Government of Newfoundland News

Today, the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, hosted a flag raising and proclamation signing event at Confederation Building, to mark the start of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, also known as the Purple Ribbon Campaign.

The Purple Ribbon Campaign officially starts on November 25 of each year (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) and concludes on December 10 (World Human Rights Day). In addition to the flag raising, the Confederation Building will be lit purple at the commencement of the campaign. These efforts help raise awareness and change attitudes about gender-based violence in the province.

This year’s theme, Come Together, Act Now, emphasizes the role for everyone, including men and boys, in changing social norms, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence.

The campaign also invites everyone to use their voices and actions to help create a safer, more equitable Newfoundland and Labrador, free from violence, discrimination, and fear.

This year’s Purple Ribbon ceremony included memorial banners of women and girls connected to this province whose lives were tragically taken as the result of gender-based violence. These women and girls were real people, who lived and will be forever loved.

With the permission of their families, those recognized today included:

• Deidre Michelin – Rigolet, Nunatsiavut
• Chrissy Predham – Ottawa
• Cortney Lake – Mount Pearl
• Dana Bradley – St. John’s
• Judy Benoit – Port au Port
• Julianne Hibbs – Conception Bay South
• Loretta Saunders – Happy Valley-Goose Bay
• Quinn Butt – Paradise
• Samantha Walsh – Fleur De Lys
• Chantel John – Miawpukek First Nation (Conne River)
• Kimberley Jararuse – Nain, Nunatsiavut

These banners are of no cost to families, and others wishing to have one created in memory of a loved one are encouraged to contact the Office of Women and Gender Equality at wgeinfo@gov.nl.ca, or by calling 709-729-2987.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s violence prevention efforts are grounded in multi-departmental and community partnerships focused on finding long-term solutions to gender-based violence.

In December 2023, a bilateral agreement with the Federal Government was announced that is seeing an investment of nearly $13.6 million over four years to support provincially tailored National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence initiatives.

As proposed to government in the Hear Our Voices: MMIWG Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador report, a Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council has been formed, where positive strides are being made to prevent violence, while creating a path forward toward justice, healing, and reconciliation.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is also establishing a multi-department, ministerial-level committee to end gender-based violence, that will work with community agencies, Indigenous Governments and Organizations, people with lived experience, and other stakeholders, to ensure supports are in place for people who have been impacted by gender-based violence.

Quote
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the family members who have bravely shared personal stories of their loved ones. Your courage in revealing the humanity of those taken from us, helps us see them not just as victims, but as individuals with dreams, aspirations, and a unique place in the world. Your openness honours their memory and reminds us of the profound loss that violence causes, not only to the victims, but to everyone who loved and cherished them. I challenge all residents of this province to commit to change and work tirelessly until gender-based violence is a thing of the past.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will participate in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police “B” Division Change of Command Ceremony tomorrow (Tuesday, November 26).

The ceremony takes place at RCMP NL Headquarters, 100 East White Hills Road, St. John’s, beginning at 2:00 p.m.

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The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, today announced an investment of more than $260,000 through the Labour Market Partnership Program to support Newbornlander’s innovative Sewing Hope initiative.

This two-year initiative provides refugee women with sewing and English as an additional language training, equipping them with the skills needed to build brighter futures for themselves and their families and explore future employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. The first group of Sewing Hope participants began their training this month and are on track to complete the initiative by summer 2025.

Newbornlander, a local social enterprise specializing in sustainable and ethically manufactured accessories, has also partnered with the Northpine Foundation, which has contributed $465,000 in funding to the initiative.

Now operating for seven years, Newbornlander is committed to empowering refugee and other newcomer women by addressing barriers to employment, such as language proficiency and limited Canadian work experience.

By investing in programs like Sewing Hope, the Provincial Government continues to recognize the vital contributions immigrant entrepreneurs and skilled newcomers make to the economy and community.

