Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development, was in Paradise today to provide an update on the new high school planned for the town. Minister Hutton was joined by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education; the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and MHA for Mount Scio; and His Worship Dan Bobbett, Mayor of Paradise.

The Provincial Government has purchased 11.32 acres of land in Paradise on Dianne Whelan Drive from Karwood Estates Inc. at a total cost of $3.4 million for the site of the new school.

The Provincial Government committed to working with the Town of Paradise on the site selection and, since that time, work has been ongoing to determine the best location. The new school will be constructed near Paradise Intermediate School.

A request for proposals will be issued in the coming weeks for a consultant team that will provide technical advisory services to develop a design-build tender package for the new high school.

A number of other school infrastructure projects are underway throughout the province, aimed at enhancing learning environments and outcomes for students. These include:

Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s High School
A contract valued at $28,053,300 has been awarded to Lindsay Construction Limited for the design and construction of a new high school in the Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s.

In July 2023, the Provincial Government announced that a new high school would be built on Old Broad Cove Road at the corner of Maggie’s Place and would include educational spaces for grades 10-12. The total footprint of the new school will be approximately 6,500 square metres.

The project is on track for the opening of the school in 2026.

Kenmount Terrace K-7 School
A design-build request for proposals for the Kenmount Terrace school project was issued on November 7, 2024, and closes on February 13, 2025.

When the project was announced in September 2023, the Provincial Government committed to consultations to determine the exact grade configuration to best meet the needs of students and families in the area. Following the consultations, a K-7 school was recommended for the area.

Dorset Collegiate – Extension and Redevelopment
A contract valued at $25,769,600 has been awarded to Brook Construction (2007) Inc. for the extension and re-development of Dorset Collegiate on Pilley’s Island. The public tender call/open call for bids closed on December 2, 2024.

Dorset Collegiate is currently a grades 7-12 school, and the extension and redevelopment will accommodate the addition of students from K-6, facilitating the consolidation of all students in the region into one school.

Cartwright K-12 School
A contract valued at approximately $1.4 million was awarded to Gibbons Snow Architects Inc. in October 2023 for the planning and design of a new K-12 school in the Town of Cartwright to replace the existing Henry Gordon Academy.

The tender for construction of the new school, including a community library, pre-kindergarten space and gym, will be posted mid-February.

Budget 2024 included funding of $41 million in 2024-25, and $146 million over the next three years, for new schools in Cartwright, Kenmount Terrace, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, and Pilley’s Island, as well as the $50,000 allocated for the planning of the school in Paradise.

Quotes
“Public infrastructure is integral to the well-being of the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, and school infrastructure is an important component of that infrastructure. I am delighted that a site has been chosen for the new high school in Paradise, as well as the progress being made on all of our school infrastructure projects.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Rural Economic Development

“A modern school setting is necessary as we prepare students for the future. The new high school in Paradise will provide a positive learning and teaching environment for students, teachers and staff, and is a welcome addition to school infrastructure in the region.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“I’m pleased to see this significant step towards delivering on the commitment of a high school for the Town of Paradise. Families in Elizabeth Park are eagerly awaiting the opening so that their children can stay in the community and build a greater sense of pride in Paradise.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
MHA for Mount Scio

“We’re thrilled to see the site announced for the new high school for Paradise. Being in the vicinity of Paradise Intermediate School and the Dianne Whalen Memorial Soccer Complex is a great fit for a high school. We appreciated the Provincial Government working with the town to determine the site and it’s exciting to be another step closer to having a high school in our town. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with government and seeing this project completed.”
His Worship Dan Bobbett
Mayor of Paradise

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, is pleased to announce the province’s newest appointments to the King’s Counsel by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

The honorary title of King’s Counsel recognizes senior lawyers for exceptional merit and contribution to the legal profession. These lawyers have served a minimum of 10 years as a member of the bar, have gained the respect of the legal community and are in good standing with the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Appointments are made after consultation with the legal appointments board as outlined in the King’s Counsel Act.

Those appointed to King’s Counsel are Catherine Boyde, Lauren Chafe, Colin Feltham, Meghan Gardner, Susan Gover, Tannis King, Heidi Marshall, Greg Moores, David Orsborn, Ian Patey, Geoffrey Spencer, and Michelle Willette. Biographies of each appointee can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“King’s Counsel is reserved for those who have truly demonstrated their exceptional commitment to their community and the legal profession. To these deserving appointees, I congratulate and thank them for their contributions to our province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographies for King’s Counsel Appointees

Catherine Boyde
Catherine Boyde began her legal career as an articling student at Mills Hussey Pittman (now Mills Pittman Twyne) in Clarenville, where she was fortunate to have Arnold Hussey, KC, as a principal and mentor. She was called to the bar in June of 2004 and remained in private practice until 2009, when she joined the Legal Aid Commission in Clarenville as a staff solicitor. In 2014, Ms. Boyde moved to the St. John’s office of Legal Aid NL, where she currently holds the position of deputy area director, practicing primarily in the areas of family law, child protection, and adult protection. Since joining Legal Aid NL, she has had the privilege of representing clients across the province, including two years as the principal bail lawyer in St. John’s. Ms. Boyde enjoys teaching in-house continuing legal education sessions with Legal Aid and meeting new students training for the bar course. Ms. Boyde is an active participant in the local running community.

