Government of Newfoundland News

Today at St. John’s International Airport the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, welcomed the first Ukrainian refugee airlift sponsored by any level of government in Canada to date.

The airlift that departed Katowice, Poland and landed in St. John’s is the culmination of the work of the Ukrainian Family Support Desk, a Provincial Government initiative launched on March 2, 2022, and on the ground in Poland since March 17, 2022, to provide safe haven to Ukrainians fleeing the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine.

All arriving Ukrainians have been granted the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel Visa that legally allows them to live and work in Canada for up to three years. Ukrainians arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador under the Emergency Travel Visa will also receive provincial Medical Care Plan and Prescription Drug Plan coverage.

After arrival, most Ukrainian newcomers were transported to pre-arranged accommodations in the capital region to rest and begin adjusting to their new surroundings, while others travelled on to stay with family and friends throughout the province. This transition period will be eased for many individuals and families because of the pre-arrival support provided by the Ukrainian Family Support Desk, including:

• Resume translation services;
• Facilitating job interviews with local employers (a number of Ukrainians have already accepted jobs);
• Immigration navigation and processing;
• Pairing Ukrainians with accommodations; and
• Engaging the Association for New Canadians to activate specialized settlement services and supports.

Thanks are extended to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador for supporting Ukrainians and helping to make this airlift possible. For ways people can contribute to the effort, please see the backgrounder below.

The Ukrainian Family Support Desk continues working with Ukrainians who have expressed an interest in coming to Newfoundland and Labrador. For more information about the desk, please visit here.

Quotes
“With strong leadership and generosity we welcome Ukrainian newcomers with open arms. Our made-in Newfoundland and Labrador approach of having a team on the ground in Warsaw – the only province to do so – has led to us welcoming the first plane of Ukrainians today. They have chosen this province as a place to live a safe and prosperous life. Many thanks to everyone who helped make that dream a reality.”
Honourable Premier Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“During the horrific terrorist attacks of 9/11, planes were directed to Newfoundland and Labrador and we provided a safe haven for passengers. The world is calling again, and this time we have directed a plane of our own to assist Ukrainians. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are once again providing a safe and welcome refuge, opening our homes, and our hearts, to families in need.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“The Association for New Canadians is delighted to be part of this important provincial government initiative and we look forward to welcoming and supporting these newcomers as they settle into their new homes in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Megan Morris
Executive Director, Association for New Canadians

The Honourable Andrew Furey along with provincial government officials and members of the Association for New Canadians prepare to welcome Ukrainian refugees to Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

Airlift of Ukrainians touches down at St. John’s International Airport.

 

The Honourable Andrew Furey welcomes Ukrainians to Newfoundland and Labrador after the airlift landed in St. John’s.

 

The Honourable Andrew Furey and the Honourable Gerry Byrne meet the first Ukrainian off the airlift at St. John’s Internaional Airport.

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Learn More

News Release: Ukrainian Family Support Desk Launched to Help Ukrainians

News Release: Ukrainian Family Support Desk Expanding to Poland

News Release: Health Care Coverage Available for Ukrainians Arriving in the Province

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

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

BACKGROUNDER

How Newfoundlanders and Labradorians Can Help Ukrainian Newcomers

With the first government-sponsored airlift bringing Ukrainians directly to Canada having arrived on Monday, May 9 at St. John’s International Airport, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is reminding residents how they can help welcome and support Ukrainian newcomers.

Residents can help by:

• Identifying job opportunities for Ukrainians and sending those positions to ukrainianfamily@gov.nl.ca;
• Sending offers of accommodation and donations of goods and/or services to the Association for New Canadians Ukraine Support Team at ukraine@ancnl.caor709-325-0881; and
• Donating to the Association for New Canadians Emergency Fund, with tax receipts for donations greater than $20.

The Association for New Canadians is also recruiting volunteers to participate as:

• Interpreters (Ukrainian and other languages);
• Family Match Program participants (volunteers are matched with newcomers to help with English as a second language learning through friendship. Activities could include exploring the city, sightseeing, going for walks and sharing meals together); and
• Conversation circle partners (newcomers are given the opportunity to start practicing conversational English).

Those interested in volunteering are asked to register for orientation by emailing volunteer@ancnl.ca. The Association for New Canadians is currently arranging a donations centre to house physical donations, such as furniture and clothing. Residents are asked to hold onto donations until the donation centre is operational.

