Government of Newfoundland News

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

Today, the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada announced a $787,000 contract to develop a new four-unit, affordable residential housing building on Mesher Street in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Funding for the work, to be completed by Churchill Construction Ltd., is being equally cost-shared under the National Housing Strategy.

The four-unit building, will include two fully wheelchair-accessible, one-bedroom units on the main level, and two, one-bedroom units on the second level. The main floor units include roll-in showers and wheelchair accessible kitchens and ‘no step’ entrances.  Universal Design features are incorporated throughout the property and include items such as widened exterior and interior doors and hallways, and lever-type door handles and faucets.

Energy efficiency and sustainability are also key elements in the design and construction of the building. These homes will exceed the minimum energy performance requirements of the National Building Code with upgraded insulation and extensive air sealing. Additional features of the development include accessible parking and level access to the main floor units. The anticipated completion date for this project is February 2023.

Quotes
“This new construction will be a welcome addition to the community and highlights our government’s commitment to expand the number of energy efficient, accessible and affordable rental housing options for those most in need, throughout the province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“Everyone in Canada deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Our government continues to create more affordable homes that meet the needs of individuals and families in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada. This is the National Housing Strategy at work.”
Honourable Ahmed Hussen
Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion

“Canada’s National Housing Strategy is providing affordable homes for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador and across the country. Through a collaborative ten-year plan, we’re ensuring that our strategy helps our most vulnerable citizens first and foremost.  Actions like the one we are celebrating today ensure that every Canadian has a place to call their own.”
Yvonne Jones
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources and to the Minister of Northern Affairs
Member of Parliament for Labrador

“Our government is working collaboratively with the Federal Government to address a wide range of housing needs, including the development of a new residential housing building in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. I am very pleased to see this positive development in response to a recognized need for additional housing. This affordable housing development will assist individuals and families who are looking for a place to call home.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

National Housing Strategy

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

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

Arevig Afarian
Office of the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion
arevig.afarian@infc.gc.ca

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

The post Social Housing Investment Announced for Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings at the North Harbour 50+ Club Wellness Fair for seniors themed ‘Spring Into Wellness’ tomorrow (Saturday, May 14).

The event takes place at 9:30 a.m. at Lion’s Club/Community Centre, Woody Island Road, Placentia Bay.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings to North Harbour 50+ Club Wellness Fair appeared first on News Releases.

Amendments to the appeal provisions of the Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000 were introduced yesterday in the House of Assembly for second reading. The proposed amendments to the Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000 present an innovative approach to improve services to municipalities and residents and if passed would ensure a more effective and efficient appeals process, easing scheduling conflicts and eliminating delays.

The Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000 provides authority to Regional Appeal Boards to hear appeals related to land use and development issues that arise from decisions made by municipalities or a provincial government authority. Under the proposed amendments, the land use appeal process would be improved by establishing a list of adjudicators, increasing capacity to hear appeals, and creating efficiencies.

With the proposed amendments, there would be up to twenty professionally qualified adjudicators, appointed from all regions of the province through the Independent Appointment Commission process. Adjudicators would require a recognized professional designation relevant to administrative law and municipal development, such as a lawyer or certified professional land use planner.

Quote
“The department has been acutely aware of delays with appeal hearings and has been working to address this issue. The proposed amendments would provide a timely and balanced appeal process for all areas of the province, easing scheduling conflicts and avoiding delays that can have negative economic impacts for a municipality. If passed, not only would the proposed changes address the current backlog of appeals but would support economic development in communities.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

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Learn more
Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000

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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5449, 691-9446
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

The post Proposed Amendments Would Improve Appeal Process for Municipal Planning appeared first on News Releases.

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a virtual media availability by Zoom today (Friday, May 13) at 11:00 a.m. to discuss masking guidelines in schools.

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

Media wishing to participate must RSVP to Jillian Hood (jillianhood@gov.nl.ca) who will provide required details.

Media are asked to join by 10:45 a.m.

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

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

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada will make a funding announcement for a new housing project in Happy Valley-Goose Bay tomorrow (Friday, May 13).

The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, on behalf of the Honourable John Abbott, Minister Responsible for Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will be joined by Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources and to the Minister of Northern Affairs and Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion.

The announcement will take place at the Central Labrador YMCA, Hamilton River Road at 11:00 a.m. Following this event, a sod-turning ceremony will be held at 30 Mesher Street.

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Public Housing Announcement in Happy Valley-Goose Bay appeared first on News Releases.

The Outer Ring Road from Kenmount Road to the Logy Bay Road interchange will be closed Sunday, May 15, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a cleanup of litter and large discarded items.

The closure is necessary to ensure a safe environment for all crews working on and near the highway.

Traffic control will be in place on the highways to guide motorists and ease the flow of traffic. Digital display signs have also been placed along the Outer Ring Road to give advanced notice of the closure.

During each cleanup, barricades will be erected to prohibit access at all entry points:

• Logy Bay Road
• Torbay Road
• Aberdeen Avenue
• Portugal Cove Road
• Allandale Road
• Team Gushue Highway
• Thorburn Road
• Topsail Road

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is also using the closure to complete highway maintenance and bridge inspections.

Updates on the road closure and reopening will be available at nl511.ca and the 511 smartphone app.

Quotes
“Keeping our highways clean is important for our environment and the safety of drivers. Closing the highway during the cleanup helps ensure the safety of people working in the area. We encourage everyone to secure the items in their vehicles before driving.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“We all need to take the time and effort to ensure that waste is disposed of properly and doesn’t end up on our roadways where it is an eyesore and spoils our natural environment. I thank the road crews for their efforts to keep this major transportation network free of litter. Every action we take to keep our province clean will make a difference.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

 

“Ensuring that cargo in the back of your vehicle or on trailers is properly secured will help prevent the spread of debris on our roadways. Secure larger objects with straps or ropes that can handle the load, and use a tarp or netted material to secure smaller items. We all have a role to play in keeping dangerous debris off our roadways while also maintaining our province’s natural beauty.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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Media contacts

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

Lynn Robinson
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449, 691-9446
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

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

The post Cleanup Planned for Outer Ring Road appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John Hogan, Q.C., Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, today introduced legislation to create safe access zones around educational and health care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

If passed, the Access to Health and Educational Services Act will ensure safe, unimpeded access to health and educational services in the province. The proposed bill prohibits interference and intimidation of service providers and users near health and educational facilities.

