Government of Newfoundland News

Today at a ceremony in Deer Lake, the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, presented the 2022 Seniors of Distinction Awards.

This year’s recipients are:

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

Details on each of this year’s Seniors of Distinction can be found in the backgrounder below.

From being experts in their field and caring for individuals across the lifespan to sharing their culture and talents and volunteering as coaches, fundraisers and organizers, seniors give so much of themselves each and every day to their communities.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Seniors of Distinction Awards celebrate the achievements, contributions and diversity of older persons and seniors throughout the province. This initiative aligns with the recommendations of the Health Accord, and the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting seniors and building an inclusive and age-friendly province.

Quotes
“Congratulations to this year’s impressive line-up of Seniors of Distinction. Each of the seven recipients are remarkable leaders who have dedicated their time, talents and wisdom to help make the province and its communities a better place for seniors and future generations.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Today, we celebrate seven incredible seniors that have shown tremendous character and exemplify an ethic of service to others. The 2022 Seniors of Distinction are outstanding role models whose efforts truly inspire us all.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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Learn more

Seniors of Distinction Awards

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

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

BACKGROUNDER

Recipient Biographies for the 2022 Seniors of Distinction Award

George M. Doyle
For over four decades, George M Doyle of St. Lawrence demonstrated leadership, commitment and volunteered his time to municipal council as a community activist. He served four years as Mayor, four years as Deputy Mayor, and over 23 years as a Councillor. During his years of service, he was very active in the Joint Town and Community Council and the Greater Lamaline Area Development Association. George was an advocate for employees of the St. Lawrence Fluorspar mine, and was an advocate for the construction of the St. Lawrence Miner’s Museum. He was president of the St. Lawrence Workers Protective Union from 1964 to 1976.

Mr. Doyle was an active member of the St. Lawrence Harbour Authority and Fish Plant committees. He worked tirelessly with the harbour authority committee and was instrumental in acquiring funding for the development of a 350-foot wharf and state of the art Fishermen’s Rest building. The building serves fishers with amenities such as washers, dryers and WIFI. He was described as a man of great character, perseverance and strength.

Mr. Doyle passed away on September 20, 2019.

Barbara Ellis
Barbara Ellis of St. John’s has dedicated most of her life to improving the well-being of others. As a retired physiotherapist, Barbara’s working career was fueled by a passion for helping people strengthen their minds and bodies and keep as active as possible. In retirement, she has continued to keep people fit and active in mind and body as a volunteer. She teaches aqua fitness in Florida during the winter and, when at home in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a volunteer aquafit and group strength training instructor at the Ches Penney Family YMCA in St. John’s. In these roles, Barbara motivates and coaches other seniors and older adults to stay active through activities that support strength, balance and movement, which provide benefits for everyday activities. Barbara first joined the YMCA as a member at the age of 13 and has been a YMCA volunteer for the past 10 years.

Barbara is a strong believer in keeping your mind sharp and in trying new things, and endeavours to instill these values in all those she encounters, particularly seniors and older adults. Barbara is also a volunteer at her church and a Rotarian. Throughout her lifetime, she has also volunteered with the Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association, Girl Guides of Canada, Canadian Physiotherapy Association, Ronald McDonald House, and The Gathering Place. Leading by example, Barbara provides inspiration to others that you can be fit and active in your community at any age.

Rosie Lucy (Grammy)
Rosie Lucy of Hopedale has worked much of her life as a public health aide. She is an Inuit Elder who has been gifted with the art of sewing. She created Inuit crafts such as moose hide slippers and mittens. She is recognized for her contributions to Inuit people, particularly as a foster parent for almost 40 years. Rosie raised nine of her own children, as well as grandchildren and other children in care. She has helped parents who were challenged with responsibilities of parenthood. Rosie has helped many children grow into independent individuals who now contribute to the community of Hopedale.

Rosie is described as a role model and true example of the positive impact that one person can have on the lives of so many. Even through a 2011 cancer diagnosis, Rosie continued as a foster mother. In 2020, she reluctantly closed her foster home following a second cancer diagnosis. Rosie has devoted her life to raising children and instilling them with pride – pride of what it means to be an Indigenous person and embrace their uniqueness. She is described as very humble and kind. Her profound impact on the lives of the people of the north coast of Labrador, and beyond, will be felt for generations to come.

Elizabeth (Bette) Murphy
Bette Murphy of St. John’s has been a volunteer for most of her life. She has gone door to door for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Kidney Foundation and Christmas Seals Campaign, and shared her sewing skills with children at Our Lady of Mercy School during the late 1970s. Most would agree however, that her most significant mark has been left on the sport of softball in Newfoundland and Labrador and female softball in particular. In 1966, Bette served as Secretary of the inaugural St. John’s Ladies Softball League and was appointed by the City of St. John’s to the inaugural St. John’s Recreation Commission. She contributed immensely to the growth of softball in Newfoundland and Labrador as a player, coach, manager and executive at the municipal, provincial and national levels. She even served as Chair of the Media Committee for the 1994 Women’s World Softball Championship at the Caribou Complex in St. John’s, extending her influence into the international sphere.

