Government of Newfoundland News

Today, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, launched the engagement process for a Social and Economic Well-Being Plan.

He was joined at the launch by the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Windsor Lake, Kim White, Executive Director, Froude Avenue Community Centre, representatives from the community sector and individuals with lived experience of poverty.

With a focus on poverty reduction, prevention and early intervention, and the social determinants of health, the holistic and integrated Social and Economic Well-Being Plan will be a key component to supporting the vision of Health Accord NL.

Building on the findings from the extensive engagement carried out by Health Accord NL, this process will focus on how to implement recommendations to address the social and economic well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The engagement process will also inform a review of the provincial Income Support Program.

The Provincial Government will engage with community organizations, governments and experts, including and most importantly, people with lived experience, to help inform the development of the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan. This engagement will focus on six key components that impact social and economic well-being: early years; education; income and benefits; food security; housing; and community.

The engagement process will consist of a variety of methods, including virtual and in-person consultations, online questionnaires through engageNL and stakeholder roundtables for both individual and community organizations, to give all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the opportunity to participate.

For more information and to participate in the engagement process starting this week, please visit engageNL.ca or email wellbeing@gov.nl.ca. The online component of the engagement process will close on October 3, 2022.

Quotes
“Our government recognizes these are challenging times that have and continue to deeply impact individuals and families, especially those living in poverty. We remain committed to developing a renewed approach to addressing poverty, as well as a coordinated focus on prevention and early intervention to improve social and economic well-being outcomes for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Today, I am pleased to launch the engagement process that will help inform the development of the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan. This plan will follow Health Accord NL’s recommendations for a holistic and integrated approach. I encourage everyone to become engaged and share their valuable perspectives and input, which will be vital to developing this long-term plan for our province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“I am pleased to be involved in the launch of such an important initiative. The Social and Economic Well-Being Plan will utilize the work of Health Accord NL and is a vital part of ensuring that there is a sustainable long-term plan for Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
MHA for Windsor Lake

“We are excited to see a strong focus on having the voices of individuals and families with lived experience being heard in the consultation process. It will be through listening to their stories that will ensure the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan is responsive and effective. We look forward to supporting people with lived experience to fully participate in this process.”
Kim White
Executive Director
Froude Avenue Community Centre

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Learn More

engageNL

Health Accord NL

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

Matthew Babb
Constituency Assistant to the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Windsor Lake
709-699-9913
mbabb@gov.nl.ca

Kim White
Froude Avenue Community Centre
709-579-0763
froudeavecc@gmail.com

 

The post Provincial Government Launches Engagement Process for Social and Economic Well-Being Plan appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, along with the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Windsor Lake, and Kim White, Executive Director, Froude Avenue Community Centre, will launch the engagement process for the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan today (Monday, August 8). Representatives from the community sector and individuals with lived experience of poverty will attend the event.

The launch will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the MacMorran Community Centre, 10 Brother McSheffrey Lane, St. John’s.

The announcement will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Informed by the work of Health Accord NL and in collaboration with community, the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan will focus on poverty reduction and prevention and early intervention to help address the social and economic well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Launch Engagement Process for Social and Economic Well-Being Plan appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, today offered condolences on the passing of Reg Anstey:

“I wish to extend condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Reg Anstey on news of his passing today. His death leaves a huge void that will be felt by the province’s fishing sector, particularly the many fishers and plant workers who admired his lifelong dedication and tireless advocacy for those who earn a living from the sea.

I had the pleasure of having many discussions with Mr. Anstey and experiencing his enthusiasm for improving the well-being of the thousands of individuals engaged in the province’s fishing sector. He could always be relied upon as trustworthy source of information which he was always willing to share.

During his career he served in many instrumental roles that have helped shape and modernize the Newfoundland and Labrador fishing sector. Most recently he served as Chair of the Fish Processing Licensing Board where he shared his extensive knowledge to help skillfully navigate the province’s fishing industry through an unprecedented period of global uncertainty.

His passing is a significant loss to the fishing industry and the province as a whole. He will be missed indeed.”