The legislation would balance the right to peaceful protest with the right of individuals to access health and education services free from physical threats and emotional upset. Newfoundland and Labrador already has similar legislation for abortion clinics.

The proposed legislation would see access zones extend 50 metres from the boundaries of the land where schools and health facilities are located. Contravention of the Act would result in imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000. The legislation would provide an exception for persons participating in lawful strike activities as well as enforcement activities by the police.

Quote
“This government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Individuals receiving health care services or attending an educational facility must be able to do so without fear or intimidation. This proposed legislation is about balancing the right of some to protest or express disagreement, with the right of others to safely access health and education services.”
Honourable John Hogan, Q.C.
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Learn more
Bill 51: Access to Health and Educational Services Act

News Release: Provincial Government to Introduce Legislation for Safe Access Zones

News Release: Introduction of New Legislation Ensures Secure and Respectful Access to Abortion Services

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

The post Provincial Government Introduces Legislation for Safe Access Zones appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House today to highlight significant investments, through cost-shared agreements, of approximately $140 million this year to improve housing affordability and prevent homelessness throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

These investments will support the operation, repair and renovation of our public rental housing, providing affordable homes, as well as heat subsidies for almost 12,000 low-income individuals and families.

Rental assistance programs will also support over 2,000 individuals and families find safe, affordable homes in the private rental market. Over 50 per cent of these clients are seniors. Launched this past November, the new $74 million Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Benefit will expand portable rental assistance in the private market to an additional 800 households over the next six years.

Our home repair programs will support low-income homeowners throughout the province, most of whom are seniors, by assisting them to complete needed repairs and accessibility modifications to remain in their homes.

Investments will also provide emergency accommodations and supports for those experiencing homelessness or fleeing intimate partner violence.

Recently, we announced a significant cost-shared investment of $20.2 million to support the construction of 132 affordable housing options here in the St. John’s area.

We remain committed to working in partnership with federal, municipal and Indigenous governments, as well as our many community partners throughout the Province to ensure all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have a place to call home.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Abbott Highlights Affordable Housing Investments appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced an agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

The agreement allows for a number of patients, deemed to be suitable, from Newfoundland and Labrador to travel to Ottawa for cardiac surgery. This temporary, short term-strategy will help address concerns in the province with cardiac surgical backlogs, which have increased due to COVID-19 and the recent cyberattack.

This agreement also provides for a partnership between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute that will complement the work of the highly skilled team of surgeons at Eastern Health, and most importantly support patient care by providing access to certain procedures and treatments that are not currently performed in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Within the arrangement, University of Ottawa Heart Institute surgeons will operate here in this province or, depending on the circumstance, patients may travel to Ottawa. Members of the cardiac care team from both the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and Eastern Health will collaborate and work together, virtually or in person.

This partnership will support clinical outcomes, academic research, and innovation in cardiac care for both organizations. The Memorandum of Understanding formalizes a strong, longtime working relationship between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute that supports high-quality cardiac care for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“With the health of patients top of mind, the partnership between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute allows them to work together to deliver the highest quality cardiac care through a creative approach to care delivery. Our government is committed to finding innovative solutions to our province’s health care needs. I am excited to see the positive impacts of this partnership.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We continue to work creatively and collaboratively as we address the challenges in our health care system, and this partnership is just one example. The strong relationship between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute has been growing over the years, and formalizing this agreement will ensure our cardiac patients continue to receive the highest quality care, while alleviating pressure from our hard working cardiac team.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The partnership between Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute is a unique example of provincial partners working together to deliver the highest quality cardiac care, through an innovative approach to care delivery. We have fostered a strong partnership with the Heart Institute over the years and are pleased to be able to expand our arrangement to further enhance timely care for cardiac patients.”
David Diamond
President and CEO, Eastern Health

“This is a good day for both Eastern Health and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute as clinical teams continue to work together and learn from each other to deliver top quality care. The collaboration supports clinical outcomes, academic research, and innovation in cardiac care for both organizations while expanding access to top quality cardiac care, including cardiac surgery, for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Dr. Sean Connors
Clinical Chief of Cardiac Care at Eastern Health

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

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

Gina MacArthur
Eastern Health
709-777-1412
gina.macarthur@easternhealth.ca

The post Premier Furey Announces Agreement with University of Ottawa Heart Institute appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will provide details on an initiative to address the cardiac surgery waitlist today (Thursday, May 12).

He will be joined by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services, David Diamond, President and CEO, Eastern Health, Dr. Sean Connors, Clinical Chief of Cardiac Care, Eastern Health, Dr. Thierry Mesana, President and CEO, University of Ottawa Heart Institute and Dr. Marc Ruel, Endowed Chair of Research in the Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

The availability will take place in in the main lobby of the Confederation Building, East Block at 12:30 p.m.

The event will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Those attending the news conference are asked to wear a mask and maintain physical distancing.

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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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce Health Initiative appeared first on News Releases.

Today marks Moose Hide Campaign Day across Canada, and the Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, is pleased to announce that the Legislature is participating in this day of ceremony. The Moose Hide Campaign (MHC) is a grassroots movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians, which calls on everyone to join together to take a stand against violence towards women and children and to take practical steps for our collective journey of reconciliation. This year marks the fifth consecutive year the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly will be participating in the MHC.

The inspiration for the MHC came to co-founders Paul Lacerte and his daughter Raven in 2011 during a moose hunt on their traditional territory along a section of highway where dozens of women have gone missing or been murdered. Since then, the campaign has spread across all levels of government, police forces, Indigenous communities, the not-for-profit sector, K-12 schools, post-secondary institutions and many others who are taking it up to create safer spaces and support reconciliation.