Bette is a member of the St. John’s Hall of Fame and is an honorary life member of Softball Newfoundland and Labrador. Beyond softball, Bette served on the National Advisory Board for Fitness and Amateur Sport from 1974 to 1976, and was selected as a judge for the 1984 Miss Teen St. John’s pageant. She has also made significant contributions to youth bowling, soccer and the Peter Pan Lawn Bowling League. At 85, Bette remains active in five-pin and lawn bowling and is admired for her flawless fashion sense, humble demeanor and understanding of others and their unique situations.

Wayne Noel
Wayne Noel of St. Anthony has spent a lifetime contributing to making life better for others. Born and raised in Goose Cove East on the Great Northern Peninsula, he lost his father at the age of 17 while attending university. He made the decision to move back home to be there for his mother and family. Shortly after his family moved to St. Anthony and Wayne began work for the Grenfell Mission. His career in health care spanned more than forty years of service where he advanced to a leadership role in materials management.

A believer in building strong and healthy communities, Wayne was instrumental in the re-establishment of an ice rink and the creation of the first indoor swimming pool for the community in the 1970s. In the 1980s and 90s, he was instrumental in economic development in St. Anthony, including the creation of St. Anthony Basin Resources Inc., a social enterprise which supports community development initiatives within the region.

Through the decades, he has served on Town Council, the Grenfell Historical Society and has been heavily involved in many other community organizations and events including the longest snowmobile ride in the world as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2003. Wayne continues to be involved in community and economic development to this day.

Eldon Swyer
Eldon Swyer of Little Rapids played a very active role in the School Administrators’ Council both locally and provincially and was a member of the Advisory Council of Grenfell College for a number of years. He also served as Chairman of the Labrador City Public Library Board and was instrumental in the building of a new town library. He was also founding Chairman of the Labrador-Northern Newfoundland Regional Library Board and served as a member of the Provincial Library Board for several years. In recognition of his contribution to the betterment of the community, the Town of Labrador City presented Eldon with a Builders Award.

Upon his retirement in June 1988, Mr. Swyer received many accolades from staff, students, community groups and others at large. His Holiness, John Paul II cordially granted a special Apostolic Blessing as follows: “to Mr. Eldon Swyer, Principal of Labrador City Collegiate, for his many years in education, his dedication, his ecumenical spirit and his wisdom in promoting human, cultural and religious values, invoking constant grace and divine protection upon his family and all his future projects.” Eldon will be 91 in November and continues to be an active volunteer with the Corner Brook Lions Club.

Bryson Webb
Bryson Webb of Port-aux-Basques has served as Board Chair of the Western Regional Health Authority since October 2017. This is a volunteer position that carries significant responsibility. In this role, Bryson is the voice of the board to staff, stakeholder groups and the community at large. Bryson’s other duties include recruitment, orientation and board mentoring and development. Most recently, Bryson has led Western Health through a community consultation process whereby seven communities were engaged.

Some of Bryson’s other volunteer experience includes: the Canadian Nurses Association; Ministerial Advisory Committee on Primary Healthcare Enhancement Project; the Community Employment Corporation; and the Dr. Charles LeGrow Health Centre Foundation. Bryson is described as a prime example of someone who has unselfishly devoted his time, knowledge and talent to volunteerism, particularly in the area of health care. He has done so for many years since his retirement in 1996.

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Chair of the House of Assembly Management Commission, advises that the Honourable J. Derek Green, former Chief Justice of Newfoundland and Labrador, yesterday (September 15) submitted his review of the report of the Citizens’ Representative entitled ‘A Report on Public Interest Disclosures Regarding the Chief Electoral Officer for Newfoundland and Labrador’ (the Report), dated March 2022.

Pursuant to the terms of reference, the review consisted of an analysis of the Report based on the evidence and findings contained in it, and was not a re-investigation. The complete terms of reference are provided in the backgrounder below.

The Management Commission was presented with an approximately 180-page review, in addition to supplementary materials, which will inform the Commission’s recommendations to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council as requested in its correspondence of June 8, 2022. A further update will be provided once the Commission has reviewed the findings and supplementary materials, and has met to discuss its next steps. A meeting date is not yet confirmed, but will be scheduled as soon as possible.

