Government of Newfoundland News

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

Speaker, in just a few short days municipalities across the province will mark the first ever Municipal Awareness Week from May 9 – 13.

In previous years, we have celebrated Municipal Awareness Day. This year, in partnership with Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador and the Professional Municipal Administrators NL, we are designating a full week to acknowledge and celebrate the importance of local governance to residents and the province overall.

Municipal government is responsible for providing critical services that enhance the quality of life for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Dedicated mayors, councillors, staff and volunteers are essential for the effective governance of municipalities. Their work, supported by the collaboration, partnership and involvement of residents, is essential for active, sustainable and vibrant communities.

Providing stability and predictability to municipalities is important. With this in mind, Budget 2022 provides more than $141 million to maintain key programs such as Special Assistance Grants, the Community Enhancement Employment Program, the Canada Community Building Fund and not less than $22 million per year for Municipal Operating Grants for at least the next three years.

Speaker, cities and towns are now busy organizing various activities for Municipal Awareness Week. I encourage my Honourable colleagues and all residents to take time next week to recognize the contribution of all those working in the municipal sector and participate in activities that municipal councils will be hosting to mark this inaugural event.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Communities Prepare to Celebrate First Ever Municipal Awareness Week 2022 appeared first on News Releases.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, May 4), provincial and territorial emergency management organizations will be issuing public test messages through Alert Ready, the national emergency alerting system. Newfoundland and Labrador will issue one test message to be distributed over television, radio and to compatible wireless devices at 10:55 a.m. (10:25 a.m. in most of Labrador).

The Alert Ready system was developed with many partners including federal, provincial, and territorial emergency management officials, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Pelmorex, the broadcasting industry and wireless service providers. The Alert Ready system enables designated government authorities to rapidly warn the public via television, radio and compatible wireless devices of imminent or unfolding threats to life.

It is important to note that not all Canadians will receive the test alert on their wireless device. This may occur for a variety of reasons, including device compatibility, connection to an LTE network, cell tower coverage, device software and settings.

To learn more about the Alert Ready system and to check your device compatibility, visit www.AlertReady.ca.

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Avis au public : Test national du système En Alerte prévu demain

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

The post Public Advisory: National Test of Alert Ready to Take Place Tomorrow appeared first on News Releases.

MyGovNL online services are temporarily unavailable. The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) is working with the vendor to ensure services can be restored as quickly as possible.

Online services affected by this outage include:

• Personal vehicle renewals
• Driver’s licence renewals
• Purchasing of driver abstracts
• Learner’s permit tests
• MCP card renewals
• Domestic woodcutting permits

An update will be provided once the issue has been resolved. The department apologizes for any inconvenience.

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

The post Public Advisory: MyGovNL Currently Unavailable appeared first on News Releases.

Mock-up rooms have been assembled for the new 102-bed adult mental health and addictions hospital in St. John’s to allow clinical staff to provide feedback on the functionality of the rooms while construction is ongoing.

During visits this winter and spring, the rooms have provided staff of the Departments of Transportation and Infrastructure and Health and Community Services, Eastern Health, the Mental Health and Addictions Advisory Council, and the Recovery Council with the opportunity to review the layout of key areas within the facility before they are constructed. Based on these reviews, the design can be modified so that the hospital will better meet the needs of patients, staff, and the public.

The design-builder has assembled realistic mock-ups of patient care unit spaces, such as:

• A patient bedroom, including an ensuite patient washroom and ceiling track lifts;
• A portion of the corridor outside of the bedroom, including a clinical hand wash sink for infection prevention and control;
• A nursing station area, which is designed to promote engagement with patients and includes an accessible height counter for individuals using wheelchairs; and
• A therapeutic quiet room, which is a secure room designed for high acuity patients requiring constant supervision.

These fully constructed mock-up rooms include furniture, working lighting, accessories, mechanical, electrical and plumbing devices and fixtures, equipment and all proposed materials included in the design of the room.

The latest work on the 240,000 square foot, six-storey hospital includes the construction and installation of the structural steel, concrete floor slabs, mechanical and electrical rough-in and exterior walls.

The Provincial Government spends more than $230 million annually on mental health services and is supporting a community-centric approach. This includes the recent expansion of 811 to provide enhanced mental health and addictions crisis support for residents, and increasing other supports to help residents remain in the community.