Inuit Elder and respected healer, artist and educator, Dr. Jean Crane, will begin the day with a virtual address to Members in the House of Assembly Chamber where she will lead Members in reflection and prayer. Members will also be presented with their moose-hide pins, which will be worn during House proceedings today.

“With the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly participating in the MHC for the fifth consecutive year, Members are joining with hundreds of thousands of individuals, communities and organizations across the country in taking a stand against gender-based violence. I encourage all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to take part in this Indigenous grassroots movement via the campaign livestream, which will allow participants to witness and engage with the traditional ceremonies, keynote speakers and online workshops. Our Legislature’s participation is an opportunity for our Members to support an important national movement and to take part in a valuable cultural event.”
– Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly

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Learn more

For more information on the Moose Hide Campaign and how to become involved, visit www.moosehidecampaign.ca.

Video message from Moose Hide Campaign

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

The post House of Assembly Participating in National Moose Hide Campaign Day appeared first on News Releases.

Legislative amendments intended to improve transparency of the Public Utilities Board’s (PUB) process to set fuel prices were introduced for second reading today in the House of Assembly. With greater transparency, the goal is to build a greater understanding of what informs the fuel pricing process. The PUB is an independent, quasi-judicial tribunal established under the Public Utilities Act.

If passed, Bill 52, an Act to Amend the Petroleum Products Act, which governs fuel pricing in Newfoundland and Labrador, will be amended to require the PUB to publicly disclose:

• The maximum wholesale and retail prices;
• The minimum and maximum mark-up between the wholesale price and retail price; and
• The procedure for determining adjustments to the petroleum base wholesale and retail prices.

While the PUB’s website currently provides details regarding the fuel pricing process, it is not readily accessible by the public. With these new requirements, this information will become more accessible.

If passed, the Bill will also allow government to require the Public Utilities Board to publish additional information, as identified and as deemed necessary, to improve the public’s knowledge of the fuel pricing process.

Amendments to the Petroleum Products Regulations would provide additional guidance to the PUB on the information to be released.

The Act currently only provides authority for the Minister of Digital Government and Service NL to require the PUB to complete a review of the benchmark price for fuel products. If passed, Bill 52 will give the Minister authority to direct the Board to conduct a review of any other component of fuel pricing process, including the various mark-ups charged. In addition, the Bill would allow the Minister to direct the Board to hold public hearings as part of these reviews, providing the people of the province with a direct opportunity to be heard.

Quotes
“I appreciate the concerns I have heard from residents and advocates regarding fuel prices. While the Provincial Government has established the legislative framework and formula used to set fuel prices, price setting rests with the Public Utilities Board. The proposed legislation is about improving transparency in the fuel pricing process within the current regulatory regime.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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Learn more
Public Utilities Board

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

The post Proposed Petroleum Products Act Amendments Would Increase Transparency in the Fuel Pricing Process appeared first on News Releases.

The Trans-Labrador Highway, approximately 70 kilometres west of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, will be closed Friday, May 13, beginning 5:00 a.m. for the replacement of a culvert.

The closure is necessary for the safety of motorists and crews working in the area.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates work being completed later in the day and the highway reopening by 5:00 p.m.

Details on highway construction are available on www.nl511.ca and the NL 511 smartphone app.

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

The post Public Advisory: Trans-Labrador Highway to Close for Repairs West of Happy Valley-Goose Bay appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador’s music industry.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s musicians received 44 nominations this year and brought home 11 awards from the 2022 East Coast Music Awards held in Fredericton, New Brunswick.

Congratulations to the nominees and the winners – Quote the Raven, Justin Fancy, Mallory Johnson and Twin Kennedy, Kelly McMichael, Rube & Rake, First Light Fridays, Greg Smith, Cecil Johnson, Yvette Lorraine, and Gordon Quinton. You are making waves around the country and the rest of the world. We are proud to call you our very own.

The East Coast Music Awards is a premiere music affair for the Canadian music industry and the conference of choice for artists and industry professionals. It is a non-stop musical celebration, recognizing the very best the East Coast music community has to offer – and this year was no exception.

The enthusiasm surrounding these awards has been felt here at home. We want to harness this enthusiasm in order to continue fostering the relationship that we have with our vibrant music industry, and encourage the many economic and social opportunities that exist for this industry throughout the province, region and country.

It is Come Home Year in Newfoundland and Labrador. We know that our music tells our stories and draws visitors here. Under the Cultural Economic Development Program, over $1.9 million will go directly to local artists. We have provided $100,000 to MusicNL to fund their Community Presenters Program, which will help non-profit organizations cover the costs associated with hiring musical talent for performances this year.

Thank you for the great job you do as ambassadors for this incredible place we are fortunate to call home. Please join me in applauding our musicians and all of those involved in the industry. Thank you, Speaker.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Congratulates East Coast Music Award Winners appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure:

Speaker, I am pleased to inform my Honourable colleagues today of a significant accomplishment of the workforce at the new adult mental health and addictions hospital, which is currently under construction.

When we announced in 2020 that Avalon Healthcare Partnership had been selected to design, build, finance and maintain the much-needed facility, we were confident in the jobs and economic benefits that would be created for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Speaker, since the start of construction, the percentage of hours worked by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians on that site has been 98 per cent.

In January, February and March of this year, 100 per cent of the hours worked on the site were by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Speaker, we can all take pride in the considerable skills and knowledge of the women and men of the local construction workforce who are so key to these critical infrastructure projects.

Recently, I had the pleasure of seeing what the inside of the new hospital will look like when I joined the Premier and the Minister of Health and Community Services on a visit to mock-ups of the patient room, therapeutic quiet room, and nursing station.

Construction of the new adult mental health and addictions hospital is on schedule and I look forward to it being completed in late 2024.

Speaker, our construction projects are leading to employment and improved services for residents of this province. This year, through Budget 2022, we are investing $567 million in infrastructure and we look forward to this investment paying similar dividends for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Thank you, Speaker.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Loveless Acknowledges Employment at Adult Mental Health and Addictions Hospital Construction appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced the establishment of an expert panel to recommend potential approaches for the government to ensure maximum long-term benefits from the Churchill Falls assets, as recommended by the Muskrat Falls Commission of Inquiry.

