Government of Newfoundland News

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I rise today in this Honourable House to recognize the week of May 29 to June 4 as Early Childhood Education Week. This week acknowledges and celebrates the crucial role early childhood educators play in the lives of children in guiding their early learning and development through well-planned, play-based learning and exploration of the environment.

Our government, in partnership with the Federal Government, is implementing an Early Learning Action Plan that will significantly expand affordable regulated child care in this province. At the same time, this plan will increase opportunities for career advancement for early childhood educators, and will see the implementation of a wage grid that will see most early childhood educators receiving a wage increase starting in 2023, to better reflect the important work they do.

Last week, we announced more than 30 locations for a pilot Pre-Kindergarten early learning program that will open in 2022-23. The pilot will result in approximately 600 new regulated child care spaces in communities throughout the province, as well as significant career opportunities within the sector.

I would also like to extend congratulations to Nicole Hall of Portugal Cove-St. Philips, recipient of the second annual “Joanne Juteau Early Childhood Education Scholarship” as presented by the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Ms. Hall is graduating from the College of North Atlantic, full-time ECE Diploma program this spring with a 4.0 GPA while volunteering at the College as a tutor, helping her peers reach their own success in the ECE program. Ms. Hall also has experience in the field and hopes to open her own child care centre.

I ask all Honourable members to join me in congratulating Ms. Hall, and thanking early childhood educators for their dedication and commitment to providing essential support to families in Newfoundland and Labrador, and encouraging others into this very special profession.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Osborne Recognizes Early Childhood Education Week appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology:

Speaker, I am pleased today to inform members of this House of Assembly and residents of the province that Cenovus and the project partners have announced the restart of the West White Rose Project.

This is great news for Newfoundland and Labrador. This project will generate and maintain up to 1,500 more direct and indirect jobs during construction and create roughly 250 new permanent platform jobs. Speaker, I am very pleased to reveal that employment at the Argentia site will ramp up immediately, and increase through next year.

Speaker, as we look to the future, we have to acknowledge the important role that oil and gas projects, like West White Rose, continue to play. Over its 14-year life span, this project is expected to generate nearly $20 billion in gross domestic product, and over $7 billion in labour income for the province.

The revised fiscal agreement will bring the province increased royalties if the price of oil is over $65 US per barrel, with first oil expected in 2026.

As a government, we have a responsibility to the industry, to the province and to residents to plan for the future. Through this revised agreement, the province obtained a $200 million royalty abandonment credit against de-commissioning costs, and $100 million to establish a Green Transition Fund to support the energy transition and other renewable initiatives.

Speaker, we will continue to foster an environment that supports our economy by embracing renewable energy, while maximizing our low-carbon oil and gas advantage.

Re-starting the West White Rose Project is a great decision, and I thank the project partners for their role in this agreement. Today is a great day for the province and those who work in this industry. Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Pleased with Restart of West White Rose Project appeared first on News Releases.

Salmonier Nature Park will open to visitors tomorrow (Wednesday, June 1). The park entrance gate will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Some areas of the park may be inaccessible or closed for portions of the day throughout the summer and fall due to ongoing repairs and upgrades to park infrastructure. Updates on closures will be available on the department’s Twitter account @FFA_GovNL and on the Friends of Salmonier Nature Park Facebook page.

Salmonier Nature Park has 17 wildlife enclosures adjacent to a three-kilometre wooden boardwalk/nature trail, surrounded by unique boreal forest habitat. The park hosts a variety of wildlife species such as woodland caribou, great horned owl, Newfoundland marten, Canada lynx, bald eagle, gyrfalcon, red fox and groundhog.

The park also hosts visits from schools, youth groups and other community organizations. For additional information, call 709-229-7888 or email salmoniernaturepark@gov.nl.ca.

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

The post Public Advisory: Salmonier Nature Park Opening on June 1 appeared first on News Releases.

The 2022 salmon angling season for the island portion of the province opens June 1 and closes September 7. The season in Labrador begins June 15 and closes September 15. Salmon licences will be available at retail vendors such as gas stations, convenience stores, and major chain stores.

Management measures announced by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, including guidelines for hook and release and retention angling, are available in the backgrounder below.