Budget 2022 includes $16.3 million for the ongoing construction of the adult mental health and addictions facility in St. John’s and a six-bed unit in Halley Valley-Goose Bay. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates construction of the mental health and addictions hospital to be completed in late 2024.

Quotes
“These rooms are providing us with a crucial look at what the inside of the new hospital will look like when construction is completed in 2024. Having the feedback and input from medical professionals now is extremely valuable for us so we can ensure the fine details of interior of the hospital are based on their experience and meets the needs of workers, patients and their families, including those with disabilities.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“These rooms give us an excellent opportunity to pinpoint important details of this facility before construction is complete. By giving medical professionals an opportunity to offer feedback to the builder, we are able to ensure their concerns are met and the hospital will be equipped with exactly what is needed to provide the best care to patients.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Our government is steadfast in its commitment to design a better mental health and addictions system that meets the needs of those who require these services. It is wonderful for health care professionals to also see these room mock-ups at this stage in the construction of the province’s new mental health and addictions hospital. This process will help to ensure the facility is further equipped to provide quality mental health and addictions care to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

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Learn more
New Adult Mental Health and Addictions Facility

News Release: Avalon Healthcare Partnership Selected to Design, Build, Finance and Maintain New Mental Health and Addictions Hospital

News Release: Parking Garage to Open at Health Sciences Centre Campus

News Release: Update Provided on Construction of Adult Mental Health and Addictions Hospital and Parking Garage

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

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

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

The post Mock-up Rooms Provide a View into New Adult Mental Health and Addictions Hospital appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will visit mock-up rooms designed for the new Adult Mental Health and Addictions Hospital, tomorrow (Tuesday, May 3) at 9:30 a.m. The mock-up rooms are located at 60 O’Leary Avenue (the former Rona building) at the back right corner of the building.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services.

The rooms have been assembled for the new 102-bed adult mental health and addictions hospital in St. John’s, allowing clinical staff to provide feedback on their functionality while construction is ongoing.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) will not be required. Masking, physical distancing and other public health protocols will be followed during this visit.

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

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Visit Mock-Up Rooms for the New Adult Mental Health and Addictions Hospital appeared first on News Releases.

Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, calls attention to the May 2 release of a Joint Statement of the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Information and Privacy Commissioners regarding the use of facial recognition technology by police.

The Joint Statement recognizes that facial recognition is a tool that, used responsibly, could provide public safety benefits such as helping solve serious crimes, locating missing persons, and supporting national security objectives. At the same time, facial recognition technology can also be extremely intrusive. It could enable surveillance at a level never before seen, which could erode human rights, yield biased results, and impact the right to participate freely in a democratic society. In particular, the Joint Statement calls for the following:

• A clear and explicit definition of the purposes for which police use of facial recognition would be authorized, and a list of prohibited uses. “No-go zones” should include a prohibition on any use of facial recognition that can result in mass surveillance.
• Strict necessity and proportionality requirements. Legislation should require police use of facial recognition to be both necessary and proportionate for any given deployment of the technology.
• Independent oversight. Police use of facial recognition technology should be subject to strong independent oversight. Oversight should include proactive engagement measures. Police should be required to obtain pre-authorization from an oversight body at the program level, or provide it with advance notice of a proposed use, before launching a facial recognition initiative.
• Privacy rights and protections. Appropriate privacy protections should be put in place to mitigate risks to individuals, including measures to ensure the accuracy of information and limits to how long images can be retained in police databanks.

Commissioner Harvey also joined with his federal, provincial, and territorial counterparts in releasing a joint guidance document, clarifying the obligations of police agencies under current laws. Commissioner Harvey noted that although the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary currently does not employ facial recognition technology, as those tools become cheaper and more readily available, it could be something that law enforcement wishes to consider in the future.

Commissioner Harvey encourages law enforcement officials and government to review the Joint Statement and guidance, and to engage with his Office prior to considering any policy that would see facial recognition technology used in this province as part of law enforcement.

“In a world where rapid advances in technology offer so many benefits while also risking serious social harm, it’s important that the frameworks to mitigate those risks be put in place prior to implementation. That’s why our door is always open to government and police agencies, so we can have those conversations.”