This funding supports the Provincial Government’s efforts to introduce empowerment-focused employment initiatives for newcomer women and positions the province as a national leader on newcomer settlement and retention.

Quotes
“Empowering refugee women is a critical step towards building a stronger, more inclusive workforce in our province. Through the Sewing Hope program, we’re not only equipping women with essential skills but are enabling their future financial independence and growing our economy. We are proud to support Newbornlander’s efforts to reduce barriers faced by immigrant and refugee women.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“We are thrilled to partner with Newbornlander on this vital initiative. This program provides refugee women with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the workforce and addresses the isolation and disempowerment they often face. By investing in social enterprises like Newbornlander, we are also bringing communities closer and strengthening the local economy in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Bayan Khatib
Impact Director – Refugees, Northpine Foundation

“Newbornlander is a social enterprise founded by immigrants, dedicated to empowering women to dream big, build meaningful connections, and make a difference in their communities. With support from the Northpine Foundation and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, we equip refugee women with the skills and confidence to succeed in the workforce. We invite the private sector to embrace the potential of refugee women. Trained by Newbornlander, they are ready to make a meaningful impact, fostering innovation and creativity within your organization.”
Constanza Safatle Ferrari
Newbornlander Founder and CEO

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In advance of Budget 2025, residents are invited to take part in a pre-budget questionnaire available here. The deadline to provide feedback through engageNL is Monday, January 6, 2025.

The questionnaire is focused on assessing priorities and understanding concerns. It includes an easy-to-use interactive tool that illustrates the Provincial Government’s fiscal realities in balancing a budget over $10 billion.

In addition to the online survey, residents may send a written submission to Budget2025@gov.nl.ca.

While email is preferred, particularly during the postal disruption, residents may also send submissions via mail at:

Budget 2025
Department of Finance
Main Floor, East Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL
A1B 4J6

Input will help the Provincial Government plan for Budget 2025 as it continues to support Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and deliver on its strategic plan for financial improvement. All efforts are towards a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, sustainable province.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced its plan to proclaim into force amendments to the Tourist Accommodations Act later this fall.

New legislative amendments within the Act require short-term accommodation hosts who list their primary residences to register with the Provincial Government. Additionally, short-term rental platforms are also required to register with the province, remove any listing that is not registered and share information about their listings with the Provincial Government.

These measures, which will require all short-term rentals to be registered, will provide the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador with a more complete picture of the scope of short-term rentals throughout the province.

Short-term accommodation operators in the province who have not registered with the Provincial Government are required to do so. All short-term rentals not registered once the Act is proclaimed will be in contravention of the Act. To date, close to 2,700 accommodations have been registered.

Amendments to the Act received Royal Assent in May 2024, with a delayed proclamation.

The Act received Royal Assent in the House of Assembly in November 2020, replacing the former Tourism Establishments Act. Prior to its introduction in the House of Assembly, an online questionnaire was administered that engaged tourism and hospitality stakeholders on short-term accommodations in the province. Since then, the department has been regularly engaged with key stakeholders, such as Hospitality NL and Municipalities NL.

Further information on the Tourist Accommodations Act, including details on the regulations and how to register your short-term accommodation, can be found online.

Quote
“Another successful tourism season has come to an end and we continue to focus on the registration of short-term rentals in the province. We urge all short-term rental accommodations who have not yet registered with the Provincial Government to complete their registration promptly to avoid being in contravention of the Act. So far, the registration process has been progressing smoothly. By collaborating, we can ensure that the tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador continues to thrive and prosper.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Tourist Accommodations Act Regulations Expected to Come into Effect in Fall 2024

Provincial Government Moves Forward with Amendments to the Tourist Accommodations Act

New Tourist Accommodations Act and Regulations Proclaimed

New Tourist Accommodations Bill Introduced

Tourist Accommodations Bill

Minister Davis Announces Framework to Address Short Term Accommodations

Engaging Stakeholders on Modernizing the Tourist Establishments Act

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Upper Humber River Residential Subdivision                                   (Reg. 2335)
Proponent: Town of Deer Lake

The Proponent is proposing to develop a residential subdivision on a 16-hectare site connecting to an existing residential area at the northern end of Humber View Drive in the town of Deer Lake. The proposed development includes 98 residential lots and a recreational open space comprising a small community park and playground. A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on November 22, 2024; the deadline for public comment is December 27, 2024, and the Minister’s decision is due by January 6, 2025.