Lauren J. Chafe
Lauren Chafe currently oversees the provision of Legal Services as the deputy provincial director – legal services with Legal Aid NL. She began her career articling under Gerald F. O’Brien, KC, at O’Brien Furey Smith, when she was called to the bar in Newfoundland and Labrador in 1999. She continued to practice with O’Brien Furey Smith, maintaining a general practice with a focus on family and criminal law. While offering pro bono services Ms. Chafe found her calling. She later joined Legal Aid NL in 2006 to assist those individuals that did not have the means to retain a private lawyer. In 2011, Ms. Chafe became the area director of the St. John’s office, and three years later, was promoted to the role of deputy provincial director – legal services that she holds today. She graduated from Memorial University with a Bachelor of Arts in 1993 and received a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick in 1998. She is also a bencher and chair of the access to justice committee. Lauren Chafe lives in St. John’s with her husband Craig Rodgers.

Colin Feltham
Colin Feltham graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Laws in 2000. After a brief stint in New Brunswick, he moved home to Newfoundland and Labrador and a career with Roebothan McKay Marshall, where he is now a partner, focusing on civil litigation, victims’ rights and legal advocacy. In 2023 and 2024, Mr. Feltham was peer selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in Canada for work in personal injury litigation. Throughout his career, Mr. Feltham has appeared as an advocate before all levels of court in the Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick, as well as the Federal Court of Canada. A member of the disciplinary adjudication panel for the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, he also sits on the society’s insurance committee, and was past chair of the health law section of the Canadian Bar Association – Newfoundland and Labrador. He is also an active member of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association and the American Association for Justice. Mr. Feltham lives in Paradise with his wife, Lesley, and their children, Allyson, Ryan and Jayden.

Meghan Gardner
Meghan Gardner is a chartered insurance professional who holds a Bachelor of Arts from Mount Allison University, a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie and a Master of Laws from Osgoode. Called to the bar in Ontario in 2004, her legal career began with Blakes, where she practiced commercial litigation, trade, and regulatory law, appearing regularly before the Federal Court and Federal Court of Appeal, as well as the Canadian International Trade Tribunal and other federal regulators. After moving to Johnson/Unifund as director of legal and compliance as in-house counsel, Ms. Gardner was eventually promoted to vice-president, human resources. She currently serves as the vice-president, claims Atlantic for Intact Insurance. An active community volunteer, she serves as a director for two national charities, Team Broken Earth and Mercy Wellsprings. Ms. Gardner lives in St. John’s with her husband Ben and their two children, Sarah Wynne and Adam.

Susan Gover
Called to the bar of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1993, Susan Gover holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) from Memorial University and a Bachelor of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School. In 2009, she received a certificate in negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution from St. Mary’s University, and subsequently has participated in the program on negotiation at Harvard Law School. Having commenced her career with MacBeath Colbourne in Marystown, she later moved to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, becoming the first female to hold the position of registrar of deeds and companies for the province. For the past 24 years, Ms. Gover has been employed with the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board, serving as chief legal officer and corporate secretary for almost a decade of her tenure. While she previously served as an instructor with the bar admission course, Ms. Gover is an active member of the Canadian Bar Association, as a board member (2019-21) and branch president (2012). She is currently a board member of Shallaway and is active in volunteer endeavors involving youth. Susan Gover is the proud mom of Amy and lives in St. John’s with her husband Darrell.

Tannis King
Tannis King has spent her entire legal career in public service, originally as a Crown attorney, where she spent 21 years prosecuting a wide variety of matters at all levels of court in Newfoundland and Labrador, then as a solicitor with the Civil Division of the Department of Justice and Public Safety. Currently, Ms. King is the director of legal services for the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. An active member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, she serves as chair of the criminal law section of the Law Society bar admission course, and sits on the Law Society’s disciplinary panel and fitness to practice committee. Ms. King also taught criminal law on a national level as a member of the faculty of the Federation of Law Societies’ National Criminal Law Program. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Winnipeg and Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie Law School as a part of the Class of 2000. An active volunteer in the volleyball community, Tannis King lives in Mount Pearl with her husband, Geoff Penney, and their daughter Lilah.

Heidi Marshall
Originally from Burin, Heidi Marshall holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons.) from St. Francis Xavier University (1996) and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick (2000). After four years in private practice, Ms. Marshall spent over a decade at Legal Aid NL in various positions, including staff solicitor, duty counsel lawyer (Supreme Court Family Division), deputy area director, and area director (acting). In 2016, she joined the Family Litigation Unit with the Department of Justice and Public Safety, becoming manager in 2023. She also serves as senior counsel for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador at the Inquiry Respecting the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System. Ms. Marshall maintains a practice of child and adult protection litigation files and sits on multiple work-related committees. In her spare time, Heidi Marshall enjoys the company of her husband Tony.

Greg Moores
Greg Moores earned his law degree from Dalhousie University in 1999. He was called to the bar in Alberta in 2000, followed by Newfoundland and Labrador in 2004. Since joining Stewart McKelvey in 2005, he has built a distinguished practice in energy regulation, construction, and commercial litigation. His career highlights include representing clients before courts, regulatory bodies, and arbitration panels. Notable engagements include extensive involvement in the development phase of an east coast offshore energy project, appearing at the International Court of Arbitration in Singapore and a policy advisory project in Sri Lanka focused on energy regulation. An inductee of the Canadian College of Construction Lawyers, Mr. Moores is recognized for his expertise and commitment to the legal profession. He has also contributed extensively to his community, through volunteering with the St. John’s Legends and with organizations such as the United Way, the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Canadian Bar Association, and the Canadian Energy Law Foundation. Mr. Moores resides in St. John’s with his wife, Julie, a professional engineer. Together, they are proud parents of Sara and Lauren, who are both pursuing their studies at McGill University.

