Government of Newfoundland News

The outdoor fire ban prohibiting setting of fires on forest land or within 300 metres of forest land has been lifted for the Island of Newfoundland but remains in effect for Labrador until further notice. The ban is authorized under the authority of section 99 of the Forestry Act.

The setting of fires on forest land or within 300 metres of forest land is prohibited in all areas of Labrador.

In areas that are not on forest land or within 300 metres of forest land, fires are only permitted if set in a wood burning unit that:

• is made entirely of non-combustible materials
• completely contains the fire
• is screened to prevent the escape of sparks or other burning materials
• rests on legs or supports and placed on mineral soil or non-combustible material having a surface area of not less than 1.5 square metres
• is located not less than 3.5 metres from the nearest woods, brush or other flammable materials.

The fire ban does not apply to a fire set using a gas, kerosene, alcohol, propane or charcoal burning unit, provided it is not used within 3.5 metres of any woods, brush or other flammable material.

All coals from a charcoal-burning unit must be totally extinguished before being discarded and must not be discarded in any manner that may start a fire.

Significant firefighting resources have recently been dedicated to wildfire suppression impacting Labrador West. The outdoor fire ban in Labrador will continue to help reduce the wildfire risk in Labrador and support the efforts of wildfire suppression teams actioning active fires.

On the Island of Newfoundland, a Permit to Burn is required to burn brush and other materials during Forest Fire Season. Permits are available by contacting a local Forestry and Wildlife District Office.

Residents are urged to do everything they can to prevent forest fires. Off-road vehicle operators should use a proper screening or baffling device to prevent sparks from escaping and carry a fire extinguisher with a minimum of 225 grams of ABC-class dry chemical when travelling in grassy or wooded areas.

Anyone planning a fire should check Public Reminders for Forest Season and current Fire Hazard Ratings for their area for information.

When the Fire Hazard rating is HIGH, VERY HIGH, or EXTREME for a region, all Permits to Burn for that region are suspended. When the rating is VERY HIGH, or EXTREME for a region, open or outdoor fires are NOT PERMITTED.

The latest information on the location, status, and size of active wildfires is available from the NL Active Wildfire Dashboard.

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

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The Provincial Government is advising residents of Labrador City that the evacuation order issued on Friday, July 12, 2024, will be gradually lifted in the coming days.

This gradual return will allow residents of Labrador City to return home in a safe and orderly manner.

Over the next 48 hours, only identified essential employees and their families will be permitted early return to Labrador City. This includes essential staff identified by the Labrador West Health Centre, the Town of Labrador City, IGA grocery store and Rio Tinto. Those identified employees deemed essential by their employers should be ready to present identification when travelling.

To determine if your employer has deemed you an essential worker, call 709-729-3830 or 1-833-845-0775. Phone lines will be available daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. NDT.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, supported by Newfoundland and Labrador Ground Search and Rescue, will be controlling traffic along the Trans-Labrador Highway (Route 500) to ensure access is only permitted to identified essential workers.

The evacuation order will be officially lifted for all residents of Labrador City, effective noon, Monday, July 22, 2024.

For the most up to date information, please visit www.gov.nl.ca and follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and on X, formerly Twitter.

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While in Wabush, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be available virtually to the media tomorrow (Saturday, July 20) at 10:30 a.m. (ADT) to provide an update on the fire in Labrador West.

For media wishing to attend virtually, please contact Jillian Hood. She can be reached at 709-687-2501 or jillianhood@gov.nl.ca.

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

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The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, is participating in the grand opening of the Dr. James A. Tuck Memorial Waterfront Building tomorrow (Saturday, July 20) at Red Bay, Labrador. The event commences at 11:00 a.m. and is open to the public.

The Minister will bring remarks during the formal proceedings of the grand opening. The event, organized by the Town of Red Bay, includes the unveiling of a memorial plaque, ribbon-cutting, music, food and craft vendors, and a sunset boat tour.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced changes to his Cabinet.

Effective immediately, the changes are:

• The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture and Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Agency
• The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Minister of Labrador Affairs, Minister Responsible for Labour, Minister Responsible for Workplace NL, and Deputy Government House Leader
• The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Minister Responsible for the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Office
• The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Digital Government and Service Newfoundland and Labrador and Minister Responsible for the Office of the Chief Information Officer
• The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth, and Skills and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs
• The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
• The Honourable John Hogan, K.C., Minister of Health and Community Services, Attorney General, and Government House Leader
• The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
• The Honourable Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

In addition to today’s Cabinet changes, Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville, has been appointed Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans and Military Relations.