Anglers are strongly encouraged to review the results of a comprehensive three-year study undertaken by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture into the effects of hook and release angling on Atlantic salmon, completed in November 2021. The study measured Atlantic salmon survival after hook and release, and tracked many of the factors that affect survival, such as water temperature and release technique.

Anglers are reminded of these three important recommendations stemming from the report:

• Do not practice intentional hook and release in water temperatures over 18 degrees Celsius;
• Do not remove salmon from the water;
• Do not touch or handle salmon unless absolutely necessary, and use bare wet hands if needed. Use a knotless rubber net or sling.

The Hook and Release study, videos highlighting results of the study, and recommended angling practices can be viewed at links in the Learn More section below.For more information on the 2022 Atlantic salmon angling season, contact the Provincial Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025 or wildlifelicence@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“Recreational angling is treasured by residents and non-residents alike in Newfoundland and Labrador. I encourage all anglers to review the recent, comprehensive Hook and Release study completed by wildlife experts of our department before going out on the river. This study has provided valuable new information and scientific data that are helping guide our Atlantic salmon conservation efforts. All anglers should adhere to these three important recommendations: don’t intentionally hook and release in water over 18 degrees; don’t take the salmon out of the water; and do not handle the salmon if possible. The sustainable management of Atlantic salmon is critical to the future health of this precious resource.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more
Fisheries and Oceans Canada 2022-23 Angler’s Guide

Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Salmon Hook and Release Study: Summary

Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Salmon Hook and Release Study: Full Report

Video 1 – Hook and Release Study Results

Video 2 – Hook and Release Best Practices

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

BACKGROUNDER

Fisheries and Oceans Canada 2022 Atlantic Recreational Salmon Fishery Management Measures for Newfoundland and Labrador

Class 0 Rivers:

• No fish may be retained
• A valid inland fishery licence for salmon is required. (Two per day catch and release)

Class 2 Rivers:

• Tag 1 is valid
• One fish possession limit
• Three per day catch and release

Class 4, Class 6 and Unclassified Rivers:

• Tag 1 and 3 are valid
• Two fish possession limit
• Three per day catch and release

Non-scheduled Rivers:

• Retention of salmon in non-scheduled waters is not permitted.
• Catch and release limit of three fish per day.

For further explanation of river classes, please check the Fisheries and Oceans Canada 2022-23 Angler’s Guide.

The post Atlantic Salmon Recreational Angling Season Opens June 1 appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government today announced restructuring of its agreement with West White Rose (WWRP) partners to facilitate a restart of the project. As a result of the agreement between the province, Cenovus and the project partners, the project was restarted earlier today.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology are available to speak to media this morning at the Energy NL conference, St. John’s Convention Centre, at approximately 8:35 a.m. following the premier’s speech.

The province’s royalty share is improved in a higher commodity price environment. In addition, the province will receive a $200 million Royalty Abandonment credit as well as $100 million to establish a Green Transition Fund. Further details of the fund will be released in the coming weeks.

The revised fiscal agreement announced today de-risks new capital investment by the WWRP proponents and provides safeguards to the project’s economics in periods of low commodity prices.

WWRP is expected to generate almost $20 billion in gross domestic product and over $7 billion in labour income for the province over the 14-year life of the project. It will create approximately 250 permanent platform jobs, as well as create or maintain up to 1,500 more direct and indirect jobs. Employment will begin to ramp up at the Argentia site immediately and increase through 2023.

The proponents also commit to work with the province and other third parties on advancing natural gas development.

In October 2013, Cenovus (formerly Husky) announced plans to develop WWRP via a fixed wellhead platform to tie back to the existing SeaRose FPSO. The project was released from Federal Environmental Assessment in September 2013. Originally sanctioned in 2017, major construction work on WWRP was suspended in March 2020 and a project review was announced in September of that year. As a result of this agreement, and the efforts of the Cenovus and its partners, the project has been re-started.

On April 6, 2022, the Bay du Nord Development Project was released from the Government of Canada’s environmental assessment process. The Bay du Nord project will play a key role in helping the province meet global demand for responsible, lower carbon oil while supporting our government’s commitment to Net Zero by 2050. It is also critical to the Newfoundland and Labrador economy, and will provide significant employment and economic activity.

