Government of Newfoundland News
Calling All Employers: Job Fair for Ukrainians
Newfoundland and Labrador employers with an interest in hiring Ukrainian newcomers are asked to register for the job fair for Ukrainians that will take place in St. John’s on Thursday, May 19 at the Prince Philip Drive Campus – College of the North Atlantic. The job fair is hosted by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador alongside the Association for New Canadians’ AXIS Career Services and Taskforce NL.
This is the first job fair organized for Ukrainian newcomers who possess sought-after experience in fields such as health care, food and hospitality, construction, technology, transportation, science and professional services. The job fair will be three-fold with morning, afternoon and online sessions to accommodate employers and interested participants. Employers looking to attend in-person will be grouped by industry sector and informed whether they are to attend in the morning or afternoon.
Employers across the province who are unable to attend in-person are strongly encouraged to engage in the virtual portion. The registration deadline for employers is Wednesday, May 18 at 12:00 p.m. NST. Late registration will be accommodated where possible.
For a list of local employers who have already hired Ukrainians, see the backgrounder below.
Quote
“We’ve accomplished much bringing in the first airlift of Ukrainians by any government in North America. For the next phase, we call on local employers to put these newcomers with in-demand skills to work. Our goal is to emerge from this job fair with as many accepted offers as possible.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
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Media contact
Jeremy Reynolds
Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
709-729-2377, 709-691-2298
jeremyreynolds@gov.nl.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Newfoundland and Labrador Employers Who Have Hired Ukrainians
- Eastern Health
- Cyno
- Gannett Construction
- Rambler Mines
- Mary Brown’s
- PAL Airlines
- Power and Associates
- EVOO
- Atlantic Grocery Distribution
- Gittens Law
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Road Safety Week Encourages Motorists to Drive Safely
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are reminded to practice safe and defensive driving this upcoming Victoria Day weekend, which will see many residents heading out over the province’s roadways to celebrate the unofficial start of summer.
Each year, the Provincial Government recognizes Canada Road Safety Week (May 17-23 this year), a national campaign designed to increase public compliance with safe driving measures in order to save lives and reduce injuries on our roads. The theme of this year’s campaign is ’Safer You. Safer Me.’, emphasizing that the decisions drivers make not only affect them, but also their passengers, other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
Canada Road Safety Week is an enforcement-driven initiative led by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, and is part of the broader Canada’s Road Safety Strategy 2025. The Safety Strategy aims to make Canada’s roads the safest in the world, focusing on behaviours that put drivers, passengers, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users most at risk, including:
- Drug-impaired driving
- Alcohol-impaired driving
- Fatigue-impaired driving
- Distracted driving
- Aggressive driving
- Driving without a seatbelt
The Provincial Government continues to work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and other safety partners and advocates, to take action and promote awareness in an effort to improve safety on our highways.
Quotes
“While government regularly reviews and updates the Highway Traffic Act to help ensure the safety of residents, it is ultimately up to drivers to be responsible and attentive behind the wheel. Many of these incidents are preventable, so always keep safety top-of-mind, because one senseless tragedy on our roadways is one too many.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL
“Public safety involves a collaborative effort with our police agencies, the RNC and the RCMP, and the communities they serve. It is our collective responsibility to create a culture of safe and responsible drivers to ensure anyone traveling our roads can do so safely and reduce the risk of tragedy.”
Honourable John Hogan, QC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General
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Learn more
News Release: Highway Signs to Remind Motorists of Distracted Driving
News Release: Legislative Changes Further Enhance Road Safety and Consumer Protection
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Media contacts
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca
Emily Jane-Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
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Province Cheering for Newfoundland and Labrador’s Kellie Loder, Finalist on Canada’s Got Talent
The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is today cheering for and encouraging people to vote for Newfoundland and Labrador’s Kellie Loder, a finalist on Canada’s Got Talent.
Kellie will perform in the live finale tonight airing on Citytv at 9:30 p.m. NST (8:00 p.m. EST). Hailing from Badger, Kellie is one of eight acts from across Canada that will compete in the two-hour finale vying to be crowned the 2022 Canada’s Got Talent champion. They are the only contestant remaining from Eastern Canada. The winner will be announced at the end of the live broadcast.