Quote
“The Management Commission once again extends its sincere appreciation to former Chief Justice Green for accepting this assignment and ensuring completion under the associated timelines. The findings will prove invaluable to ensure that due diligence and procedural fairness underpin the Commission’s recommendation(s) to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council. The Management Commission remains committed to completing this work in a timely manner.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly
Chair of the Management Commission

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

BACKGROUNDER

Terms of Reference – Independent Review of the Findings and Report of the Citizens’ Representative:

The Management Commission directs that the Honourable J. Derek Green, former Chief Justice of Newfoundland and Labrador (“the Reviewer”), be engaged to review the report of the Citizens’ Representative entitled ‘A Report on Public Interest Disclosures Regarding the Chief Electoral Officer for Newfoundland and Labrador’, March 2022, as follows:

1. The Reviewer shall analyze the Report based on the evidence and findings contained in it and shall not perform a reinvestigation of the said Report;
2. The Reviewer may make inquiries of or invite submissions from the Citizens’ Representative and the Chief Electoral Officer, or their counsel, on the findings contained in the report;
3. The Reviewer may make inquiries of or invite submissions from such other persons the Reviewer determines necessary to fulfil the Reviewer’s responsibilities under this referral;
4. The Reviewer may consult with the House of Assembly Service regarding matters of parliamentary procedure, parliamentary privilege and the administrative governance framework of the Legislature;
5. The Secretary to the Management Commission shall provide the Reviewer with those human resources or other supports necessary to complete the review;
6. The Reviewer shall provide to the Management Commission the following:
   1. an analysis of the Report, including any procedural, human resources or legal issues identified and whether any further investigations, proceedings or analyses are appropriate or desirable in the circumstances;
   2. a recommendation whether, in the opinion of the Reviewer based on the analysis of the Report, action contemplated under section 5.3 of the Elections Act, 1991 may be considered appropriate, including whether a further term of suspension should be imposed or whether the Chief Electoral Officer should be removed from office for misconduct, cause or neglect of duty as contemplated by that section; and
   3. a recommendation whether, in the opinion of the Reviewer, any further investigations, proceedings or analyses are appropriate or desirable to determine any other appropriate remedy;
7. The Reviewer shall complete the work contemplated in this referral and shall report on the analysis completed and make the required recommendation by September 15, 2022;
8. The Reviewer shall be available for consultation with the Management Commission for three months after delivering the review of the above-noted report.

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The All-Party Committee to Modernize the Elections Act is reminding the public of the upcoming consultations on changes to the Elections Act, 1991. The All-Party Committee was established to identify means to enhance accessibility of voting in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Below is the current schedule for the upcoming sessions that have been confirmed. People are encouraged to visit engageNL for more information and details on how to register.

Date Stakeholder Time Location Tuesday, September 20 General Public 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Holiday Inn, Salon A, 180 Portugal Cove Road Wednesday, September 21 General Public 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Holiday Inn, Salon A, 180 Portugal Cove Road Tuesday, October 4 General Public 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Virtual Session Registration

The feedback gathered during these sessions will complement the findings from the online questionnaire and written submissions that were collected earlier this year. Input from the public consultations will be used to inform legislative amendments to the Elections Act, 1991.

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

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, confirmed over $2.6 million in continued funding allocated to nine Status of Women Councils throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Minister Parsons made the announcement at the Status of Women Central’s Take Back the Night event in Grand Falls-Windsor yesterday evening.

The Office of Women and Gender Equality allocated funding of $1,200,338 to eight Status of Women Councils. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation has allocated $1,402,313 to two Status of Women Councils which also offer housing and housing-related supports. A breakdown of funding allocation is listed in the Background information below.

The regionally-based councils are funded by the Provincial Government to advance the status of women in the province. Operational activities include providing direct counselling to women in crisis or in need of support; engaging in outreach and advocacy as a voice for women; and offering programming, information, referrals and resources to the community. The councils also run women’s centres in corresponding regions.

Status of Women Councils are located in Corner Brook, Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador City, Port-aux-Basques, Port Saunders, St. John’s and Stephenville. They are incorporated, not-for-profit organizations managed by Boards of Directors.

Quote
“Status of Women Councils provide valuable supports and services to women throughout our province. Our Government recognizes their integral role to supporting women to find stability, set and achieve goals, and overcome challenges. ”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more

Regional Status of Women Councils

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Media contact
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Breakdown in Funding Allocation for Status of Women Councils in Newfoundland and Labrador

Organization Amount Source Labrador West Status of Women Council $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality Gander Status of Women Council $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality Corner Brook Status of Women Council* $201,963 Office of Women and Gender Equality Gateway Status of Women Council $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality Bay St. George Status of Women Council $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality Status of Women Central $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality Norpen Status of Women Council $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality St. John’s Status of Women Council* $142,625 Office of Women and Gender Equality $717,163 Newfoundland Labrador Housing Corporation Mokami Status of Women Council* $685,150 Newfoundland Labrador Housing Corporation TOTAL $2,602,651

*Corner Brook Status of Women Council, St. John’s Status of Women Council, and Mokami Status of Women Council all receive additional funding for supportive housing.