PLANS ACCEPTED:

Valentine Gold Project Expansion – Berry Pit                                   (Reg. 2262)
Proponent: Marathon Gold Corporation

On November 20, 2024, the Minister advised the Proponent that the Water Resources Management Plan, Updated Baseline Groundwater Quality and Quantity Report, and Hydrogeological Testing Report for the Project were acceptable. These plans were required as conditions of release from environmental assessment and are available on the Department’s Project web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2262/. The Minister also advised that the conditions requiring the installation of additional real-time water quality/quantity stations; review of the Caribou Protection and Environmental Effects Mitigation Plan, including mitigations for the fall 2024 migration; and updating of the Valentine Gold Benefits Agreement have been met.

George’s Brook-Milton Cannabis Production Facility                    (Reg. 2051)
Proponent: 82994 Newfoundland and Labrador Inc.

On November 20, 2024, the Minister advised the Proponent that the Waste Management Plan for the Project is 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-2051/.UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Corner Brook and Massey Drive Multi-Use Trail                                (Reg. 2328)
Proponent: West Coast Cycling Association

The Project is released from environmental assessment subject to conditions as outlined in the Minister’s decision letter available on the Department’s Project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/projects-2328/.

Blaketown to Riverhead 94L Transmission Line Rebuild               (Reg. 2322)
Proponent: Newfoundland Power Inc.

The Project is released from environmental assessment subject to the conditions as outlined in the Minister’s decision letter available on the Department’s Project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2322/.

UNDERTAKING WITHDRAWN:

North River Watercraft Launch                                                              (Reg. 2324)
Proponent: Town of North River

The Project has been withdrawn by the Proponent.

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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The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will announce funding for a new program to empower refugee women on Monday, November 25.

The event takes place at Newbornlander, 3 Cashin Avenue, St. John’s, at 1:30 p.m.

Minister Stoodley will be joined by Newbornlander owner Constanza Safatle Ferrari and Mark Lane with the Northpine Foundation.

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The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure continues to rehabilitate the CN Viaduct on Pitts Memorial Drive and is pleased to advise that all work on the westbound lanes has now been completed.

The two eastbound lanes will remain closed, and jersey barriers have been installed to replace the current temporary traffic pylons for the duration of the winter.

Traffic will continue to flow in both directions within the two westbound lanes during the winter months.

Construction will resume in the spring, with an anticipated completion date of summer 2025.

The department reminds the travelling public that fines for speeding in construction zones range from $100 to $1,500.

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, joins all levels of government throughout Canada in recognizing today (November 22) as National Housing Day.

To help address housing and homelessness, and ultimately the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, the Provincial Government is working closely with community partners and other levels of government.  Examples of some of the work underway include:

Provincially owned homes

• Funding for more than 100 new homes in Corner Brook, Central Newfoundland, and Labrador West through Budget 2024.
• Completed construction of eight homes in St. John’s and 16 homes in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
• Construction is underway on 32 homes in St. John’s, while pre-development work is ongoing for a 40-unit apartment building in St. John’s.
• Refurbished more than 200 provincially owned homes in 2024-25 through an increased budget for repairs and renovations.
• Modernizing and upgrading more than 850 provincially owned homes over three years in partnership with the Federal Government.