The post Newfoundland and Labrador Welcomes First Airlift of Ukrainian Refugees appeared first on News Releases.

Applications for the 2022-23 Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program are now open to support existing farmers and new entrants to the province’s agriculture and agrifoods sectors. The deadline to apply is June 2, 2022.

The Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program has two streams, focusing on land development and agriculture infrastructure. Projects must support food self-sufficiency, increase agricultural growth and secondary processing, and generate employment. Eligible applicants must have reported a minimum of $15,000 in eligible agriculture sales in one of the last three years, or qualify as a new entrant. To encourage and support new farmers in the industry, new entrants can qualify for up to $20,000 in funding under the Agriculture Infrastructure program.

For more information, visit Agriculture Programs and Funding, call 709-637-2077 or email PAAP@gov.nl.ca.

Funding applications are also open for projects under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial agreement providing $37 million in support for the agriculture and agri-foods sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. For more information, visit Canadian Agricultural Partnership, email CAP@gov.nl.ca, or call 709-637-2077.

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

The post Public Advisory: Applications Open for Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program appeared first on News Releases.

Following consultations with the taxi industry, Digital Government and Service NL is modifying the requirements for obtaining a Class 4 taxi driver’s licence.

Effective May 9, 2022, applicants will not be required to complete the defensive driving course, unless specifically notified to do so by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. The cost associated with this course is often a deterrent for some, and not having to take it, will assist new drivers who want to enter the industry.

Taxi licensing requirements for a knowledge test and a road test are considered sufficient to assess driver safety and maintain safety standards.

All other requirements for a Class 4 taxi driver’s licence remain the same, including:

• Holding a full Class 5 driver’s licence for at least two years; and
• Meeting the required medical standards.

To assist taxi operators with driver testing services for new Class 4 applicants, the Motor Registration Division has established an expedited service to facilitate timely testing. Operators can call 709-729-0100 (toll free: 1-877-636-6867) or email nsc@gov.nl.ca for information.

Quote
“We recognize the negative impacts that recruitment, retention, rising costs, and the global pandemic have had on taxi operations. With Come Home 2022 expected to be a banner year for tourism and events, taxi patrons will expect professional service from qualified drivers who are knowledgeable, experienced and safe.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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Learn more
Class of Licence

Licence Application Process

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

The post Modifications to Class 4 Taxi Driver’s Licence Announced appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge National Nursing Week and to recognize the contributions of those in the nursing profession.

The theme of National Nursing Week 2022 is ‘We Answer the Call.’ This theme reflects the determination and dedication nurses continue to show while rising to the occasion for their patients, the public and colleagues alike.

Speaker, our government understands the impacts of the nursing shortage in our province. It is an issue that is being seen across the country.

We continue to work collaboratively to increase the capacity in our educational programs by increasing seats in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program by 25 per cent and the Practical Nursing Program by 40 per cent. As well, we are working to strengthen recruitment and retention strategies across Newfoundland and Labrador. While a career in nursing is focused on caring for others, we appreciate the need to care for our nurses by enhancing the quality of nursing work life.

The pandemic further brought to light the pressures that nurses and all health care workers experience every day and showed the crucial role that nurses play in the community.

Speaker, I ask all Honourable Members to join me as we once again thank nurses for always rising to the occasion.

The post Ministerial Statement – Provincial Government Recognizes National Nursing Week appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Speaker, I wish to inform the House that an airlift of 166 Ukrainian refugees under the hand of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador is on its way from Poland destined for St. John’s.

Speaker, as atrocities of war are inflicted on Ukraine by Russia, the people of this province are standing up and standing tall. We stand with Ukraine.

The world has been reminded of what is the true face of courage and resolve in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. As his nation fights for freedom, we will do all we can to support and ease the burdens of Ukrainian families.

When the crisis hit Ukraine, our province stepped up immediately with a made-in Newfoundland and Labrador response.

To our knowledge, we are the first state actor in North America to organize a humanitarian airlift of Ukrainians to our shores. Our understanding and our place on the world stage is reflected in this deliberate act.

Of course, none of this work would have been possible without the tireless leadership of my good friend, the Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills. What he and his department continue to accomplish is incredible, and other provinces and the Federal Government are looking to follow our example thanks to their tireless work.

I am reminded, Speaker, of each and every time Newfoundlanders and Labradorians stepped up to help, often in times of international crisis. Disasters at sea, sending our own off during the First World War when we could least afford it, 9/11. When people are in need, we are there.

