Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will serve as the new co-chair of the Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) and will host the next meeting in 2023.

Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for tourism met in person this week in Vancouver, BC for the annual CCTM meeting. The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance for the Government of Canada, and the Honourable Lisa Beare, British Columbia Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, co-chaired the meeting and recognized the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. As tourism recovers across Canada, there is keen interest to find ways to collaboratively support the sector.

In the lead up to this meeting, the federal government, provinces and territories studied through working groups key issues facing the tourism sector as it recovers from the pandemic. These include the tourism workforce, destination access, and economic growth.  The findings from these working groups were presented to tourism ministers today, to highlight the current state of play in the sector, as well as sharing data and best practices. The federal government received this input as part of its engagement with provinces and territories on a new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. All governments agreed to explore opportunities for future collaboration.

Ministers noted some priority areas for the collaborative workplan for 2023. On the theme of workforce, they indicated an interest in monitoring the impacts of the labour shortage on tourism sub-sectors and to explore ways to promote the sector. On destination access, more extensive engagement will be conducted to raise tourism-specific concerns with key transportation stakeholders. On economic growth, the priority will be to explore ways to sustainably expand tourism offerings by addressing seasonal and geographic dispersion and attracting key audience segments.

In a separate meeting held prior to the official CCTM agenda, British Columbia Indigenous tourism organizations shared their approaches and priorities with ministers, with a particular focus on sustainability, growth, and experience development. Ministers noted their commitment to strengthening engagement and collaboration with Indigenous tourism organizations and communities going forward.

The working groups will also commit to ensuring an Indigenous lens is applied to all levels of their work. The working groups will continue to engage with the federal, provincial and territorial orders of government, stakeholders, Indigenous partners, and tourism organizations to share information and pursue initiatives. Ministers will review progress on this workplan throughout 2023.

Quotes
“As Tourism continues to recover from the challenges posed by the pandemic, we see, once again, the resilience and tenacity of this industry, which is such a vital component of our economy. I am excited to have the opportunity to tackle these challenges in my new role as co-chair of the Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers, and I look forward to working with my colleagues from all provinces and territories to rebuild Canada’s reputation as a destination of choice.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers is playing an essential role in the recovery and growth of the tourism sector. The spirit of collaboration between federal, provincial and territorial counterparts is invaluable. The findings of the Council’s working groups on the key issues of workforce, destination access, and economic growth will help in developing the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy that the Government of Canada will present in the coming months.”
Honourable Randy Boissonnault
Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

“I was pleased to welcome my tourism minister colleagues from across the country to the Vancouver Convention Centre to discuss how we will work together to rebuild the tourism economy post pandemic. Tourism is vital to our country, local communities and individuals whose livelihoods depend on its success. We recognize the ongoing challenges faced by the tourism sector and are committed to working together in building back a thriving tourism industry where the social, cultural, and economic benefits are enjoyed by all.”
Honourable Lisa Beare
British Columbia Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

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Media contacts
Gina MacArthur
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-327-9574
ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

Gabriel Felcarek
Office of the Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance
343-573-4280
Gabriel.Felcarek@ised-isde.gc.ca

Jill Nessel
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 880-3455
Jill.Nessel@gov.bc.ca

 

 

 

 

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The Resource Enforcement Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is seeking information related to a moose poaching and wastage incident near Highlands River on the province’s south west coast.

Upon receiving a complaint from a member of the public, Resource Enforcement Officers responded and searched an area of Cabbage Patch Road, near Highlands River; they found a full carcass of moose. The department initiated an investigation and officers have collected evidence from the area, observing that the moose had been shot on the road and then dragged by a vehicle for approximately four kilometers where it was then dumped into a brook on the side of the road. It is believed the moose was poached sometime between October 11 and October 12.

Poaching is an offence under the Wild Life Act. It is also an offence to willfully or intentionally allow the flesh of wildlife that has been taken or killed for food to be destroyed, wasted, or spoiled. The fine for intentional wastage of meat carries a fine of up to $200. The minimum penalties for poaching a big game animal start at $1,000, up to a maximum of $5,000 for a first offence. In addition, individuals potentially face a prison term of between one to six months; and in most cases they must forfeit the firearms and vehicles involved.