Incentivizing community and private sector housing development

• Community and private sector projects under the Affordable Rental Housing Program will create approximately 850 affordable rental units.
• Under the Provincial Government’s Five-Point Plan, private sector partners will construct an estimated 450 new rental units through the Rental Housing Development Loan Program.
• The Five-Point Plan also made Provincial Government-owned land available in St. John’s, with five projects conditionally approved to construct an estimated 300 new rental units.
• Introduced the Community Housing Growth Fund in partnership with the national Community Housing Transformation Centre, which supports community affordable housing projects with funding for planning and pre-development work.

Community partnerships

• Partnered with End Homelessness St. John’s on Horizons at 106, a transitional living program which is currently serving close to 60 individuals and has helped an additional seven individuals successfully move into more stable housing.
• Partnered with The Gathering Place on Mercy House and O’Callaghan’s Haven, an expansion that will see 90 individuals receive emergency shelter, transitional and supportive housing supports.
• Partnered with the Central Residential Services Board to create a Transitional Housing Initiative in Gander.
• Released shelter standards, developed after extensive consultations with community partners, and will undertake implementation in consultation with these same partners.

Affordability

• 271 families have been approved for loans under the First-Time Home-Buyers Program, with 168 already purchasing homes.
• A Secondary and Basement Suites Incentive has been launched to provide homeowners with a forgivable loan for the construction of affordable rental units within their home.
• Partnered with Federal Government to expand the Canada-Newfoundland Housing Benefit, providing housing supports for survivors of gender-based violence. This expansion is expected to support over 580 individuals or households over five years.

Every year, November 22 is National Housing Day – a day dedicated to raising awareness about housing and homelessness throughout Canada. National Housing Day calls on the entire housing sector – including governments, financial organizations, developers, communities, and Indigenous and other partners – to work together to develop impactful solutions and ensure that every Canadian has a safe and affordable home.

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“Our government recognizes that there isn’t one single approach that can address our current housing challenges. In partnership with other levels of government, and community and private sector partners, we’ve actioned a diverse range of initiatives. On this National Housing Day, we reflect on our progress while recognizing that we must maintain this momentum to improve access to safe and affordable housing for all.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

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Learn more
16 New Affordable Rental Homes Coming to Happy Valley Goose Bay

Provincial Government Issues RFP to Build 50 New Homes in Corner Brook

Contracts Awarded to Construct New Homes in Labrador West

Funding Approved for Three Projects Through Newfoundland and Labrador Community Housing Growth Fund

Five-Point Plan Supporting Families in Securing First Home, Promoting Creation of Hundreds of Affordable Rental Housing Builds

Federal-Provincial Partnership Will Provide Rent Support for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence

Provincial Government Investing in Transitional Housing Initiative in Gander

Provincial Government Releases Shelter Standards

Provincial Government to Partner with End Homelessness St. John’s to Operate the Transitional Supportive Living Initiative

Federal and Provincial Governments Sign Agreement to Support Modernization of NLHC Homes

Eight New Homes in St. John’s Highlight Continued Progress on Affordable Housing Development in Newfoundland and Labrador

Follow us on X at @GovNL and @NLHousing

Like us on Facebook

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will host a flag raising and proclamation signing event to mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, also known as the Purple Ribbon Campaign.

The event will take place on Monday, November 25, at 11:00 a.m. in the main lobby of the Confederation Building, East Block. The event is open to the public.

Attendees are encouraged to bring brightly coloured flowers in memory of those who have lost their lives or who have been impacted by gender-based violence.

Parking will be available in front of East Block, and attendees are asked to enter using the main entrance facing Prince Philip Drive. Attendees who require an accessible entrance can use the blue zone parking behind East Block and enter through the Public Gallery Entrance.

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The Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services are adding new Positron Emission Tomography (PET) – computed tomography (CT) scanners to the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s and Western Memorial Regional Hospital in Corner Brook based on the Health Accord NL recommendation to improve mortality rates for cancer, cardiac disease, and stroke patients.