David Orsborn
The Honourable David Orsborn is the former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador. Mr. Orsborn graduated from Memorial University in 1966 with a first-class honours degree in commerce; and in 1968, received designation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Newfoundland. After a tenure in administration and finance at the Salvation Army Grace General Hospital in St. John’s, he received a Bachelor of Laws at Dalhousie University in 1979. Mr. Orsborn practiced law from 1979 to 1993, and while in  practice, he served as counsel or commissioner on various commissions of inquiry including: the Royal Commission on the Ocean Ranger Marine Disaster in 1982; the Royal Commission on Hospital and Nursing Home Costs in 1983; the Single Commission of Inquiry into Provincial Court Judges’ Salaries and Benefits (Newfoundland and Labrador) in 1985; the Royal Commission on the Donald Marshall, Jr. Prosecution; and the Triennial Commission on Judges’ Salaries and Benefits (Courtois Commission) in 1989. In 1993, Mr. Orsborn was appointed to the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, Trial Division and in 2009, was appointed Chief Justice of the Court. He elected supernumerary status in 2014, retiring in 2020. Mr. Orsborn currently serves as counsel with Benson Buffett in St. John’s.

Ian Patey
From Lewisporte, Ian Patey received his Bachelor Arts (Hons.) in 1997 from Memorial University, his Bachelor of Laws in 2000 from the University of New Brunswick, and was called to the bar in 2001. A partner with O’Dea Earle, Mr. Patey focuses on litigation, labour and employment law, and criminal law. Elected to benchers of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2015, where he served as past president and chaired the accounts and finance, complaints authorization, and mandate review committees, and instructed in the bar admission course. Currently, he serves on the honours and awards committee. In 2020, Mr. Patey was nominated to the Council of the Federation of Law Societies of Canada, where he presently serves as chair of the finance and audit committee, member of the litigation committee and member of the continuing legal education program committee. Mr. Patey is active in his community, including the board of The Rooms Corporation, the 2016 Provincial Summer Games host committee, and currently as president of the Rotary Club of Avalon Northeast. Mr. Patey lives in CBS with his wife Corinna and children Abigail and Andrew.

Geoffrey Spencer
Geoffrey Spencer is the office lead partner in the St. John’s office of McInnes Cooper. A graduate of Memorial University, he obtained his law degree from Dalhousie University in 1993. Mr. Spencer has a corporate/commercial practice that focuses on commercial financings and secured transactions, with a particular focus on commercial fishery matters. He has appeared in all levels of court in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the Federal Court of Canada and the Supreme Court of Canada. Recognized by Best Lawyers in Canada for his practice in insolvency and financial restructuring law, mergers and acquisitions law, and transportation law, he has also been named the Best Lawyers Insolvency and Financial Restructuring Lawyer of the Year in St. John’s. A teacher of business law, he has been presenting at the Newfoundland and Labrador bar admission course for over 20 years. Mr. Spencer has served his community through several not-for-profit boards, including chair of the Newfoundland Symphony Youth Orchestra and past president of the Canadian Transport Lawyers Association; and currently sits on the executive board of the St. John’s Board of Trade. Geoffrey Spencer lives in St. John’s with his wife, Lisa Spencer, and is a very proud father of Megan and Nicole.

Michelle Willette
Michelle Willette was admitted to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 1999, having completed her law degree at Dalhousie University. Ms. Willette practices primarily management-side employment and labour law, and administrative law. She has advised employers in public health, social enterprise, municipal government, post-secondary education, and private industry on all aspects of law related to the workplace. Ms. Willette has appeared before various administrative tribunals and before all levels of court in the province, as well as the Federal Court, Trial Division. Listed as a leading practitioner by the Best Lawyers in Canada for her practice in the areas of labour and employment law, Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory has also recognized Ms. Willette as a leading practitioner in employment law and labour law. Ms. Willette is a committee member of the disciplinary panel of the Law Society. Outside of work, she has served on various non-profit boards, including a term as a director of the Canadian Association of Counsel to Employers and the Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador. Currently, she serves as co-chair of Iris Kirby House. Michelle Willette lives in St. John’s with her husband, Wade Gillard, and is the proud mom of two young adult daughters.

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Dr. Pat Parfrey has been appointed the Chief Executive Officer of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, bringing his more than 40 years of experience in health care, including co-chairing Health Accord NL, to the position.

Dr. Parfrey’s leadership in clinical settings, along with his experience as co-chair of Health Accord NL and Deputy Minister of Health Transformation within the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, strategically positions the provincial health authority to action the 10-year plan to enhance health care and health equity in the province. Dr. Parfrey is a Member of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador and Officer of the Order of Canada.

In the two years since the Provincial Government began implementing the recommendations of Health Accord NL and created the provincial health authority, there has been considerable focus on addressing the social determinants of health and rebalancing the province’s health care system across acute, community, and long-term care. Examples of some of this work include:

• Newfoundland and Labrador being Canada’s first Well-Being Province.
• Launching targeted Poverty Reduction Plan and Seniors’ Health and Well-being Plan.
• Creating health transformation positions within the provincial health authority.
• Increasing access to primary care through family care teams.
• Addressing human resource challenges, including recruitment and retention efforts.
• Increasing access to priority surgeries.