Biographies of the ministers and parliamentary assistant/secretary are included in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“My government has taken bold steps to support the social and economic well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and achieving our vision of a strong, self-sufficient province. I sincerely thank the team of ministers for the leadership and energy, as well as excitement in taking on new responsibilities. Together we will continue to build on the considerable progress that has already been achieved.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographies

Hon. John G. Abbott
John G. Abbott is one of 10 children born to William and Angela (Ennis) Abbott raised in the family home on Portugal Cove Road in the District of St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi.

He attended Memorial University where he met his wife, Colleen Hanrahan, in a Political Science class and completed a degree in Political Science and Economics, followed by a graduate degree in Public Administration from Carleton University. Following graduation, he started work with the provincial Department of Finance.

Minister Abbott was a senior executive in various departments: Health, Municipal Affairs, Transportation and Works, Treasury Board, and Newfoundland and Labrador Housing. In 2017, he led the development of the much-heralded mental health and addictions action plan for the province. He is also former Chief Executive Officer of both the Canadian Mental Health Association – NL Division and Health Council of Canada.

In 1999, he was awarded the IPAC Lt. Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration and the Pottle Award for promoting mental health in the community.

Minister Abbott has served on national and provincial boards including the Kiwanis Music Festival Association, the Jimmy Pratt Foundation, and Canadian Corps of Commissionaires-NL.

Minister Abbott is an avid hiker, having backpacked across Newfoundland and Labrador, in Europe and Mount Kilimanjaro, and slept under the stars in the Antarctic. On April 8, 2021, he was sworn-in as Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, Minister Responsible for the Community Sector, and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing.  In June 2023, he was appointed Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

Hon. Gerry Byrne
Gerry Byrne has had a long and successful career in federal politics, having served as the Member of Parliament for Humber-St. Barbe-Baie Verte beginning in 1996. Mr. Byrne was re-elected six times to the Parliament of Canada.

From 2002 until 2004, Minister Byrne served as the Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency; the youngest cabinet member in Newfoundland and Labrador history. He was parliamentary secretary to several key cabinet members. He has also served in a lead role on a number of influential government standing committees.

Prior to entering politics, Minister Byrne worked as an economic development officer on the Great Northern Peninsula, during which time he was involved in numerous projects from varying segments of the provincial economy, including the renewable and non-renewable resource sectors. He was born and raised in Corner Brook. He completed his post-secondary education at Dalhousie University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in biology.

Minister Byrne was appointed Minister of Advanced Education and Skills on December 14, 2015, and Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources on July 31, 2017.  He was appointed to serve as Minister of Immigration, Skills and Labour and Minister Responsible for Workplace NL in August 2020.

On April 8, 2021, he was sworn in as Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.

Hon. Bernard Davis
Bernard Davis is a lifelong resident of St. John’s, a dedicated community volunteer, and someone who is committed to enhancing and promoting community development issues across the province. A graduate of Memorial University (Bachelor of Commerce), Mr. Davis served as the Executive Director and Program Coordinator of the Church Lad’s Brigade (C.L.B.) and as an elected Councillor at St. John’s City Hall before entering provincial politics.

In 2015, Minister Davis was elected to represent the District of Virginia Waters-Pleasantville and has served as Parliamentary Secretary to both the Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister of Service Newfoundland and Labrador.

He was appointed Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour in November of 2018, and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation in August of 2020.

On April 8, 2021, he was sworn in as Minister of Environment and Climate Change; Minister Responsible for Labour; and Minister Responsible for Workplace NL.

Hon. Lisa Dempster
Lisa Dempster was first elected to the House of Assembly in 2013 in her home district of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair. Minister Dempster was appointed Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly in December 2015. In July 2017, Minister Dempster was appointed Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities. She also served as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment in 2019.

Born and raised in Charlottetown, Labrador, she attended Memorial University, and worked in the tourism and hospitality industry. She worked for 23 years as a career and employment counsellor, including 10 years with the NunatuKavut Community Council, of which Minister Dempster is a member.

Minister Dempster also served as Deputy Mayor of Charlottetown, as well as the Labrador Director on Municipalities NL’s Board of Directors. Before entering public office, she served as a trustee with the Labrador-Grenfell Regional Health Authority Board, a member of the Memorial University Faculty of Medicine’s Admissions Committee, Chair of the Charlottetown Literacy Committee and Co-Chair of the Region’s Literacy Committee.