On September 25, 2020, the Federal Government announced $320 million in funding to be administered by the Province to support direct and indirect employment in the Newfoundland and Labrador oil and gas sector and activities that generate environmental and co-benefits.

This Oil and Gas Industry Recovery Assistance Fund provided $41.5 million in funding (50 per cent of total costs) to maintain near-term jobs and protect the option of re-starting WWRP.

In May 2020, the Provincial Government committed to net zero emissions by 2050. Newfoundland and Labrador fully supports protecting the environment, reducing carbon emissions and achieving net zero by 2050.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore oil and gas industry has contributed more than $24 billion in royalties to date and directly employed more than 4,000 people on producing projects as well as thousands more in supporting industries (at the end of March 2022).

Discovered in 1984, the White Rose field is located in the Jeanne d’Arc Basin; production commenced in 2005 and utilizes an FPSO vessel. There are two projects in the field: the White Rose Project, in which Cenovus holds a 60 per cent ownership with partner Suncor, which holds 40 per cent; and the White Rose Expansion Project – owned jointly between Cenovus (56.125 per cent), Suncor Energy (38.875 per cent) and Nalcor Energy Oil and Gas Inc. (5 per cent).  Cenovus is the operator of both.

Quotes
“We have a responsibility to the oil and gas industry, to our province and our people to plan for the future. As we advance efforts to achieve net zero by 2050 and plan for a transition, we will foster an environment that supports our economy by embracing renewable energy while maximizing our low-carbon oil and gas advantage.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Other parts of the world will continue to produce oil – and our oil and gas is a responsible choice. Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes and supports both the significant opportunities renewable energy presents in terms of economic development and environmental progress as well as the important role that oil and gas will continue to play for the foreseeable future.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn More

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

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

The post Provincial Government Supports Restart of West White Rose Project; Premier Furey and Minister Parsons Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will deliver the conference opening keynote address at the annual EnergyNL Conference and Exhibition tomorrow (Tuesday, May 31).

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

Premier Furey will be available to the media following the address at approximately 8:35 a.m.

EnergyNL is the leading offshore oil and gas association in Canada with approximately 460 members. Its annual conference is Canada’s flagship offshore oil and gas industry information event, attracting attendance from global oil and gas industry leaders as both speakers and delegates.

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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Speak at 2022 EnergyNL Conference and Exhibition appeared first on News Releases.

Applicants to the 2022-23 big game licence draw can now view results by logging into their Wildlife Information Management System accounts.

This year the quota was set at 27,665 moose licences for the Island, including 17,850 either sex, 9,360 male only, and 455 either-sex licences for not-for-profit groups. There are 345 either-sex moose licences in Labrador. On the Island, 575 caribou licences are allocated, including 339 either sex and 20 male only. Caribou hunting is prohibited in Labrador. Information about this year’s quotas and changes to the 2022-23 big game management plan is available in this video.

Most Moose Management Areas (MMAs) on the Island open for the season on September 10, 2022 and close December 31, 2022. In Labrador, MMAs open on September 10, 2022 and close on March 12, 2023. Big game licence fees must be paid by 4:30 p.m. on June 30, 2022.

More information on big game licence allocations, season dates, and payment options is available in the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide. Applicants with limited internet and no online account access who picked up and submitted a paper application from a Forestry and Wildlife Office will receive notification by mail.

Quote
“As an avid hunter, I know the annual release of big game draw results is an exciting time for thousands of hunters. Thanks to our dedicated team for managing this year’s draw and the recent switch to a mainly online system, which will further streamline future big game draws for all applicants. Congratulations to the successful applicants, and best of luck for a safe and successful hunting season.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more
Public Advisory: Big Game Online Account Registration Instructions Mailed to Hunters

Online Big Game Licence Draw Application Process Opens and Hunting and Trapping Guide Made Available

2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

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

The post Big Game Licence Draw Results Available Online appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to recognize today as Provincial Francophonie Day. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has celebrated this occasion since 1999.

This morning, I was pleased to participate in a flag-raising event here at Confederation Building organized by the Francophone Federation of Newfoundland and Labrador. I was honoured to join students from École des Grand-Vents, École Rocher-du-Nord and members of the community. Similar events are taking place elsewhere, in places like Port-au-Port and in Labrador.