Voting is available online only on the official Citytv website. During the live finale, online voting will be open for the majority of the final episode until all acts have performed. Viewers can vote for Kellie using their mobile devices or desktops. There is no telephone or social media voting option. Viewers can vote up to three times for their favourite act. The three-vote limit will be monitored and only people residing in Canada are able to vote.
Canada’s Got Talent is a talent competition for acts of all ages and skills, and sets out to discover the most unique show-stopping performers the country has to offer. Contestants with a range of talents compete before a panel of celebrity judges, a live studio audience, and viewers from across the country.
Quote
“You’re making us proud, Kellie! Your performances on Canada’s Got Talent this season have captured the attention of audiences around the country. No one here at home is surprised. You’re a musical force to be reckoned with. Way to go representing Newfoundland and Labrador on the national stage. I encourage everyone to tune in tonight and cast their vote for Kellie.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Learn more
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Media contact
Adrienne Luther
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 730-2953
adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca
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New Seniors’ Advocate Nominated
The Honourable Steve Crocker, Government House Leader, today introduced a resolution in the House of Assembly to name Susan Walsh as the new Seniors Advocate.
Susan Walsh began her career with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1991, progressing to her most recent senior executive role as Deputy Minister of the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development. She holds a Master of Social Work degree and is a registered social worker with the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Social Workers. A complete bio for Ms. Walsh can be found in the backgrounder below.
The Office of the Seniors Advocate was created in 2016 with the first Advocate being appointed in November 2017. The Office is an independent office of the House of Assembly that has authority to identify, review and analyze systemic issues related to seniors and make recommendations respecting changes to improve seniors’ services.
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Quotes
“We are fortunate to have someone with the experience and qualifications of Susan Walsh to nominate for the role of Seniors’ Advocate. Her intimate knowledge of the issues and challenges that seniors experience combined with her unique perspective on how government operates will be assets in her new role. She will be a strong voice for seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Government House Leader
“I congratulate Susan Walsh on this nomination for the role of Seniors’ Advocate. As the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, I have been fortunate to work closely with her as we carry out the mandate of the department. Ms. Walsh is well suited for this role and I am confident she will serve the people of the province well.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
Learn More
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Media Contacts
Adrienne Luther
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 730-2953
adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca
Khadija Rehma
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-3768, 730-2977
khadijarehma@gov.nl.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Biography for Susan Walsh
Susan Walsh began her career in 1991 as a social worker in mental health services at the Waterford Hospital working with seniors, people with disabilities and the community. She progressed through frontline management, policy analysis, program development, project management, director/senior management and executive positions.
Ms. Walsh held these progressive leadership roles within the former Department of Social Services; Eastern Regional Health Authority; Department of Health and Community Services; former Department of Child, Youth and Family Services; Cabinet Secretariat; Core Mandate Office of Executive Council; the Labour Relations Agency; Municipal Affairs Fire and Emergency Services; and currently as the Deputy Minister of the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development since January of 2019.
She has held firm to her social work roots and the importance of community and is a registered social worker with the College of Social Workers in the province.
Ms. Walsh holds a Master of Social Work degree, specializing in policy and administration, from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Memorial University.
She is married and has two young adult children who are completing post-secondary studies.
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Public Advisory: Helmets and Seatbelts Mandatory for Off-Road Vehicles as of May 19
Effective May 19, 2022, the use of helmets will be mandatory for the operation of all off-road vehicles in Newfoundland and Labrador. The only exception where helmets will not be required, is for hunting and trapping activities involving frequent stops, where speed is less than 20 km/h.
Seatbelts will also be mandatory on all off-road vehicles, where they have been installed by the manufacturer.
Off-road vehicle safety is a shared responsibility among government, enforcement partners and operators.
Further information regarding Newfoundland and Labrador’s new safety requirements for off-road vehicles, can be found here.
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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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Little Green Thumbs and Sprouts Celebrating 10th Annual Harvest
The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture:
Speaker, Agriculture in the Classroom NL is a fantastic, hands-on program that teaches children where food comes from, and how to grow it.
Our department invests $305,000 in this program every year through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership. Nearly 30,000 students are learning about agriculture through initiatives like Canada’s Agriculture Day, Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month, the Amazing Agriculture Adventure, and the Little Green Thumbs program.