Dr. Parfrey replaces Karen Stone, KC, who served in the position on an interim basis since June 2024. Ms. Stone will be returning to the provincial public service.

The appointment effective immediately. Dr. Parfrey’s biography is enclosed below.

Quote
“Dr. Parfrey’s appointment will further accelerate the considerable progress that we are making on actioning the recommendations of Health Accord NL. I would like to thank Ms. Stone for her incredible leadership that she brought to the health authority as it continues to ensure that every resident of Newfoundland and Labrador has access to the care they need, closer to home and delivered in a timely manner.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Service

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Biography
Dr. Pat Parfrey was a John Lewis Patton Distinguished University Professor at Memorial University, and is a kidney specialist at Eastern Health. He is a clinical epidemiologist with an international reputation for patient-related research in kidney disease and in genetic disease.

Dr. Parfrey was leader of Quality of Care NL, a Memorial University group doing evaluation and research on health quality and performance. He was Co-Chair of Health Accord NL, which was engaged to reimagine the province’s health care system and most recently the Deputy Minister of Health Transformation within the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. He is an Officer of the Order of Canada, a Member of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.

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The Provincial Government has issued a request for quotations (RFQ) for the provision of supplies for a new parent resource kit for new parents.

The parent resource kits will include a baby sleeper, wooden baby teether, knit cotton hat, sensory blanket, and bandana bib to support families in the early stages of parenthood. The updated parent resource kits will be distributed through public health and family resource centres throughout the province.

A child’s early years are the first step in lifelong learning and are enhanced by successful social, family, and education policies. As a child’s first teacher, parents and caregivers play a pivotal role in their child’s learning and development. Children who receive responsive and consistent caregiving early in life develop secure attachments to their parents or caregivers, which helps with their growth and learning. Providing parents with appropriate tools and resources like the items in the parent resource kits supports the social determinants of health for children.

Information on RFQs issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl. The closing date for proposals February 19, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. NT.

Quote
“These parent resource kits provide support and resources to parents and families from day one of their parenthood journey. Providing basic clothes and newborn aides supports the development of baby and is a valuable resource for parents.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Early Learning and Child Care Resources

Healthy Baby Club

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The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development, will make an education infrastructure announcement in Paradise tomorrow (Friday, January 24).

The event will take place in the mezzanine area of the Paradise Double Ice Complex, 1 Sarah Davis Way, Paradise, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Minister Hutton will be joined by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education; Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and MHA for Mount Scio; and His Worship Dan Bobbett, Mayor of the Town of Paradise.

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The Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services have completed an expansion of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) to include all individuals across the province who meet the criteria for this intervention. The expansion is leading to healthier outcomes for stroke patients and reducing the length of hospital stays.

EVT is a time-dependent treatment for patients with acute ischemic stroke and involves the mechanical removal of large clots obstructing brain vessels to promote blood flow. This program enhancement has led to improved stroke outcomes, reduces stroke disability, and significantly shortens length of hospital stays, which makes acute care beds available sooner than expected.

The enhancements and expansion are part of the Provincial Government’s transformation of cardiovascular and stroke care in Newfoundland and Labrador.

As of January, EVT is a provincially accessible treatment for all those who meet the criteria for this intervention. To date, 87 cases of EVT have been completed throughout the province since June 2022.

The procedure is in addition to other work to help cardiovascular and stroke patients, including:

• Same day fly-in/fly-out cardiac catheterization flights, which have led to 246 patients flying to St. John’s to receive care sooner than anticipated, as of January 2025.
• The Department of Health and Community Services’ partnership with March of Dimes on the After Stroke pilot program, which has provided supports for nearly 300 stroke survivors, their family members, and caregivers.
• Ongoing planning for the new Cardiovascular and Stroke Institute facility and new acute care hospital campus in Kenmount Crossing.
• The increased use of clot-busting drugs called thrombolytics for strokes, which has increased from 10 per cent in 2018 to almost 20 per cent, the national standard, in 2023.
• 673 open heart surgeries and 95 transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures completed in 2024, which represent an increase of 22 per cent and 28 per cent, respectively, compared to 2023.
• A reduction in the waitlist by 16 per cent.

Quotes
“This is good news for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador who may experience a cardiovascular and stroke event. This procedure has led to positive outcomes for stroke patients and has led to shorter stays in hospital, which makes acute care beds available to other patients. This expansion is one of many steps our government is taking based on the recommendations of Health Accord NL to reimagine health care in the province.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services is pleased to offer EVT, a life-saving procedure, to individuals across Newfoundland and Labrador. We have expanded this service through the collaboration and teamwork of multiple health-care teams and providers who work together to efficiently diagnose strokes and treat patients.”
Ron Johnson
Chief Operating Officer of Eastern Urban Zone and Vice-President of Innovation and Research
NL Health Services

“This milestone is an incredible example of the Provincial Government’s and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services’ dedication to enhancing equitable access to care. It marks a transformative step towards delivering critical, life-saving treatments that will improve the health outcomes of stroke patients across our communities.”
Katie Greene
Senior Vice-President, Heart and Stroke, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island

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Enhanced Heart and Stroke Treatments Leading to Better Outcomes for Patients in Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for the Office of Women and Gender Equality, and the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, today announced several new actions to address gender-based violence in the province. Ministers Parsons and Davis were joined by Kevin O’Shea, representing the Journey Project, and Mary Walsh of End Sexual Violence NL.