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

The post Statement from the Honourable Derrick Bragg on the Passing of Reg Anstey appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, has declared a State of Emergency in the area of Botwood.

Forest fires are causing smoke and deteriorated air quality in this area. This is a precautionary measure, and there is no immediate fire hazard to homes or residents.

As part of this declaration, the Provincial Government continues to work with emergency management partners and others to address the ongoing forest fires in the Central region of the island portion of the province. Officials continue to meet and coordinate the response with the affected communities.

Municipalities in the central region are encouraged to ensure their emergency management plans are up to date.

While Central Health will not undertake measures to evacuate the Dr. Hugh Twomey Health Care Centre at this time, efforts will be supported to move those who require additional care so that they are not in the immediate vicinity of the smoke. For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided here: Central Health operations update. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811 or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke.

For information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

Updates on resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation.

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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca
Melony O’Neill
Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 689-0928
melonyoneill@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: State of Emergency Declared in the Area of Botwood as a Precaution due to Forest Fires in the Region appeared first on News Releases.

The Canadian Red Cross has relocated shelter services and resources from Grand Falls-Windsor to Deer Lake for individuals who may be impacted by the state of emergency declared in Central Newfoundland. This includes those impacted by the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway and deteriorating air quality in that region.

A congregate shelter will be available today (Sunday, August 7) at 7:00 p.m. at Hodder Memorial Centre, 8-10 Crescent Street, Deer Lake.

For more information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

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

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Services for Individuals Impacted by the State of Emergency in Central Newfoundland Moved to Deer Lake appeared first on News Releases.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is moving one of the ferries in the provincial ferry fleet to the south coast of Newfoundland to assist residents and travellers impacted by the state of emergency on the Connaigre Peninsula.

The Sound of Islay is travelling from Lewisporte to Fortune on the Burin Peninsula to begin moving supplies to the region via Hermitage in the event Route 360, which has closed due to forest fires in the region, remains closed this week. The vessel will also transport vehicles and passengers who need to depart the region on its return trips to Fortune.

The department anticipates the vessel arriving in Fortune on Tuesday, August 9. Trips will be arranged based on priority by the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre. More details will be provided as they become available.

The department thanks local harbour and port authorities at Fortune for cooperating and making accommodations for the vessel.

On Saturday, August 7, the Department of Justice and Public safety declared a state of emergency in the areas of Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls and the Connaigre Peninsula.

For information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

Updates on resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation.

Quotes
“The safety of residents remains our government’s top priority and departments are working together to assist everyone impacted by the fires in central Newfoundland. We encourage everyone to stay safe, check on your neighbours, and stay informed as this situation evolves.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“This fire is a very dangerous one and I commend everyone who is doing their part, including municipal leaders and medical professionals, and those who are assisting friends, family, and neighbours during this challenging time. Many people are working hard to keep us all safe. Our government is doing everything possible to reopen the Bay d’Espoir Highway. Sending the Sound of Islay to Fortune and Hermitage will make sure that urgent supplies get to our region and people who need to leave will be able to do so.“
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and MHA for Fortune Bay – Cape La Hune

“With the Declaration of Emergency in place, the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is coordinating all efforts in relation to the forest fires. We would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and ask members of the public to follow the advice provided.”
Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Learn more

Public Advisory: State of Emergency Declared in Central Newfoundland as a Precaution due to Forest Fires in the Region

Public Advisory: Emergency Services Available for Individuals Stranded due to Closure of Bay d’Espoir Highway

Public Advisory: Open Fire Ban Expanded to Include Entire Province of Newfoundland and Labrador

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

Brian Scott
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca

Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

The post Ferry Service to Assist Residents and Communities Impacted by State of Emergency on the Connaigre Peninsula appeared first on News Releases.

The fire ban put in place under the authority of Section 99 of the Forestry Act by the Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is now being expanded to apply to the entire province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Effective immediately, the outdoor fire ban prohibits the setting of fires on forestland or within 300 meters of forestland. Unauthorized burning, including campfires and brush burning, cannot take place in and around forested areas.