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) is a statutory Office of the House of Assembly. OIPC has a broad range of responsibilities and powers under both the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (ATIPPA, 2015) and the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA). Oversight of these Acts includes conducting reviews of decisions and investigating and attempting to resolve complaints about access to information and protection of privacy involving public bodies under ATIPPA, 2015 and custodians of personal health information under PHIA. The Commissioner may also make recommendations in order to uphold the Acts and support better compliance.

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Media contact
Sean Murray
Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner
709-729-6309

The post Newfoundland and Labrador’s Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner Joins FPT Counterparts in a Joint Statement Recommending a Clear Legal Framework for Police Use of Facial Recognition Technology appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services and representatives of the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Family Physicians, today met with Dr. Megan Hayes to welcome her into her new role as Assistant Deputy Minister of Health Professional Recruitment and Retention with the Provincial Government.

Located within the Department of Health and Community Services, this position signals the importance of attracting health care professionals to the province and is accountable for building a world-class recruitment and retention program, in partnership with key stakeholders, for health professionals with the appropriate skill sets and a desire to work in the province.

The Provincial Government, along with the College, recognizes there are challenges that need to be addressed regarding the recruitment and retention of all health care professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador, including physicians. In an effort to promote better recruitment and retention strategies – particularly in rural parts of the province – government established a Provincial Health Professional Recruitment and Retention Office to assist with the development of a more comprehensive provincial approach to recruitment and retention.

Led by Dr. Hayes, the recruitment of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, as well as other valued health care professionals, will be strengthened by this provincial approach to support and modernize new and existing human resource practices and programs.

In October 2021, the Provincial Government announced a number of immediate and interim steps to improve access to primary health care in Newfoundland and Labrador, while the important work of Health Accord NL to reimagine the system continued. The establishment of a Provincial Health Professional Recruitment and Retention Office was one of the measures announced.

Quotes
“I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Hayes into her new role which is crucial as we address the health care professional shortfall we are experiencing in our province, particularly in rural areas. We know this is an issue being experienced in the rest of the country and jurisdictions around the world, but this office and new executive position are steps in the right direction toward finding solutions.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We need a dedicated focus, coupled with a collaborative approach, to the health care recruitment and retention challenges facing our province, and this is what Dr. Hayes brings to the table. As I have said on many occasions, we can’t tackle these challenges on our own, but need to work together to find solutions that benefit us all.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Every Newfoundlander and Labradorian deserves timely, accessible health care. In this era of critical clinician shortages, it is vital that we have an effective and efficient strategy for recruitment and retention – one that is led by the brightest, most imaginative front-line healthcare professionals. In order to meet the health needs of our people and our communities, we must take immediate action to build our health care workforce and strengthen support for our existing front-line personnel. The Newfoundland and Labrador College of Family Physicians fully endorses the selection of Dr. Megan Hayes as Assistant Deputy Minister, Health Professional Recruitment and Retention, and looks forward to future opportunities for collaboration.”
Dr. Chris Patey
President, NL College of Family Physicians

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Learn more
News Release: Initiatives Aim to Improve Primary Care Access in Newfoundland and Labrador

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

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

Debbie Rideout
NL College of Family Physicians
709-728-5268
drideout@nlcfp.ca

The post Government and College of Family Physicians Working Together on Retention and Recruitment appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL:

Speaker, yesterday marked the beginning of Safety and Health Week – a continent-wide event spanning Canada, the United States and Mexico – which focuses on the importance of preventing injury and illness in the workplace, at home and in the community.

Last week, I had the privilege of attending an event to recognize the National Day of Mourning. The event had a powerful message, reminding us safety is everyone’s responsibility.

In the last five years, 140 workers in this province lost their lives as result of workplace incidents and occupational disease. This is unacceptable.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have a right to safe, incident-free work environments, and this is why Digital Government and Service NL continues to engage with employers, workers and labour groups to enhance safety practices.

Working together, we enforce strong safety standards, increase safety awareness and ensure adequate safety training in workplaces throughout our province.

Speaker, we all have a responsibility to promote health and safety. Renewing our commitment to safe and healthy work environments helps ensure that we can all return home to our friends and families every day.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Province Recognizes the Importance of Safety and Health Week appeared first on News Releases.

Effective today (May 2), services traditionally offered through the Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line will now be provided by the 811 HealthLine. Individuals in need of crisis response or mental health and addictions support can simply dial 811, day or night, to speak with a registered nurse who is a trained crisis intervener.