Premier Furey, Minister Parsons and Jennifer Williams, President of NL Hydro, will be available to media in-person at the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 1:00 p.m. The availability will be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page. Masks and physical distancing will be required for attendees.

Members of the 2041 panel are: Karl Smith (Chair), Rexanne Crawford, Jim Feehan, David Hay, Rick Hendricks, Dr. Linda Inkpen, Heather Jacobs, Dr. Nick Mercer, Jane Rowe, David Vardy, Jennifer Williams and Peter Woodward. See biographies in Backgrounder below. The Innu Nation, Nunatsiavut Government, and NunatuKavut Community Council were each invited to appoint an expert to serve on the panel. The Innu Nation chose Rick Hendricks, the Nunatsiavut Government chose Rexanne Crawford, and the NunatuKavut Community Council’s appointee is Dr. Nick Mercer.

The panel has a mandate to recommend potential approaches for the government to ensure maximum long-term benefits from the Churchill Falls assets, the 5,428 megawatt generating station and associated transmission facilities in Labrador, including future upgrades and expansion to the facility (the ‘Assets’), given the expiry of the current contract in 2041. The Panel will educate the public and government on the current contract’s implications for Newfoundland and Labrador. See the Terms of Reference in the Backgrounder below.

Should any matters arise concerning the terms of the Upper Churchill Redress Agreement, process accommodations will be made to respect Innu Nation’s commercial sensitivities.

Under the 1969 Upper Churchill Contract, Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation committed to selling Hydro-Québec the vast majority of the power from the 5,428 megawatt Churchill Falls generating station for 70 years after first power in 1971. That contract will expire in 2041.

The Churchill Falls facility is owned by CF(L)Co and that corporation is owned 65.8 per cent by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and 34.2 per cent by Hydro-Québec.

Quotes
“Although the expiry of the Upper Churchill contract in 2041 is 19 years in the future, it is a short period of time in terms of the utility planning horizon and to determine the best approach to ensure maximum benefits. I thank the members of the expert panel for committing of their time and expertise to advise on what will be a critical moment in our province’s future.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The establishment of an expert panel was a recommendation of the Muskrat Falls commission of Inquiry. It is important to start planning now to ensure that the province is able to maximize long-term benefits from the Churchill Falls generating station and other potential generation sites on the Churchill River in preparation for 2041.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“As we look to the future and the expiry of the Upper Churchill contract in 2041, it is important that we bring together the right mix of people to examine the contract and prepare for negotiations. I commend the Premier and his government for establishing this expert panel and I am proud to be a member of the team.”
Karl Smith
Chair, 2041 Panel

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

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

BACKGROUNDER

Biographies of Panel Members

Karl Smith (Chair)
Over the last three decades, Mr. Smith served in a number of progressively responsible roles within the Fortis Group of Companies, including Chief Financial Officer – Fortis Inc. (1999-2003), President and CEO – Newfoundland Power (2004-2007), President and CEO – Fortis Alberta (2007-2014), and Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer – Fortis Inc. (2014-2018).

Mr. Smith graduated from Memorial University in 1981 with a degree in Commerce, and following retirement has assumed a role as Chair of the University’s Faculty of Business Administration Advisory Board.

Mr. Smith is a former Chair of the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council (2014-2016), past Chair of the Canadian Electricity Association, and a retired member of the Chartered Professional Accountants Association (NL Branch).  Mr. Smith currently serves on the Boards of Junior Achievement of Newfoundland and Labrador, Young Adult Cancer Canada, and Genesis Centre.  He is also a Director of the Canadian Standards Association and co-Chair of the 2025 Canada Games Host Society.

Rexanne Crawford
Rexanne Crawford, CPA, CA, of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL, is the Deputy Minister with the Nunatsiavut Government’s Department of Finance, Human Resources and Information Technology.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1997 from Mount Allison University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Memorial University in 2001. Ms. Crawford was first employed by Deloitte in St. John’s in the audit and assurance practice and went on to obtain the Chartered Accounting designation. In 2011, she returned home to Happy Valley-Goose Bay, accepting the position of Deputy Minister with the Nunatsiavut Government’s Department of Finance, Human Resources and Information Technology.

Ms. Crawford is an active volunteer, giving freely of her time to advance education, sport and recreation in the community.

Jim Feehan
Dr. Jim Feehan is an honorary research professor at Memorial University. Originally from St. John’s, he is a graduate of MUN in economics and mathematics. He holds advanced degrees in economics from the London School of Economics and Carleton University. He has been a visiting professor at the University of Western Ontario, Carleton University’s School of International Affairs, and the National University-Kiev in Ukraine.

Dr. Feehan has an international reputation in public finance and the economics of public investment, having published in academic journals in those areas. In 2003 and 2004 he was involved in a major international collaboration project dealing with public infrastructure, which was sponsored by the Economic Research Institute of Japan’s Cabinet Office. As well, he is a recognized expert on Canadian fiscal federalism.

Professor Feehan has also worked on public policy in Newfoundland and Labrador. He has published academic research on many provincial issues such as interprovincial trade, Churchill Falls, the health-care cost of smoking, sales taxes, Muskrat Falls, offshore oil development, fiscal federalism, municipal governance, and electricity policy.

Dr. Feehan was research advisor to the Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening Our Place in Canada and served on various advisory bodies including the Primary Care Advisory Committee and the Muskrat Falls Oversight Committee. For nine years he was the editor of the journal, Newfoundland and Labrador Studies, and is a former Director of the Institute of Social and Economic Research at MUN.