Recent dry weather, wind, and hot temperatures have worsened the forest fires in the Central region of the island. The forest fire index is at extreme levels in many other regions of the province. Under such conditions, the department is taking appropriate measures to address and prevent forest fires.

For more information, please contact your local District Forestry and Wildlife Office.

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Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Open Fire Ban Expanded to Include Entire Province of Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, has declared a state of emergency in the areas of Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls and the Connaigre Peninsula.

As part of this declaration, the Provincial Government continues to work with emergency management partners and others to address the ongoing forest fires in the Central region of the island portion of the province. Officials continue to meet and coordinate the response with the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor and the Town of Bishop’s Falls.

Forest fires are causing smoke and deteriorated air quality in areas of the central region. This is a precautionary measure, and there is no immediate fire hazard to homes or residents.

Municipalities in the central region are encouraged to ensure their emergency management plans are up to date.

Central Health will be supporting efforts to move those who require additional care so that they are not in the immediate vicinity of the smoke. For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided here: Central Health operations update. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811 or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke.

For information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

Updates on resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation.

Officials will provide a further update at a media availability tomorrow. Details on the availability will be provided once finalized.

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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilyjanegillingham@gov.nl.ca

Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: State of Emergency Declared in Central Newfoundland as a Precaution due to Forest Fires in the Region appeared first on News Releases.

The Canadian Red Cross and Salvation Army are continuing to deliver emergency services for individuals who are stranded on the Trans-Canada Highway due to the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway.

The Canadian Red Cross is coordinating emergency lodging for individuals who live in the areas affected by the Bay d’Espoir Highway closure. A congregate shelter has been set up at the Windsor Pentecostal Church at 97 King Street, Grand Falls-Windsor.  Please note the shelter has moved to this new, larger location to accommodate more people who may be in need. Individuals can access the shelter at any time after 6:00 p.m. today (Saturday, August 6).

For more information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

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

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Services Available for Individuals Stranded Due to Closure of Bay d’Espoir Highway appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is attending meetings in Niagara, Ontario, with his Federal, Provincial and Territorial counterparts responsible for sport, physical activity and recreation.

After the meetings conclude, the minister will be attending the 2022 Canada Summer Games opening ceremonies today (Saturday, August 6). The opening ceremonies take place at the Meridian Centre, 1 David Howe Way, in St. Catharines, Ontario, starting at 8:00 p.m. EST (9:30 p.m. Newfoundland Standard Time).

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Media contact
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Crocker Attending Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meetings and Opening Ceremonies for the Canada Summer Games appeared first on News Releases.

Under the authority of section 99 of the Forestry Act, the Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is proclaiming an outdoor fire ban prohibiting the setting of fires on forest land or within 300 meters of forest land, on the central and eastern areas of the island portion of the province, to be in effect between the hours of midnight on August 6, 2022, to midnight on August 16, 2022.

Recent dry weather, wind, and hot temperatures experienced throughout these districts have heightened the forest fire threat, and there are a number of large active fires burning in the province. Under such conditions, the department is taking appropriate measures to address and prevent forest fires.

For more information, please contact your local District Forestry and Wildlife Office.

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Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Open Fire Ban Proclaimed for Island Portions of the Province appeared first on News Releases.

The Canadian Red Cross and Salvation Army will deliver emergency services for individuals who are stranded on the Trans-Canada Highway due to the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway.

The Canadian Red Cross is coordinating emergency lodging for individuals who live in the areas affected by the Bay d’Espoir Highway closure. A congregate shelter has been set up at the Salvation Army Citadel, 33 Circular Road, Grand Falls-Windsor. Individuals can access the shelter at any time after 6:00 p.m. today (Friday, August 5).

For more information on emergency lodging, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-222-9597.

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

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Services Available for Individuals Stranded due to Closure of Bay d’Espoir Highway appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announces the following relative to Part 10 Environmental Assessment of the Environmental Protection Act:

Environmental Impact Statement Required and Environmental Assessment Committee Appointed:

Port au Port-Stephenville Wind Power and Hydrogen Generation Project (Project Nujio’qonik GH2)                           (Reg. 2202)
Proponent:  World Energy GH2 Inc.