Speaker, today, our long history of supporting people in times of crisis is being carried on. I wish to thank this House for its continuous support for our collective efforts and to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador for the incredible generosity that has been laid out.

Much work remains. Slava Ukraini.

The post Ministerial Statement – Welcoming Ukrainian Newcomers to Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, announced the expansion of the Bus Pass Program to seniors over aged 65 who are receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement and youth receiving services from the Youth Services Program. The initiative will help create more inclusive communities, as well as lead to social and economic benefits for more people with low income.

Councillor Ian Froude, City of St. John’s, and Kelly Heisz, Executive Director, SeniorsNL joined Minister Abbott, for the announcement. The expansion of the Bus Program is supported by a Provincial Government investment of $2.1 million and is delivered in partnership with the City of St. John’s.

To obtain a free bus pass:

• People who newly qualify for Income Support who reside in, or move into, the areas of St. John’s, Mount Pearl or Paradise will be mailed instructions on how to obtain their free bus pass.
• People currently in receipt of Income Support have already received bus passes. For people requiring a GoBus pass, they must first be registered as a GoBus user and then can request the pass by calling 1-877-729-7888 or emailing buspass@gov.nl.ca.
• Youth receiving services from Youth Services Program will receive a free bus pass through their regular, ongoing contact with their Children, Seniors and Social Development social worker.
• Seniors receiving Guaranteed Income Supplement can call the Metrobus customer service line at 709-722-9400 for further details. Metrobus anticipates these free bus passes will be issued to eligible seniors starting June 1, 2022.

Quotes
“As part of Budget 2022 and in partnership with the City of St. John’s, our government is pleased to invest $2.1 million to extend and expand the Bus Pass Program as this will help to enhance the quality of life and overall well-being of people with low income who live in areas served by Metrobus. Through greater access to transportation, individuals will have the opportunity to avail of affordable goods and services, connect with family and friends, participate in community activities, attend medical appointments, and for some individuals, create easier access to the labour market.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“Our goal is to make public transit accessible to all users, so the City of St. John’s is pleased to hear that the income-assistance bus pass program has been fully funded for 2022. With this support from the Provincial Government we are able to expand the program to include seniors who receive GIS, and youth receiving services from the Youth Services Program.”
Councillor Ian Froude
City of St. John’s

“I am so pleased to see that the Bus Pass Program has been expanded to include seniors who are receiving GIS. We know that having access to public transportation supports both social inclusion and healthy aging, and this program will provide the opportunity for these seniors to be more active and engaged in their community.”
Kelly Heisz
Executive Director, SeniorsNL

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Learn more

Budget 2022

Metrobus

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

Susan Bonnell
City of St. John’s
709-690-9285
sbonnell@stjohns.ca

Kelly Heisz
SeniorsNL
709-740-3874
info@seniorsnl.ca

The post Provincial Government and City of St. John’s Working Together to Extend and Expand Bus Pass Program through Budget 2022 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, in partnership with Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador and the Professional Municipal Administrators, has proclaimed May 9-13 as Municipal Awareness Week.

Good municipal governance is foundational to the province’s economic, health and social well-being. Over 2,000 people lead and work in the municipal sector fulfilling the roles and duties of elected officials, administrators, professional planners, staff and volunteers.

Municipal government is responsible for many services that enhance the quality of life for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, including essential services, programs and infrastructure. Sustainable, vibrant communities reflect the work of dedicated mayors, councillors, staff and volunteers, as well as the collaboration and partnership of residents.

Municipalities will be holding special events throughout Municipal Awareness Week. Further information about the week and the municipal sector can be found here. Residents can also check with their local councils.

Quotes
“This week is an opportunity to recognize the vital role of municipal government in the daily lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and to acknowledge the contribution of all those working in the municipal sector. This week, and every week, I extend heartfelt thanks to the councillors, administrators, staff and volunteers who contribute so much to the province.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“Municipal Awareness Week acknowledges the important role that municipalities play in providing essential services, programs and facilities to residents in our province. It celebrates the work that happens every day as municipal leaders advocate for and strive toward creating a better place for everyone to live. I am proud of the people in our sector and I want to thank them for their dedication to our communities.”
Amy Coady
President
Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador

“Municipal Awareness Week is a time to recognize the many contributions of municipal government. Municipal administrative staff serve their communities, work hand-in-hand with elected officials and contribute greatly to the success of municipal government. This week we encourage residents to celebrate municipal government and the role elected officials, staff and community volunteers play to ensure communities thrive and residents prosper.”
Brian Hudson
President
Professional Municipal Administrators

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Learn more
Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador

Professional Municipal Administrators

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

Deatra Walsh
Director, Advocacy and Communications, MNL
709-986-2771
dwalsh@municipalnl.ca

Tammy Davis
Executive Director
Professional Municipal Administrators
709-726-6405
tammy@pmanl.ca

The post Municipal Awareness Week Proclaimed May 9-13 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, has announced the following event relative to Part 10 Environmental Assessment of the Environmental Protection Act.