David Hay
David Hay is the Managing Director of Delgatie Incorporated (his own consulting firm). He is the former Vice-Chair and Managing Director of CIBC World Markets Inc., from 2010-2015. From 2004 until 2010, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of New Brunswick Power Corporation. Prior to that Mr. Hay was Senior Vice-President and Director with Merrill Lynch Canada and Managing Director of European mergers and acquisitions with Merrill Lynch International based in London, England. Mr. Hay spent the early part of his career as a practicing lawyer and taught at both the University of Toronto and University of New Brunswick. Mr. Hay was a Law Clerk to the Chief Justice of the High Court of the Supreme Court of Ontario from 1981 until 1982. Mr. Hay currently sits on the boards of Hydro One Limited, EPCOR Utilities Inc., and the Council of Clean and Reliable Energy. Prior directorships include Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited, where he was Vice Chair, and Associated Electric & Gas Insurance Services Limited (AEGIS). Mr. Hay also chaired both the Beaverbrook Art Gallery and SHAD Canada.

Mr. Hay holds a Bachelor of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School, York University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto (Victoria College). He is a Fellow of the Ivey Energy and Policy Institute with the University of Western Ontario and holds an ICD.D certification from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

Rick Hendricks
Richard M. (Rick) Hendriks is the Director of Camerado Energy. Rick has 20 years of technical, environmental, regulatory and policy knowledge and experience of the electricity sector in Canada. He provides management consulting, strategic planning, analytical, research, negotiation, and consultation services to clients. Rick works with organizational leadership to envision, implement and achieve strategic, economic and environmental objectives. Trained in engineering, science and social science, he brings an analytical, structured and comprehensive approach to understanding, engaging and explaining the opportunities and risks of energy policies, plans and projects. An experienced negotiator, facilitator and educator, Rick supports clients seeking to build partnerships, to understand the implications of proposed projects and policies, to resolve historic disputes, and to intervene in regulatory processes to change the course of development.

Linda Inkpen
Dr. Linda Inkpen served as Registrar of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador since September 2014 and retired in November 2021.  Dr. Inkpen graduated from Memorial University in 1969, 1970, 1972, and 1974 with degrees in Science, Education, Medical Science, and Medicine. She was chair of the board for Fortis Properties, is a past chair of Newfoundland Power, and was a director of the parent company, Fortis Inc. until 2010. Dr. Inkpen was President of Cabot College (now College of the North Atlantic) from 1987 to 1993, has been a lay member of the Newfoundland Law Society, and worked in many volunteer capacities.

Dr. Inkpen was a member of The National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy and a member of the Prime Minister’s Roundtable on Science and Technology. She has been the recipient of many awards and honours, most notably Memorial University’s Alumna of the Year Award, the Order of Canada, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, and Honorary Degrees from Memorial University and Mount Saint Vincent University. Dr. Inkpen currently serves as the Honourary Lieutenant Colonel, 1st Battalion, Royal Newfoundland Regiment.

Heather M. Jacobs
Heather M. Jacobs, QC is currently Special Advisor to the Department of Justice and Public Safety. Ms. Jacobs served as Deputy Minister of the Department of Justice and Public Safety on three occasions from 2015 to 2022. Prior to that time, Ms. Jacobs also served as Assistant Deputy Minister in the Department of Justice and Public Safety for nine years, managed the Government Services Unit within the Civil Division of the Department of Justice for four years, and served as a solicitor in the Civil Division for 13 years. Ms. Jacobs received her Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from Memorial University in 1984 and Bachelor of Laws degree from York University (Osgoode Hall) in 1987. Ms. Jacobs was appointed Queens Counsel in 2015 and has been a practicing member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador since 1988. She has served as a member of the Nalcor Board (as government appointee) and sat independently in 2018. She has also served as the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Oil and Gas Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador and a member of the Board of the RNC Foundation.

Dr. Nick Mercer
Dr. Nick Mercer is a settler-researcher, who holds a Ph.D. in Geography and Environmental Management from the University of Waterloo, as well as a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Environmental Policy from Memorial University. Dr. Mercer’s research expertise includes renewable energy policy, the sustainability of off-grid energy systems, and participatory approaches to local planning.

Dr. Mercer lives in western Newfoundland. He holds a SSHRC Postdoctoral Fellowship within Dalhousie University’s School for Resource and Environmental Studies and provides formal support to communities in Labrador in their pursuit of energy security and autonomy. Dr. Mercer works at the intersection of clean energy and community, ensuring that local rights, knowledge systems, and priorities are at the forefront of energy transitions.

Jane Rowe
Jane Rowe serves as the Vice Chair, Investments at Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan effective October 2020, and sits on the board of Cadillac Fairview, its real estate subsidiary. Previously she served as the Executive Managing Director and head of Ontario Teachers’ Equities department.  Prior to joining Ontario Teachers’, she held senior roles at Scotiabank, including Scotia Merchant Capital Corporation, the bank’s Canadian private equity fund, was President and CEO of RoyNat Capital Inc., Scotiabank’s wholly owned mid-market merchant bank, and was President and CEO of Scotia Mortgage Corporation. Outside of Ontario Teachers, Ms. Rowe is a director for TD Bank Group and Enbridge Inc.

Ms. Rowe received a B.Comm. (Honours) from Memorial University, her MBA from York University’s Schulich School of Business, and ICD.D certification from the Institute of Corporate Directors. She is an Advisory Board Member of Memorial University’s School of Business, served on the Board of Governors at York University, and served as a Trustee for the United Way of Greater Toronto.

David Vardy
David Vardy served in a number of executive positions in the Provincial Government, including Deputy Minister of the Planning and Priorities Secretariat from 1975-1978, Clerk of the Executive Council from 1978-1985, President of the Marine Institute, Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Chair of the Public Utilities Commission. He is a former Director of the Public Policy Research Centre and currently an Associate of the Harris Centre at Memorial University. Mr. Vardy has received the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration awarded by the Institute of Public Administration of Canada, the Gold Medal Award from the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada. Mr. Vardy was one of the founding members of the Muskrat Falls Concerned Citizens Coalition and recently was a member of the Premier’s Economic Recovery Team.

He holds a B.A. (Honours Economics) and a B. Comm. from Memorial, an M. A. in Economics from the University of Toronto and an M. A. in Economics from Princeton University, as well as an Honorary Doctorate from Memorial. He has finished all the requirements for a Ph.D. in Economics at Princeton University except for completion of the dissertation.