The minister has advised the proponent that an environmental impact statement (EIS) is required for this project. Additional information is needed to inform the minister of the following, including, but not limited to:

• Confirmation of the final proposed locations of wind turbines, worker accommodations, offices, explosive storage facilities, access roads, power lines, and substations, as well as their distances from, and potential impacts on, nearby receptors.
• Identification of land use overlaps with protected areas, private land, mining operations, mineral licenses and leases, recreational and traditional land uses, and any potential project redesign.
• Potential effects on flora and fauna in the project area, as determined by:
  • A bat monitoring program which includes the active season (April 15 – Oct 31) and obtains complete information on spring migration, summer resident bat activity, and fall migration;
  • Targeted pre-construction breeding surveys for Common Nighthawk and Short-Eared Owl;
  • A comprehensive survey for plants/lichen, including species listed under the NL Endangered Species Act as well as Species at Risk Act; and
  • Baseline surveys for moose, caribou, and muskrat.
• Confirmation of proposed primary and secondary water sources, and hydrological modelling to determine sustainability of yield, quality and effect on other local users.
• Baseline geological information to support the planned storage / sequestration of chemicals produced throughout the project life, including CO2 and ammonia.

An Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the minister and to draft guidelines for the proponent in preparing the EIS. The EAC includes representatives from the following provincial and federal government agencies:

• Department of Environment and Climate Change
  • Environmental Assessment – Chair
  • Climate Change Branch
  • Natural Areas
  • Pollution Prevention Division
  • Water Resources Management Division
• Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Department of Health and Community Services
• Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
• Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
• Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
• Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The public will be invited to provide comment on the draft guidelines. For further information on this project, please contact Eric Watton at (709) 729-0834 or email ericwatton@gov.nl.ca.

 PLANS APPROVED:

Hopeall Abattoir                                                                                          (Reg. 2105)
Proponent: Aylward’s Farm

On July 28, 2022, the minister approved the waste management plan for the Hopeall Abattoir. Approval of the plan is a condition of release from environmental assessment. The plan is available on the Department’s project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2105/.

Green Bay Sawmill Production                                                              (Reg. 2190)
Proponent: Green Bay Logging Limited

On July 28, 2022, the minister approved the waste management plan for the Green Bay Sawmill Production project. Approval of the plan is a condition of release from environmental assessment. The plan is available on the Department’s project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2190/.

Learn more

Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6

Public comments may be forwarded to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

Environmental assessment information is available at:

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_May-2022.pdf

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

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings at a recognition ceremony for Doug Redmond, Honorary Life Member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Soccer Association on Sunday, August 7.

The ceremony will begin at 2:15 p.m. at the King George V Pitch, 2 Carnell Drive, St. John’s.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings at Newfoundland and Labrador Soccer Association’s Recognition Ceremony for Doug Redmond appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-014 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-2022-014 Report Date: July 28, 2022 Public Body: Department of Finance Summary: Two Complainants made three access to information requests under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015, to the Department of Finance for copies of the Rothschild & Co. report and associated correspondence. The Department declined to provide the records citing sections 27 (cabinet confidences), 29 (policy advice and recommendations), 35 (disclosure harmful to the financial or economic interests of a public body), 38 (disclosure harmful to labour relations interests of public body as employer), and 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). The Complainants disagreed with this decision and made complaints to this Office. The Commissioner determined that the records fit the exception under section 27, and as such, the Department was correct in withholding the records in their entirety.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-014 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-013 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-2022-013 Report Date: August 2, 2022 Public Body: Department of Environment and Climate Change Summary: The Complainants made two separate access requests under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Environment and Climate Change. The Department did not respond to either request within the 20 business days as required by the Act. Each of the Complainants filed a complaint with this Office asking that the Department’s deemed refusal be investigated. The Commissioner found that the Department had not complied with its obligations under the Act. The Commissioner found the Department’s sharing of ATIPP staffing resources with another department on a long-term basis inconsistent with the Act. The Commissioner recommended the Department provide a final response as it relates to one complaint where none had yet been provided. The Commissioner recommended that the Department review its policies, assign additional staff as early as possible, maintain communication with applicants and our Office, and to comply with its statutory duties in the future.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-013 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will hold a media availability today (Friday, August 5) to discuss the ongoing wild fires in the Central region. Minister Bragg will be accompanied by the Incident Commander, Jason Glode.