Right now, more than 5,000 Little Green Thumbs and Little Green Sprouts are busy growing nearly 300 gardens at schools all over the province.
As part of the program’s tenth annual harvest celebrations, students will be visiting vegetable and dairy farms, greenhouses, and grocery stores to learn more about nutrition and healthy eating.
They will also enjoy fresh, healthy food that they grew themselves.
Speaker, Canada’s agriculture industry is facing extraordinary global challenges. As always, we are working closely with farmers and producers, commodity groups, and the federal government to support this sector.
In these difficult times, our Little Green Thumbs and Little Green Sprouts remind us why a sustainable, reliable food system is so important.
Thanks to Agriculture in the Classroom NL, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture, students are making a vital connection to the hard-working farmers and producers who dedicate their lives to growing our food.
Thank you to the program staff, teachers, sponsors, farmers, and volunteers who make these important programs so successful.
Most importantly, a big green thumbs up to our Little Green Thumbs and Sprouts. I look forward to visiting you soon to meet some of our province’s future farmers.
Thank you.
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Ministerial Statement – Minister Dempster Offers Condolences on Passing of Jim Lyall
The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs:
Speaker, we were saddened on Friday upon hearing that a pioneer of Inuit self-government on the North Coast of Labrador had passed away.
Jim Lyall truly left his mark on everything he did. He had the distinction as the first elected President of Nunatsiavut, a position he held from 2008 to 2012, following the formation of the Nunatsiavut Government in 2005.
Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe described Jim Lyall as someone who spent a lifetime advancing the rights and issues of all Labrador Inuit. He is remembered for his determination, a strong will, and an overriding desire to invoke positive change for the benefit of the community of Nain where he lived since 1956 and Nunatsiavut.
On occasion when I spoke with Jim about issues, he was articulate and respectful in expressing his beliefs and hopes for a better tomorrow for beneficiaries and Nunatsiavut.
During the formative years of the Labrador Inuit Association, Jim served as executive director. He also worked for the provincial government stores, served as postmaster in Nain, led the community of Nain as mayor, and successfully operated a business in Nain for two decades.
Speaker, Jim Lyall passed away only a few hours after his wife Jean passed on. I take this opportunity to express my personal condolences and on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Please join me in reflecting on the contributions of a man who was devoted to family and a friend to everyone.
Thank you.
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Minister Pam Parsons Recognizes the Week to Address the Sexual Exploitation of Youth
The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, recognized the Week to Address the Sexual Exploitation of Youth by signing a proclamation today, in partnership with the Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth (CASEY).
The Week to Address the Sexual Exploitation of Youth is focused on raising awareness of sexual exploitation in Newfoundland and Labrador. Sexual Exploitation is the abuse of positions of vulnerability, power, trust, and dependency to profit monetarily, materially, socially, or politically off the exploits of another person.
Sexual exploitation has a serious adverse impact on those with living and lived experience, their families, and our communities. Through Budget 2022, Government has allocated $60,100 to CASEY to support initiatives that prevent sexual exploitation and support young people who have experienced, or are currently experiencing, sexual exploitation.
The Provincial Government is committed to working collaboratively with community to seek long-term solutions to sexual exploitation, and to ensure that the people of Newfoundland and Labrador live in safe, caring communities.
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“The Week to Address the Sexual Exploitation of Youth shines a light on a terrible occurrence in our society. Our Government commends the Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth for their important work to support young people experiencing sexual exploitation. We will continue to listen to community and find ways to collaborate to help end the sexual exploitation of young people in our province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“The Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth is grateful to have a provincial proclamation signed recognizing that the sexual exploitation of youth is happening throughout our province. People with living and lived experience need to know our Government cares about their experiences and will respond in an evidence-based way to ensure prevention, awareness, and response is effective, swift, and informed. A provincial proclamation recognizing these needs is a small step in the right direction.”
Amnesty Cornelius
CASEY Coordinator
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Learn more
Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth
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Media Contacts
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca
Amnesty Cornelius
CASEY Coordinator
709-754-0536 x203
acornelius@thrivecyn.ca
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Provincial Roads Plan Outlines Highway Construction Projects for Two Construction Seasons; Minister Loveless Available to the Media
The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, today provided a list of road construction projects planned for the 2022-23 construction season. To date, tenders for 61 road construction projects have been issued in addition to contracts for 45 highway construction projects awarded in 2021 that are beginning or continuing this spring.