Jennifer Williams
Jennifer Williams was appointed President of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro in February 2019 and assumed additional responsibility as interim CEO for Nalcor June 2021. Jennifer is now acting as President and CEO of NL Hydro. Prior to 2019, Jennifer had served as Vice President, Production, with NL Hydro since August 2016. Earlier positions include General Manager, Hydro Production, as well as Manager, Regulatory Engineering. Jennifer joined NL Hydro in 2014, having previously worked with both Newfoundland Power and the St. John’s International Airport Authority. A Memorial University graduate, Jennifer has a Bachelor of Civil Engineering and is a member and former member of the Board of Directors of the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL). Jennifer was awarded the Fellow of Engineers Canada in 2016 and was elected as a Fellow to the Canadian Academy of Engineering in 2020.

Peter Woodward
Peter Woodward is President and CEO of Woodward Group of Companies; President, Labrador Motors Limited; and President, Markland Realty Limited. Mr. Woodward serves as Director of: The Shaw Group, Emera, Newfoundland Employers Council & Battle Harbour Trust; and is past Director of AIMS.  Mr. Woodward has previously served as chair of Labrador Health Corporation, Chair of Labrador College, Chair of Premiers Advisory Council. He has also previously served on the Board of Fishery Products International and on the Board of Newfoundland Power. Mr. Woodward graduated from Bachelor of Commerce, Co-op program at Memorial University of Newfoundland in 1981.

Churchill River Management Expert Panel
Terms of Reference

1. Purpose

Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation Limited (CFLCo), a subsidiary of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (NLH), entered into a long-term power contract with Hydro-Quebec

(HQ) in May 1969 (the “Power Contract”). The Power Contract provided for the development and subsequent sale of large amount of power produced at the Churchill Falls plant to HQ. The original agreement expired in 2016, but the automatic renewal clause extended the contract for an additional 25 years. CFLCo is also party to a Water

Management Agreement with Muskrat Falls Corporation (MFCo) in accordance with provincial legislation to coordinate the most efficient generation of power at both Churchill Falls and Muskrat Falls.

The Power Contract and the Shareholder’s Agreement expire on August 31, 2041.

Although that date is 20 years in the future, it is a short period of time in terms of the utility planning horizon and to plan for the role of this 5,428 MW asset in the province’s electricity system, to determine the best approach to ensure maximum benefits from the asset and other potential generation sites on the Churchill River.

On November 20, 2017 Government established a Commission of Inquiry (the Inquiry) respecting the Muskrat Falls Project (MFP), appointing Justice Richard D. LeBlanc as the sole Commissioner. Commissioner LeBlanc delivered his final report to Government on March 5, 2020. Recommendation 7 of the Inquiry report pertains to the Churchill Falls power contract expiring in 2041 as follows:

“In preparation for 2041, government should appoint an expert panel with a mandate to determine the best approach to be taken by the Province in its attempt to ensure maximum long-term benefits from the Churchill Falls generating station and other potential generation sites on the Churchill River.

This panel should be properly funded, non-political and include experts who are best able to assist government in preparing for the negotiations with

Québec. The panel should be required to report its progress to Cabinet on a regular basis.”

Furthermore, the Premier’s Economic Recovery Team final report recommended that the Province, “Package the Churchill River resources as a single opportunity, including

Muskrat Falls, Gull Island, and the 2041 contract on the Upper Churchill, and seek federal government and private sector partners to maximize the economic value and its renewable energy potential.”

At this time, the Province is seeking to convene an expert panel to fulfil its commitment to act on this recommendation of the Muskrat Falls Commission of Inquiry.

2. Membership

The Expert Panel shall consist of up to twelve members.

The panel will include members with professional accreditation and/or significant expertise in areas such as finance, law, engineering, economics and other categories of experience directly relevant to mandate and objectives of the Expert Panel.

Innu Nation, Nunatsiavut Government, and NunatuKavut Community Council may each appoint its own expert to serve on the Expert Panel.

The Chair would be selected by the Province from amongst the members of the Expert Panel.

The Expert Panel will be supported by Cabinet Secretariat and the Deputy Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology.

3. Mandate

The Panel has a mandate to recommend potential approaches for the government to

ensure maximum long-term benefits from the Churchill Falls assets, the 5,428-megawatt generating station and associated transmission facilities in Labrador, including future upgrades and expansion to the facility (the ‘Assets’), given the expiry of the current contract in 2041. The Panel will educate the public and government on the current contract’s implications for Newfoundland and Labrador.

4. Objectives
   1. To carry out its mandate, the Panel will gain an understanding of the 1969 Churchill

Falls Power Contract, current operation and ownership of the Churchill Falls

Generating station by:

a) Reviewing the current contractual, financial and legislative arrangements for the 1969 Churchill Falls Contract between CFLCo and HQ.

b) Reviewing the potential alternative contractual, financial and legislative considerations for CFLCo and the Asset post-2041.

c) Reviewing the current and projected revenue streams to the Province from CFLCo, and what options the Province may have to increase such revenue (including the export sale of recall power and infrastructure upgrades to increase available power for export).

7. The Panel will provide strategic advice aimed at maximizing value from the Assets after 2041. This could include:

   a) Advice on the development of a strategy for engagement with HQ for power export and/or sale.

   b) Advice on the identification of opportunities to market energy from this asset for export to consumers in eastern Canada and the Northeastern US (through traditional transmission).

   c) Advice on the identification of opportunities to market energy from this asset to companies that want to establish operations inside the province for local consumption (such as development of green steel).

   d) Advice on the identification of opportunities to market energy from this asset to companies that want to establish operations inside the province for alternate export (such as hydrogen).

   e) Advice on direction to NLH to begin engagement in potential markets.

   5. Meetings
   Panel meetings will be held on a monthly basis, with additional engagement as required.

8. Timelines
   The Panel will provide advice to the Premier and Cabinet, concluding its work no later than September 30, 2022.
9. Budget and Staffing
   Budget will be required for the establishment of the Panel and funds may be requested if any additional professional services are required.