She represented the province for six years on the National Steering Committee of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, sharing her perspective on the opportunities and challenges for women interested in pursuing public office.

Minister Dempster is married with two children: Nicholas (now deceased) and Natalie. She makes her home in Charlottetown, Labrador, with her husband, Gaius, and daughter, Natalie.

On April 8, 2021, she was sworn-in as Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs, and Deputy Government House Leader.

Hon. John Hogan, K.C.
John Hogan is an active member in the community and has served as a member of the Board of Regents at Memorial University, a board member of the St. John’s Port Authority, and a bencher at the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Minister Hogan lives in St. John’s with his wife, Gillian, and two children.

On April 8, 2021, he was sworn-in as Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General.

Hon. Fred Hutton
For more than 30 years, Minister Hutton shared the stories of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as a journalist and broadcaster. In 2020, Minister Hutton left journalism and accepted a position as a Senior Advisor in the Premier’s Office.

He, and his wife Bonnie, resides in Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, where they raised their children Matthew, Claire, Jenna and Ben. Minister Hutton was elected MHA for the district of Conception Bay East-Bell Island in a by-election in January 2024.  In February 2024, he was appointed Minister of Housing.

Hon. Elvis Loveless
Elvis Loveless originates from Seal Cove, Fortune Bay, married to Marsha (Newport) Loveless with two children, Kaitlyn and Ryan. He was first elected to the House of Assembly for the beautiful district of Fortune Bay-Cape La Hune in 2019.

Minister Loveless takes great pride in representing his constituents, and that will always be his top priority. He pledges to work tirelessly for all issues that matter to his constituents. He began his journey in the political field in 1996 and since that time, he worked as Executive Assistant and Policy Advisor to three former Newfoundland and Labrador Premiers, and also worked with various cabinet ministers. In August 2020, he was appointed to cabinet as Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture. In April 2021, he was appointed as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Act, and in June 2023, he was appointed Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture.

Hon. Scott Reid
Scott Reid completed a degree in Political Science and Economics at Memorial University and a master’s in educational leadership, returning to university in 1999 to complete a PhD at the University of Ottawa.

Minister Reid has many years of experience in government starting in 1989 when he took a staff position in the government of Clyde Wells. Outside of government, Minister Reid taught at the Department of Political Science and the Faculty of Business at Memorial University. He also owned and was editor of a small community newspaper.

Minister Reid was first elected in a by-election in August 2014 and was re-elected in the general elections in 2015, 2019, and 2021 continuing to represent the people of St. George’s-Humber in the House of Assembly. He served as Speaker of the House of Assembly from 2019-21 and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Education, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, and Special Assistant to the Premier on Rural Renewal from 2021 to 2023.  In October 2023, he was appointed Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier.

Hon. Sarah Stoodley
Sarah Stoodley (MA, B.Comm. Co-op) was elected to the House of Assembly on May 16, 2019.

Ms. Stoodley grew up in Grand Falls-Windsor, lived and worked for three years in Oxford, United Kingdom, and built a successful career as a digital expert in financial services.

She was an elected alumni representative on the Memorial University Board of Regents and served on the C.A. Pippy Park Commission Board and the Tech NL (NATI) Board.

On April 8, 2021, she was re-sworn-in as Minister of Digital Government and ServiceNL, Minister Responsible for the Office of the Chief Information Officer and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs.

Perry Trimper
Perry Trimper (B.Sc. Forestry/Wildlife Management) worked for 30 years in northern resource development and wildlife ecology. As a Principal Scientist with Jacques Whitford and later Stantec, he was involved with numerous environmental research and assessment projects in Labrador. During this period, he also worked in Russia and other nations of the former Soviet Union for the UN, CIDA and World Bank.

Mr. Trimper has served as the Chair of NEIA, the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce, and other community organizations. Before becoming the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment in September 2019, he served in other Cabinet roles including Environment and Climate Change, Service NL, and Francophone Affairs. From 2017-2019, he was the 44th Speaker of the Legislature.

On August 21, 2020, Mr. Trimper was appointed as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Education and the Minister of Finance as well as Special Advisor to the Premier on Climate Change.

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Due to a heating/cooling issue, the Student Aid Office located at Coughlan College, Memorial University, St. John’s Campus closed at 12:00 p.m. today (Friday, July 19).