Speaker, I have been working closely with the Francophone Federation on key issues as we identify ways for government to better serve the needs of our Francophone communities.

For example, the Office of French Services provided critical public health information in French in a timely fashion throughout the pandemic.

Just last week I joined the Minister of Education, as well as members of the Francophone community, to visit the new location for École Rocher-du-Nord. We aim to help them make this location a new hub of activity for the community.

Today, I ask all Honourable members to join me in congratulating the Francophone and Acadian communities of Newfoundland and Labrador on this, Provincial Francophonie Day.

Thank you.

Déclaration ministérielle – La ministre souligne la Journée de la francophonie provinciale

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, is providing information related to Public Interest Disclosure under Part VI of the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act (the Act). The Speaker’s authority under the statute is very limited and, despite requests to do so, does not provide for public disclosure or tabling of such reports in the House of Assembly. Subsection 58(10) of the Act limits the Speaker to make a referral of a report to an appropriate entity following an assessment of the circumstances of the matter.

The House of Assembly Management Commission is one of several entities referenced in subsection 58(10) as an option for referral of a report, depending on the circumstances. The other options for referral contemplated in subsection 58(10) include the Auditor General, the Attorney General, the Minister of Finance or “other appropriate official to take appropriate action.” It is possible, depending on the nature of the findings and recommendations, that a report could be referred to multiple entities.

Reports respecting discipline of a Member of the House of Assembly under the MHA Code of Conduct follow a different process than those related to Public Interest Disclosure. The statute provides that Code of Conduct reports must be tabled by the Speaker and subsequently debated in the House, as the authority to discipline Members rests only with the House due to parliamentary privilege.

Should there be individuals engaged in any process under the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act who feel they require additional supports or assistance, they are encouraged to contact the Manager of Human Resources, House of Assembly at 729-7214 or HOAHRServices@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“As Speaker of the House of Assembly and the Member for Lewisporte – Twillingate, I have sworn the oath of office for Members and I am bound by the MHA Code of Conduct. It is in this context that I must commit to due diligence and following appropriate processes for any matter referred to me in accordance with the intention of the Legislature and the authorities delegated to the Speaker in the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act. Any reports I receive will be taken seriously.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly

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Learn more

Public Interest Disclosure – Part VI – House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act

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

The post Speaker Provides Information Related to Public Interest Disclosure Process Under the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act appeared first on News Releases.

Two contracts have been awarded to complete roadwork on highways on the southern Avalon Peninsula.

A contract valued at $4.3 million has been awarded to Farrell’s Excavating Limited to upgrade and repave approximately 10 kilometres of Southern Shore Highway (Route 10), between Cappahayden and Portugal Cove South.

A contract valued at approximately $4.1 million has also been awarded to Municipal Construction Limited to upgrade and repave approximately 10 kilometres of Salmonier Line (Route 90) between the Trans-Canada Highway and Salmonier Nature Park.

Work for both contracts includes replacing culverts, paving, ditching, and installing guide rails. Both projects are anticipated to be completed during this construction season.

When work begins, motorists should watch for traffic control and lane closures and consider using alternate routes.

Other work planned on the southern Avalon Peninsula this constriction season includes repairing and replacing bridges on Salmonier Line, Old Placentia Bay Highway, Mount Carmel Road, and Argentia Access Road, and paving sections of Salmonier Line.

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
“Replacing culverts and upgrading roads are important for maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure in our province. We remind everyone to drive cautiously and follow all highway traffic control measures through all highway construction zones this summer.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Good road infrastructure is crucial to growth, economic development and brings important social benefits. An investment in the Salmonier Line will enhance safety on one of the most travelled roads in the district.”
Sherry Gambin-Walsh
MHA for Placentia – St. Mary’s

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

The post Contracts Awarded for Avalon Peninsula Road Work appeared first on News Releases.

Three bridges on the Roebucks Forest Access Road on the south side of Beothuk Lake will undergo repairs from Monday, May 30 to Wednesday, June 8. Road users can expect delays of up to several hours at a time during this period.  For further information, contact the Bishop’s Falls Forest Management District Office at 709-258-5334.

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

The post Public Advisory: Travel Delays Expected on Forest Access Road Near Beothuk Lake appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development will participate in the Walk for Alzheimer’s hosted by Fort Amherst Properties on Sunday, May 29 at 12:00 p.m.