 

2022 09 16                                                    9:35 a.m.

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Through the Offshore Exploration Initiative the Provincial Government today announced its continued support for oil and gas exploration in the province through support for ExxonMobil Canada’s newest exploration well, Gale N-66.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s oil and gas industry – with low emissions per barrel compared to the international average and our strong environmental, social and governance structure – can be a part of the solution as the world transitions to a lower carbon economy.

This is ExxonMobil’s third frontier exploration well within ExxonMobil’s multi-year exploration program. The Gale prospect is located beyond the northern edge of the Jeanne d’Arc basin in the Central Ridge. The well is designed to test the reservoir and hydrocarbon potential of the area. Drilling is anticipated to begin in 2023.

Annually, the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB) issues calls for bids for exploration licences in the province’s offshore. The sole criterion for selecting a winning bid is the total amount of money the bidder commits to spend on exploration of the parcel. The successful bidder is required to post a security deposit for 25 per cent of the work expenditure bid. If the bidder does not meet its work commitment, some or all of the security deposit may be forfeited in which case the investment opportunity would be lost.

The Offshore Exploration Initiative allows bid deposit forfeitures to be reinvested as received, resulting in a potential injection of hundreds of millions of dollars in support of growth in the province’s offshore petroleum industry. By funding a percentage of well costs beyond the first well drilled, the Provincial Government ensures that those funds are reinvested back into the offshore with maximum effect to yield those high impact discoveries that create our future projects.

Under the Offshore Exploration Initiative there will be no cost reimbursement for the first well drilled. The second and third wells will receive cost reimbursement respectively up to a maximum of $30 and $50 million. This makes it more likely that a third well will be drilled and increases the chances of a discovery. It also allows licence owners to potentially test another structure within a given area, further improving the odds of a discovery.

Through the province’s Offshore Exploration Initiative, ExxonMobil is eligible to receive reimbursement for the costs of its second well (Hampden) up to a maximum of $30 million. The company’s third well (Gale) is eligible to receive up to a maximum of $50 million.

Exploration drilling is of key importance to unlocking hydrocarbon potential offshore Newfoundland and Labrador. The Provincial Government implemented the Offshore Exploration Initiative in 2021 to increase exploration of low carbon oil in the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Area.

Last year the Provincial Government launched its Renewable Energy Plan that contains short, medium and long term actions. The plan supports Newfoundland and Labrador’s transition to a low-carbon economy, creates employment opportunities for the province’s residents, and further positions the province as a clean energy centre of excellence.

The plan explores pathways currently available on the province’s journey towards net zero, including prospective renewable energy projects such as hydro and wind; digitalization; electrification; low-carbon hydrogen production, emissions reduction and process improvements in existing industries like oil and gas and carbon capture, utilization and storage.

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.

Quotes
“The offshore exploration initiative has provided an incentive which supports near term drilling activity and employment. We continue to support the oil and gas industry during this time of transition.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“ExxonMobil Canada Ltd. is evaluating drilling an exploration well in 2023; the province’s Offshore Exploration Initiative is an important consideration in our decision making. We appreciate the province’s continued support for oil and gas exploration.”
Lazaro Cosma
President ExxonMobil Canada

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Learn more
News Release: Premier Ball, Minister Coady and Industry Leaders Unite in Support of Offshore Oil and Gas Industry

News Release: Provincial Government Announces Support for Oil and Gas Supply and Service Sector Projects

News Release: Provincial Government Announces Implementation Committee for the Oil and Gas Industry Recovery Task Force Recommendations

News Release: Innovative Research and Development Supports Oil and Gas Industry

News Release: Government Releases Oil and Gas Industry Recovery Task Force Report

Renewable Energy Plan

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

Margot Bruce-O’Connell
ExxonMobil Canada
709-746-8383
margot.p.bruce-o’connell@exxonmobil.com

The post Supporting Responsible Exploration appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for the Office of Women and Gender Equality, will share remarks at the Take Back the Night event in Grand Falls-Windsor tonight (Thursday, September 15). The minister will also reaffirm funding support for Status of Women Councils who run Women’s Centres in the province.

The event, organized by Status of Women Central, begins at 7:30 p.m. at Church Road Park in Grand Falls-Windsor.

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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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A commemorative service celebrating the life of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II will be held on Monday, September 19. The ceremony will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 16 Church Hill, St. John’s.

Following the commemorative ceremony, there will be a 21-gun salute on the grounds of the Queen’s Battery.

Members of the media planning to attend must RSVP before Monday, September 19 at 10:00 a.m. to Samantha Harding (samanthaharding@gov.nl.ca). As parking is very limited, all attendees, including members of the media, are strongly encouraged to use public transit or be dropped off for the service.