This service transition will enhance capacity to assist individuals in real time during a crisis, with a three-digit number already well known to residents and easier to recall when needed.

For a period of time, and to ensure a seamless service transition, residents who call the existing Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line will be automatically transferred to the 811 HealthLine for support, but are encouraged to call 811 directly.

Today’s announcement is one of a number of mental health and addictions service enhancements and initiatives expected in the coming weeks.

Quote
“The transition of services from the Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line to 811 HealthLine supports integrated health care delivery, where individuals can have their physical and mental health needs supported at the same time, and  allows for more timely access services when people need it the most.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

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Learn more
811 HealthLine

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

The post 811 Service Expansion Provides Enhanced Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Support for Residents appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, is attending the Offshore Technology Conference 2022 in Houston, Texas this week from May 2-4.

A Newfoundland and Labrador delegation of more than 65 people is attending, representing more than 35 companies. The province has participated in the Offshore Technology Conference for nearly 40 years.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons Attending Offshore Technology Conference appeared first on News Releases.

Project funding announced today by the Provincial Government will support two economic development partners in the Labrador Straits to enhance opportunities in the region.

To accommodate more visitors to view its North Atlantic Right Whale skeleton exhibit, the Town of Red Bay received approval of $75,000 to assist with its relocation to the town’s waterfront building. This will allow the town to create a more user friendly, interactive and educational experience around the exhibit, especially in the ongoing research around protecting the endangered North Atlantic Right Whale. Red Bay was designated a National Historic Site in 1978, and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

The Southern Labrador Development Association plays an important role in economic and social development in communities between L’Anse au Clair and Red Bay. To improve and promote its existing services, the association received approval of $7,188 to assist with the development of a new interactive website and revised logo. This support will help them promote opportunities for increased collaboration and membership for businesses, communities and organizations in the region.

Utilizing the Regional Development Fund, support for these projects builds on the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthen the province’s economic foundation.

Quotes
“We are pleased to contribute to these regional economic development initiatives led by the Town of Red Bay and the Southern Labrador Development Association. These projects will play a role in supporting opportunities in the area, led by many dedicated community leaders.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“The Provincial Government is pleased to support two projects in the Labrador Straits that are promoting economic development in the region and enhancing the visitor experience at Red Bay. Investing in communities is vital in growing the rural economy as we emerge from the pandemic and focus on encouraging people to visit and take advantage of everything that Labrador has to offer.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
MHA for District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair

“This unique region of Labrador is home to many popular tourist destinations, including the Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Battle Harbour, and the Point Amour Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site, the tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada. Supporting these projects will help generate increased visitation to the Labrador Straits region, and help keep the regional economic tourism engines turning.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn More

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

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

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

The post Supporting Initiatives in Labrador Straits appeared first on News Releases.

To connect with Ukrainians arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government has launched an online service registration form. This is the latest effort of the Ukrainian Family Support Desk to support displaced Ukrainians.

Ukrainians intending to travel to Newfoundland and Labrador, or who have recently arrived, are asked to register with the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism in order to be connected with government service and settlement supports from the Association for New Canadians. The online form is available in Ukrainian and English.

The webpage for the Ukrainian Family Support Desk is available here.

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Media contact
Jeremy Reynolds
709-729-2377, 709-691-2298
jeremyreynolds@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Online Service Form for Ukrainians Now Available appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Innu Nation today announced the launch of the Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System.

The Commission of Inquiry has been ordered as a Part II Inquiry under the Public Inquiries Act, 2006. The Provincial Government and the Innu have agreed on a Terms of Reference for the Inquiry, which can be found online here.

The mandate of the Commission is to examine the treatment, experiences and outcomes of Innu children, youth and families in the child protection system, and to identify recommendations for change. The Inquiry will also include investigations into the particular circumstances leading up to the deaths of three youths.

Commissioners of the Inquiry are retired Provincial Court Judge James Igloliorte, who is Chief Commissioner, and Anastasia Qupee of Sheshatshiu, former Grand Chief of the Innu Nation, and Dr. Mike Devine, retired Associate Professor of the School of Social Work, Memorial University.