Among the actions, Minister Parsons announced the establishment of a ministerial committee to end gender-based violence, which she will chair.

Establishing such a committee demonstrates this government’s strong commitment to ensuring that the issue of gender-based violence is treated with the seriousness and attention it demands. The committee is comprised of ministers from the Office of Women and Gender Equality; Children, Seniors and Social Development; Education; Health and Community Services; Housing; Immigration, Population Growth and Skills; Justice and Public Safety; and the Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

The ministerial committee to end gender-based violence will be creating multiple avenues for community involvement in its work, including regular presentations, focus groups, and other consultation opportunities, to share insights, concerns and ideas. Change will require shared learning, mutual support, and honest conversations.

Minister Davis announced that as part of the Policing Transformation Working Group’s mandate to help shape policing services in the province, the group examined the impacts of gender-based and intimate partner violence and, in consultation with numerous community stakeholders, the working group recommended that:

• The Royal Canadian Mounted Police-NL adopt a new policy to allow for the anonymous storage of sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) kits.
• The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary adopt the national Violence Against Women Advocate Case Review model.
• Additional resources be allocated for the RNC’s intimate partner violence unit, including the creation of a civilian victim services navigator position funded through the Office of Women and Gender Equality.
• The establishment of a joint committee between the RNC and the RCMP to oversee provincial intimate partner violence matters.

Further information is provided in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“By investing in violence prevention, we are equipping our communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize, prevent and address gender-based violence. This approach is vital in breaking the cycles of violence and creating cultures of respect and understanding. Together we can help rebuild lives, where survivors have access to the supportive and effective programs they need, not just today, but in the long term.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“As a government, we remain committed to making Newfoundland and Labrador a safer place for all. We recognize that gender-based violence is a significant issue, and these additional measures will provide further resources to support those impacted in our province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary continues to work proactively to identify abusers in our communities. This funding will help our Intimate Partner Violence Unit work with victims and survivors and encourage and support them in whatever manner they choose. By working together with community partners and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, we can help survivors of intimate partner violence get the resources they need to stay safe.”
Chief Patrick Roche
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary

“Gender-based and intimate partner violence affects many individuals and families in our province. It is an area that requires a dedicated collaborative effort. RCMP-NL is committed to working with our partners to support the victims/survivors of these crimes.”
Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill
Royal Canadian Mounted Police

“The Journey Project is very pleased to learn of the additional supports and legal options for survivors of gender-based violence in the province. Since our inception, Journey has advocated for the full implementation of the Violence Against Women Advocate Case Review model, along with equitable access to the anonymous storage of SANE kits in each region. These initiatives represent a welcome step forward in strengthening justice supports for survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are forever grateful to the many survivors and community partners who have created the necessary groundswell towards institutional transparency and accountability.”
Janet Lee
Provincial Director, The Journey Project

“Consent, choice, and survivor voices are essential tenets of the work of End Sexual Violence NL. We have been advocating for more trauma-informed, survivor-centred reporting options for decades, and are so pleased to learn of the new supports for survivors. As a provincial organization, we have been hearing the call from every region of the province for equitable access to an anonymous storage option for SANE kits. Anonymous storage will empower survivors across Newfoundland and Labrador by providing more time, space, and support to make informed decisions about reporting to the police, while ensuring their evidence is preserved securely. This and the other initiatives would not be possible without survivors articulating their needs and advocating for change in our province.”
Mary Walsh
Executive Director, End Sexual Violence NL

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Learn more
Funding Awarded for 14 Community Violence Prevention Initiatives 

Minister Hogan Launches Policing Transformation Initiative

Interpersonal Violence Disclosure Protocol Act Proclaimed

$13.6 Million In Federal Funding Announced to Help End Gender-Based Violence in Newfoundland and Labrador

BACKGROUNDER

1. RCMP-NL to adopt a new policy to allow the anonymous storage of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) kits
   A SANE kit is a medical kit used to collect forensic evidence after a sexual assault has occurred. The RCMP-NL will adopt a new policy to allow for anonymous storage of these evidence kits, allowing victims across the province additional time to decide whether or not they wish to make a police report at a later date. This policy change nullifies the inequity that existed for sexual assault cases in the province, as RNC served jurisdictions permit the storage of anonymous SANE kits. The SANE program receives $225,000 annually through the Office of Women and Gender Equality.
2. The RNC to adopt the national Violence Against Women Advocate Case Review model
   The RNC will adopt the Violence Against Women Advocate Case Review process which is an advocate-led case review model for sexual assaults. This independent process allows subject matter experts to review case files of all sexual assaults that did not proceed to charge. The process increases civilian oversight into police operations, and helps police better address sexual assault charges. The RNC will engage community partners on a review panel. The RCMP have an established case review process, the Sexual Assault Investigations Review Committee, with participation from community partners.
3. Additional resources to be allocated for the RNC’s intimate partner violence unit
   Funding announced in 2024 to support the unit has been approved for a sergeant position within the RNC and will begin in the spring. Funding to support the hiring of a civilian victim services navigator position for the next two years is being provided by the Office of Women and Gender Equality, through the provincial portion of the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence. This position will also assist with implementing the case review process.
4. An intimate partner violence joint committee to be established between the RNC and RCMP
   The RNC and RCMP will work together to establish a joint committee to oversee provincial intimate partner violence matters. This joint committee will enhance collaboration and allow both police agencies to work together and share in training, development and high priority files. Over $400,000 is provided annually by the Office of Women and Gender Equality to support the Intimate Partner Violence Units at the RNC and RCMP.