The event takes place at Westbury Estates, 160 Southlands Blvd, St. John’s.

Walk for Alzheimer’s is a national initiative that aims to raise awareness and support for local programs and services related to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

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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 Walk for Alzheimer’s appeared first on News Releases.

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;

Lower Terra Nova Fishway Refurbishment                                        (Reg. 2200)
Proponent: Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The proponent is proposing to conduct refurbishments to a fishway on the Lower Terra Nova River in Terra Nova National Park. The proposed work includes the installation of new water control structures, refurbishment of existing uplands, replacement of the damaged fishway weir wall and replacement of the existing concrete stop log sill. The work is expected to occur over 19 months. 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 May 27, 2022; the deadline for public comment is July 1, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by July 11, 2022.

Undertakings released:

St. John’s Long Pond Flood Control Structure                                (Reg. 2183)
Proponent: City of St. John’s

The project was released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the City of St. John’s, in consultation and partnership of the Water Resources Management Division, to establish two water level monitoring stations at either end of Long Pond.
• 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.

• The proponent is required to update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of their project, including a copy of all permits, licenses, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for your project, one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Wych Hazel Pond Goat and Crop Farm                                               (Reg. 2188)
Proponent: Salty Creek Agricultural Enterprise

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires that prior to commencing any work related to this project, a Water Resources Management Plan must be prepared and submitted to the Water Resources Management Division for review and approval. The Water Resources Management Plan should address/answer the following concerns:
  • If there are any brooks, rivers, ponds, streams or wetlands, present in or within 30 metres of the boundaries of the project site, then provide the type of water body and its distance from the site,
  • if any of the above-mentioned water bodies are impacted by the farm operation, describe how the water body will be impacted. A permit or licence from the Water Resources Management Division may be required.

• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following;
  • Where possible, for slopes less than 30 percent, a minimum 30 metre naturally vegetated riparian buffer zone shall be established around all waterbodies, from the high water mark, that are identified on either the 1:50,000 scale National Topographic System maps, or the topographic mapping layer shown in the Provincial Land Use Atlas. No land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities will take place in this zone.
  • For slopes greater than 30 percent, there shall be a naturally vegetated riparian buffer zone calculated using the following formula: 30 metres + 1.5 metres x slope (%). No land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities will take place in this zone.
  • No vegetation clearing is to occur within 800 meters of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and 200 meters during the remainder of the year. The 200 metre buffer also applies to all other raptor nests (e.g. Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest site must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
• The proponent is required to advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent is required to update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of their project, including a copy of all permits, licenses, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Undertaking Withdrawn;

Foxtrap Incinerator Road NORM Storage and Decontamination Facility (Reg. 2166)
Proponent: Pardy’s Waste Management and Industrial Services Limited

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_Dec2021Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will bring greetings at the Association of Chartered Professional Accountants of Newfoundland and Labrador Convocation and Awards Ceremony tomorrow evening (Saturday, May 28). The event will take place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower St. beginning at 7:00 p.m.

The convocation and awards ceremony will celebrate the Association’s 2020 and 2021 graduates and new fellows.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Coady to Bring Greetings at Chartered Professional Accountants’ Convocation appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development will bring greetings to the St. John’s Defeat Depression event in support of The Pottle Centre tomorrow (Saturday, May 28).

The warm-up and speeches component of the event will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Bowring Park Amphitheatre, Waterford Bridge Road, St. John’s, and will be followed by a walk/run at 11:00 a.m.

‘Defeat Depression,’ which is an initiative of the Mood Disorders Society of Canada, is a national fundraising and awareness campaign that helps individuals and organizations raise funds and support local mental health programs.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings to Mental Health Awareness Event appeared first on News Releases.

High school students from Gonzaga, O’Donel and Mount Pearl Senior High will participate in the regional Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) competition this weekend in St. John’s. The Provincial Government is contributing $70,960 to support this year’s event hosted by Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University.

The MATE ROV competition is an underwater robotics challenge that engages a global community of learners each year. Using science, technology, engineering, and math skills, students create remotely operated vehicles to compete in missions that simulate challenges present in marine environments.