The availability will take place at 3:00 p.m. in Gander at the Fire Protection Centre, 800 Matrix Boulevard. Media covering the availability will be offered a tour of the centre.

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Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Availability: Minister Bragg Available to Discuss Wild Fires in Central Region appeared first on News Releases.

Based on the weather forecast and fire predictions, motorists are advised that the Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will be open from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. (noon) until Sunday, August 7. The Provincial Government is monitoring the weather forecast and fire conditions and will update the public if any changes to this schedule are required for safety reasons. The schedule will be reassessed on Monday, August 8.

It is anticipated over the short-term that temperatures will continue to be high and winds to be at a high speed in this region. Smoke is expected to be prevalent and the dry conditions may affect the development of the forest fire.

Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take measures to ensure personal safety and the safety of fire and road personnel. There is a significant amount of smoke which may obscure visibility and lead to difficult driving conditions.

If residents of the area have medical appointments from now until Monday, August 8, with Central Health that they cannot attend due to the fire, they should call Central Health to reschedule the appointment. More information from the Health Authority is provided here: Central Health operations update.

The Provincial Government partners with the Canadian Red Cross, among other organizations, to provide emergency and disaster services. The Canadian Red Cross will provide help if possible with lodging, reception, emergency clothing or food, etc. For more information on assistance, call the organization at 1-800-222-9597.

Please see the fire hazard level in your region, and avoid roads that are in and around active forest fires. Be vigilant, and check the fire hazard index daily here.

Departments are closely monitoring conditions and busy preparing and strategically deploying crew placements and air support where it is needed most. Thank you to the many partners for their support in fighting these fires.

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Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733, 725-4321
erinshea@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Update Provided on Status of Bay d’Espoir Highway appeared first on News Releases.

To address the substantial number and sizes of forest fires around the island portion of the province, the Provincial Government has secured assistance from the Government of Quebec.

The Province of Quebec will position two water bombers, one Bird Dog aircraft, one air attack officer and two technicians in Gander for tomorrow (August 4). In total, seven crew members and three aircraft will be dispatched to the Central region for a five to seven-day period.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a member of the Canadian Inter-Agency Forest Fire Centre, and the request for assistance is administered through Centre’s Mutual Aid Resource Sharing (MARS) agreement. MARS is a formal agreement between provinces that provides for the efficient sharing of forest firefighting resources throughout the country.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s fire suppression resources remain in place and continue to fight any potential forest fires. This includes water bombers, helicopters and fire suppression teams strategically located throughout the province.

Quotes
“Hotter than usual temperatures have led to more wildfires at greater sizes this year than usual. I extend the greatest thanks to the Province of Quebec for lending their assistance. With the additional resources, we will be better able to fight the forest fires and continue to ensure the protection and safety of residents and wildlife in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“We commend our water bomber pilots and all firefighting crews for their bravery and time spent working in challenging conditions. As our pilots have previously provided assistance in other provinces, we are thankful for the assistance we are now receiving. We all know the fire situation can change fast and we encourage everyone to stay safe.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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

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

The post Province to Receive Intra-Provincial Assistance to Address Wildfires appeared first on News Releases.

The T’Railway Provincial Park between Saint Fintan’s and Port aux Basques has reopened to the public. The area was closed for repairs after significant damage was sustained in the area during a severe rain event last fall.

To report any damage or concerns related to the T’Railway, please contact ParksNL by emailing trailway@gov.nl.ca or by calling 709-637-2040.

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

The post Public Advisory: T’Railway Provincial Park on the Southwest Coast has Reopened appeared first on News Releases.