Minister Loveless will be available to discuss the plan and projects with media today (Monday, May 16), at 12:30 p.m. at the Transportation and Infrastructure Depot at 1170 Harding Road, St. John’s.
Some of the highlights of the roads plan include:
- Finishing paving on the Trans-Labrador Highway;
- Replacing 18 bridges;
- Paving multiple sections of the Trans-Canada Highway; and
- Paving sections of Salmonier Line, Northern Peninsula Highway, and highways on the Baie Verte Highway.
The plan includes a complete list of projects planned for the 2022-23 road construction season and a partial list for 2023-24, which allow more flexibility to address emerging priorities. More details on projects can be found in the backgrounder below.
Roads selected for each year of the provincial roads plan continue to be based on factors such as safety, traffic volumes, and input from the department’s engineers.
New criteria include factors such as commercial, industry, and tourism impacts, and populations serviced. It also includes the impacts of climate change, resulting in an increased focus on bridge and culvert repairs and replacements.
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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“We have seen first-hand the impacts of climate change. Our new multi-year provincial roads plan helps improve safety on provincial highways and secure transportation links in the province. The additional criteria for ranking roads takes a common sense approach to road work and ensures that we have safer roads for people, communities, businesses and tourists in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
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Learn more
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Media contact
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Details of 2022-23 Provincial Roads Plan
The new provincial roads plan outlines a full list of road construction projects for the 2022-23 highway construction season and a partial list of projects for the following year, which allows more flexibility to address emerging highway projects each year. Roads included in the plan are based on factors such as safety; traffic volumes; input from engineers; commercial, industry, and tourism factors; and climate change, which has resulted in an increased focus on repairing and replacing bridges and culverts.
Highway Replace Ballam’s River Bridge · 450 Lewin Parkway Pave sections · 450 Lewin Parkway Rehabilitate Corner Brook Stream Bridge · 450 Lewin Parkway Rehabilitate Humber Road Overpass east and west · 450 Lewin Parkway Rehabilitate Lewin Parkway Overpass · 460 Port au Port Highway Pave sections from Trans-Canada Highway to Gull Pond area · 460 Port au Port Highway Replace Romaine’s River Bridge · · 460-11 Cold Brook Road Rehabilitate and pave sections · 463 Lourdes Road Pave sections from Lourdes to Cape St. George · 470 La Poile Highway Rehabilitate Grandy’s Brook Bridge · 470 La Poile Highway Rehabilitate Barasway Brook Bridge · 480 Burgeo Highway Rehabilitate bridge at Burnt Pond · 480 Burgeo Highway Rehabilitate bridge at Dry Pond · 480 Burgeo Highway Rehabilitate Lloyd’s River Bridge · 500 Trans-Labrador Highway Pave approaches to Munik Pone (Pinus River) Memorial Bridge · 510 Trans-Labrador Highway Rehabilitate Pinware Bridge · 510 Trans-Labrador Highway Pave between Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Cartwright · 510 Trans-Labrador Highway Pave from Pinware towards Pinware Bridge · 510 Trans-Labrador Highway Rehabilitate Trout River Bridge · 510 Trans-Labrador Highway Rehabilitate St. Charles River Bridge · 510-6 West Harbour Drive – Red Bay Rehabilitate West Harbour Drive (Dock Road) · 511 L’Anse Amour Road Pave L’Anse Amour Road · 520 North West River Road Rehabilitate sections · · Northside Road – Bay Bulls Rehabilitate Gunridge Road Bridge Bay Bulls ·
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Media Advisory: Minister Pam Parsons to Proclaim the Week to Address the Sexual Exploitation of Youth
The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will participate in a ceremony in partnership with the Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth (CASEY) to proclaim the Week to Address to Sexual Exploitation of Youth.
The event will take place today (Monday, May 16) at 11:00 a.m. at Thrive, located at 807 Water Street, St. John’s.
CASEY is comprised of a group of concerned professionals and experiential voices in the community that work together to address issues pertaining to the sexual exploitation of youth. CASEY is the only organization in the province with the mandate of addressing the sexual exploitation of youth.