Anyone with information that may lead to the identity of the persons involved in this incident is asked to call 1-877-820-0999 anonymously or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online: www.nlcrimestoppers.com or stoppoaching.ca.

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

 

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The Provincial Government is encouraging all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to get a flu shot this year. Beginning Monday, October 17, Regional Health Authorities will begin hosting free flu shot clinics. Residents can also receive their shots through their family physician or local pharmacy. Flu shots are provided free of charge.

Both pharmacists and physicians play an important role in administering flu shots. Physicians can administer the vaccine to everyone, regardless of age, and pharmacists can administer the vaccine to people five years of age and older.

Appointments for flu shot clinics hosted by the Regional Health Authorities can be booked online using the Public Health Immunization Booking website. Links to the website for each health authority can be found at www.timefortheshot.ca. Residents can also book an appointment by calling toll-free 1-833-951-3904. Walk-in appointments will be available in the coming weeks at a number of locations. Updates will be posted to the website regarding additional appointments and walk-in options, as the information becomes available.

Individuals are asked to bring their MCP card and wear short sleeves when they go to get their flu shot.

The Regional Health Authorities will also be administering flu shots to the following:

• Residents in long-term care homes; personal care homes and other residential care settings;
• Home support clients who are unable to attend public flu clinics;
• Individuals in correctional facilities;
• In-patients in acute care hospitals and health centres; and patients in other acute settings such as some ambulatory clinics; and,
• Clients admitted in mental health and addictions treatment settings.

Quotes
“For the past couple of years, we have focused primarily on the management of COVID-19 and the incidence of the flu virus has been relatively low. As we learn to live with COVID-19 and have more interactions on a regular basis, we also need to be aware that the prevalence of influenza will likely be greater this year, so we must ensure we protect ourselves against this resurgence.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Vaccines are safe and effective, have protected people for decades, and have greatly reduced diseases that once routinely adversely affected our populations. Vaccinations like the flu shot are one of the most important things we can do to protect ourselves and others. This year we expect to see flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory diseases circulating in our communities at the same time. It is important that we take steps to reduce our risk as much as possible and get the shot.”
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald
Chief Medical Officer of Health

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Learn more
Time for the Shot

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

 

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education, today announced the appointment of Glenn Barnes as Chair of the Memorial University Board of Regents.

Mr. Barnes is an architect, business owner and humanitarian, and has extensive experience as part of Memorial University’s Board of Regents, having served on the board since 2017.

The Board of Regents, along with Memorial University’s Senate, is responsible for all matters related to programming, qualifications of employees and all other matters deemed to be in the best interest of the institution. The Board of Regents consists of individuals with a diverse range of knowledge and expertise.

Mr. Barnes replaces Cathy Duke, who has served as interim board chair since February 2022. Biographical information for Mr. Barnes can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“I congratulate Glenn Barnes on his appointment as Chair of Memorial University’s Board of Regents. His previous experience on the board, combined with his professional experience will provide a valuable new perspective to the university.  I would also like to thank Cathy Duke for serving as interim chair in recent months, and I believe she will continue to play an important role on the Board of Regents going forward.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

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Learn more
Premier Furey Announces New Chancellor for Memorial University

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Media contacts
Lynn Robinson
Education
709-729-1906, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Biography of Glenn Barnes
A practicing design architect and project manager, Glenn Barnes has more than four decades of professional experience delivering architectural and engineering projects in Newfoundland and Labrador. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies and a Bachelor of Architecture from the Nova Scotia Technical College (Dalhousie University), as well as a Diploma in Architecture and Design Studies from the University of Copenhagen.

Mr. Barnes has served on numerous boards, and is currently an Urban and Rural Planning Act Commissioner and immediate past chair of the Built Heritage Experts Panel of the City of St. John’s. He has served on the Memorial University Board of Regents since 2017 as a member of the Executive Committee, Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, vice-chair of the Campus Planning and Development Committee and a member of the Core Sciences Building Oversight Committee.

Mr. Barnes is a member of the Rotary Club of St. John’s and recipient of a Paul Harris Fellowship from Rotary International for his service to humanity.

 

 

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour, today released the final report received on the review of the current Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model, as outlined in the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act. The review was completed by David Conway.

