affordable transportation when they need it.”
Jasen Benwah
Chief, Benoit First Nation

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Grants

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

Jasen Benwah
Benoit First Nation Inc.
709-272-2085
benoit1stnation@gmail.com

BACKGROUNDER

2021-2022 Community Transportation Grants

Applicant Location Proposal Grant Benoit First Nation Inc. Port au Port Peninsula west of Abrahams Cove Establish a new accessible, affordable and safe transportation network to serve the Indigenous communities on the Port au Port Peninsula west of Abrahams Cove.

  $100,000 Town of Pasadena Humber Valley Establish an accessible and affordable transportation service that will serve the Humber Valley region.

  $100,000 Town of Harbour Breton Connaigre Peninsula and Fortune Bay North Continue the Coastal Rides Community Transportation Program assisting seniors and persons with disabilities attend medical appointment, grocery shop, pick up medications and medical supplies, banking, attend social events, etc.

  $39,346 Bay St. George South Ride for Ages Inc. Bay St. George South Ride for Ages Inc. was formed in 2013 and the bus service started in early 2014. Funding is to purchase a new accessible vehicle.

  $39,303 Nain Inuit Community Government Nain Purchase a snowmobile that will allow the Seniors Winter Transportation service to operate year-round.

  $21,351 TOTAL     $300,000

 

 

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Request for Proposal applications are available for two parcels of farm land located on Zinc Mine Road near Daniel’s Harbour on the Northern Peninsula.

Request for Proposal guides for the two parcels, including an overview and suitability map of the land available for development, are available online at Land for Agriculture.

The deadline to submit proposals is June 24 at 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 709-637-2081 or email jasonmacdonald@gov.nl.ca.

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

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The Provincial Government is implementing new control measures to address localized problems with double-crested cormorants, which are migratory birds that fall under provincial jurisdiction.

Double-crested cormorants feed on fish, and their breeding activity during spring and summer has increased in many areas of the province in recent years. Most depart in early autumn and prefer to overwinter outside of the province.

Concerns have arisen that rapidly increasing populations in localized areas will negatively impact native fish populations, cause property and environmental damage, and may conflict with other sea bird nesting activity.

Wildlife Division has been working with other Canadian jurisdictions over the past year to evaluate control options. As staff assess the full impacts of double-crested cormorant populations, beginning on June 15, 2022 the department will accept requests for permits to allow the humane, lethal removal of birds from specific areas, such as important fish habitat, water supplies, or aquaculture operations.

Requests for permits from property owners, businesses, or organizations must specify the location and specific problem caused by cormorants. Department staff will evaluate the identified areas of concern to determine if a permit is warranted. To request a permit, contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025 or wildlifelicensing@gov.nl.ca.

Survey work to assess the number of cormorant colonies around the island of Newfoundland will begin this summer to determine whether further action may be required to protect local ecosystems.

– 30 –

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

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Triton Ocean Products Limited of Triton has been charged with violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations, in relation to an incident that occurred in June 2020, resulting in injuries to a worker at a mussel processing facility.

The company is charged with four violations relating to its alleged failure to:

• Provide a safe workplace and the necessary equipment, systems and tools that are without risk to workers;
• Ensure that machinery and equipment is fitted with adequate safeguards that ensure an employee cannot access a hazardous point of operation;
• Ensure that machinery and equipment is fitted with adequate safeguards to protect an employee from contact with hazardous power transmission parts; and
• Ensure that where machinery or equipment is shut down for maintenance, that no work can be carried out until all parts and attachments have been secured against inadvertent movement; where the work would expose workers to energy sources, the hazard has been effectively controlled; and the energy isolating devices have been locked out.

The company’s first appearance is scheduled for June 15, 2022 at Provincial Court in Grand Falls-Windsor.

– 30 –

Media contact
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

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

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will speak at the annual Energy NL Conference & Exhibition tomorrow (Thursday, June 2).

The event takes place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 8:15 a.m.