Undertaking Registered:

Hampden By-road                                                                                      (Reg. 2197)
Proponent: Town of Hampden
The proponent is proposing to develop a municipal by-road for residential property access and fronting in the Town of Hampden. The proposed by-road will be approximately 200 metres in length and constructed using standard construction methods including clearing, grubbing, grading and the placement of rock/granular sub-base with granular Class A topping. In the future asphalt topping may be placed depending on feasibility. A description of the project can be found on the Department’s web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list

The undertaking was registered on May 5, 2022; the deadline for public comment is June 10, 2022; and, the minister’s decision is due by June 19, 2022.

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

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Dec2021

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will welcome Ukrainian newcomers arriving on a charter flight traveling from Katowice, Poland to St. John’s. The welcome will take place on the evening of Monday, May 9 at St. John’s International Airport.

Media interested in attending are asked to RVSP by 12:00 p.m. Monday, May 9 to Jeremy Reynolds (jeremyreynolds@gov.nl.ca). Once registered, media will receive further information about timelines and logistics.

Physical distancing and mask requirements will be in place.

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey and Minister Byrne to Welcome Ukrainian Newcomers appeared first on News Releases.

With the first government-sponsored charter flight bringing Ukrainians directly to Canada arriving Monday, May 9 at St. John’s International Airport, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is reminding residents how they can help welcome and support Ukrainian newcomers.

Residents can help by:

• Identifying job opportunities for Ukrainians and sending those positions to ukrainianfamily@gov.nl.ca;
• Sending offers of accommodation and donations of goods and/or services to the Association for New Canadians Ukraine Support Team at ukraine@ancnl.ca or 709-325-0881; and
• Donating to the Association for New Canadians Emergency Fund, with tax receipts for donations greater than $20.

The Association for New Canadians is also recruiting volunteers to participate as:

• Interpreters (Ukrainian and other languages);
• Family Match Program participants (volunteers are matched with newcomers to help with English as a second language learning through friendship. Activities could include exploring the city, sightseeing, going for walks and sharing meals together); and
• Conversation circle partners (newcomers are given the opportunity to start practicing conversational English).

Those interested in volunteering are asked to register for orientation by emailing volunteer@ancnl.ca. The Association for New Canadians is currently searching for a donations centre to house physical donations, such as furniture and clothing. Residents are asked to hold onto donations until a space is found.

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

The post Public Advisory: How to Help Ukrainian Newcomers appeared first on News Releases.

Motorists are being encouraged to be vigilant when travelling on the Northern Peninsula Highway (Route 430) between the Roddickton Road intersection and Town of Plum Point, between St. Anthony Airport and Eddies Cove and the roadway between St. Anthony Airport and the Town of Main Brook.

A significant portion of the St. Anthony caribou herd has overwintered in these areas and areas adjacent to the St. Anthony Airport. As spring approaches, this herd will increase its daily movements as they begin their trek from wintering ranges to spring calving areas. These caribou will be required to cross roadways making them vulnerable to motorized traffic.

Motorists can reduce the risk of a caribou-vehicle collision by:

• Scanning both sides of the highway;
• Paying attention to caribou warning signs;
• Avoiding driving at dusk and dawn when caribou are more common alongside roadways;
• Having passengers also watch for caribou; and
• Reducing speeds when driving at night when caribou are more difficult to see.

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

The post Public Advisory: Motorists Warned to be Aware of Caribou on Northern Peninsula Roads appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will announce funding for the Bus Pass Program on Monday, May 9. He will be joined by Councillor Ian Froude, City of St. John’s, and Kelly Heisz, Executive Director, SeniorsNL.

The event will take place at Metrobus, 25 Messenger Drive, St. John’s, starting at 12:30 p.m. and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Media who wish to attend are asked to register by contacting Khadija Rehma at 709-729-3768 or khadijarehma@gov.nl.ca.