PET-CTs can often detect diseases, like cancer, faster than CT scans and MRI imaging. Two additional PET-CT scanners will complement the existing PET-CT scanner in St. John’s, help improve access to cancer diagnosis and treatments,and reduce wait times for all residents who require a PET-CT scan.

More importantly, it will result in more people receiving improved patient outcomes.

PET-CT scanners use radiotracers, which are produced at the Health Sciences Centre by a cyclotron under an interim clinical trial from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission and Health Canada. Adding a second PET-CT scanner to the Health Sciences Centre will help NL Health Services meet the requirements to continue producing radiotracers in the province for PET-CT scanners in St. John’s and Corner Brook.

There is currently $2 million held in trust for the purchase of a PET-CT for the Western Zone. A fully licensed and advanced nuclear medicine program will create stability for patient care and help to attract specialized physicians, engineers, and scientists to the province.

Quotes
“We’re excited about the addition of two new PET-CT scanners and what it means for health care in our province. It means people will have an earlier diagnosis and therefore can start treatment earlier. It also means that people can get the scans they need closer to home. We look forward to when the new PET-CTs are operational and the impact they have in our province.”
Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Today is a great day for health care for all of Newfoundland and Labrador, but I am especially pleased to be making this announcement at Western Memorial Regional Hospital in Corner Brook. A PET-CT scanner at this new world-class health care centre will ensure the people of this region have better access to cancer diagnosis and treatments, and reduced wait times.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture and MHA for Corner Brook

“NL Health Services is pleased with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s announcement of two new PET-CT scanners for the province. This will help us provide patients with multiple new cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic programs and will also dramatically increase access to this service for our patients. This progress is testament to the hard work and dedication of the technologists, nurses, production staff, managers and administrative staff who have helped advance the PET-CT program over the past seven years, including through the pandemic.”
Dr. Jeffery Flemming
Clinical Lead, Nuclear and Molecular Medicine

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The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will attend the FIRST Lego League Robotics Championships tomorrow (Saturday, November 23).

The event takes place during the Skills Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Intermediate Challenge at the CNA Prince Philip Drive gymnasium, 1 Prince Philip Drive, St. John’s, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The FIRST Lego League Challenge is a robotics competition that teaches science, technology, engineering, and math skills to youth aged nine to 14 in a fun, hands-on, way. Students who participate in FIRST Lego League build technical and soft skills, discover exciting career possibilities, and learn how to make a positive impact in their communities.

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Investing in fire protection equipment is critical to the safety of volunteer firefighters in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. To help further support them in safeguarding their communities, an investment of more than $730,000 was announced to purchase fire protection equipment for 39 volunteer fire departments across the province.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, made the announcement today during a visit to the Pouch Cove Volunteer Fire Department, which has safely served the residents of Pouch Cove and Bauline for nearly 50 years.

This investment will help enhance the response capabilities of volunteer firefighters within the province through the purchase of protective firefighting equipment such as:

• Bunker gear
• Cylinders
• Portable pumps
• Boots
• Vehicle extraction tools and more

Further information can be found in the backgrounder below.

This builds on funding that was announced in September 2024 to replace over 400 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) units through a $4.1 million investment. Budget 2024 also included $400,000 to municipal fire departments to support their response to incidents outside their municipal boundary. As a result, the new allocation for the Outside Municipal Boundary program is $525,000.

The Provincial Government also provides Newfoundland and Labrador Fire Services with approximately $121,000 in annual funding for operating expenses and educational campaigns such as Learn Not to Burn.