The report includes 20 recommendations, which are under review by government. The complete report, ‘Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model: Past, Present and Future’, can be viewed here.

In July, Minister Davis announced an independent review of the collective bargaining model contained in sections 19.1 – 19.14 of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act. Input was received from fish harvesters, processors and their respective organizations, and other interested parties.

Quotes
“I thank Mr. Conway for completing this important work and to all those who participated and provided input into the process. I, along with my officials in the department, have reviewed the report in detail and will be taking the recommendations under advisement.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

“I am pleased to see the report from the independent reviewer and I appreciate his timely response. I look forward to advancing towards a more orderly fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more
Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model: Past, Present and Future

Minister Davis Announces Review of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model

Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act

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

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

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Today the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education released the report submitted by the Teacher Allocation Review Committee titled “Learning in a Time of Change.” In the report, the Committee makes 90 recommendations in five areas, including the recommendation for a teacher allocation model that considers both composition and class size. The report takes a largely student-centric view, with recommendations aimed at supporting student success through the system.

Minister Haggie will be available to the media today (Friday, October 14) at 11:30 a.m. via Zoom. Media wishing to participate must RSVP to Jillian Hood (jillianhood@gov.nl.ca) who will provide required details.

In providing its recommendations, the Committee concludes that providing additional resources to reduce class size is by itself insufficient to foster changes in student success. The committee stresses that reducing class size will not achieve positive outcomes without a comprehensive approach addressing several other factors.

The new allocation model presented by the Committee includes changes to current class caps that would reduce class sizes from Kindergarten to Grade 9, including introducing the lowest class maximums in the country for Kindergarten to Grade 2.

The full report can be found here. Analysis is underway into the cost, feasibility and other considerations presented by the report, and further discussions with educational and union partners will follow.

Quotes
“First and foremost, I thank the Committee members for their in-depth look at the status of education in this province. Their review is timely in light of the changes underway to integrate the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District into government, and will help inform areas of focus for that process. These changes will not occur overnight, as the recommendations have significant implications for classroom composition, collective bargaining, and infrastructure that must be explored in depth, both internally and with our partners in the education system. We look forward to engaging with key stakeholders to determine a path forward.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

“The recommendations in this report are about change, not only a change in class size but also a change in approach. They call upon government to exercise its financial and legislative powers, and visionary leadership, in the interests of improving education for all students and advancing social and economic growth in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Marian Fushell
Chair of the Teacher Allocation Review Committee

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Learn more
Report: Learning in a Time of Change

News Release: Provincial Government Announces Appointments and Terms of Reference for Teacher Allocation Review Committee

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Media contacts
Nancy Hollett
Education
709-729-1906, 327-7878
nancyhollett@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Recommendations of the Teacher Allocation Review Committee
The Teacher Allocation Review Committee’s Report includes 90 recommendations in five general areas: The Management of Resources, Teacher Education and Professional Learning, Instructional Focus, Proposed Teacher Allocation Model, and Implementation.

Recommendations 1-18 – Management of Resources: Focuses on areas such as collective bargaining, school organization, teacher recruitment, and managing allocations.

Recommendations 19-27 – Teacher Education and Professional Learning: Includes an additional focus on teacher accreditation and defining roles and responsibilities.

Recommendations 28-48 – Instructional Focus: Covers a wide array of areas including computer support, teaching strategies, assessment, expansion of the Centre for Distance Learning and Innovation and a review of the junior high school program.

Recommendations 49-89 – Proposed Allocation Model: Suggests addressing class composition, reducing class size, refocusing guidance and IRT work, and increasing time for administrators and guidance.

Recommendation 90 – Implementation: Recommends that the Minister of Education appoint an educational leader, directly accountable to the Minister and the Clerk of Executive Council, to lead the recommendations in this report.

The recommendations are far ranging and apply to all facets of the education system including teacher training, educational delivery, resourcing, professional learning, and organizational effectiveness.

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The Provincial Government is terminating the NLVaxVerify application effective today (October 14). The public can delete the application prior to official removal, as it is no longer required for business use.