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Media contact
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca
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Environmental Assessment Bulletin
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:
Hampden Residential Property (Fred Osmond) (Reg. 2198)
Proponent: Fred Osmond
The proponent proposes to construct a residential dwelling at 26 Elms Place in the Town of Hampden, off Route 421. The dwelling will be located on a 0.186-hectare lot approximately 150 metres from the Hampden River. Development will consist of land clearing and levelling, construction of a one-story residential house (approximately 12 metres by 15 metres), water and sewer systems, and landscaping of property. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at www.gov.nl.ca/eccm/env-assessment/projects-list/.
The undertaking was registered on May 11, 2022; the deadline for public comments is June 17, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by June 25, 2022.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE APPOINTED:
St. Lewis River Atlantic Salmon Habitat Enhancement Project (Reg. 2032)
Proponent: Atlantic Rivers Outfitting Company
On April 13, 2022, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change advised the proponent that an environmental impact statement (EIS) is required for the project. An Environmental Assessment Committee has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the minister and to prepare draft guidelines for conducting the EIS.
The Environmental Assessment Committee includes representation from the following provincial and federal government agencies:
- Department of Environment and Climate Change
- Environmental Assessment Division
- Water Resources Management Division
- Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
- Wildlife Division
- Executive Council
- Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
- Environment and Climate Change Canada
- Environmental Protection Operations
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program
The public will be invited to provide comment on the draft guidelines. For further information on this project, please contact Brenda Rowe at (709) 729-2553 or email browe@gov.nl.ca.
UNDERTAKING WITHDRAWN:
Deer Lake Municipal RV Park and Campground (Reg. 2194)
Proponent: Deer Lake Park 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_Dec2021
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL
If you submit comments on a project that is under environmental assessment, please advise the Department if you DO NOT wish to share your comments with the project proponent.
Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449; 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca
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Provincial Government and Dentists Sign Agreements
The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services, and Dr. Michelle Zwicker, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association are pleased that three Memoranda of Agreement have been signed for four year terms (2022-26). These agreements outline the terms and conditions for the Children and Youth Dental Health Plan, the Adult Dental Program, and the Surgical/Dental Program.
The Children and Youth Dental Health Plan provides all children under 13 with universal access to eligible dental services including examinations, cleanings, routine fillings and extractions. It also provides vulnerable youth 13-17 with access to examinations, fillings and extractions.
The Adult Dental Program provides basic services to those 18 years or older who are enrolled in the Foundation Plan of the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program.
Combined with the Surgical/Dental Program, these initiatives are valued at over $14 million annually.
Agreements with the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association can be viewed online here.
Quotes
“I extend my thanks to the negotiating teams from government and the dental association for their dedicated work in renewing these agreements for the benefit of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance
“I am very pleased we have reached an agreement for the renewal of the three memoranda of agreement. I thank the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association and its members for their continued support in the delivery of these important programs.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services
“The dentists of Newfoundland and Labrador are really pleased to be signing these agreements as it shows government’s commitment to access to care.”
Dr. Michelle Zwicker
President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association
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Learn more
Memoranda of Agreement
News Release: Provincial Government Renews Agreements with Dentists
Media contacts
Victoria Barbour
Treasury Board Secretariat
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca
Nancy Hollett
Health and Community Services
709-729-6554, 327-7878
nancyhollett@gov.nl.ca
Amanda Squires
Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association
709-579-2362
amanda.nlda@nfld.net
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Public Advisory: Parking Restrictions Will be in Place at Confederation Building for Royal Visit
Parking restrictions will be in place for all visitors and public service employees at Confederation Building Complex on Tuesday, May 17, for the visit of Their Royal Highnesses, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall.
Restrictions will be in place for the following parking lots:
- Parking in front of East Block at 100 Prince Philip Drive will be closed Monday, May 16, and Tuesday, May 17;
- Parking at the rear of East Block near the House of Assembly entrance will be available to permit holders for Zones A, B, C, invited guests and persons with disabilities only; and
- Parking at the eastern parking lot, near the College of the North Atlantic campus, will be prohibited as the lot is reserved for the Canadian Armed Forces Gun Salute and members of the public who require accessible parking to view the Royal Visit proceedings in front of Confederation Building.
Residents in the area are advised to be prepared for noise stemming from the ceremony and gun salute between 1:55 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17.