Quotes
“Volunteer fire departments are the heart of communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. That’s why our government has doubled the budget for fire protection vehicles and equipment in recent years. For these brave women and men to effectively do their jobs, they need the right tools. This investment will strengthen the level of service our volunteer firefighters provide to communities to support the safety and well-being of residents. Thank you to those volunteers who play a crucial role in public safety.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“This funding announcement today will not only help fire departments purchase badly needed PPE and equipment, it will help provide an enhanced level of safety that will assist them in doing their job and returning unharmed to their families. Today’s announcement is part of a commitment made to the people who leave their homes at a moment’s notice to answer the call. Our association is very pleased to see this funding getting to our members and we look forward to our continued partnership to enhance fire services throughout the entire province and protect those who serve our communities and highways.”
Duane Antle
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Fire Services Association

“This funding is so important to us and all the fire departments in Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s important for our firefighters to have essential equipment. We need them to be protected with the best of the best. It means a lot to our community and fire department.”
Derek Sullivan
Fire Chief, Pouch Cove Volunteer Fire Department

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BACKGROUNDER

 Community Provincial Contribution Bay Roberts $8,252.67 Bishop’s Falls $9,098.38 Burgeo $75,499.52 Burnt Islands $15,234.93 Change Islands $2,773.18 Comfort Cove – Newstead $9,695.59 Come By Chance $3,829.38 Cook’s Harbour $3,670.87 Embree $4,989.04 Forteau $6,008.96 Garnish $4,980.70 Gillams $10,236.71 Green’s Harbour $14,787.75 Happy Valley-Goose Bay $18,827.61 Hampden $7,493.79 Humber Arm South $36,726.36 Howley $4,521.80 Isle aux Morts $39,395.08 King’s Point $13,463.74 Little Burnt Bay $4,797.16 Marystown $12,045.03 Meadows $44,067.93 Millertown $7,333.39 Mount Carmel – Mitchell’s Brook – St. Catherine’s $2,921.05 Old Shop $28,292.37 Parsons Pond $11,446.69 Point Leamington $8,447.17 Point of Bay $8,960.25 Pouch Cove $4,324.95 Random Island West $66,219.73 Reidville $50,967.76 Rose Blanche – Harbour Le Cou $6,840.33 Salmon Cove $15,996.84 Stephenville Crossing $10,931.26 St. Bride’s $12,416.99 Stoneville $28,793.37 Whitbourne $21,149.20 Woody Point $57,944.01 York Harbour/Lark Harbour $36,721.92 Total $730,103.48

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Lucy Stoyles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will bring greetings at the 11th Annual Marine Institute Model Boat Race tomorrow (Saturday, November 23).

The event is taking place at the Marine Institute, 155 Ridge Road, St. John’s, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The Model Boat Race allows teams of junior high and high school students to build an operational ship model, applying physics and mathematical principles, and competitively race the vessel in the Marine Institute’s flume tank. Prizes are awarded in multiple categories including for speed, maneuverability and design.

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, was in Corner Brook today for a first-hand view of the West Coast Cycling Association’s work to enhance sustainable trail construction and tourism experiences in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Minister Byrne was joined by members of the West Coast Cycling Association board and Mathieu Roy, CEO of the Trans Canada Trail, accompanied by Chief Program Officer Stacey Dakin, for an update on trail development activity in Western Newfoundland.

Support from a three-year investment of $781,990 from the federal-provincial Labour Market Development Agreement, administered by the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, is helping the West Coast Cycling Association expand its mountain-biking network and drive economic development.

With more than 200 members and over 60 kilometres of trail in their network, the West Coast Cycling Association organizes and hosts the most successful mountain bike event in the province and is completing construction of the longest machine-built mountain bike trail in Atlantic Canada.

The Labour Market Development Agreement funding supports two full-time positions to help the West Coast Cycling Association maintain and develop a workforce focused on sustainable trail construction; heighten awareness of the need for green and sustainable use of the environment to enhance tourism; and engage other partners to address labour-market requirements to develop mountain bike destinations in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The West Coast Cycling Association supports the Provincial Government’s goal of increasing access to outdoor recreation opportunities and improving health, wellness, and quality of life. Its work complements the planned development of the Great Coastal Trail as a world-class adventure tourism destination, as well as the Trans Canada Trail, the longest-multiuse trail system in the world, extending over 29,000 kilometres.