– 30 –

Media contact

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

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, today announced the appointments of new Chairpersons to Regional Service Boards. The new Chairpersons have each been appointed for a four-year term. They are:

• Stephen Tessier – Eastern Regional Service Board
• Harold James Murphy  – Burin Peninsula Regional Service Board
• Robert Cyril Elliott – Central Regional Service Board
• Bernd Staeben – Western Regional Service Board
• Brad Johannessen – Northern Peninsula Regional Service Board

Biographical information is provided in the backgrounder below. These appointments were recommended through the merit-based Independent Appointments Commission process.

A Regional Service Board is an incorporated entity which provides a regional approach to municipal service delivery within a designated regional boundary. Services include advancing a waste management action plan for the region; operating landfill facilities and transfer stations; administering consolidated waste collection services; and, can also include other activities such as police, ambulance and fire protection services and animal control.

Quote
“I welcome the newly appointed and reappointed Chairpersons to the Regional Service Boards and am confident they will bring significant knowledge and expertise to the work of the boards throughout the province. We value the work of all board members who provide an important service to municipalities and communities.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

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Learn more
Regional Service Boards

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

BACKGROUNDER

Biographies of Chairperson Appointments to the Regional Service Boards

Stephen Tessier
Stephen Tessier brings multiple years of experience in the municipal sector having served as Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillor of Conception Bay South, as well as Treasurer for the North East Avalon Joint Council. Mr. Tessier was Chair of the Minimum Wage Review Committee from October 2019 to January 2020; Chair of the Finance and Operation Committee with the Newfoundland and Labrador Eastern School District Board of Trustees; and, has been a member of the Employers Council of NL, Econext, Energy NL (formerly Noia), and Tech NL.

Harold Murphy
Harold Murphy has been involved in regional waste management initiatives on the Burin Peninsula since 2002 and has served as Chairperson of the Burin Peninsula Regional Service Board since 2013. He is currently the Mayor of Parker’s Cove and has also served as Deputy Mayor. Mr. Murphy is currently a member of the Burin Peninsula Joint Council; the Placentia West Development Association; the Parker’s Cove Recreation Commission; and, was a founding member of the Burin Peninsula Waste Management Corporation.

Robert Elliott
Robert Elliott is a former member of the Central Regional Service Board and has served as Chair of the Board since 2018. From 1980 to 2021, he served as town councillor in Point Leamington for 14 years and Mayor for 12 years. Mr. Elliott taught school for 30 years and is a former board member of the Baie Verte Central Connairgre School Board. He was a founding member and Chair of the Point Leamington Heritage Committee and is a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Sector Pensioners’ Association.

Bernd Staeben
Bernd Staeben has extensive board experience with particular emphasis on governance, financial management and facilitating good relationships among board members and stakeholders. He served as board member and Chair of the finance committee of the Western Regional Services Board from 2013 to 2021. In this capacity his work included the development of the comprehensive plan for waste management for the western region of the province. Mr. Staeben has also served as councillor with the City of Corner Brook from 1993 to 2021, including one term as Deputy Mayor.

Brad Johannessen
Brad Johannessen is the Mayor of St. Anthony and has served as a councillor and Deputy Mayor. He has been a member of the Northern Peninsula Regional Service Board, serving in the capacity of Vice Chairperson and Acting Chairperson. Mr. Johannessen is an active member of the St. Anthony Volunteer Fire Department.

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Starting today, ParticipACTION will launch its annual Community Better Challenge and municipalities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are encouraged to take part. The Community Better Challenge is a national physical activity initiative that encourages people to get active while searching for Canada’s Most Active Community.

To register, communities have to sign-up on the ParticipACTION website. Once registered, communities should encourage their residents to engage in as much physical activity as possible, in-person or virtual, for the duration of the challenge., which runs until the end of June. Residents should download the free ParticipACTION app, available through Apple or Google Play stores, to automatically track their daily movement. All minutes tracked on the app throughout the month will be counted towards a community’s total score.

After the challenge ends on Thursday, June 30, 50 finalist communities will be invited to submit an application to ParticipACTION explaining why they deserve to be Canada’s Most Active Community. One community will win the $100,000 grand prize and the title of Canada’s Most Active Community. There will also be a $15,000 prize for the most active community in Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2021, Grand Falls-Windsor was named Newfoundland and Labrador’s Most Active Community.