This year’s student challenge is ‘Take Bluetech to New Depths’. Ocean observations and research are critical to predicting the consequences of change, designing ways to mitigate these consequences, and guiding communities to embrace and adapt these practices for the good of us all.

Taking place Sunday, May 29, this Newfoundland and Labrador competition is part of a network of 46 regional events worldwide. Winners of the provincial competition will attend the international MATE ROV competition in Long Beach, California, June 23-25, 2022.

The goal of the MATE ROV competition is to encourage youth to become more involved in ocean science and technology, providing industry with skilled individuals who can fill workforce needs in the future.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a world leader in ocean technology excellence.

Quotes
“It is essential that we continue to support opportunities that expand the abilities of young people in our province, to help them think differently, to find creative solutions, and to learn outside the classroom. Technology is an economic engine and the ocean innovation happening here is sought out by customers that span the globe. I commend the leadership role that Marine Institute has played in coordinating this event, and introducing the participants to such valuable learning experiences. Best of luck to all students competing this weekend.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“For high school students, the technology and ocean innovation sector is full of opportunities for a bright future in this province. Through this partnership with Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University, students are learning technology and business skills that will prepare them for the ocean careers of today and tomorrow. Good luck to all students competing in this year’s competition.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Education

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Learn more
The MATE ROV Competition

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

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

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On Monday, May 30, 2022, the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs, will raise the Newfoundland and Labrador Francophone flag in recognition of Provincial Francophonie Day.

The event will take place at 11:00 a.m. in the East Block lobby of Confederation Building.

In the evening, the exterior of the building will also be lit in red, white and blue in recognition.

This event is hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Francophone Federation. The Minister will be joined by students from École Rocher-du-Nord, Rose des Vents choir, as well as representatives from various Francophone community organizations.

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Avis aux médias : la ministre Stoodley participera à la Journée de la francophonie provinciale

Media contact
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

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The Provincial Government, along with Memorial University, IBM Canada, and the Government of Canada, today launched two new initiatives at Memorial University – the Centre for Analytics, Informatics and Research and the Accelerated Analytics and Machine Learning project.

Memorial University will receive a more than $18 million investment, which includes a $16-million, in-kind investment of hardware, software and staffing from IBM during a period of four years. IBM will also provide free development and cloud credits to early stage entrepreneurs and startup companies via the Startup with IBM program. The Provincial Government is contributing $1.35 million towards the two initiatives, while the Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, is contributing $1.4 million.

Led by Memorial, Centre for Analytics, Informatics and Research and the Accelerated Analytics and Machine Learning initiatives will focus on innovation and research in such diverse fields as data science and astrophysics, genetic analysis, artificial intelligence, machine learning, image analysis and scientific computing. The Centre for Analytics, Informatics and Research will be equipped with powerful high-performance computers able to process huge amounts of complex data, leading to faster insights for projects such as the Accelerated Analytics and Machine Learning.

Working with Memorial University, IBM will also help drive further economic development in the province by supporting skills growth via the IBM SkillsBuild program. The free digital training program helps learners develop valuable new skills and find jobs, regardless of their background or education. SkillsBuild provides learners with professional workplace readiness and technical skills and enables them to earn digital badges recognized by the market. Globally, IBM is committed to providing 30 million people with new skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow by 2030.

This undertaking builds on the tremendous success of the partnership first formed in 2014 between IBM, Memorial University, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada.

Quotes
“Industry has made it clear that as our innovation economy grows, there is a greater need for more highly qualified people or talent. This collaboration will provide access to high performance computing within our province, allowing for even more opportunities for researchers, industry partnerships and the start-up community to meet the growing needs of our tech sector.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“By investing in innovative projects in Newfoundland and Labrador, we are able to reap the awards of accessing state-of-the-art innovation and research right here at home. This important work will benefit our health care system by providing medical data technology and collection, evaluating skills gaps, as well as provide essential exploration and learning opportunities.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is committed to working with key partners to help build the digital economy and support long-term economic growth in this region. By investing in high-tech equipment and skills development at Memorial University, we are supporting innovative learning, advanced research and opportunities to grow the technology industry.”
Joanne Thompson
Member of Parliament for St. John’s East, on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Ongoing collaborations with our government and industry partners allow Memorial to meet the challenges and opportunities of our province and beyond. These significant investments will further enhance Memorial’s capacity in strategic areas, provide world-class scientific training opportunities for faculty and graduate students and allow Memorial to continue supporting the tremendous growth of the local technology industry.”
Dr. Vianne Timmons
President and vice-chancellor, Memorial University