Quotes
“The West Coast Cycling Association, a not-for-profit, volunteer-run mountain bike trail stewardship and construction group, has developed an impressive network of recreational trails since it was established in 2010. The energy and expertise of their members is in perfect alignment with the Provincial Government’s vision for the Great Coastal Trail, which will include an extensive mountain biking element, and the Trans Canada Trail, which reaches every province and territory and all three coastlines of Canada. We look forward to working with all partners to share expertise in sustainable trail and workforce development.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Interest in mountain biking is growing in Newfoundland and Labrador. The west coast has an active mountain biking community, which makes it an ideal place to support mountain biking infrastructure. This will be a great addition to our tourism product, attracting adventure loving visitors to our province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The West Coast Cycling Association is very excited to receive this support. We have been an organization of hard-working volunteers and have built the foundations for one of the best trail systems in Atlantic Canada. This contribution allows us to formalize our association by having paid staff support. It will allow us to contribute to developing a local workforce for the design and construction of environmentally sustainable trails, a local workforce for promoting local mountain bike tourism, and a local workforce for creating experiences for that tourism market. Not only are we aware of the potential for our organization to put Western Newfoundland on the map for mountain biking and healthy living, we now have a clear path forward to make this happen.”
Billy Newell
Vice-president, West Coast Cycling Association

Learn more
Great Coastal Trail Development Ramps Up with $7 Million Commitment from the Provincial Government

West Coast Cycling Association

Trans Canada Trail

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MHAs from both sides of the House of Assembly gave Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Minister Gerry Byrne the nickname “Mr. Good Deeds” as sweeping and historic changes to nearly every aspect of land title and administration in Newfoundland and Labrador were ushered through the House of Assembly following careful and thorough examination and debate.

Second reading and clause-by-clause consideration of the Committee of the Whole concluded Wednesday night to bring Bill 68, An Act to Amend the Lands Act, 1991 into its confirmed form.

Applicant-friendly changes will include:

• Providing shortened, easier requirements for establishing adverse possession, better known as squatter’s rights, against the government.
• Creating Certificates of Dispossession whereby large areas of land and property are acknowledged up front to have been dispossessed from the government, (i.e. not considered to be Crown Lands).
• Creating an independent tribunal to hear appeals of adverse possession decisions.
• Offering greater flexibility for applicants to meet timelines and to develop land in shoreline reservations.

Other changes that will help streamline and clarify the process of securing property title include:

• Easier access to Crown lands through an online applications and payment portal.
• Establishing greater housing security through the Primary Residence Property Title Program. Based on an amendment requested by the Official Opposition, payment related to market value of land that were originally proposed will no longer be required. An application fee and quitclaim fee will still apply, as well as a document preparation fee and provision of an acceptable land survey upon approval.
• Establishing a clearer and more applicant-friendly assessment and evaluation manual and directives related to Crown land assessments.

Quote
“After five decades of inaction, Crown lands are finally on a better path. The vision and execution of my plan was always to make things easier to obtain land held by families through long term possession, to reduce the financial burden of obtaining land and to balance the public interest held in our collective ownership of Crown lands with private interests as property owners and occupiers. These changes are bold, sweeping and extensive. Members of the House of Assembly asked for only one change to the entire program that I laid out – I was quite willing to adopt the change and the House readily agreed. This package of reforms was an important achievement, and “Mr. Good Deeds” is a name I’m proud to hold. We have delivered deeds that will strongly support good title, where previously, that was an impossible outcome.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Primary Residence Property Title Program to Provide Affordable Path to Ownership

Upcoming Legislation to Allow for Swift Provincial Government Dispossession of Crown Lands

Provincial Government Announcing Upcoming Legislation and New Measures to Transform Crown Lands Approvals, Access and Wait Times

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will make a funding announcement at the Pouch Cove Fire Hall tomorrow (Friday, November 22).