The office is expected to reopen on Monday, July 22.

Students can continue to check their application status using their online account and can email studentaidenquiry@gov.nl.ca to have their student aid questions addressed.

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High school transcripts, including final marks, are now available to students throughout the province. Transcripts are available digitally through the PowerSchool portal, which all students can access at https://nlsis.powerschool.com/public/.

Ninety-six per cent of this year’s eligible graduates have met the requirements for graduation. Eligible graduates are defined as anyone who started the 2023-24 school year with at least 22 credits.

For more information on accessing transcripts, please contact the High School Certification Office at 709-729-7919 or 709-729-7918 or by email at highschooltranscript@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“I’d like to commend the high school students who worked diligently all year to achieve their goals. That same work ethic will be the foundation of the next phase of your journey, whether that be a new school year or the beginning of a new path forward. You should be proud of the progress you have made.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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A swearing-in ceremony for Cabinet will take place at 2:30 p.m. today (Friday, July 19) at Government House in St. John’s.

2:00 p.m.       Set-up by media representatives; enter through the west side entrance of Government House

2:15 p.m.       Media representatives in place

2:30 p.m.       Swearing-in ceremony

2:45 p.m.       Media availability (approximate)

Media planning to attend are asked to pre-register via email jillianhood@gov.nl.ca or telephone 709-729-4266 or cell 709-687-2501.

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The Provincial Government has safely re-opened the Muskrat Falls camp as an additional shelter for Labrador City evacuees. The Muskrat Falls shelter will be administered by the Canadian Red Cross, and supported by the Salvation Army, Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada, and St. John Ambulance.

The Muskrat Falls shelter is pet-friendly and includes all meals, while alcohol or drug use are not permitted. Daily transportation will be provided to and from Happy Valley-Goose Bay and parking is available to evacuees with their own vehicles. Only evacuees assigned to the Muskrat Falls shelter by the Red Cross will be permitted to enter.

Labrador City evacuees can indicate they would like to be placed in the Muskrat Falls shelter in the following ways.

• Those already in congregate shelters (the arena, YMCA, CNA, church or other): advise the Red Cross staff at your current shelter that you would like to be relocated to Muskrat Falls.
• Those registered with the Red Cross but not currently in a congregate shelter: Visit E.J. Broomfield arena (located at 2 Broomfield Street) and request shelter assistance from Red Cross staff on-site.
• Those who have yet to register with the Red Cross: Visit E.J. Broomfield Arena to register with the Red Cross and request shelter assistance.

The Provincial Government would like to thank organizations and community partners for working diligently to make the Muskrat Falls site available to residents of Labrador City who are displaced as a result of the wildfire.

Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation. For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.gov.nl.ca and follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and on X.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is advising users of its digital platforms that they may experience service disruptions due to the global technology outage.

The Provincial Government is presently working with its service providers to address the issue and will advise when things are back to normal.

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Cook’s Harbour Road Quarry                                                                 (Reg. 2317)
Proponent: Rose’s Concrete & Construction Inc.

The Proponent is proposing to operate a 3.1-hectare quarry located at the intersection of Cook’s Harbour Road (Route 435) and Big Brook Road, approximately nine kilometres south of Cook’s Harbour. Quarry operations would include the extraction of sand and stone to produce concrete.

The undertaking was registered on July 18, 2024; the deadline for public comment is August 22, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by September 1, 2024.

PLAN ACCEPTABLE:
Junction Brook Quarry                                                                             (Reg. 2097)
Proponent: Rodney’s Contracting Limited

On July 18, 2024, the minister advised the Proponent that the Water Resources Management Plan for the Project was found to be acceptable. The plan was required as a condition of release from environmental assessment and is available on the Department’s Project web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2097/.

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2024.pdf

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

Project comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

Anyone submitting comments on a Project under environmental assessment is asked to please advise the Department if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the Project Proponent.

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Pride celebrations in the Town of Harbour Grace, originally scheduled for tomorrow (Friday, July 19), have been postponed. The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister of Women and Gender Equality, was scheduled to participate.

The town will reschedule the event.

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will celebrate Pride in Harbour Grace tomorrow (Friday, July 19).

Organized by the Town of Harbour Grace in partnership with The Splash Centre and Communities Against Violence, celebrations start with a flag raising at S.W. Moores Memorial Park, 113 Water Street West, Harbour Grace, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a barbeque, lawn games and live entertainment at The Splash Centre, 30A Cathedral Street, at 1:30 p.m.