The termination of this application is due to recommendations from public health that NLVaxVerify is no longer necessary in COVID-19 management in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Please note that the NLVaxPass application will remain active for a few more months as a tool for residents to easily access and store COVID-19 vaccination records.

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

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Cleanfarms, a non-profit environmental stewardship organization, is offering a drop off for Newfoundland and Labrador farmers and local pesticide operators to safely dispose of unwanted or obsolete commercial class pesticides and livestock/equine medications from October 18-21, 2022.

Items can be dropped off, free of charge, between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., at the following locations:

Foxtrap – Tuesday, October 18
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Depot
0.5 km north of the Trans-Canada/Foxtrap Access Road on Incinerator Road

Lethbridge – Wednesday, October 19
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Depot
On Route 230, 2.4 km north of the Route 233 turn off

Lewisporte – Thursday, October 20
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Depot
6 km north of the Trans-Canada/Route 340 intersection on Route 340

Deer Lake – Friday, October 21
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Depot
74 Old Bonne Bay Road

For more information about Cleanfarms, visit: www.cleanfarms.ca/

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

 

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Proposed Amendments to the Medical Act, 2011, introduced for second reading today in the House of Assembly, will make it easier for out-of-province doctors to practice in this province. The proposed changes, which are intended to help attract and retain physicians to practice in the province, include:

• Creation of a new advisory committee made up of two representatives of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, two medical practitioners and one employee of the Department of Health and Community Services to advise the Minister of Health and Community Services on registration of persons.
• Provides the Minister of Health and Community Services (through regulations) with the ability to determine the qualifications, jurisdictions and schools that would allow a medical practitioner registration on the provincial provisional register with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, in consultation with the new advisory committee.
• Permitting physicians who do not meet the current requirements for registration, but who have important skills and competencies, to register and begin work until those requirements are met.
• Creating two new registration categories with the College of Physicians and Surgeons to enhance the pool of applicants eligible for licensure in the province.

Through these changes, individuals with the new Associate Registration would be eligible to be the most responsible physician, but would require oversight and sponsorship for the duration of the licence, and could be limited in their scope of practice. Individuals with the new Clinical Assistant Registration would not be eligible to be the most responsible physician, would require oversight and sponsorship for the duration of the licence, and would be limited in terms of their scope of practice. Currently, the Act and its associated regulations only contain two broad categories of licensure: full and provisional.

While expanding the registration criteria is another avenue to attracting more physicians to work in the province, the changes are not intended to have any impact on patient safety, and are not intended to impact individuals currently registered and licensed in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Bill also addresses the ability of medical practitioners to prescribe using electronic means. Currently, practitioners can only prescribe electronically through the Pharmacy Network, and are prevented from using other e-prescribing services such as PrescribeIT, Canada’s national e-prescribing service. Implementation of electronic prescribing offers advantages in patient safety and provider efficiency over traditional paper prescribing.

Quotes
“The amendments to the Medical Act, 2011 will allow doctors with comparable credentials to work in our province more quickly, align with our goal of improving access to health care, and represent another creative means in our continued efforts to recruit and retain health care professionals. If you would go to a doctor in Florida for care, you should be able to trust that same doctor’s skills here in our province. Through Health Accord NL, our government is taking meaningful action across all departments to improve the social, economic and environmental factors that impact our personal health, including better, more timely access to care.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The changes we have introduced today allow the province to be nimble in our response to health care recruitment and retention issues. It is not the intention of this Bill to lower the standards for medical practitioners who are registered and licensed in the province, but rather to expand the pool of qualified individuals who can still make meaningful contributions to health care delivery. These legislative changes allow for another avenue to address our challenges.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

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

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

The post Proposed Amendments Allow for Additional Pathways for Physicians to Practice in the Province and a Modernized Approach to Prescribing appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will participate in the opening of Agriculture Expo 2022 tomorrow (Friday, October 14) at Joe Byrne Memorial Stadium, 5 Jones Street, Grand Falls-Windsor at 5:00 p.m.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture hosts the annual Agriculture Expo with funding provided by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a program supported by federal, provincial and territorial governments to innovate, grow and strengthen the agriculture and agrifood sector.

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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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Digital Government and Service NL has established a temporary Motor Registration office to assist residents of the southwest coast who have had their driver’s licences, photo identification cards and/or vehicle registration documents lost as a result of Hurricane Fiona.