The Community Better Challenge aligns with the ongoing ‘Everything Gets Better’ campaign, and complements the partnership between the Provincial Government and ParticipACTION. Similar to the ‘Everything Gets Better’ campaign, the Community Better Challenge helps raise awareness about the physical and mental health benefits associated with increased physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviours.

Quotes
“ParticipACTION’s Community Better Challenge encourages people of all ages and abilities to rally together with their local hometown and get moving during the month of June. Supporting active, healthy lifestyles and building active, healthy communities is part of this challenge. I encourage everyone to take part this year and help your community get crowned Canada’s or Newfoundland and Labrador’s Most Active Community.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Municipal governments and leaders are uniquely positioned to engage with residents in fun and accessible ways to encourage healthy, active lifestyles. I encourage all communities to get involved in the Community Better Challenge and take advantage of this excellent opportunity to become Canada’s or the province’s Most Active Community. Let’s get active, Newfoundland and Labrador!”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“Newfoundland and Labrador has embraced the Community Better Challenge because physical activity has the power to bring communities together. As soon as you start participating in the challenge, you’re not only getting of the great individual physical and mental benefits that come with being active, but you’re also helping your community get one step closer to becoming Canada’s Most Active and winning $100,000 towards local physical activity initiatives.”
Elio Antunes
President and CEO, ParticipACTION

“Grand Falls-Windsor was extremely proud and honoured to be named 2021’s Most Active Community in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Community Better Challenge really brought our community together, with residents diligently logging their activity minutes and sharing their activities on social media. After winning, we received $15,000 to go towards delivering more recreational programming and events for residents of all ages and abilities. As a municipality, it is so important to provide our residents with recreation opportunities to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle. I encourage all communities to get active together for this year’s Community Better Challenge.”
Barry Manuel
Mayor, Town of Grand Falls-Windsor

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Learn more
ParticipACTION Community Better Challenge

ParticipACTION Community Better Challenge Video

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

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

Miguel Pacheco
ParticipACTION
416-913-1653
mpacheco@participaction.com

Robyn Hannaford
Town of Grand Falls-Windsor
709-489-0173, 689-3682
communications@townofgfw.com

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture:

Speaker, the Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has just wrapped up the big game licence draw for the 2022-23 season, and applicants have been eagerly checking their results online.

This year, the moose quota for Newfoundland and Labrador was set at just over 28,000 licences, with 575 caribou licences allocated for the island.

As an avid hunter myself, I know the annual release of the big game draw results is an exciting time for thousands of hunters. We received 75,261 big game applications this year. Within 24 hours of announcing the results earlier this week, we recorded more than 230,000 hits to the Wildlife Information Management System website.

This year, our department made the transition to a primarily online application system to support increased public access to Newfoundland and Labrador’s forestry and wildlife resources, while continuing to allow access for those without internet capabilities.

With more hunters in the province using online services to submit and monitor their big game applications, our staff has streamlined the management and operation of the application process to improve it for hunters and administrators alike.

Speaker, I want to thank our dedicated team of wildlife professionals for developing another comprehensive, science-based wildlife management plan, and for handling this year’s draw process with professionalism and dedication.

Although fall seems a long way off, I remind all eager hunters that most Moose Management Areas in Newfoundland and Labrador will open for the season on September 10. Successful applicants must submit their fees by June 30.

Speaker, we also remind all residents to help protect our natural resources by reporting suspected illegal activity at stoppoaching.ca or by calling 1-877-820-0999.

Congratulations to the successful applicants, and best of luck for a safe and successful hunting season.

Thank you.

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs:

Speaker, I am pleased to recognize June as National Indigenous History Month.

The history of First Peoples has not been fully told. It’s a history that has been told to us using a Western lens. This is not two-eyed seeing. We can’t change history, but we can go forward, together and collaboratively with Indigenous Governments and Organizations, along a path that involves listening, understanding and mutual respect.

As our government continues to build on a relationship of trust with Indigenous Governments and Organizations, we continue working on a series of actions which honour the culture and history of Indigenous peoples. This includes replacing symbols of racism with symbols of Reconciliation.