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A cost-shared investment of approximately $3.8 million between the Provincial Government and the Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s will support necessary drinking water supply upgrades for the town.

Residents in the Indian Meal Line area are currently impacted by a water supply issue and the funding will allow for the installation of a new water supply to the area. The project will encompass Olympic Drive, Princeton Place and Pratt Place and will provide a permanent solution to the water supply issue residents have been encountering in that section of the town.

Budget 2024 includes more than $172 million for community infrastructure projects being completed under the Municipal Capital Works Program and the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Quotes
“Municipal infrastructure affects the way residents experience the towns and communities they call home, and improvements play a major role in these experiences. Upgrades to the quality and reliability of drinking water in the Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the residents affected by the current water supply issue.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“This municipal infrastructure project is a wonderful example of how levels of government can work quickly and cooperatively to find solutions when challenges arise. Residents in the Pratt Place and Princeton Place area have been encountering issues with their water supply, and I am pleased that this issue has been addressed through a permanent solution, thereby improving the quality of life for the people in my district.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Housing and
MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island

“On behalf of the residents of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, council and staff, we extend our gratitude to the Provincial Government for their crucial support in addressing water supply infrastructure in the areas of Indian Meal Line, Olympic Drive, Pratt Place, and Princeton Place. Ensuring our residents have access to a clean, sustainable, long-term water source is essential to their well-being, and with the province’s investment it allows the project to progress significantly. This partnership highlights our mutual commitment to enhancing the health and quality of life in our community, and the successful completion of this project will have enduring benefits.”
Her Worship Carol McDonald
Mayor of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s

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The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is reminding the public to refrain from operating drones in the vicinity of forest fires. The presence of drones near active fire zones poses a significant safety risk to firefighting efforts, particularly to the operations of waterbombers and other aerial firefighting equipment.

Waterbombers play a critical role in controlling and extinguishing forest fires, and their pilots need to operate in a clear and unobstructed airspace. Unauthorized drone activity can interfere with these operations, potentially causing delays in firefighting efforts and putting the lives of firefighters and pilots at risk.

Public cooperation is essential in ensuring that forest fires are managed effectively and safely. All drone operators and the general public are asked to respect the dedicated efforts of our province’s firefighting personnel.

Unauthorized drone use can result in fines and legal action.

For information about flying your drone safely and legally please visit the Transport Canada website here.

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The Provincial Government is now accepting applications for its new Harvester Enterprise Loan Program. This initiative is an enhancement of the Fisheries Loan Guarantee Program and will expand support for independent fish harvesters and position the sector for future success.

The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program supports the development of the province’s independent fish harvesting industry through loan guarantees, down payment loans and interest rebates to fish harvesters.

Qualified harvesters applying for a loan with an eligible financial institution that will be guaranteed by the Provincial Government may be eligible to receive a down payment loan through the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, as well an interest rebate to reduce financing costs associated with the loan from the financial institution.

Harvesters interested in applying for the program should complete an application form available on the Harvester Enterprise Loan Program website and contact their local financial institution to inquire about obtaining a loan to be guaranteed by the provincial government. The financial institution will subsequently coordinate the application with the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology regarding the loan guarantee, and the department will coordinate with the harvester directly regarding the down payment loan and interest rebate.

The program represents an investment of up to $10 million towards the down payment loans and up to $5 million for the interest rebates. Approvals will be based on budget availability and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The program offers increased loan guarantees of up to $2 million for license acquisition, $3 million for vessel-only related items, and $4 million for combining of enterprises. Guaranteed loans are negotiated between the harvester and their financial institution.

The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program is the latest initiative the Provincial Government has undertaken to position the province’s fishing industry for future success. Other initiatives include:

• Permitting outside buyers to apply for fish buyer licences for seafood products harvested in this province.
• Increasing processing capacity for the crab fishery based on an increased Total Allowable Catch for 2024.
• Agreeing to undertake a comprehensive review of the provincial fishing sector.

These measures are in addition to ongoing advocacy to the Federal Government on management decisions and funding of projects through the federal-provincial Atlantic Fisheries Fund.