Please note that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will be providing a live feed for this event on Facebook and YouTube. Outside video cameras will not be permitted inside the cathedral.

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Media contacts
Samantha Harding
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
709-729-4494
samanthaharding@gov.nl.ca

Erin Sulley
Executive Council
709-729-0557
erinsulley@gov.nl.ca

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A commemorative service celebrating the life of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II will be held on Monday, September 19. The ceremony will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 16 Church Hill, St. John’s.

Following the commemorative ceremony, there will be a 21-gun salute on the grounds of the Queen’s Battery.

Members of the public are invited to attend the ceremony but space is limited and seating will be done on a first come, first served basis. Invited guests and members of the public are asked to enter through the Gower Street entrance and are required to be seated by 1:30 p.m. As parking is very limited, invited guests and members of the public are strongly encouraged to use public transit or be dropped off for the service.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be streamed live on Facebook and YouTube.

Books of condolences are available for the public to sign in the lobby of East Block, Confederation Building and Government House. The books will be available daily until September 19 from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Confederation Building and 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Government House. Condolences can also be offered online.

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Media contacts
Samantha Harding
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
709-729-4494
samanthaharding@gov.nl.ca

Erin Sulley
Executive Council
709-729-0557
erinsulley@gov.nl.ca

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The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will present the Annual Seniors of Distinction Awards tomorrow (Friday, September 16).

The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the Deer Lake Motel, 15 Trans-Canada Highway, Deer Lake.

This event will be streamed live on Facebook and YouTube.

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

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

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-018 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-2022-018 Report Date: September 13, 2022 Public Body: Memorial University Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to Memorial University for records consisting of references submitted to the University as part of the Complainant’s application package. The University provided records to the Complainant, but withheld some information pursuant to sections 32(b) (confidential evaluations) and 40(1) (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). During the complaint investigation, the University agreed to release some additional information previously withheld pursuant to both exceptions. In reviewing the application of section 32(b), the Commissioner found that some of the information did not contain evaluative or opinion material and therefore did not qualify for that exception to access. The Commissioner recommended partial release of information withheld under section 32(b).

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

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The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is urging people to refrain from feeding or handling wild foxes, particularly in the Port aux Basques area and on Fogo Island, where Conservation Officers have been responding to reports of habituated foxes.

Feeding foxes or any other type of wildlife creates a public safety hazard and could result in animals being euthanized through no fault of their own. Wild animals can be dangerous and unpredictable when approached, and may carry transmissible diseases that could pose health and safety problems to people or pets. Wildlife survive best on food sources found in their natural habitat. Rather than helping them, giving wild animals human or pet food can negatively impact their health. When people provide wild animals with an easy food source, the animals lose their natural fear of humans and human activity. This also affects Conservation Officers’ efforts to capture and relocate the animals.

While the instinct to assist wild animals that appear to be hungry, newborn, orphaned, abandoned or injured is understandable, animals should be left undisturbed in their natural habitat where they belong. Conservation officers will only handle wildlife if there is a public safety concern or if circumstances warrant an animal’s removal. Anyone encountering an aggressive or nuisance wild animal is asked to report it to Forestry and Wildlife District offices located throughout the province.

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

 

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The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is currently reviewing the Mineral Act and the Mining Act, to examine if the current legislation reflects the highest possible standards for the industry.

Over the next several weeks, the department will host a series of in-person sessions with respect to the Mineral Act and Mining Act and corresponding regulations.

The aim of this review is to ensure the exploration and development of the province’s mineral resources are conducted in a responsible, sustainable and competitive manner, while remaining supportive of private-sector investment and job growth.

The department invites industry partners and stakeholder groups to the following in-person engagement sessions. Note, a session date and location for St. John’s will be provided once details are confirmed.

• Thursday, September 21 – Wabush – Wabush Hotel
• Friday, September 22 – Goose Bay – College of the North Atlantic, Room 106
• Tuesday, October 4 – Corner Brook – Civic Centre, Room Two
• Wednesday, October 5 – Springdale -Riverwood Inn
• Thursday, October 6 – Marystown – Marystown Hotel, Salon B

The purpose of these sessions is to guide any amendments of existing legislation; or assist in the development of new legislation and regulations regarding mineral tenure, mineral exploration, and mining. To register for any of the in-person sessions, please email engagemines@gov.nl.ca.

For more information on these public consultations visit engageNL.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s mineral industry continues to be a key economic driver for the province and a focus for investment attraction efforts. The estimated activity for 2022 is projected to result in over $5.4 billion in mineral shipments, $189 million in exploration expenditures, and employment of approximately 8,800 person years.