The announcement will take place at the Pouch Cove Municipal Building, 660 Main Road, Pouch Cove, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Minister Davis will be joined by Derek Sullivan, Fire Chief for the Pouch Cove Volunteer Fire Department.

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Today, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced that it is adding to its affordability measures by matching the Government of Canada’s recently announced GST/HST tax break on essentials which will provide an estimated $48 million in provincial tax relief.

The GST/HST tax break will start on December 14, 2024, and will be in place until February 15, 2025. This will apply to:

• Prepared foods, including vegetable trays, pre-made meals and salads, and sandwiches.
• Restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout or delivery.
• Snacks, including chips, candy and granola bars.
• Beer, wine, cider and pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below 7 per cent ABV.
• Children’s clothing and footwear, car seats and diapers.
• Children’s toys, such as board games, dolls and video game consoles.
• Books, print newspapers and puzzles for all ages.
• Christmas trees.

Further implementation details from the Government of Canada, including all qualifying goods, are available here.

Quotes
“Today, we are announcing that we will match the Government of Canada’s GST/HST tax break on essentials from December 14, 2024, until February 15, 2025. This is yet another step we are taking to support Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with affordability measures.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Over the past couple of years, we have introduced well over $700 million in affordability measures to help residents of the province. Our decision to remove the provincial portion of HST on essential items will provide additional support for residents and businesses. This measure will be implemented by an amendment to the Federal Excise Tax Act.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

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Government of Canada: More money in your pocket: A tax break for all Canadians and the Working Canadians Rebate

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 BACKGROUNDER  

Provincial Government Affordability Measures

• Removing the provincial portion of HST on essential items.
• Lowering the gas tax, reducing the cost of registering passenger vehicles, and providing free driver medicals for seniors 75 and over.
• Home heating supplement and elimination of the retail sales tax on home insurance.
• Increases to the income supplement, the seniors’ benefit and child benefit.
• Lowering child care costs to $10 a day.
• Reducing the corporate income tax payable for 6,200 small businesses.
• Increasing the exemption threshold for Health and Post-Secondary Education Tax for 1,250 businesses.
• Introducing tax credits for manufacturing and processing, film and video, and green technology.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador today announced that an agreement has been extended between Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (Hydro) and Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Limited.

The extended agreement, which became effective on October 1 for a period of six months, includes Hydro purchasing excess green energy from Corner Brook Pulp and Paper’s Deer Lake Power assets. In turn, Corner Brook Pulp and Paper will continue its efforts to identify new revenue sources from viable wood-based projects in order to unlock Newfoundland and Labrador’s high forest potential while further stabilizing the mill’s sustainability and future.

The agreement between Hydro and Corner Brook Pulp and Paper for energy generated from Corner Brook Pulp and Paper’s existing power generation facilities will provide flexibility for Hydro to draw upon when needed, particularly during winter months. There is no impact on the ratepayer as a result of the agreement.

The Provincial Government remains optimistic about the forestry industry and continues to have ongoing discussions with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper.

Quotes
“Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Limited continues to play a key role in Newfoundland and Labrador’s integrated forest sector. Extending this agreement is another step towards securing the future of our forest industry and ensuring the sustainability of this vital industry.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture and MHA for Corner Brook

“Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Limited is working on identifying new revenue sources from viable wood-based projects. We support their efforts as they have been a valuable contributor to the forestry industry and our communities for many years.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

“The extension of this agreement will ensure excess energy reserves for Hydro during winter months. At the same time, CBPP will have additional time to explore opportunities for long term sustainability for employees of the mill and the forestry industry.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture and MHA for Corner Brook, will be available to media tomorrow (Friday, November 22) to discuss health care improvements.

Minister Byrne will be joined by Dr. Jeffery Flemming, Clinical Lead, Nuclear and Molecular Medicine, NL Health Services.

The availability will take place at Western Memorial Regional Hospital beginning at 12:00 p.m. Media are asked to meet in the main entrance of the hospital and will be escorted to the availability.

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