“Our goal is to deliver more diverse computing services to teaching and research communities, to speed up their processes of scientific and technical innovations, and to further increase our contributions in Newfoundland and Labrador. This investment is a testimony of our continued commitment to support and collaborate with Memorial University and both levels of government to help further advance Canada’s ability to innovate, address a critical skills gap, and drive research and innovation.”
Frank Attaie
General Manager-Technology, IBM Canada

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

Nancy Hollett
Health and Community Services
709-729-6554, 327-7878
nancyhollett@gov.nl.ca

Paul McGrath
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
709-689-5731
paul.mcgrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Melissa Ennis
Centre for Analytics, Informatics and Research
709-864-6458
melissa.ennis@mun.ca

Ruhee Dhar
IBM Canada
ruhee@ibm.com

The post Strengthening Research and Innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, joined the other three Atlantic Ministers Responsible for Agriculture on Thursday, May 26 in Halifax to discuss approaches for the next agricultural policy framework, emerging issues, and potential collaboration opportunities to support agriculture producers.

Agriculture is a vital part of the region’s economy and workforce and an important contributor to local food supply. Among other items, the group discussed rising production costs, mental health of farmers and emergency preparedness.

The next agricultural policy framework is currently being developed by the federal, provincial and territorial governments to provide agriculture policy and programming. It will replace the Canadian Agriculture Program when it expires March 31, 2023.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, Budget 2022 provides over $10.9 million to support farmers and producers in their essential work. Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, $26.2 million has been invested to support this province’s agriculture sector.

Quotes
“Current international issues affecting the agriculture sector are hitting close to home, and serve as a strong reminder of the direct connection Atlantic Canadians share with each other, and as members of the global economy. I am grateful for the support and cooperation of our Atlantic counterparts as we continue working together to increase food self-sufficiency, and continue building a strong, sustainable agriculture sector for the future.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, Newfoundland and Labrador

“The global pandemic highlighted the importance of local agriculture and food supply chains, and that also applies to Atlantic Canada. Making sure our farms are healthy and sustainable is a top priority for each of us,” said Minister Morrow. “We need to help ensure our farmers can achieve that goal while facing rising costs that also result from global conditions.”
Honourable Greg Morrow
Minister of Agriculture, Nova Scotia

“I was pleased to participate in this valuable gathering to discuss common concerns and compare notes on best practices. In looking at the next policy framework at the national level, it is critical that the Atlantic provinces are unified in our support for the agricultural sector and increasing production. The new framework is meant to position our agri-food producers and processors and others in the sector as world leaders in sustainable agriculture and enable a globally competitive sector. My department looks forward to continuing to work with our Atlantic colleagues representing the region’s needs. Our agriculture sector is an important part of New Brunswick’s economy.”
Honourable Margaret Johnson
Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries, New Brunswick

“As we have through the heights of the pandemic, it’s important for agriculture leaders in the region to continue to work together and identify areas of need as well as opportunities for growth in our industry. While we know that local and regional agriculture sectors are experiencing similar difficulties due to global constraints, we also know that with collaboration and support our farmers can continue to lead our communities towards an economic and environmentally sustainable future, and we look forward to the work ahead.”
Honourable Bloyce Thompson
Minister of Agriculture and Land, Prince Edward Island

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Media contacts

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

Bruce Nunn
Fisheries and Aquaculture
Agriculture
Government of Nova Scotia
902-476-6454
bruce.x.nunn@novascotia.ca

Kelly Cormier
Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries
Government of New Brunswick
kelly.cormier@gnb.ca

Kip Ready
Agriculture and Land
Government of Prince Edward Island
902-314-3407
kjready@gov.pe.ca

The post Atlantic Agriculture Ministers Unified in Supporting Industry appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change announced today the 2022 recipients of the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board’s (MMSB) Community Waste Diversion Fund. Grants totalling $76,960 have been provided to 11 projects that support sustainable waste management in communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Town of Pouch Cove, which received $9,800 from the Community Waste Diversion Fund, hosted today’s event. The Town highlighted how funding from MMSB will help reduce the use of bottled water through the introduction of new chilled bottle filling stations. The new water stations, strategically positioned at key locations in the community for the convenience for residents, hikers, and tourists, are equipped with technology to count the number of bottles saved.