Based on public demand, services are being offered out of the Provincial Court House in Channel-Port Aux Basques until 2:00 p.m. Friday of this week (October 14). The department will reassess the need to provide services for next week.

As residents begin to rebuild their homes, communities and lives, they will need these documents to access such things as banking services (e.g., credit/debit card replacement), financial relief programs (e.g., Canadian Red Cross) and insurance claims.

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

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Today, Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities; Lori Moss, Deputy Mayor of the Town of Gambo, and Woodrow Mullett, Chair of the Trails Committee for the Smallwood Era Development Corporation, announced a combined total of over $1.3 million to upgrade Pine Tree Road, as well as $10,000 in funding for a strategic development plan to improve the active transportation nature trail network in Gambo.

Upgrades to Pine Tree Road will improve the quality of the road and provide an efficient drainage system for the Town by re-paving, installing a curb, gutter, sidewalk, and storm sewer, and replacing 37 water services.

An additional $10,000 in funding from the Government of Canada will support the creation of a strategic development plan to improve, renew and maintain Gambo’s nature trails for walking, hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing. The project will leverage the expertise of the Grand Concourse Authority, an organization dedicated to the continued development and expansion of award-winning walkway networks on the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The strategic development plan will enhance and protect Gambo’s nature trail network by prioritizing regular maintenance, accessibility upgrades, environmental initiatives, and public education. High quality trails for walking, exploring, and enjoying nature encourage residents to be more active in their daily lives, and improve options for moving around town.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, increasing the resiliency of our communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

Quotes
“Budget 2022 includes more than $73 million for community infrastructure projects under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. Joint funding announcements such as this one result in better services in municipalities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. By working with our municipal and federal partners, we can ensure that important projects such as this one are completed.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“These important infrastructure investments to the town of Gambo will provide better road access for residents and visitors to the area. In addition, road upgrades will improve access for tourism and for anyone who visits the District of Gander to enjoy all it has to offer. I thank both the federal and provincial governments for this important investment.”
Honourable Dr. John Haggie
Minister of Education and MHA for the District of Gander

“Gambo residents have long enjoyed the network of nature trails in this area, but they are due for an upgrade, and for a strategic plan to ensure residents can continue to explore and enjoy the incredible nature in our province. This investment will allow for a development plan to continue to provide all members of the community with safe and high-quality places to walk, hike, ski and snowshoe.”
Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

“Both the Pine Tree Road upgrade project and the Active Transportation Fund will improve the quality of lives for our residents by providing better transportation access between residential properties and the vital services within our town, as well as promoting an overall healthier lifestyle via significant enhancements to our Middle Brook Walking Trail. We would like to thank the Federal and Provincial government for their financial investments to our community.”
Lori Moss, Deputy Mayor of the Town of Gambo

“First, I would like to thank Barb Pritchett for taking the time to apply for the funding that is being announced today. This funding is important to our organization as it will kick start the efforts to begin rebuilding various Gambo trails. We hope to elevate several trails, including the Middle Brook Trail, and the Smallwood Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR) Trails Committee will be pursuing every avenue to secure additional funding to begin the necessary work.”
Woodrow Mullet, Chair of the Trails Committee, Smallwood Era Development Corporation

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Learn more
Federal Infrastructure Investments in Newfoundland and Labrador

Active Transportation Fund

National Active Transportation Strategy

Infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador

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

Jean-Sébastien Comeau
Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities
343-574-8116
Jean-Sebastien.Comeau@iga-aig.gc.ca

Lori Moss
Deputy Mayor of the Town of Gambo
709-524-2047
lori.moss@townofgambo.com

Woodrow Mullett
Chair of the Trails Committee
Smallwood Era Development Corporation
709-674-6027
woodrow_8@icloud.ca

Media Relations
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
media-medias@infc.gc.ca

 

The post Residents in Gambo to Benefit from Investments in Local Road Infrastructure and a Strategic Development Plan to Improve Nature Trails appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs:

Speaker, today the Professional Municipal Administrators are holding their 2022 Fall Forum in St. John’s. The organization is comprised of Town and City Managers, Clerks, Chief Administrative Officers and Department Heads who are committed to preserving and advancing excellence in municipal administration in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Every day we see the support and guidance that administrators provide to councils, ensuring the delivery of services and contributing to the success of communities. This becomes even more evident when communities are faced with extraordinary events such as the forest fires in the central region this summer and the devastation of Hurricane Fiona last month on the southwest coast.