Parking for employees and visitors to Confederation Building Complex, including those coming to view the Royal Visit proceedings, is available in the remaining parking lots and at the Arts and Culture Centre on Allandale Road.
Restrictions will be lifted on Tuesday, May 17 at 3:00 p.m.
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Media contact
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
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Social Housing Investment Announced for Labrador
The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:
Today, the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada announced a $787,000 contract to develop a new four-unit, affordable residential housing building on Mesher Street in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Funding for the work, to be completed by Churchill Construction Ltd., is being equally cost-shared under the National Housing Strategy.
The four-unit building, will include two fully wheelchair-accessible, one-bedroom units on the main level, and two, one-bedroom units on the second level. The main floor units include roll-in showers and wheelchair accessible kitchens and ‘no step’ entrances. Universal Design features are incorporated throughout the property and include items such as widened exterior and interior doors and hallways, and lever-type door handles and faucets.
Energy efficiency and sustainability are also key elements in the design and construction of the building. These homes will exceed the minimum energy performance requirements of the National Building Code with upgraded insulation and extensive air sealing. Additional features of the development include accessible parking and level access to the main floor units. The anticipated completion date for this project is February 2023.
Quotes
“This new construction will be a welcome addition to the community and highlights our government’s commitment to expand the number of energy efficient, accessible and affordable rental housing options for those most in need, throughout the province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
“Everyone in Canada deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Our government continues to create more affordable homes that meet the needs of individuals and families in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada. This is the National Housing Strategy at work.”
Honourable Ahmed Hussen
Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion
“Canada’s National Housing Strategy is providing affordable homes for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador and across the country. Through a collaborative ten-year plan, we’re ensuring that our strategy helps our most vulnerable citizens first and foremost. Actions like the one we are celebrating today ensure that every Canadian has a place to call their own.”
Yvonne Jones
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources and to the Minister of Northern Affairs
Member of Parliament for Labrador
“Our government is working collaboratively with the Federal Government to address a wide range of housing needs, including the development of a new residential housing building in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. I am very pleased to see this positive development in response to a recognized need for additional housing. This affordable housing development will assist individuals and families who are looking for a place to call home.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @CSSD_GovNL and @nlhousing
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Media contacts
Jenny Bowring
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-724-3055
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca
Arevig Afarian
Office of the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion
arevig.afarian@infc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
media@cmhc.ca
The post Social Housing Investment Announced for Labrador appeared first on News Releases.
Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings to North Harbour 50+ Club Wellness Fair
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings at the North Harbour 50+ Club Wellness Fair for seniors themed ‘Spring Into Wellness’ tomorrow (Saturday, May 14).
The event takes place at 9:30 a.m. at Lion’s Club/Community Centre, Woody Island Road, Placentia Bay.
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Media contact
Khadija Rehma
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-3768, 730-2977
khadijarehma@gov.nl.ca
The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings to North Harbour 50+ Club Wellness Fair appeared first on News Releases.
Proposed Amendments Would Improve Appeal Process for Municipal Planning
Amendments to the appeal provisions of the Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000 were introduced yesterday in the House of Assembly for second reading. The proposed amendments to the Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000 present an innovative approach to improve services to municipalities and residents and if passed would ensure a more effective and efficient appeals process, easing scheduling conflicts and eliminating delays.
The Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000 provides authority to Regional Appeal Boards to hear appeals related to land use and development issues that arise from decisions made by municipalities or a provincial government authority. Under the proposed amendments, the land use appeal process would be improved by establishing a list of adjudicators, increasing capacity to hear appeals, and creating efficiencies.
With the proposed amendments, there would be up to twenty professionally qualified adjudicators, appointed from all regions of the province through the Independent Appointment Commission process. Adjudicators would require a recognized professional designation relevant to administrative law and municipal development, such as a lawyer or certified professional land use planner.
Quote
“The department has been acutely aware of delays with appeal hearings and has been working to address this issue. The proposed amendments would provide a timely and balanced appeal process for all areas of the province, easing scheduling conflicts and avoiding delays that can have negative economic impacts for a municipality. If passed, not only would the proposed changes address the current backlog of appeals but would support economic development in communities.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
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Learn more
Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000
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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5449, 691-9446
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca
The post Proposed Amendments Would Improve Appeal Process for Municipal Planning appeared first on News Releases.
Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a virtual media availability by Zoom today (Friday, May 13) at 11:00 a.m. to discuss masking guidelines in schools.
The availability will be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.
Media wishing to participate must RSVP to Jillian Hood (jillianhood@gov.nl.ca) who will provide required details.
Media are asked to join by 10:45 a.m.
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Media contact
Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-727-0341, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca
The post Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.
Media Advisory: Public Housing Announcement in Happy Valley-Goose Bay
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada will make a funding announcement for a new housing project in Happy Valley-Goose Bay tomorrow (Friday, May 13).
The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, on behalf of the Honourable John Abbott, Minister Responsible for Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will be joined by Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources and to the Minister of Northern Affairs and Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion.
The announcement will take place at the Central Labrador YMCA, Hamilton River Road at 11:00 a.m. Following this event, a sod-turning ceremony will be held at 30 Mesher Street.
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Media contacts
Jenny Bowring
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-730-5886
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca
Allan Bock
Labrador Affairs Secretariat
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-7935, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca
The post Media Advisory: Public Housing Announcement in Happy Valley-Goose Bay appeared first on News Releases.
Cleanup Planned for Outer Ring Road
The Outer Ring Road from Kenmount Road to the Logy Bay Road interchange will be closed Sunday, May 15, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a cleanup of litter and large discarded items.
The closure is necessary to ensure a safe environment for all crews working on and near the highway.
Traffic control will be in place on the highways to guide motorists and ease the flow of traffic. Digital display signs have also been placed along the Outer Ring Road to give advanced notice of the closure.
During each cleanup, barricades will be erected to prohibit access at all entry points:
- Logy Bay Road
- Torbay Road
- Aberdeen Avenue
- Portugal Cove Road
- Allandale Road
- Team Gushue Highway
- Thorburn Road
- Topsail Road
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is also using the closure to complete highway maintenance and bridge inspections.
Updates on the road closure and reopening will be available at nl511.ca and the 511 smartphone app.
Quotes
“Keeping our highways clean is important for our environment and the safety of drivers. Closing the highway during the cleanup helps ensure the safety of people working in the area. We encourage everyone to secure the items in their vehicles before driving.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
“We all need to take the time and effort to ensure that waste is disposed of properly and doesn’t end up on our roadways where it is an eyesore and spoils our natural environment. I thank the road crews for their efforts to keep this major transportation network free of litter. Every action we take to keep our province clean will make a difference.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
“Ensuring that cargo in the back of your vehicle or on trailers is properly secured will help prevent the spread of debris on our roadways. Secure larger objects with straps or ropes that can handle the load, and use a tarp or netted material to secure smaller items. We all have a role to play in keeping dangerous debris off our roadways while also maintaining our province’s natural beauty.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL
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Learn more
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Media contacts
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
Lynn Robinson
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449, 691-9446
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca
The post Cleanup Planned for Outer Ring Road appeared first on News Releases.
Provincial Government Introduces Legislation for Safe Access Zones
The Honourable John Hogan, Q.C., Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, today introduced legislation to create safe access zones around educational and health care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
If passed, the Access to Health and Educational Services Act will ensure safe, unimpeded access to health and educational services in the province. The proposed bill prohibits interference and intimidation of service providers and users near health and educational facilities.
The legislation would balance the right to peaceful protest with the right of individuals to access health and education services free from physical threats and emotional upset. Newfoundland and Labrador already has similar legislation for abortion clinics.
The proposed legislation would see access zones extend 50 metres from the boundaries of the land where schools and health facilities are located. Contravention of the Act would result in imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000. The legislation would provide an exception for persons participating in lawful strike activities as well as enforcement activities by the police.
Quote
“This government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Individuals receiving health care services or attending an educational facility must be able to do so without fear or intimidation. This proposed legislation is about balancing the right of some to protest or express disagreement, with the right of others to safely access health and education services.”
Honourable John Hogan, Q.C.
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
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Learn more
Bill 51: Access to Health and Educational Services Act
News Release: Provincial Government to Introduce Legislation for Safe Access Zones
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Media contact
Emily Jane-Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca
The post Provincial Government Introduces Legislation for Safe Access Zones appeared first on News Releases.