National Indigenous History Month presents an opportunity for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to better understand the traditions, cultures and history that shaped the lives of First Peoples. I encourage everyone to seek out events organized by Indigenous peoples during Come Home 2022, as one opportunity, to become better educated on Indigenous culture and history.

Speaker, we share a responsibility to learn from the experiences that have been passed down through generations of Indigenous peoples and better understand the Indigenous struggles to preserve a way of life in the face of colonialism, conflict, racism and adversity.

Residential Schools are an acute example of one such struggle. We are painfully aware that some students did not survive and the sorrow of these tragedies remains today with survivors, families and communities.

In order to walk the path of Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, we must learn from history to do better.

Thank you.

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The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to recognize May 29 to June 4 as Tourism Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the provincial tourism industry and local businesses, operators and employees. They have put Newfoundland and Labrador on the map as a travel destination of choice and are the very reason why tourism is such a strong economic pillar in our province.

Year after year, they create exceptional tourism experiences, showcase the uniqueness and beauty of our communities, and share our warmth and hospitality with visitors from all over the world. Experiences that celebrate the arts, culture, heritage, nature and culinary – the authentic experiences that visitors want.

Industry outlook for the remainder of 2022 and into 2023 is promising. Operators are reporting that bookings are very strong from June to September and that the fall season is shaping up to be busy. Some operators are booked entirely. Marine Atlantic bookings are exceeding 2019 levels.

As part of Come Home 2022, there will be lots to do and see this year. Special events are being planned in over 170 communities. Over the last two years, we have invested over $19 million dollars directly into tourism operations. To help build capacity and experiences, we have also invested close to $17 million in cultural and community organizations to upgrade infrastructure and add to or enhance their programming.

Speaker, our government will continue to stand with and support our operators in creating and enhancing their experiences, and encouraging visitors to ‘come home.’ Please join me in thanking all those involved in the tourism industry for showcasing the wonders of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is seeking public comment on a proposed crown timber licence and forest management agreement between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Miawpukek First Nation.

Members of the public are encouraged to visit www.engageNL.ca to participate in a questionnaire and view a map of the proposed forest management area. The consultation process is scheduled to conclude Friday, June 17.

Individuals seeking more information about the forest management agreement or the online public consultation process can contact the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture by email at FMA@gov.nl.ca.

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

 

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Today the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is acknowledging the contributions of Dr. Susan Dyer Knight, who is concluding her time as Chancellor of Memorial University after 10 years.

Dr. Dyer Knight was appointed in 2012 and was the university’s first female Chancellor. As the sixth Chancellor in Memorial’s history, Dr. Dyer Knight has officiated convocation ceremonies conferring nearly 30,000 Memorial University degrees. Her decade as Chancellor saw a significant period of growth in graduate and international students at Memorial, with the alumni family growing to 100,000 individuals who contribute the province and around the world..

In addition to her role as Chancellor, she is the founder and Artistic Director Emerita of Shallaway Youth Choir of Newfoundland and Labrador. She has taught music education at the elementary, undergraduate and post-graduate levels for numerous decades, and is active internationally as a researcher, clinician, keynote speaker, author, consultant and producer.

Dr. Dyer Knight is an alumnus of Memorial University holding bachelor degrees in music and music education, in addition to a Master of Arts in music education from St. Thomas University, Minnesota, and a Ph.D. from the University of London. She has also been honoured with an Honorary Doctor of Laws from Memorial.

Dr. Dyer Knight will conclude her time as Chancellor on July 31, 2022.

Quote
“After 10 years overseeing convocation and participating in governance at Memorial University, I want to thank Dr. Susan Dyer Knight for her service in support of her alma mater, Memorial University. Dr. Dyer Knight is a world-renowned choral director and youth educator, and this experience has been a significant resource to the university during her time as Chancellor. Her dedication to the operations of our province’s only university is an inspiration, and an example to all those who serve.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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

The post Premier Furey Acknowledges Contributions of Outgoing Memorial University Chancellor appeared first on News Releases.

The public is reminded that possession of or captive housing of wildlife is not permitted in Newfoundland and Labrador, in accordance with the provincial Wild Life Act and Regulations.