The actions and dedication of municipal staff in these communities demonstrates how important their work is to council and residents. They showed leadership, support and empathy, and the ability to successfully handle a crisis while placing the well-being and safety of residents at the forefront.

As part of our government’s overall financial support related to Hurricane Fiona, $500,000 is being provided directly to communities under the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs. I am pleased to report that just over $120,000 has been approved to date to assist with costs for such items as overtime pay for town staff; hiring of staff to assist with hurricane relief; and cleanup of debris. We have been in contact with communities to outline all eligible costs, and administrators are providing a critical service throughout this process.

I ask my Honourable colleagues to join me in thanking municipal administrators everywhere for their contribution to communities, and to wish them a successful and informative fall forum.

Thank you.

 

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Howell Recognizes Work of Municipal Administrators appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-021 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2022-021 Report Date: October 11, 2022 Public Body: Memorial University Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to Memorial University for records consisting of Firewall logs and McAfee data for a computer asset, and a variety of records relating to Microsoft Office downloaded and installed on personal devices. Memorial confirmed there were no Firewall logs and MacAfee data for the date specified. Memorial provided the Complainant with records relating to Microsoft Office downloaded and installed on personal devices, but withheld some information pursuant to sections 29(1)(a) (policy advice or recommendations) and 40(1) (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). During the complaint investigation, Memorial agreed to release the information previously withheld under section 40(1) as well as some additional information previously withheld pursuant section 29(1)(a). The Commissioner found that Memorial had met its duty to assist in conducting a reasonable search for responsive records and recommended Memorial take no further action regarding its search efforts. The Commissioner recommended the remaining information continue to be withheld under section 29(1)(a).

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

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The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services will be available to provide details of the proposed amendments to the Medical Act prior to debate in the House of Assembly today (Thursday, October 13) at 1:00 p.m. in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building.

Prior to the event, a technical briefing for media will be held at 12:30 p.m.

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

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

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The Provincial Government recognizes that the overall costs of living for people are currently high throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and across the country. To help address these immediate pressures, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, announced a five per cent increase in the Income Support basic rate effective on November 1, 2022, for those receiving Income Support.

Meanwhile, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development is reviewing the Income Support program, which provides basic benefits for food, shelter and necessities, as well as some supplementary benefits such as vision care to approximately 20,500 eligible households throughout the province. Recommendations with respect to the Income Support benefit structure and rates, as well as the financial eligibility and assessment are anticipated to come out of the review.

Through an amendment to the Income and Employment Support Regulations, the five per cent increase in Income Support basic rates will give some help with the high costs of food, clothing and other necessities.

The increase in the Income Support basic rate also supports several ongoing initiatives, including the recommendations of the Health Accord, and responds to what is being heard during the current public engagement process to inform the development of a Social and Economic Well-Being Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador.

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“To help respond to people in low income who are experiencing financial burdens stemming from the high cost of living, I am pleased to announce a five per cent increase in Income Support basic rates for those receiving Income Support. As we continue to work through recommendations of Health Accord NL, I remain committed to furthering social and economic well-being throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, which includes reducing poverty and exploring various ways to increase incomes, especially for those below the poverty line.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, @CSSD_GovNL

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

 

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Legislative amendments to the Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act were introduced yesterday in the House of Assembly to regulate high-cost credit lending in the province. Government recognizes that high-cost credit products may help individuals with no other options, and that consumer protections are necessary.

The amendments propose enhancing disclosure requirements, and prohibiting undisclosed fees, giveaways to encourage customers to take out loans and automatic payment deductions from a borrower’s pay cheque. A ‘cooling off’ period will also be enacted to allow a borrower to back out of a loan within four days, without penalty.

High-cost credit lending is a growing financial services sector, and this new legislation would make Newfoundland and Labrador the first Atlantic Province to implement a regulatory regime specific to high-cost credit lenders. Combined with the recently announced reduction in the maximum allowable payday loan rates, these amendments will significantly increase consumer protection for high cost credit consumers.