Quotes
“The fishery is a vital contributor to our economy and communities, and we deeply respect and value fish harvesters and their significant role in our province. We have been working closely with the FFAW to support the industry’s competitiveness and long-term-sustainability. The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program will help bring new energy to rural and coastal communities, stimulate local business and employment opportunities, and position our fishing sector for future success.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We have listened to harvesters and their union and recognize access to financing is a serious impediment to many harvesters’ ability to operate effectively. I am confident this new program is the beginning of a collaborative approach to finding new ways to support harvesters while encouraging young and new harvesters to play a role in Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishing industry.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“FFAW-Unifor is very pleased that Premier Furey and Minister Loveless have taken this significant step towards improving the financial stability for owner-operator harvesters here in Newfoundland and Labrador. Providing those in controlling agreements with financial independence is essential for the long-term sustainability of the owner-operator fishery, as is assisting new entrants who currently face multiple barriers accessing the industry. We look forward to seeing the results of this program on the fishing industry going forward.”
Greg Pretty
President, Fish, Food, and Allied Workers Union (FFAW-Unifor)

“It is great to see the Provincial Government move forward with an important first step in providing the financial support that is needed for owner-operators in Newfoundland and Labrador. As an enterprise owner, I know first-hand of the unique financial barriers that place a great deal of pressure on small businesses in the fishery. Although the program is not a full financial solution, particularly for new entrants to the industry, I hope that it will help to identify other areas of need that our provincial government can build on to continue to maximize opportunities and value for harvesters and their communities.”
Ivan Lear
Young Harvester Representative, FFAW-Unifor Inshore Council

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Harvesters Enterprise Loan Program

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BACKGROUNDER

Harvester Enterprise Loan Program

The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program will replace the Fisheries Loan Guarantee Program and will expand supports for independent fish harvesters positioning the sector for future success.

Under the program, a government guarantee is provided for loans through eligible financial institutions and is available to assist harvesters in the province in obtaining financing for:

• Vessel related items such as construction, purchase and/or refit.
• Combining of enterprises and license acquisitions.
• Refinancing of loans owed to fish processors for fixed assets and/or license acquisitions.
• Refinancing of loans previously obtained from chartered banks for vessel related purposes and fish license acquisitions (concurrent with combining of enterprises).

Amount of Loan Guarantee
The Provincial Government’s guarantee can provide up to 100 per cent of an outstanding loan.

The new program will provide an increase in the maximum loan guarantee thresholds as compared to the current program. The total maximum guarantee amounts are increased to accommodate: loan guarantees of up to $3 million (previously $2 million for vessel-only related items; $4 million (previously $3 million) for combining of enterprises; and up to $2 million (previously $1.5 million) for license acquisition only.

Down Payment Loans
Borrowers typically must provide down payments of a minimum of 10 per cent of overall costs for vessel acquisition and construction, and a minimum of 15 per cent for all other purposes.

The updated program will make $10 million available to support loans for the purpose of meeting the down payment requirements of accessing a loan from a financial institution for eligible activities. The current program does not offer support for down payments.

The support will be in the form of a secured loan of up to 15 per cent, to a maximum of $450,000, with a maximum term of 20 years, to support down payment requirements.

No interest accrual or payments will be required for the first five years. Repayment and interest accrual begins in year six; interest will be charged at the Bank of Canada’s policy rate, which is currently 4.75 per cent.

Interest Rebates
Finance charges on guaranteed loans offered by financial institutions are negotiated between the borrower and the institution. The program places a ceiling on finance charges by allowing institutions to charge interest on guaranteed loans at the bank prime rate (currently 6.95 per cent) plus a maximum of 2.0 per cent or 2.5 cent depending on the nature of the loan.

The updated program will allocate $5 million to support rebates related to interest payment requirements of accessing a loan from a financial institution for eligible activities. The current program does not offer support for financing costs associated with loans from financial institutions.

Rebates will cover interest paid in excess of the bank prime rate, up to the maximum financing charge amounts established by the program. Rebates will be provided directly to borrowers on the basis of the eligible portion of interest paid for up to five years.

Interest Rates
A harvester may choose a fixed or floating interest rate and a floating rate may be converted to a fixed rate at any time.

Repayment Terms
The terms of the loan and repayment options are to be determined as negotiated between the harvester and the lender, based on the following:

• 20-year term – a maximum of 20 years is provided for vessels, depending on life expectancy, for construction, purchase and upgrades. Maximum of 20 years is also offered for the combined purchase of vessels, equipment and licenses.
• 15-year term – a maximum of 15 years is provided for license acquisition only.