While the instinct to assist wild animals that appear to be newborn, orphaned, abandoned or injured is understandable, animals should be left undisturbed in their natural habitat where they belong.

Intervening to assist newborn or other wildlife may actually harm an animal. In many situations, the animal’s parent may be nearby, and any perceived threat to offspring could cause distress or abandonment. Handling, feeding or relocating wildlife may cause an animal to become habituated to humans and incapable of returning to the wild. There are also risks to human health involved with handling any wildlife that may carry diseases, such as Avian Influenza.

Anyone encountering what they believe to be an orphaned, injured or sick animal should report it to the nearest Forest Management District Office or by calling 709-685-7273. Officers trained in safe handling of wildlife will determine whether a public safety concern or other circumstance warrants removing wildlife from its natural surroundings.

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

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services, will announce life promotion initiatives as part of the Towards Recovery Action Plan tomorrow, (Wednesday, June 1).

He will be joined by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs, Tina Davies, President of Richard’s Legacy Foundation, and Anatasia Qupee, Chair of the Indigenous Health Team under Towards Recovery Action Plan.

The availability will take place at Lifewise (formally known as CHANNAL), 70 The Boulevard, St. John’s, at 12:30 p.m.

The event will be livestreamed on Facebook.

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

Allan Bock
Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-7935, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Haggie to Announce Action Plan to Promote Life and Prevent Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

Kenneth Baird has been appointed the interim Chief Executive Officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority for a one-year period. He is currently Vice President of Quality, Process Improvement and Clinical Supports.

Mr. Baird, who has a Master of Business Administration, Graduate Diploma in Management, Certificate in Health Services Administration and a Diploma of X-Ray Technology, brings extensive health executive experience to the position. Additional biographical information for Mr. Baird can be found in the backgrounder below.

Mr. Baird steps into the role held by former President and CEO of the Eastern Regional Health Authority, David Diamond, who has been named the transitional CEO to lead the planning team that will be put in place for the establishment of one health authority for the province.

As announced in Budget 2022, the Provincial Government is moving forward with plans to establish a single health authority to create more consistency in health care throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as avoid duplication in associated corporate services such as human resources, payroll and finance. The four existing health authorities will be maintained during transition planning and operations will continue status quo.

Eastern Health is the largest, integrated health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador employing approximately 13,000 employees and more than 700 medical staff. Serving a population of over 300,000, Eastern Health’s geographic boundaries extend west from St. John’s to Port Blandford including all communities on the Avalon, Burin and Bonavista Peninsulas.

Quotes
“I would like to welcome Mr. Baird in his new role as CEO of Eastern Health. His significant expertise and experience will be valuable assets for the health authority. I would also like to thank the outgoing CEO, Mr. David Diamond, for his service and wish him well in his new role as transitional CEO to lead the planning team for the establishment of one health authority for the province.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Mr. Baird is an experienced health-care leader with over 40 years of clinical and administrative experience within the Canadian health system. I am confident in his leadership abilities to guide Eastern Health’s transition to a single health authority, and that, with his vision, Eastern Health will continue to advance its organizational priorities. The Eastern Health Board of Trustees would also like to express sincere gratitude to Mr. David Diamond, outgoing President and CEO, for his commitment and dedication to Eastern Health over the past several years.”
Leslie O’Reilly
Chair of Eastern Health’s Board of Trustees

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News Release: Transitional CEO Announced for Single Health Authority Planning Phase

Health Accord NL

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

Gina MacArthur
Eastern Health
709-777-1412
gina.macarthur@easternhealth.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Biographical Information for Kenneth Baird
Kenneth Baird has had extensive clinical and administrative experience within the health system. He joined the Eastern Regional Health Authority in 2016, bringing with him more than 40 years of experience. His most recent position was Vice-President of Quality, Process Improvement and Clinical Supports.

Mr. Baird holds a Master of Business Administration and a Graduate Diploma in Management from Athabasca University; a Certificate in Health Services Administration from the University of Saskatchewan; and a Diploma of X-ray Technology from College of the North Atlantic. He is a certified health executive with the Canadian College of Health Leaders and an EXTRA Fellow with the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation.

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