 

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The Standing Committee on Public Accounts advises that it will be following up on the Auditor General’s findings and recommendations contained in the recent performance audit report Memorial University Facilities Management.

The Committee met with the Auditor General this week to discuss the findings and recommendations in the report, which contains concerns regarding policy weaknesses, poor space management practices, questionable deferred maintenance procedures, lack of oversight, and mismanagement of funding specially designated to address current and future maintenance needs.

The Public Accounts Committee will be contacting Memorial University in the near future to request an action plan for implementation of the Auditor General’s recommendations, and to advise that officials may be requested to appear at a future public hearing on these important matters.

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“The Public Accounts Committee shares the concerns of the Auditor General and is committed to ensuring appropriate oversight and accountability on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador respecting Memorial’s responsibility to guarantee the effective use of public money. We commend the Auditor General and her team for their work on this audit, and we look forward to the co-operation of Memorial University in conducting our follow-up on these matters.”
Pleaman Forsey, MHA
Chair of Public Accounts Committee

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Learn more
Public Accounts Committee – Work and Proceedings

Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Principal Clerk of Committees
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, and the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will make an announcement regarding actions to support gender-based violence prevention in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The announcement takes place tomorrow (Thursday, January 23) at McSheffrey Resource Centre, 10 McSheffrey Lane, St. John’s, at 11:30 a.m.

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The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-002 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report: A-2025-002 Report Date: January 21, 2025 Public Body: Town of Point of Bay Summary: The Complainant made an access request to the Town of Point of Bay on September 20, 2024 under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. The Town did not respond to the request in the timeframe required by section 16 of the Act and was deemed to have refused access to the Complainant. The Commissioner found the Town had not complied with its obligations under the Act, in particular sections 13 (duty to assist the applicant) and 16 (time limit for final response). The Commissioner recommended the Town respond to the Complainant’s request without further delay, comply with its statutory duties in future, obtain training, and apply for extensions of time when necessary.

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

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing information to the public regarding resources available to help access the Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit. Information will also be provided to support stakeholders.

Newfoundland and Labrador is the first Well-Being Province and the Provincial Government is committed to building a more inclusive and accessible society, ensuring equitable opportunities for everyone to participate fully.

In June 2024, the Provincial Government announced the Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit, which includes two components:

• A monthly benefit of up to $400 per month to those who qualify ($4,800 annually).
• A $1,200 annual contribution to a person’s Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP).

There is no application required for the monthly benefit or the annual Registered Disability Savings Plan contribution. If a person files their taxes and receives the  Federal Disability Tax Credit, payments will be made automatically to qualifying persons.

Eligibility is based on income level for persons aged 18-64 for the monthly benefit and 18-49 for the Registered Disability Savings Plan benefit. The Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit will not impact any other provincial financial supports that persons with disabilities may receive.

The first monthly payment will occur in July 2025 and people will need to be in receipt of the Disability Tax Credit to receive this payment. Administrative details on how the Registered Disability Savings Plan contribution will be made are being determined and will be communicated when finalized.

To find out more about how to apply for the Disability Tax Credit and learn more about the Registered Disability Savings Plan, the following resources are available:

• Disability Tax Credit Support – Independent Living Nova Scotia.
• The Plan Institutehas a website dedicated to Canada Disability Benefit and RDSP, and offers one on one support for Disability Tax Credit applications. They can also be contacted at 1-844-311-7526 or at helpline@planinstitute.ca.

For more information on the Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit, click here.

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Further resources for these and other Federal or Provincial benefits: 
Disability benefits – Canada.ca
Disability tax credit (DTC) – Canada.ca
Income Support
Prenatal-Early Childhood Nutrition Supplement
The Newfoundland and Labrador Child Benefit
Seniors’ Benefit

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Minister of Housing, is recognizing Bell Let’s Talk Day today (Wednesday, January 22).

The 2025 Bell Let’s Talk awareness campaign focuses on supporting youth mental health and includes a text-to-donate campaign to raise funds for six youth mental health providers, including: Integrated Youth Service, Jack.org, Kids Help Phone, National Association of Friendship Centres, Strongest Families Institute and Youth In Mind Foundation.

The Provincial Government remains committed to supporting children and youth to achieve their full potential and encourages everyone to be a part of the campaign by taking meaningful steps to nurture mental wellbeing for themselves and others.

Individuals and families, including children and youth, seeking mental health services are reminded that help is available, including:

• 811 – Provincial HealthLine: 24/7 mental health and addictions advice and support by trained crisis interveners.
• Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 for telephone and text support for children and youth, including professional counselling, information and referrals, available 24/7.
• Lifewise Warm Line: Call 1-855-753-2560 for support and referral service provided by trained peer support workers.
• Doorways Mental Health Walk-in Clinics: Access rapid, same-day, walk-in, or phone service. Call 811 to find a location near you.
• Bridge the gapp: For online support and more information about programs and services near you, visit Bridge the gapp, for a full suite of e-mental health and addictions services.
• Strongest Families Institute: Call 1-866-470-7111 or visit strongestfamilies.com for telephone and/or online mental health support for children and youth, ages 3-17 years old, their families, and adults.
• 988 – Federal Suicide and Crisis Line.
• Hope for Wellness Helpline: Call the toll-free helpline at 1-855-242-3310, or chat online at hopeforwellness.ca for immediate support and crisis intervention for Indigenous people across Canada.