Quote
“The future looks very prosperous for the mining and mineral industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. We have the world-class deposits and geology needed to grow and develop the green economy. We are undertaking this legislation review as part of our efforts to ensure our province is well positioned to maximize any future opportunities, so that this industry plays a vital role in our economy for many years to come.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
Mining and Mineral Development

EngageNL

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

 

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Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have once again opened their arms to welcome 76 Afghan federal government-assisted refugees. Many of these newly arrived residents, who served and sacrificed alongside Canadian armed forces in Afghanistan, deserve an embrace of freedom and peace that our duty of citizenship calls us to offer.

These individuals and families departed Islamabad, Pakistan on a Government of Canada charter flight late on September 8 and landed at Halifax Stanfield Airport at 5:00 a.m. Friday September 9. The 76 individuals and families, with Newfoundland and Labrador as their final destination, proceeded on commercial flights over the following days with the last flight landing at St. John’s International Airport at 2:00 p.m. on September 11. On a day that has come to symbolize the very best of our province, we once again provided a safe haven to those fleeing fear.

The staff of the Association for New Canadians continue their tireless work to settle these individuals and families who are bravely preparing to begin their new lives. Anyone interested in donating or volunteering to help welcome our newest residents is asked to contact the Association for New Canadians.

This is just the latest group of people looking to Newfoundland and Labrador as a place to build a peaceful and prosperous life. Let us clear a path so their dreams can become reality because when they succeed, we all succeed.

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Learn More
Association for New Canadians Website

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

The post Minister Byrne Extends Welcome to Newly Arrived Afghanistan Refugees appeared first on News Releases.

September 30 marks a Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Newfoundland and Labrador when we honour survivors and raise awareness about the terrible legacy of residential schools in Canada, including this province.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to take time to learn about residential schools and reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.

This day is also observed as Orange Shirt Day. Residents are urged to wear orange on this and any other day of the year. Wearing orange honours the children who attended residential schools and recognizes the traumatic experience of Phyllis Webstad, who had her new orange shirt taken away from her on the first day she attended a residential school.

Businesses and other organizations in the province are encouraged to commemorate the Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As part of the ongoing process to identify a meaningful way to observe this day going forward, consultations will continue with Indigenous Governments and Organizations, and the business and labour sector on the prospect of declaring September 30 a public day of reflection under the Labour Standards Act.

Government offices, schools and other entities will be closed on September 30 as the provincial public service will once again join Canadians in commemorating survivors and stand with families and communities who are grieving.

Confederation Building will be lit in orange on the evening of September 30 to commemorate all those affected by residential schools. Flags will fly at half-mast in memory of the children who never returned home. The Survivor’s Flag distributed by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation will be flown.

The observance of a day dedicated to honouring the survivors, families and communities who were deeply impacted by residential schools, and children and youth who did not return home, was a Call to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. In keeping with the spirit and intent of the Call to Action, governments across the country are observing this day.

Quotes
“On September 30, the provincial public service will again observe a Day for Truth and Reconciliation. All government offices, schools and other entities will be closed. During that day of reflection, I encourage each of us to learn more about the impacts of residential schools in Canada, and to take this opportunity to learn more about Indigenous peoples. It is in the act of educating ourselves that we can begin the journey towards reconciliation.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and President of Treasury Board

“We share a collective responsibility to learn and understand how residential schooling in Canada had a traumatic and profound impact on survivors, families and communities. September 30 is also a day to honour those children and youth who did not return home to their families and communities. More than just reflecting and remembering, we must commit and strive to do better.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“This day is a time to honour survivors and raise awareness about the dark history of residential schools in Canada. I encourage everyone in the province to take a moment, or whatever time is possible within their own circumstances, to think about this day and to reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

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Learn More
Orange Shirt Day

Indigenous Governments and Organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador

Federal Government Statutory Holiday

Media Contacts
Victoria Barbour
Treasury Board Secretariat
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

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

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

The post Provincial Government to Observe a Day for Truth and Reconciliation appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will participate in the annual meeting of Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for Local Government today (Wednesday, September 14). The meeting is being held virtually.

Topics for discussion include municipal priorities, impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on municipalities and governance reforms.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Participate in Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Local Government appeared first on News Releases.

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a media availability today (Wednesday, September 14) to discuss the fall COVID-19 vaccination plan.

The availability will take place in Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 2:00 p.m.

The availability will also be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook account.

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

The post Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.

In honour of more than 70 years of service and dedication to the people of the province, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is declaring Monday, September 19, 2022 as a day to honour the memory of Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

On this day, provincial government offices, schools and other entities will be closed. This day will be observed one-time only on Monday, September 19, 2022. This will allow public service employees the time to pay their respects to Her Majesty and commemorate Her reign, while marking the final day of the period of national mourning.

Businesses and other organizations in the province are encouraged to commemorate Her Majesty in a manner that works best for them.