Flexible loan repayment options are available, including annual principal payments, assignment of catch and/or a percentage of gross revenue.

The post Applications Now Open for Harvester Enterprise Loan Program appeared first on News Releases.

Canada’s Premiers concluded their annual summer meeting by reflecting on the state of federal-provincial-territorial relations and ways to improve the federation for the benefit of all Canadians.

The federal-provincial-territorial relationship is central to a strong Canada, domestically and internationally. Canadians expect their governments to work together.

Ensuring Canadians have access to high-quality, timely, and publicly funded health care is an ongoing top priority for Canada’s Premiers. Premiers reiterated their commitment to taking action to improve health outcomes.

Premiers also discussed the importance of Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and security, relationships with international partners, and meeting NATO commitments.

Governments Working Together for Canadians
Federal engagement with provinces and territories has become increasingly limited and inconsistent, as the federal government seeks to unilaterally advance programs in areas of provincial and territorial jurisdiction.

Our federation works best when all orders of government respect constitutional authority. In recent years, federal actions have repeatedly encroached on provincial/territorial jurisdiction without adequate consultation, collaboration or funding. When the federal government unilaterally overreaches through legislation, regulation, selective investments and taxation in areas of provincial and territorial responsibility, Canadians end up with ill-suited one-size-fits-all programs that are underfunded and do not meet the needs of residents in all regions of the country. If federal funding ends, provinces and territories can end up footing the bill for federal programs. The federal government must secure the agreement of provinces and territories prior to acting in areas of provincial or shared jurisdiction.

Adequate long-term funding, collaboration throughout the design and implementation processes, and program flexibility are essential to ensure provinces and territories can continue to meet the unique needs and priorities of their residents.

Premiers expressed significant concerns with some of the current management practices of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Greater engagement and collaboration are needed on the management of fisheries resources overseen by the federal government. Premiers support the position of Newfoundland and Labrador that these fisheries be jointly managed and call on the federal government to develop such an approach.

Health Care
Taking action to improve health outcomes for Canadians is a key focus for premiers, including recruitment and retention of health care workers and improvements to the delivery of quality, timely, and culturally appropriate health services. Partnership, cooperation, and respect for unique needs across the country are fundamental to ensuring health care systems have the resources and flexibility to meet the needs of Canadians.

Provinces and territories urge the federal government to respect provincial and territorial jurisdiction, and to collaborate as a true partner on the long-term sustainability of health initiatives and improved health outcomes. Federal initiatives such as dental care, pharmacare, and long-term care must be developed in a way that is truly collaborative, aligns with provincial and territorial priorities, and respects jurisdiction.

Premiers remain fully committed to ensuring all Canadians receive the care they need through effective health care systems across the country, funded appropriately by the federal government. Premiers also agreed to continue to focus on health care innovation and discussed the importance of accelerating patient access to new and life saving publicly funded medicines and committed to further work in this area. Premiers agreed to work toward a common, streamlined licensing process for doctors, based on the Atlantic Physician Registry, while respecting Québec’s specific context.

Public Safety
Premiers are taking action to improve public safety and keep violent offenders and drug traffickers off the street. This includes multifaceted work with community partners in response to complex factors such as growing requests for investments in mental health and addictions supports, combatting gang activities through both prevention and intervention, and addressing community safety in rural and remote regions.

Premiers have serious concerns about repeat violent offenders. Last year’s amendments to federal bail legislation represent valuable progress, but recent troubling incidents suggest this legislation may not be functioning as intended. Premiers call for a thorough review of the implementation and application of bail reform and urge the federal government to consider any necessary changes, including further legislative amendments.

Public safety requires ongoing efforts on a range of interconnected issues – including poverty and homelessness, addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges – and provinces and territories are committed to continuing to do their part. Premiers are calling on the federal government to increase support for and collaboration with provinces and territories on rehabilitation to address the underlying causes contributing to recidivism, as many people in correctional centres experience substance use and mental health disorders.

Arctic Security and Sovereignty
A strong and secure Canada depends on a strong and secure Canadian North. Premiers welcomed the federal defence policy update and its potential contributions in the North. Canada’s trade and economic relations with the U.S. is also founded on Canada being a strong, safe, a secure ally, and partner.

Premiers also emphasized that more must be done to safeguard Arctic security and sovereignty and show Canada’s commitment to its North and northerners. This includes maximizing use of existing underutilized federal assets, while furthering investments in robust multi-use infrastructure that protects our country and supports the well-being of northern communities.