The Commission of Inquiry is guided by a shared commitment of the Innu Nation, the Mushuau Innu First Nation, the Sheshatshiu First Nation, and the Provincial Government to ensure the safety and well-being of, and to act in the best interests of, Innu children and youth.

The Provincial Government allocated $4 million in Budget 2022 to establish the Commission of Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System.

Quotes
“Our path towards Reconciliation is through listening, understanding and mutual respect. We acknowledge the wrongs of the past and focus our attention on matters that are important to Indigenous people. Through this Inquiry, we will acquire a better understanding of the treatment, experiences and care that Innu children have received in the current system, and more importantly, how we improve for the future.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The next step in proceeding with the Commission of Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System is under way. The Commissioners have been making plans to undertake this important work. Together with Innu, we remain committed to the safety and well-being of Innu children and youth and that we act in their best interests.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“With the release of the Terms of Reference for the Inquiry into the treatment of Innu children and youth in care, we can now consider that this long-awaited Inquiry has officially begun. It is an important undertaking to understand the scope of impact that the child welfare system has had on Innu people. We are hopeful that this process will continue a path towards healing and that it will inform how we can best move forward in the future to avoid repeating mistakes of the past. Innu Nation fully supports this independent Inquiry and will work with all involved throughout the process.”
Grand Chief Etienne Rich
Innu Nation

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Learn more

News Release: Commissioners Appointed for the Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System

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

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

Donna Paddon
Innu Nation Communications
709-899-5799
donna.paddon@kashkuan.ca

The post Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System Established appeared first on News Releases.

During spring and summer people engaging in outdoor activities are more likely to encounter a variety of wildlife with newborn offspring. Anyone encountering newborn, abandoned or displaced animals should leave them where they belong – in the wild.

While the instinct for many is to intervene to help newborn wildlife or animals that appear abandoned or vulnerable, wildlife managers recommend it is best to observe wildlife from a distance. Attempting to handle or remove wildlife from their natural habitat may cause further problems for the animal and could result in personal injury. In many situations, the parent animal may be just a short distance away and could become aggressive toward perceived threats to their offspring.

Due to the recent confirmation of avian influenza among wild bird populations in the province, the public are also encouraged not to feed, touch or handle wild birds to avoid the potential spread to domestic bird populations.

The public are reminded the possession and captive housing of wildlife by individual citizens is not permitted in Newfoundland and Labrador under the provincial Wild Life Act and Regulations.

Anyone encountering a suspected orphaned, injured or sick animal should report it to the nearest Forest Management District Office. If after-hours, please call 709-685-7273. Conservation Officers will intercede if there is a public safety concern or other circumstances warrant the animal’s removal. The preferred option is always to leave wildlife undisturbed in their natural surroundings.

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

The post Public Advisory: Do Not Touch or Relocate Wildlife appeared first on News Releases.

The 2022 forest fire season is set begin this weekend on the island portion of the province. Forest fire season is May 1 – September 30 for the island and May 15 – September 30 for Labrador.

A permit to burn is required during forest fire season to burn vegetation, wood and paper products. Permits can be obtained by contacting a provincial Forest Management Office during regular business hours.

A permit to burn is not required for backyard fires, recreational campfires and boil-ups on forest land, or within 300 metres of forest land, on condition the fire is prepared in accordance with strict Provincial Forest Fire Regulations. Individuals failing to comply with regulations may be subject to fines and penalties, including costs associated with fighting a forest fire.

In 2021, there were 84 fires burning a total of 338 hectares of forest land.

Anyone planning outdoor fires should first check the provincial online forest fire hazard rating maps to determine the level of forest fire risk. Maps can be viewed at the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website and are updated daily.

In addition, individuals planning fires within a municipality should check with local fire officials to ensure any burning activity does not violate municipal by-laws related to outdoor fires.

To report a wildfire call 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).

Quote
“We all have a role to play in protecting our precious forest resource from fire. As summer approaches and weather warms up, I encourage everyone frequenting our forest and wilderness areas to familiarize themselves with outdoor burning regulations and be vigilant when lighting fires in and around forest areas.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more

Public Reminders for Forest Fire Season

Permit to Burn Conditions

Provincial Forest Fire Regulations

Fire Hazard Map

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

The post Forest Fire Season Set to Begin appeared first on News Releases.