Flags at provincial government buildings across the province are being flown at half-mast in Her Majesty’s honour.

A book of condolences for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II is available in the main lobby of East Block, Confederation Building in St. John’s for residents to sign daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..

Quotes
“The passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II marks a loss to many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Declaring a day of honour provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the many ways she steadfastly served our province and country these past 70 years. May her memory live on as a reminder of her tireless service and dedication.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II was the epitome of grace, of strength, of stability, of duty. She was always there – in times of war, peace and celebration. On the day of her funeral, we encourage our public service to reflect on her 70 years of service”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board

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Learn More

Public Advisory: Book of Condolences Available to Sign at Confederation Building

Premier Furey Offers Condolences on the Passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

Victoria Barbour
Treasury Board Secretariat
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government Declares a Day to Honour Queen Elizabeth II appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, participated in an event today recognizing exceptional public service employees who were presented with the Public Service Award of Excellence. Premier Furey was joined by Krista Quinlan, Clerk of the Executive Council.

This year there were 27 people honoured consisting of seven individuals and three teams:

Individuals:

• William Donnelly, Education
• Mark Lawlor, Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Carey Majid, Q.C., Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission
• Eric Minka, Children, Seniors and Social Development
• Christine Nurse, Transportation and Infrastructure
• Erin Ramsay, Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Lanie Woodfine, Children, Seniors and Social Development

Teams:

• Community Water and Wastewater Team, Environment and Climate Change – Chris Blanchard, Paula Dawe, Genny DeCoste, Gerry Lahey, Darren Patey, Jim Pollett and Deneen Spracklin
• Flood Forecasting Development Team, Office of the Chief Information Officer – Cyril Bonnell, Adele Costello, Jason Langdon, Stephen Lomond, Chris Mackey, Necie Mouland and Michelle Neville
• RNC CBS Patrol Services Team, Royal Newfoundland Constabulary – Constable Daniel Cadigan, Constable Kyle Fowler, Constable Brittany Hierlihy, Constable Stephen Martin, Constable Alexander O’Keefe and Constable Jake Sharpe

This is the twentieth year that the Public Service Award of Excellence has been presented. It is the highest honour that can be bestowed on public service employees and recognizes individuals and teams for exceptional work performance and honours achievements in innovation, leadership, relationship building, and excellence in service delivery.

More information on the Public Service Award of Excellence, including biographies of current and past winners can be found by visiting www.gov.nl.ca/excellence/.

Quotes
“I congratulate the outstanding individuals and teams for receiving the Public Service Award of Excellence today. I thank each of them for their commitment and dedication to their work, and to the important services they provide for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is an honour to work with each and every one of the members of our exceptional public service.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Public Service Award of Excellence represents the hallmark of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s recognition of employee excellence. In 2022, we are marking the 20th year of the Public Service Awards of Excellence. Since its inception, the program has recognized 112 individuals and 51 teams of remarkable public service employees. It is an honour to congratulate the latest recipients today who have demonstrated their leadership and dedication to serving the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Krista Quinlan
Clerk of the Executive Council

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Learn more

Public Service Award of Excellence

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL

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

The post Premier Furey Recognizes Recipients of Public Service Award of Excellence appeared first on News Releases.

New wildlife regulations to improve the hunting and trapping experience in Newfoundland and Labrador are in effect for the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Season:

• The big game moose hunting season opened on Saturday, September 10 and continues until December 31. It is important for coyote hunters and trappers to be aware that during this time they are not permitted to use center fire rifles calibers up to .225 for taking coyote and wolf on the island portion of the province.
• Hunters with a valid small game licence will be permitted to shoot red squirrel. This change is in effect with the opening of small game season. Opening dates are listed at:
  • 2022-23 Small Game Season Dates: Island of Newfoundland
  • 2022-23 Small Game Season Dates: Labrador
• Hunters are required to purchase a separate shooting licence for ptarmigan. This will assist the department in connecting with hunters and determining better accuracy in terms of populations. In addition, daily bag and possession limits for Rock Ptarmigan have been established for the island. Please review small game bag limits at 2022-23 Small Game Season and Bag Limits: Island of Newfoundland.
• Effective January 1, 2023, big game black bear hunters who wish to use foot-holding trapping devices currently permitted under the Wild Life Regulations must first complete a Trapper Education Course, and hold a valid trapping licence. The implementation date of this legislation gives bear hunters time to complete the new training requirement prior to the spring 2023 black bear season.
• As announced on August 26, licenced hunters and trappers who hold a valid licence can hunt or trap using a firearm on a Sunday within their respective management areas throughout the entire open season.