Premiers highlighted that provinces and territories can be effective partners in Canada’s security, maintaining vigilance against foreign interference, supporting the development of domestic critical minerals supply chains, and helping to ensure the security of transportation corridors, energy sources, and vital infrastructure. Premiers look forward to working more closely with the federal government to address these important concerns.

Canada-U.S. Relations
The prosperity and security of Canadians and Americans are integrated and mutually beneficial. Canada’s provinces and territories are stable, democratic, and peaceful allies of the United States. Further, provinces and territories are key strategic partners in priority areas including critical minerals, and energy. This relationship is a strategic asset in providing North American energy security.

Premiers discussed the importance of maintaining strong and mutually beneficial relations across North America, including strengthening Arctic security, maintaining well-functioning integrated supply chains, and continuing open, rules-based trade. The free trade agreement review in 2026 provides an opportunity to further strengthen our trading relationship.

Premiers will continue to work collaboratively with each other and the federal government to ensure U.S. leaders and policymakers are fully aware of the benefits of the unparalleled North American relationship. Premiers are strongly committed to representing provincial and territorial interests in that relationship, including communicating provincial and territorial jurisdiction over natural resources to our U.S. partners.

Provinces and territories continue to monitor and address issues that may affect the Canada-U.S. relationship. Premiers will continue to build and maintain relationships with key partners at the U.S. federal, state, and local levels, as well as with key business, labour, and community partners.

Canada and the World
Premiers discussed Canada’s role as a trusted, stable ally in addressing global challenges, including through long-standing commitments to democracy, multilateralism, diplomacy, upholding the rule of law, and humanitarian efforts. Provinces and territories continue to play an important role as stable economic partners and sources of essential goods that the world needs, including food and energy. Canada fulfilling its NATO obligation of defense spending of 2% of GDP is an important element of being a stable ally and strong economic partner.

Premiers urged the federal government to work with them to prevent foreign interference particularly towards our institutions, the economy, vital infrastructure, and critical supply chains by ensuring the sharing of timely and accurate information and intelligence.

The federal government must respond to organized crime activities at our border, including by increasing RCMP, Port Police, and Canada Border Services Agency resources. Federal leadership is also needed to deter and prevent the importation of chemical precursors that are used in the production of deadly illicit drugs. Provinces and territories are committed to collaborating with the federal government on these critical public safety issues.

Ontario’s Premier Ford to Chair the Council of the Federation
On August 1, 2024, Ontario Premier Doug Ford will assume the Chair of the Council of the Federation. Ontario will host the next summer meeting of Canada’s Premiers on July 21 – 23, 2025.

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Les premiers ministres discutent des moyens, pour les gouvernements, de travailler ensemble afin de mieux soutenir les Canadiens

The post Premiers Discuss Ways Governments Can Work Together to Better Support Canadians appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Housing, will speak to how the Provincial Government is addressing housing challenges and opportunities at a Clarenville Chamber of Commerce luncheon tomorrow (Thursday, July 18).

The event will take place at the Clarenville Inn, 134 Trans-Canada Highway, Clarenville at 12:00 p.m.

The Clarenville Area Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to promote and improve the economic climate of the Clarenville area, to support the needs and concerns of the business community, and to enhance both the civic and social well-being of the community as a whole.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Hutton to Address Clarenville Chamber of Commerce appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will speak at the 2024 Maritime and Arctic Security and Safety (MASS) Conference tomorrow (Thursday, July 18). The conference is being held at the Delta Hotel St. John’s Conference Centre beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The 11th annual MASS Conference will focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with northern and maritime environments.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Davis to Speak at Maritime and Arctic Security and Safety Conference appeared first on News Releases.

The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-034 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-2024-034 Report Date: July 12, 2024 Public Body: Department of Digital Government and Service NL Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Department of Digital Government and Service NL for a report issued by the Department’s Occupational Health and Safety division regarding a workplace accident involving the Complainant. The Department provided the report to the Complainant but withheld the statements and names of the witnesses used in the report, citing section 31(1)(d), confidential sources, and section 40(1), personal information. The Complainant asserted that because the report was regarding their accident, all information should be released. The Commissioner agreed with the Department, noting that the information provided to the OHS investigators was given under an expectation of confidentiality and that the release of the witness statements would reveal the identities of the witnesses. The Commissioner further agreed that the Department had properly applied section 40(1) to the record.

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

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