Other government initiatives to improve consumer protection include the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, the Real Estate Trading Act, 2019, and amendments to the Automobile Insurance Act, Insurance Companies Act, Life Insurance Act and Securities Act.

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“Consumers who turn to high-cost lenders are often in a vulnerable position, and unfortunately it’s easy to become stuck in a cycle of payments. While recognizing that these credit products may help individuals who have no other options, we must work to ensure consumers are protected.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

“Credit Counselling Services of Newfoundland and Labrador (CCSNL) has observed that many consumers find themselves indebted to high-cost lenders because borrowing from these lenders is simple and uncomplicated. Thank you Minister Stoodley for bringing forth these changes. It is a very good day for consumers in this province.”
Al Antle
Executive Director, Credit Counselling Services of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more
Bill 13: Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act Amendment

Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act

Payday Loan Borrowing Rate Lowered

Payday Loan Legislation Now in Effect

Payday Loan Legislation Enhances Consumer Protection

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @DGS_GovNL

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

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Motorists travelling in Central Newfoundland will detour through Norris Arm this week while paving is being completed on a 9.7 kilometre section Trans-Canada Highway.

The detour will be in place tomorrow (Thursday, October 13) and Friday, October 14, and will allow for motorists to avoid lengthy traffic delays.

Both eastbound and westbound traffic will detour through the town via Route 351. Motorists are asked to reduce their speed, pay attention to traffic control and travel cautiously trough the community.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates this work being completed this weekend.

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

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

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

 

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will address the Professional Municipal Administrators 2022 Fall Forum tomorrow (Thursday, October 13) at 12:00 p.m. The forum is taking place at the Holiday Inn, 180 Portugal Cove Road, St. John’s.

Professional Municipal Administrators is a professional organization composed of town/city managers and clerks, chief administrative officers and department heads who are committed to preserving and advancing excellence in municipal administration in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Media contact
Jacquelyn Howard
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5539, 689-2624
jacquelynhoward@gov.nl.ca

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills:

Speaker, last evening Newfoundland and Labrador airlifted 177 Ukrainian people fleeing the ravages of Russia’s criminal invasion of a peaceful nation; the third such airlift by our Province. For many Ukrainians, this was truly a bittersweet moment. In front of them, they were given an opportunity to live in peace, to regain a sense of hope and to experience new beginnings as our neighbors and as our friends. Behind them, however, many had no choice but to leave behind family and friends to the realities of the ugliness of Putin’s criminal ambitions. This is why we say, and say without reservation, the doors of Newfoundland and Labrador shall never be locked to such a warm and courageous people.

Speaker, over 1000 Ukrainians have now chosen Newfoundland and Labrador as their preferred home. While some 500 were ushered here through our humanitarian airlifts, 500 chose this place after arriving first in other parts of Canada or directly from Ukraine. All 1000 Ukrainians chose this place. They came because of our groundbreaking initiative, our Ukrainian Family Support Desk, they came after talking with Ukrainians already here and in other parts of Canada. They came here because of the reputation our province has deservedly acquired. They came here not by our words or promises, but by our actions. They came because of the incredible welcome that the people of Newfoundland and Labrador have extended to them.

Speaker, I am pleased to report to this House that, amongst the group of 830 Ukrainians who landed before last evening, 75 per cent have already gained successful long-term employment with the remainder actively pursuing specific opportunities. The average stay in temporary accommodations is now just 28 days, down from an earlier benchmark of 34 days, and none have required accommodation in provincial social housing. Ukrainian children are in school with the help of additional teaching and assistance resources and additional supports such as childcare have been successful. In fact, a Ukrainian-led childcare facility is actively being developed.

All this is to say, we Stand with Ukraine while we pursued a vision, a successful vision for a more prosperous, diverse and inclusive province. Newfoundland and Labrador is experiencing record population growth, record immigration attraction and retention and while we grow our population, our unemployment rate now sits at its lowest level since 1976.

Speaker, this is a government that will never say good is good enough. If you believe any of this to be impressive, with the help of everyone in this House, there is much more to come!

 

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