The creative minds behind the Nickel Independent Film Festival will once again bring film ingenuity to Newfoundland and Labrador this weekend with the inaugural Nickel Youth Film Fest at The Rooms. The event will take place from Friday, April 29 to Sunday, May 1.

The festival is a public, family-friendly event, open to young people from kindergarten to high school and adults, with activities for all to enjoy.

Attendees and budding filmmakers alike will be able to enjoy a series of film and television-oriented activities. This includes live film screenings; supportive programming, such as educational sessions on making stop-motion and sound effects; filmmaker Q&As; and, a special evening of short films centred around young LGBTQ2S+ people at the Lawnya Vawnya headquarters in downtown St. John’s. A performance by The Swinging Belles will close out the festival.

More information on the Nickel Youth Film Fest can be found here. Tickets can be purchased here or at The Rooms front desk. Tickets for the special evening of youth LGBTQ2S+ short films can be purchased here.

Quotes
“It is exciting to see the Nickel Independent Film Festival host its inaugural Nickel Youth Film Fest. This will be a fun weekend for youth and their families and I wish the organizers all the best. There is no doubt that interest in the film and television industry is growing. Our children and youth are now seeing that a creative and dynamic career in film and television is indeed possible, all while staying, living and thriving in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is pleased to support the Nickel Independent Film Festival with an annual operating grant of $20,000.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“After more than 20 years of bringing the best of independent film to Newfoundland and Labrador, The Nickel is so excited to inspire a new generation with the inaugural Nickel Youth Film Festival. Over the years, our annual School Tour has shown us how much passion and ingenuity exists in the young people of our province, and we want to help cultivate that creativity as the film culture of Newfoundland and Labrador expands.”
Elling Lien
The Nickel Independent Film Festival

“The Rooms is delighted to partner with the Nickel Film Festival as host of the first ever Nickel Youth Film Festival. What a wonderful opportunity to introduce children and youth from this province to the art of filmmaking. We look forward to welcoming all the participants and viewers – I cannot wait to see this exciting work.”
Anne Chafe
The Rooms

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Learn More

Nickel Youth Film Festival

The Rooms

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

Devin Shears
Nickel Independent Film Festival
devin@nickelfestival.com

Jena Mitchell
The Rooms
709-757-8144
jenamitchell@therooms.ca

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The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, Deputy Grand Chief Mary Ann Nui of the Innu Nation, and retired Provincial Court Judge James Igloliorte, Chief Commissioner for the Commission of Inquiry into the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System, will be available today (Friday, April 29) to discuss the launch of the Inquiry.

They will be joined by Commissioners Anastasia Qupee and Dr. Mike Devine and members of the Innu leadership.

The availability will take place at 2:00 p.m. in the lobby of East Block, Confederation Building.

Masking, physical distancing and other public health guidelines will be in place.

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

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The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Today, the Provincial and Federal Governments announced $20.2 million to support the construction of 132 affordable housing options in St. John’s.

The announcement was made at The Gathering Place in St. John’s by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador; the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion; the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change on behalf of the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation; and Joanne Thompson, Member of Parliament for St. John’s East.

The Federal Government is investing over $10.9 million under the Rapid Housing Initiative and there is over $5.3 million cost shared equally by the Federal and Provincial Governments through the federal-provincial bilateral agreement under the National Housing Strategy. The Gathering Place is also providing a $4 million contribution.

With part of this total funding, the Gathering Place will operate 56 new supportive housing units and 40 new low-barrier emergency shelter beds, which will help address the need for housing and supportive services to assist individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

The remaining funding will enable the construction of 36 new homes that will be operated by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. This investment will expand affordable housing options for individuals and families in low-income, which includes women and women with children, seniors, Indigenous persons, youth, persons with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness.

Today’s announcement highlights the strength of working together with federal and community partners to build stronger and healthier communities.