Attendees will be required to wear masks and maintain physical distancing.

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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 Announce Funding for the Bus Pass Program appeared first on News Releases.

Work on a culvert replacement on the Trans-Canada Highway near Little Rapids, east of Corner Brook, is expected to begin this weekend.

While work is ongoing, eastbound traffic at this location will detour through Little Rapids via Exit 10, Johnson Drive and Bonnell Drive.

Westbound traffic will be diverted around the construction site with the speed limit reduced to 50 km/h due to heavy equipment and crews working in the area. Motorists are asked to pay attention to traffic control and be prepared to slow down.

A contract valued at approximately $726,000 was awarded to Mike Kelly and Sons Ltd. in April to replace the culvert.

The department anticipates work being completed later this month and paving being completed in June. Updates on progress will be provided as they become available.

Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Details on highway construction projects 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: Temporary Detour on Trans-Canada Highway in Western Newfoundland appeared first on News Releases.

As Municipal Awareness Week (May 9-13) kicks off, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will visit with the Student Leadership Group of Leary’s Brook Junior High in St. John’s on Monday, May 9 at 9:00 a.m. Minister Howell and the students will discuss municipal governance.

She will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Education and the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and Member for Mount Scio.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Visit with Students to Discuss Municipal Governance appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will participate in the St. John’s Board of Trade Business Bootcamp event on Monday, May 9.

The event takes place at the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Premier Furey will be available to media outside the ballroom immediately following his session at approximately 9:10 a.m.

Business Bootcamp 2022 is a two-day conference designed to appeal to businesses from all sectors and of all sizes, and features 45 expert speakers from various industries in the province.

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Media contact

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

 

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Participate in St. John’s Board of Trade Business Bootcamp appeared first on News Releases.

All Provincial Historic Sites across Newfoundland and Labrador will offer free regular admission for the upcoming 2022 season as part of Come Home 2022 celebrations. The sites are scheduled to open on Saturday, May 21 and close on Friday, October 7.

$3.7 million has been invested in 2021 and 2022 for necessary upgrades at the sites that will help to ensure a higher-quality experience for local residents and travelers.

A new Provincial Historic Sites website is also launching today to provide useful information for those who are planning to visit the sites. The site contains engaging and in-depth content about each site and its history, enriching the online experience for virtual visitors, as well.

The Provincial Historic Sites in Newfoundland and Labrador are:

• Beothuk Interpretation Centre
• Bonavista Lighthouse
• Colonial Building (reopening later this summer)
• Commissariat House
• Cupid’s Cove Plantation
• Heart’s Content Cable Station
• Hiscock House
• Mercantile Premises
• Mockbeggar Plantation
• Newman Wine Vaults
• Point Amour Lighthouse
• Trinity Visitor Centre

To learn more about the Provincial Historic Sites, visit www.seethesites.ca.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s Provincial Historic Sites offer unique and immersive looks into the past. To encourage visitors and residents alike to explore these sites, our government is offering free regular admission as part of Come Home 2022 celebrations. I encourage everyone to incorporate site visits into their travel plans this season to learn more about our province’s history through stories, sights and sounds. The opportunities are endless.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The downtown area in my district of St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi is rich in history and offers so much to see when you visit, like the beautiful Commissariat House. Offering free regular admission during Come Home 2022 will give visitors and residents the opportunity to see first-hand our diverse culture and representations of our past.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
MHA for St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi

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Learn more
Provincial Historic Sites

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

Matthew Cooper
Constituency Assistant to the Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
MHA for St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi
709-729-3709, 330-1637
matthewccooper@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Historic Sites Opening on May 21 with Free Regular Admission for Come Home 2022 appeared first on News Releases.

Nominations are now open for the 2022 Newfoundland and Labrador Seniors of Distinction Awards. The deadline for submissions is June 6, 2022.

The awards are an opportunity to recognize seniors from all walks of life including those who are experts in their field, who share their culture and talent, who volunteer in any capacity and who care for people in need of understanding and companionship.

To be eligible, a senior must be:

• Nominated by an individual or group;
• 50 years of age or older; and
• A current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Seniors may be nominated if they have made notable contributions through paid or volunteer work activities. Nominations from previous years will be considered at the request of a nominator or nominee and posthumous awards may be given.

The 2021 recipients were Rose Andrews of Carbonear, Patrick W. Moore of Corner Brook, Clyde Russell of Stephenville, Dorothy Mary Senior of Paradise and Paul F. Smith of Conception Bay South.