The Provincial Government continues to build upon the work of Towards Recovery: The Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador to improve the mental health and well-being of the province. Work also continues on recommendations from the Provincial Alcohol Action Plan: Reducing Harms and Costs in Newfoundland and Labrador and Our Path of Resilience: An Action Plan to Promote Life and Prevent Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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“Bell Let’s Talk Day is a great opportunity to learn about and raise awareness of the importance of fostering positive mental health, which impacts everyone, including children and young people. I encourage everyone to take the time to nurture your well-being, check in on your loved ones and reach out if you need help.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

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Learn more
Bell Let’s Talk Day

Mental Health and Addictions Services

Bridge the gapp

Towards Recovery: The Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador

Provincial Alcohol Action Plan: Reducing Harms and Costs in Newfoundland and Labrador

Our Path of Resilience: An Action Plan to Promote Life and Prevent Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador

Follow us on X @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

 

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Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered a performance audit report to the House of Assembly on Memorial University’s facilities management. Today’s report contains findings and recommendations regarding Memorial’s inability to efficiently manage systematic infrastructure issues; findings on inadequate policies and procedures intended to guide deferred maintenance; as well as details on the mismanagement of funding specially designated to addresses current and future maintenance needs.

“Memorial has a responsibility to ensure the best use of public money across its entire operation. We found weaknesses in organizational structures that reduced Memorial’s ability to adequately manage its facility requirements. Furthermore, Memorial did not effectively manage deferred maintenance and it was discouraging to find that regular preventative, as well as deferred maintenance, were not done at the appropriate and recommended times, which would have maximized the benefits of available funding,” commented Denise Hanrahan, Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Memorial University lacked the policies, procedures, and oversight to ensure student-funded campus renewal fees were used appropriately. In addition, Memorial was unaware of the amount of space it was occupying or leasing during a time when it not only had a surplus of space; underutilized space; buildings that required maintenance; it was also constructing a new Core Science Building. Memorial’s footprint grew from 3.8 million square feet in 2012 to 5.1 million square feet (35 per cent) in 2023, while the student population decreased by 1.4 per cent over the same period.

“The deficiencies and risks I have identified in this audit are about choices. Remedying these issues is also about dedicated effort and strategic choices, especially given there is almost $100 million needed for critical maintenance” continued Auditor General Hanrahan. “As with my last audit, gaps in policy and processes; as well as inadequate oversight, have the potential to create risk and diminish the University’s ability to properly plan for the future.”

The full report as well as an audit overview can be found by visiting. www.ag.gov.nl.ca.

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Learn more
www.ag.gov.nl.ca/reports/all-reports

Follow us on X @OAG_NL

Like us on Facebook

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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

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The Provincial Government is holding information sessions this week to address the Federal Government’s recent cuts to the 2025 allocation of economic immigration spaces for Newfoundland and Labrador.

These sessions will provide a detailed analysis of the announced changes and their potential impacts on businesses and organizations in the province.

Information sessions will be held on the following dates and times:

• Wednesday, January 22, at 10:00 a.m.
• Thursday, January 23, at 6:00 p.m.
• Friday, January 24, at 10:00 a.m.

Any business, labour organization, or community group interested in attending an information session can register by emailing immigration@gov.nl.ca with their preferred session. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. The deadline to register is Thursday, January 23, at 12:00 p.m.

A link to join the session will be provided prior to the briefing.

Further information sessions will be held with specific stakeholders, with invitations to be issued directly.

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Today, the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, announced a suite of funding programs for this year’s Year of Sports initiative.

During this exciting year and in the lead up to the Canada Games in August, the Provincial Government and Celebrate NL will deliver five different funding programs with the aim of increasing access to sport for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador and supporting sport organizations.

• The Sport and Recreation Access Fund will provide up to $10,000 for eligible aquatic facilities and arenas to provide free swims and skates. Celebrate NL will open applications for this fund on January 27, 2025.
• The Community Sport Fund will provide funding to municipalities, local service districts and Inuit Community Governments to support community events and initiatives that increase sport and active recreation for individuals of all ages. The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation will open applications for this fund on January 27, 2025.
• The Enhanced Active NL Fund will see an additional $400,000 added to the Active NL fund annually to develop, deliver, purchase or upgrade active living infrastructure, equipment and initiatives. The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation will open applications for this fund on February 7, 2025.
• The Special Projects in Sport Fund will provide up to $10,000 to eligible Sport NL organizations for new initiatives that increase sport and active recreation. Celebrate NL will open applications for this fund on March 20, 2025.
• The Sport Capacity Fund will provide a one-time increase in funding to recreation and sport delivery partners to support operations and capacity building during Year of Sport. Eligible organizations will be notified in April 2025.

In late 2024, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced that 2025 would be the Year of Sport to align with the province’s hosting of the Canada Games. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has proudly supported sport in this province through an investment of approximately $50 million toward the Games.

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“The Year of Sport presents a wonderful opportunity to enhance access to sport for residents of this province and to support the fantastic organizations that support the sport community. It is our hope that the funding programs outlined today will increase opportunities for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to become more active, helping us improve overall well-being and achieve the goal of becoming the healthiest province in Canada by 2031.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Premier Furey Announces 2025 will be the Year of Sport in Newfoundland and Labrador

Celebrate NL

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Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, will deliver a performance audit report on Memorial University’s Facilities Management to the House of Assembly tomorrow (Tuesday, January 21, 2025).