The post Expert Panel on Churchill Falls 2041 Announced; Premier Furey and Minister Parsons Available to the Media appeared first on News Releases.

The new Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations, which enhance safety for all off-road vehicle users, will come into effect on May 19, 2022. The Act, which received Royal Assent in November, can be found on the House of Assembly website.

The Regulations have also been published in the Newfoundland and Labrador Gazette.

Effective May 19, 2022, the wearing of helmets on all off-road vehicles will be mandatory. The one exception where helmets will not be required is for hunting and trapping activities, involving frequent stops, where speed is less than 20 km/hr. Seatbelts are also mandatory on off-road vehicles where seatbelts have been installed by the manufacturer.

The use of chains will now be permitted on off-road vehicle tires.

Further changes to the legislation can be found in the backgrounder below.

Government is currently working with safety partners to develop training programs and to ensure training is widely available to those who require it. Information regarding when this portion of the Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations will come into force will be announced at a later date.

Quote
“The Provincial Government recognizes the value of outdoor recreation, and it is critically important that safety always be top of mind for off road vehicle users. With stronger safety requirements and updated legislation we can help ensure our children, partners, friends and family enjoy using their off-road vehicles without incident.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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Learn more

News Release: Helmet and Seatbelt Regulations Coming for Off-Road Vehicle Use

News Release: Residents Reminded to Practice Off-road Vehicle Safety

News Release: New Legislation Increases Safety for Off-Road Vehicle Users

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @DGS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

BACKGROUNDER

Changes to off-road vehicle legislation, effective May 19, 2022

Issue/Topic Current Legislation Proposed Amendments Housekeeping Motorized Snow Vehicles and All-Terrain Vehicles Act and Regulations Name change – Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations Definitions of all-terrain vehicle and motorized snow vehicle New definition of side-by-side and off-road vehicle, and a revised definition of all-terrain vehicle to include side-by-sides Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation Inc. and Labrador Winter Trails Inc. referenced as managed trail operators Names of specific trail operators removed and replaced with umbrella term, managed trail operators Highway Use Operators permitted to cross a highway if the operator holds a driver’s licence, the vehicle is insured and operator has not less than 100 yards of visibility in both directions Operators permitted to cross a highway where the operator has not less than 150 metres visibility in both directions

 

Operators permitted to travel along a highway to access a trail, where the off-road vehicle is operated on the shoulder of the highway for a maximum distance of 1 km, and the off-road vehicle is operated at a speed of not more than 20 km/hr Towing of Trailers N/A New definition of trailer and hitch or attachment must meet specific safety requirements

 

Operators must not tow passengers on or across a highway Age Limits and Supervision Snowmobile

•      13 years old to operate

•      Under 13 years old must be accompanied by another person who is 19 years of age or older

 

ATV

•      16 years old to operate

•      14 to 16 years old can operate ATV with engine size of 90cc or less if accompanied and supervised by a person who is 19 years of age or older Off-Road Vehicle

•     Under 16 years of age must not operate an off-road vehicle with an engine size that exceeds the manufacturer’s recommendation for an operator of their age and weight

•     Under 16 years of age must be supervised by a licenced driver at least 18 years of age

  An operator of a vehicle is accompanied and supervised when the other person has visual and voice communication with the operator An off-road vehicle is supervised when, at all times, the person supervising is able to see the operator and be seen by the operator, and provide immediate direction to the operator

 

The supervisor must ensure the operator has completed the required training and uses the required safety equipment Additional Safety Requirements N/A A person must not operate a mini-bike, dirt bike, or trail bike unless they are able to keep both feet on the pedals or foot rests N/A A person must not operate a side by side unless the person is able to sit with the seatbelt fastened and both feet flat on the floor N/A New definition of disability-related modification, and allowances made for approved disability-related modifications to comply with requirements for feet to touch the floor or ground Fines Snowmobile

•      $100 to $1,500

 

ATV

•      $250 to $2,500 General increase of fines from $100 to $2,500

 

Fines no longer differentiated by type of off-road vehicle

 

Fines increased for offences related to operating on a highway and helmet use

 

Specific fines added for current (e.g. failure to register, failure to keep plate/decal visible) and new requirements (e.g. training and safety equipment) Mandatory Helmet Use No requirements in current Act; requirements for ATVs only included in the Regulations (see below) Helmets mandatory for all off-road vehicles and in all areas of the province

 

Operators and passengers must wear a helmet that conforms to the requirements prescribed in the Regulations, is properly fitted, and has the fastening device secured

 

Lieutenant-Governor in Council may add to the Regulations exemptions from the helmet requirement  

Regulatory changes, effective May 19, 2022

  Mandatory Helmet Use Helmets required for ATVs except in remote Labrador communities Helmets not required where the off-road vehicle is being operated during hunting and trapping activities involving frequent stops, if speed of the off-road vehicle is less than 20 km/hr Seatbelts N/A Seatbelts required to be worn in any off-road vehicle equipped with seatbelts Chains on Tires Operation of wheeled ATV with chains on tires prohibited Chains permitted on tires of an off-road vehicle

 

To be proclaimed at a later date

Operator Safety Training N/A Training will be required for the following:

•      anyone under 16 years of age

•      anyone registering an off-road vehicle for the first time

•      anyone convicted of an offence under the Act or Regulations, and has had their registration suspended or cancelled

The post New Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations Come Into Effect on May 19 appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology:

Speaker, I am pleased today to highlight Mining Week and the significantly positive impact of the sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.

2021 was a banner year for this industry in our province. The value of mineral shipments were the highest ever recorded, and mineral claim staking activity reached its highest point since the Voisey’s Bay claims 25 years ago.

Our province processed over 800 mineral exploration applications last year. Driven by positive exploration results, along with strong gold prices, we saw exploration expenditures nearly double from 2020, to just over $127 million.