To learn more about Seniors of Distinction Awards or to obtain a nomination package, please visit here or call toll free 1-888-494-2266.

Quotes
“Our government appreciates all the things that seniors do to enrich Newfoundland and Labrador. As seniors are truly the backbone of our families, communities and society as a whole, we encourage you to please take the time to nominate a senior you know for the prestigious Senior of Distinction Awards.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“Seniors and older adults make many contributions as employees, volunteers and community leaders. The Seniors of Distinction Awards provide an opportunity to give special recognition to five deserving individuals for all they do in their communities and for the difference they make in the lives of others.”
Pam Anstey
Chair, Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors

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Learn more
Seniors of Distinction Awards

Ministerial Statement – Minister Abbott Recognizes 2021 Seniors of Distinction

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

Pam Anstey
Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors
709-691-0993
pamela.anstey@gmail.com

The post Call for Nominations for 2022 Seniors of Distinction Awards appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to congratulate the winners and participants of the inaugural Newfoundland and Labrador High School Short Film Festival 2022.

The NL High School Short Film Festival is a place for young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to creatively express themselves through film.

Awards were presented to almost 30 filmmakers from grades seven to 12 from across the province. The grand prize, the Premier’s Short Film Award of Excellence, was presented to Alicia Mason-Quinton of Holy Heart of Mary High School for her film “Young at Heart”. Alicia shared her family’s relationship with dementia, highlighting the positive sides of her relationship with her grandparents that often are not mentioned when discussing this affliction. A full list of winners is available online.

Speaker, I would be remiss to discuss this festival without mentioning Allan Hawco and Paul Pope, who helped create the festival and these awards. There was no bigger advocate for filmmakers young and old in this province than Mr. Pope. His recent, untimely passing is felt deeply, especially amongst his colleagues in the film industry. His legacy will live on though for years to come, particularly as he spear-headed the recently announced Film and Media Production Centre at College of the North Atlantic.

Please join me in congratulating this year’s 28 Short Film Festival Award Winners. They are all shining examples of young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians creatively expressing themselves through film. I cannot wait to see what they produce in the future.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Osborne Congratulates Short Film Festival Award Winners appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will make an announcement related to Provincial Historic Sites across Newfoundland and Labrador for Come Home 2022 tomorrow (Friday, May 6).

The event will take place at Commissariat House, 11 King’s Bridge Road, St. John’s, at 10:30 a.m.

Minister Crocker will be joined by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and MHA for St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi.

The event is by invite-only and will be live streamed on Facebook. Media attending are asked to please RSVP to Adrienne Luther (adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca).

Attendees will be required to wear masks and maintain physical distancing.

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Crocker to Make Provincial Historic Sites Announcement for Come Home 2022 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, and the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services along with the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association are pleased to have signed a Memorandum of Agreement.

This signed agreement includes $35 million per annum in new funding to help ensure improved physician services in Newfoundland and Labrador. Highlights of the agreement include Atlantic parity for physicians, a bonus program for remote sites and a provincial locum recruitment program.

The agreement covers over 1,300 salaried, alternate payment plan and fee-for-service physicians in the province.

The agreement can be viewed online here.

Quotes
“I’d like to thank the negotiating teams from government and the medical association who worked diligently to deliver an agreement that is in the best interest of our doctors and the people of the province.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

“It is positive news that the Memorandum of Agreement has been signed. Physicians play a critical role in our delivery of health care services. We look forward to working with the NLMA and Regional Health Authorities in implementing the important commitments and initiatives set out in this agreement.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Recruitment and retention of physicians is a priority for both the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. We believe this new Memorandum of Agreement is a step forward in making the province a more attractive place for physicians to work. We are pleased that negotiations are now behind us so we can begin focusing on implementation of this new agreement. This includes designing a new remoteness bonus program and a new payment model for family physicians that will allow them to work in a model that is consistent with the way they are trained. There is still much work to do, and we look forward to working with the Department of Health and Community Services to make progress on these fronts.”
Dr. Susan MacDonald
President
Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association

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Learn more
Memorandum of Agreement

Tentative Agreement with Physicians Ratified

Provincial Government Reaches Tentative Agreement with Physicians

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

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

Jonathan Carpenter
Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association
709-726-7525, 691-0928
jcarpenter@nlma.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government and Physicians Sign Memorandum of Agreement appeared first on News Releases.