A technical briefing for media will take place on Tuesday, (January 21, 2025), beginning at 12:00 p.m. in the Office of the Auditor General’s boardroom, 43 Major’s Path, St. John’s.

Media representatives planning to participate are asked to RSVP to Chrysta Collins (chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca).

The Auditor General will be available to the media beginning at 1:00 p.m.

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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

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The Fire Services Division, through the Department of Justice and Public Safety, advises municipalities and local service districts (LSD) that applications are now being accepted for the 2025-26 Fire Protection Vehicle and Equipment Funding Programs.

Applications for 2025-26 funding programs will be accepted until Monday, March 31, 2025. This annual funding program requires municipalities and LSDs to apply yearly; previously submitted applications will not be accepted.

The Fire Protection Vehicle and Equipment Funding Programs provide funding flexibility for municipalities and LSDs to purchase vehicles and equipment through cost-shared funding criteria.

Fire Protection Vehicle Program
For new vehicles, the cost-shared ratios are based on community population:

• (80/20) – less than 3,000 residents
• (70/30) – 3,000-7,000 residents
• (60/40) – greater than 7,000 residents

For used vehicles, the cost-shared ratio is 90/10, up to a maximum provincial contribution of $100,000.

A maximum fixed cost-shared contribution of $100,000 is available to those municipalities or LSDs that do not require additional provincial assistance to acquire a new vehicle. Vehicles eligible under this fixed cost-shared contribution include pumpers, pumper rescues, aerials, tankers, or rescue vehicles.

Fire Protection Equipment Program
The cost-shared ratio for equipment is based upon unit pricing quotes obtained by the requesting municipality or LSD. The Fire Services Division evaluates applications and recommends the type and quantity of the most suitable equipment to meet the requested fire protection needs.

Eligible equipment includes portable pumps, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), cylinders, hoses, nozzles, personal protective equipment such as bunker clothing, rubber boots, gloves, helmets, and hoods, extrication tools, communication equipment, thermal imaging cameras, air compressors/purification systems, fill/fragmentation systems, cascade systems, and ladders.

There are 280 volunteer fire departments across Newfoundland and Labrador, served by approximately 6,000 volunteer fire fighters.

Quotes
“Support for fire services is a priority of our government. We doubled the budget for fire protection vehicles and equipment, and I encourage municipalities and local service districts to apply for this critical funding by March 31 to better help serve and protect their residents.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Learn more
Vehicle Program

Equipment Program

Follow us on X @GovNL @JPS_GovNL

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The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology will join junior exploration companies and prospectors active in the province at one of the country’s premier mining conferences this week. Officials are in Vancouver, B.C., for the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) Roundup Conference from January 20-23, 2025.

AME Roundup is the second largest international exploration and mining conference in Canada, with 6,000 to 7,000 attendees expected from around the world. The department and its industry partner, Mining Industry NL, have been attending AME Roundup for more than 25 years. Local companies planning to join the department at the conference include Maritime Resources Corp., New Found Gold Corp., Red Paramount Iron Ltd., and Krinor Resources Inc.

At the conference, the department will promote Newfoundland and Labrador’s many successful mining ventures, as well as up-and-coming exploration projects, to a wide range of potential partners and investors. The province’s modern regulatory system coupled with its world-class critical mineral potential makes Newfoundland and Labrador an enticing place for mining investors.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s mineral industry continues to be a key economic driver for the province and a focus for investment attraction efforts. The activity in 2024 resulted in approximately $4.6 billion in mineral shipments, $258 million in exploration expenditures, and employment of approximately 8,000 person years.

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“AME Roundup is one of the key mining events in Canada. Our department’s participation allows us to promote critical mineral potential and attract new investments in exploration and development, in alignment with our Critical Minerals Plan. It is a chance to reinforce relationships with existing clients and investors and make important new connections with potential investors and clients.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
AME Roundup

Follow us on X @IET_GovNL

Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

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The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-001 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report: A-2025-001 Report Date: January 17, 2025 Public Body: Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Summary: The Complainant made an access request to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary for specific records that the Complainant had themselves created and provided to the RNC. The RNC refused to disclose the information, on the ground that it was excluded from the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 by the operation of section 5(1)(m) (expressing a suspicion of guilt of an identified person) and also on the ground that it was personal information contained in a law enforcement record, under section 40(4). The Commissioner concluded that the RNC failed to prove that section 5(1)(m) applied to the records, and that section 40(4) did not apply to information created and provided by the Complainant herself. The Commissioner therefore recommended that the records be disclosed.

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

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The Provincial Government is now accepting applications for the 2025-26 Job Creation Partnerships program. This year will feature the following pay for workers to reflect Employment Insurance (EI) and minimum wage rates:

• Supervisor or high-skilled positions – $695 per week (e.g., project supervisor, qualified carpenter or program manager)
• Moderately skilled positions – $670 per week (e.g., museum interpreter, administrator or program coordinator)
• Labourer or lower-skilled positions – $624 per week (e.g., labourer, office clerk or maintenance worker)

The Job Creation Partnerships program is designed to support projects that provide EI eligible individuals with opportunities to gain work experience to improve their employment prospects. Employers can apply online.

While the final deadline for applying is June 15, 2025, applicants are encouraged to apply early as approvals will begin to be issued after March 31, 2025.

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