All hunters and trappers are required to follow firearm and hunting safety practices at all times, and are encouraged to wear blaze orange while hunting. Additional information related to wildlife regulations, hunting season dates, bag limits and other hunting safety reminders is available in the 2022-23 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Moose Management Area maps showing moose densities in recently surveyed areas and current population information are now available here. More information on moose management is available in the 2022-2026 Moose Management Plan.

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

The post Public Advisory: New Regulations in Effect for Hunting and Trapping Season appeared first on News Releases.

In an effort to find creative solutions to address the physician shortage in the province, the Provincial Government and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador are working on a number of initiatives to address the local situation. The Provincial Government is continuing in its efforts to attract and retain physicians through a number of measures, including finding ways to remove barriers for those who have moved to Newfoundland and Labrador from other parts of Canada and other countries.

The initiatives include:

• Exploration of new alternate pathways for licensing;
• Full review of all licensing and registration criteria for physicians, in an effort to identify any barriers which may currently exist;
• Streamlining of the licence application process; and,
• Working with other Canadian medical regulatory authorities regarding licence mobility.

These initiatives continue to support the mandate of the College, while also potentially benefiting the provincial health care system overall by increasing the available pool of practicing physicians.

While recruitment and retention challenges are not unique to Newfoundland and Labrador, government continues to work closely with the Regional Health Authorities and all stakeholders on how to best address these matters. Government remains dedicated to working collaboratively with stakeholders like the College of Physicians and Surgeons toward better health outcomes for the residents of the province.

The recruitment and retention of health care professionals has been – and continues to be – a challenge, not just in Newfoundland and Labrador, but indeed globally. Health Accord NL was created in November 2020 to reimagine the health care system to best deliver services to people in communities across the province. It was mandated to deliver a 10-year Health Accord with short, medium, and long-term goals for a health care system that better meets the current needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. A number of the initiatives are already underway, with additional recommendations announced as part of Budget 2022.

Details on these initiatives can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes

“For some time now, we have been employing a number of measures to try to find new and creative ways of both delivering services, as well as attracting physicians to our province and encouraging the ones already here to stay. Initiatives like the ones we are exploring with the College of Physicians and Surgeons are integral to solving these issues and helping ensure the long-term sustainability of our health care system.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with the minister and the Department of Health and Community Services. The College is currently reviewing all licensing standards and processes to improve the application process, while ensuring that physicians who are licensed have the necessary knowledge, skills and competencies to provide safe and quality medical care to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Tanis Adey, Registrar
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador

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

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador
709-726-8546
cpsnl@cpsnl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Recent Measures to Address the Shortage of Health Care Professionals

• A one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce.
• Committed to a suite of measures to expand the supply of health care professionals: creation of new collaborative community team clinics; increase in virtual care services to assist with the provision of urgent care; commitment to further increase the number of graduates from Licensed Practical Nursing Programs by 40 per cent, and Personal Care Attendant Programs by 20 per cent.
• Two new programs launched to support family doctors in the province and help improve access to primary health care:
  • The New Family Physician Income Guarantee initiative guarantees a minimum income equivalent to that of a salaried family physician to new family doctors who bill on a fee for service basis and open a family practice clinic – or join an established clinic – for the first two years of their practice. This will ease some of the uncertainty associated with the business aspects of opening a clinic by increasing financial certainty. Funding recipients will be required to enter into a two-year return-in-service agreement with government.
  • The Family Practice Start-Up Program will provide $150,000 to new family practice physicians who open a family practice clinic, or join an existing family practice in the community, and stay in the practice for five years. Recipients who are approved for both programs must sign a five-year return-in-service agreement with government. Additionally, both programs will be linked to establishing a patient roster in the community, as well as the provision of after-hours care.  This is the highest incentive offered to family physicians at this time in Atlantic Canada.
• Initiatives announced in March 2022 to address the challenges facing nurses in the province, including the nursing think tank; Requests for proposals for core staffing review, health human resource plan, workforce research; and an Internationally Educated Nurses Bursary.
• A new Assistant Deputy Minister for the recruitment and retention office has been hired and the office has been established within the Department of Health and Community Services.
• An additional five undergraduate seats have been added to the Memorial University’s medical School for Newfoundland and Labrador students.
• Launched the Extraordinary Every Day, a health care campaign aimed at recruiting and retaining health care professionals.
• Staffing in the regional health authorities has been enhanced to further support recruitment and retention efforts.
• A number of financial incentives and employee supports have been implemented to help address the immediate nursing workforce challenges and help stabilize the workforce.
• Compensation rates for covering emergency rooms in smaller rural health centres (category B facilities) have been increased as a temporary measure until October 31, 2022 to help retain existing physicians at these sites, as well as attract other locum physicians during periods of vacancy. As well, in Labrador, Category A rates were increased in the last MOA.
• $30,000 to Eastern Health to support students in the Radiation Therapy Program for each of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years. This will double Eastern Health’s capacity to support students in the program.

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