The Community Waste Diversion Fund provides a maximum $10,000 contribution to municipalities and local service districts for the implementation of community initiatives that create opportunities to divert more waste from landfills. This year’s recipients will carry out projects that address textile waste, implement recycling/reuse initiatives and target organic waste.

A full list of the 2021-22 recipients is provided in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“I congratulate all recipients of this year’s program to support projects to make our environment cleaner. The Town of Pouch Cove is a positive example with their innovative project for residents. Through its new chilled bottle filling station, residents, tourists and hikers can access safe and clean drinking water. As a result, the amount of plastic waste from bottled water will be reduced from the environment.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for the MMSB

“On behalf of MMSB, congratulations to this year’s recipients of the Community Waste Diversion Fund. Communities play an integral role and MMSB is proud to support communities that share its commitment for a greener future. Together, we can find sustainable waste management and diversion solutions that protect our environment. We encourage organizations and communities that have innovative ideas to consider applying for funding in the future.”
Derm Flynn
Chair, MMSB Board of Directors.

“Having up to five more chilled bottle filling stations at town buildings and recreational facilities will help with waste diversion in our community and promote drinking our clean water. Historically, due to a lack of clean drinking water, we have been heavy users of plastic bottles. With the help of MMSB, we are now proud to be able to discontinue this waste and move toward a greener future.”
Mark Vardy
Mayor, Town of Pouch Cove

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Learn more
Community Waste Diversion Fund

Waste Management Trust Fund

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

Jackie O’Brien
Multi-Materials Stewardship Board
709-757-3696, 682-6657
jobrien@mmsb.nl.ca

Susan Arns
Town Clerk & Program Coordinator
225-2848 ext 228
susan@pouchcove.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Community Waste Diversion Fund 2021-22 Recipients

Town of Fogo Island – Reducing Textile Waste Phase 2: $5,892
Funding will support further growth of a program to recover, reuse and recycle textiles on Fogo Island through strategic partnerships with schools and community groups.

Town of Pilley’s Island – Sew it Again Textile Recycling: $10,000.00
Funding will help divert textile waste through the introduction of a program to collect, sort, harvest, redistribute and recycle textiles into long-life items.

Town of Georges Brook Milton – Community Composting Phase 2: $9,376
Funding will support the purchase of a woodchipper and two additional composters to aid in the expansion of an existing Community Composting project.

Town of Pouch Cove – Reusable Bottle Filling Drinking Water Fountains and Bottles: $9,800
Funding will promote the use of reusable water bottles over single use containers through the installation of chilled bottle filling stations.

Town of Stephenville – Community Compost Pilot Program: $10,000
Funding will support a new curbside organic waste collection pilot using an in-vessel composter for processing organic waste.

Town of St. Anthony’s – Woodchipper for Community Garden Enhancement: $10,000
Funding will support the purchase of a woodchipper to divert wood waste and provide a mulching service to residents free of charge.

Town of Carbonear – Community Composting Initiative: $3,478
Funding will support the purchase of in-vessel composters that will provide an opportunity for residents, local food banks and nearby restaurants to divert organic waste through community composting.

Town of Summerford – Age Friendly Community Garden/Composting: $972
Funding will support the purchase of an in-vessel composter for a new community composting initiative that will be piloted by 20 families to divert organic waste.

Town of Avondale – Avondale Express Trailways Recycling – Woodchipper: $6,583
Funding will support the purchase of a woodchipper to help divert leaf, yard and wood waste from the landfill by mulching material for use in community gardens and greenspaces.

Town of Lumsden – Ride the Tide, Take a Green Side Recycling Infrastructure: $3,612
Funding will support the implementation of recycling infrastructure and education on local beaches and near the Town Hall where residents and visitors can properly dispose of their waste while protecting local sand dunes and the environment.

Town of Charlottetown – Recycling Program: $7,227
Funding will support a curbside recycling program initiative. Residents will be provided with infrastructure and a bi-weekly collection of materials that will be diverted from the landfill.

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