Quotes
“We recognize that having a safe and affordable home is vital to helping individuals and families build a stable and secure future. This significant investment will allow for a very welcome expansion of supportive and affordable housing in the St. John’s area. Today’s announcement highlights the strength of working together with our federal and community partners to build stronger and healthier communities.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Access to safe and affordable housing is a key social determinant of health and underpins social and economic inclusivity. As a government, we remain committed to addressing the diverse housing needs in our province – from those at risk of or experiencing homelessness to individuals and families facing challenges with housing affordability.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“Everyone in Canada deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. This is why, through the National Housing Strategy, we are providing a helping hand to those who are at risk of homelessness in St. John’s. This is the National Housing Strategy at work.”
Honourable Ahmed Hussen
Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion and
Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

“Newfoundland and Labrador needs more affordable housing. Budget 2022 makes it a priority. Because around here, we look out for one another. And everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home.”
Honourable Seamus O’Regan
Minister of Labour
Member of Parliament for St. John’s South-Mount Pearl

“Thanks to today’s announcement, we are providing a chance to members of our community who are struggling. Having access to safe, supportive and affordable homes will help bring a positive change to their lives and to the community. Through this collaboration with the province, we are helping to ensure that all people in St. John’s and across our province have safe and affordable housing that enables them to thrive.”
Joanne Thompson
Member of Parliament for St. John’s East.

“Through its everyday work with people who are facing systemic and societal barriers and far too often experience exclusion and discrimination, The Gathering Place has heard the plea for more supportive and affordable housing units and for a permanent low barrier emergency shelter. This partnership announced today shows that we have truly heard the voices of the guests and other persons at risk of homelessness in our community. With a generous gift of two million dollars from Patrick O’Callaghan and Paula Bouchier, and the support of the Federal and Provincial Governments, the dream of more support for persons without safe, stable, and permanent homes is being realized.”
Sister Elizabeth Davis, RSM
Board Chair, The Gathering Place

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Learn More

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

National Housing Strategy

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @CSSD_GovNL and @nlhousing

Like us on Facebook

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

Daniele Medlej
Office of the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion
Daniele.Medlej@infc.gc.ca

Jenny Bowring
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-724-3055
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca

Media Relations
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
media@cmhc-schl.gc.ca

The post Provincial and Federal Governments Support Creation of more than 130 New Affordable Housing Units for Vulnerable Populations in St. John’s appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, on behalf of the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, will announce funding to expand affordable and supportive housing options for vulnerable populations tomorrow (Friday, April 29).

The announcement will take place at The Gathering Place, 172 Military Road, St. John’s at 10:30 a.m. and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Premier Furey and Minister Davis will be joined by the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, federal Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

This event is by invitation only to adhere to physical distancing guidelines. Media are asked to register by contacting Jenny Bowring (jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca).

Please note, all those in attendance will be required to wear a mask.

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

Jenny Bowring
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-730-5886
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca

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

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This National Day of Mourning is an opportunity for workers, employers, families and others, to renew their commitment to healthy and safe workplaces. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have a fundamental right to safe, incident-free work environments, so they can return home safely to their families at end of every working day.

During the past five years, 140 workers in this province lost their lives as result of workplace incidents and occupational disease.

Flags at all Provincial Government buildings throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are lowered at half-mast today, to remember workers who have died, been injured or suffered illness in the workplace.

On April 28 of each year, remembrance ceremonies are held across the country. At 12:00 pm today, the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour will host an event at the Fluvarium in St. John’s honoring workers.

This event will be attended by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, and Minister Responsible for Occupational Health and Safety, and the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL.

Quotes
“When it comes to health and safety, there are no compromises. It is the collective responsibility of government, employers and employees to ensure that all workers return home safe and healthy at the end of every workday. By remembering lost lives, life changing injuries and illnesses on this Day of Mourning, we honour those who are directly and indirectly impacted. I encourage all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to renew their commitment to occupational health and safety, today and every day.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“No matter what your occupation, workplace health and safety is a right, and for employers and employees it should always be top of mind. Today as we remember those who have lost their lives, been injured or have suffered illness in our province’s workplaces, we also acknowledge their families, friends and co-workers who will be forever impacted. Newfoundland and Labrador’s occupational health and safety legislation is some of the most progressive in the country, and we will continue to work with our stakeholders to make workplace health and safety a priority.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL
Minister Responsible for Occupational Health and Safety

“As a province, today is a time to remember those who were injured, suffered illness or have died due to their work. My thoughts are with all those who have been impacted by workplace injury, illness or death. We are committed to ensuring our occupational health and safety programs and supports are continually evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of workplaces, in order to protect workers and prevent further workplace tragedies.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL

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Learn More

WorkplaceNL

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)

Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @DGS_GovNL and @ECCM_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

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

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

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