The talk of this industry has been the gold rush in central Newfoundland. It was less than two months ago, when I announced that the Valentine Gold Project had been approved to proceed. This project will be the largest gold mine in Atlantic Canada and a significant contributor to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Speaker, we clearly have world-class deposits that contain geology with great mineral potential. Critical minerals which are needed to grow and develop the green economy, such as our low-carbon nickel, mined in Labrador – refined at Long Harbour – is being used to develop lithium-ion batteries for the world’s ever-growing electric vehicle industry. Notable companies such as Northvolt, and just last week, Tesla, have signed agreements with Vale.

Our government works hard to develop meaningful mining opportunities, and officials within the mining branch demonstrate daily our commitment to create an environment that supports mining development.

I will be speaking at 33rd annual mining conference held by the Baie Verte Peninsula Chamber of Commerce next month to share what this industry means for local businesses and how it allows our province to invest in programs like infrastructure, education and health care.

Speaker, the future looks prosperous for this industry, with employment exceeding 8,000 person years and mineral shipments reaching $6 billion in 2021. We look forward to see what is to come for this key economic driver in our province.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Highlights Newfoundland and Labrador Mining Sector During Mining Week appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, and the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced a review of the Public Utilities legislation. The review will include legislation under a number of departments, as outlined in the backgrounder below.

The ministers will be available today to media in-person at the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 12:30 p.m. The availability will be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page. Masks and physical distancing will be required for attendees.

The review will be led by a project team consisting of officials from the Department of Justice and Public Safety, with participation and support from the departments of Digital Government and Service NL, Industry, Energy and Technology and Transportation and Infrastructure.

In addition to a review of the relevant legislation, the work will also include engagement with stakeholders, including meetings and written submissions from, but not limited to, the Public Utilities Board, the Consumer Advocate, NL Hydro and Newfoundland Power. If necessary, the project team may retain external resources to support their work including legal, consultants, as well as experts to advise on specialized issues. Information gathered during the review will help determine the policy direction for any potential legislative amendments.

The Board of Commissioners of Public Utilities, established by the Public Utilities Act, is an independent, quasi-judicial regulatory body appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council, and operates primarily under the authority of the Public Utilities Act, which establishes the Board, how it functions, conducts hearings and recovers costs.

Since 2004, the Public Utilities Board has been responsible for the regulation of maximum prices for petroleum products in the province in accordance with the Petroleum Products Act. Notice has been given for amendments to this Act to be introduced into the House of Assembly.

Proposed Amendments would aim to improve transparency of the Public Utilities Board’s process to set petroleum product prices and to build a greater understanding of what informs the fuel pricing process. As this legislation has already been reviewed, it will not be included in the work being done by the project team. The review will also exclude the Automobile Insurance Act, as a comprehensive review of this Act concluded in 2019.

The review of the Public Utilities legislation is anticipated to conclude by early fall. Any legislative amendments will be considered through the normal legislative process.

Quote
“The review of Public Utilities Board legislation is important to ensure the applicable legislation is up to date, reflects best practices, and achieves its objectives in the best interests of the people of the province, particularly in relation to gas prices and electrical utilities regulation. Legislation that relates to the Public Utilities Board affects many residents of the province so it is only prudent that we conduct a review to ensure all applicable pieces of legislation are working as intended.”
Honourable John Hogan, QC

Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

“I completely understand how frustrating it is when fuel prices rise and fall, and how frustrating it is, not to be able to access a transparent breakdown of what makes up fuel prices. If passed, the changes we are introducing to the Petroleum Products Act will lead to better information for consumers.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

“The review of the Public Utilities legislation will include a review of the Electrical Power Control Act. Minister Hogan and I have met with the consumer advocate and have heard his concerns about the existing legislation. A thorough review of this legislation, as part of the overall review of the Public Utilities legislation, will help ensure that it is current and responsive to consumers, while ensuring transparency and accountability.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
Provincial Government to Initiate Review of the Public Utilities Act

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, @JPS_GovNL, @DGS_GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

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

Kelly-Anne Roberts
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-725-5248, 327-7005
kelly-anneroberts@gov.nl.ca

Backgrounder

The PUB is responsible for the regulation of the electric utilities in the province to ensure that the rates charged are just and reasonable, and that the service provided is safe and reliable. The PUB is also responsible for the supervision of rates charged by automobile insurers for the various automobile insurance coverages under the Automobile Insurance Act; limited regulation of the motor carrier industry in relation to certain passenger and ambulance operations under the Motor Carrier Act, as well as conducting hearings and other required activities under the Expropriation Act.

The Public Utilities legislation includes:

• The Public Utilities Act (JPS)
• The Electrical Power Control Act, 1994 (IET)
• The Petroleum Products Act (DGSNL)
• The Automobile Insurance Act (DGSNL)
• The Insurance Companies Act (DGSNL)
• The Motor Carrier Act (DGSNL)
• The Expropriation Act (TI)

The post Provincial Government to Review Public Utilities Legislation; Ministers Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.

The deadline for submissions for the Premier’s Award for Teaching Innovation and the Minister’s Award for Compassion in Teaching is May 20, 2022.

The Premier’s Award for Teaching Innovation recognizes primary, elementary or secondary teachers in all disciplines who have demonstrated innovation in instruction and a commitment to preparing their students for future success. School administrators are asked to nominate teachers who have gone above and beyond to find innovative ways to deliver the curriculum in a way that engages students and results in greater educational outcomes for their students.

The Minister’s Award for Compassion in Teaching recognizes inspirational and compassionate teachers at the primary, elementary or secondary level who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting the social, emotional and mental health of their students, colleagues or school community as a whole.

Nominations for these awards will be accepted from colleagues, students, administrators and the school communities. The 2022 Teaching Award guidelines can be found here.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Education, will presenting the awards to the recipients later this year.

In October 2021, six teachers were awarded the Premier’s Award for Teaching Innovation and eight received the Minister’s Award for Compassion in Teaching.

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Avis public : Rappel aux communautés scolaires de la date limite des mises en candidature pour les prix de l’enseignement

Media contact
Tina Coffey
Education
709-729-1906, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: School Communities Reminded of the Upcoming Deadline for Teaching Awards Submissions appeared first on News Releases.