Government of Newfoundland News

The Provincial Government has reinstated a recruitment and retention incentive for retired registered nurses and nurse practitioners seeking to return to work or who are already employed by Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.

Retired registered nurses and nurse practitioners who meet license eligibility requirements are eligible for reimbursement of license-related fees up to $500 with a return in service commitment of 390 hours per year. The incentive is available until March 31, 2025.

In 2022, close to 230 retired nurses availed of the incentive to return to the workforce.

The incentive was introduced following a Nursing Think Tank in 2022 to address concerns and challenges facing the nursing profession. Findings from the think tank continue to inform the province’s recruitment and retention efforts for the nursing profession.

Signing bonuses are also available for selected nursing positions that target difficult-to-fill positions and address geographic considerations, as well as incentives for nurses to work in long-term care and family care teams. More than 520 nurses have been hired by NL Health Services since April 2023.

More information on recruitment and retention incentives for health care professionals interested in learning about the opportunities to work in Newfoundland and Labrador can find more information at WorkInHealthNL.ca.

Budget 2024 includes $10 million to continue recruitment and retention of health care professionals.

Quotes
“We made a commitment to help address the workplace challenges faced by our nursing community. Our incentives and signing bonuses are helping to alleviate the pressures in our province’s health care system, as we continue to improve health care delivery in the province.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We are pleased to see this investment in those who are working within our publicly funded, publicly delivered health care system.”
Yvette Coffey
President, Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Announces Program to Help Attract New Nurses to the Profession

Efforts Continue to Attract Health Care Workers Through Expansion of Come Home Incentive

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The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, is extending congratulations to several employees who recently received special recognition for their work.

The Motor Registration Division’s Newfoundland and Labrador Insurance Validation Program was recently recognized by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) with the 2024 Regional Award for Innovative Use of Technology. The award is presented to jurisdictions who have implemented technology tools that directly enhance access to services or the service experience.

The Insurance Validation Program, launched in December 2022, is a partnership between the Provincial Government and the Insurance Bureau of Canada. With technical support from the Office of the Chief Information Officer, the program applies a secure, effective and convenient digital solution to notify the Motor Registration Division when a vehicle’s insurance policy is no longer valid. Funding was provided by Transport Canada through the Enhanced Road Safety Transfer Payment Program (ERSTPP).

Earlier this month, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA) presented Deputy Registrar of Motor Vehicles Krista Cull with the 2024 Jennie Howie Government Member Award. The award honours a member who has made a significant contribution to CCMTA and whose primary role in their day-to-day work is directly associated with the coordination, administration, regulation and control of motor vehicle transportation and highway safety.

Also this month, Deputy Registrar of Motor Vehicles Lisa King received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her exceptional dedication and contribution to safety in Canada. Lisa has served as a voice for road safety issues and training for several years, as a Board Member of the Canada Safety Council.

In addition to these external awards, Sarah Burgess, Manager of Strategic Business Practices, was recognized by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador with a 2024 Public Service Award of Excellence. Ms. Burgess was nominated for her enthusiastic and innovative approach to problem solving, and for consistently going above and beyond to understand the needs of citizens.

Quote
“We are fortunate to have such amazing, brilliant and dedicated members of our public service solving problems and improving services for citizens in Newfoundland and Labrador. I extend a sincere thank you for the hard work and dedication of all employees who demonstrate their commitment to public service every day and I extend my congratulations to those who have received special recognition in recent months. Everyone benefits from your innovation and commitment to improving safety on our roads. Thank you for all that you do.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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The public is reminded to exercise care and caution when using personal fireworks during Canada Day celebrations this weekend.

Provincial forest fire regulations do not restrict the use of personal fireworks; however, individuals are encouraged to check with municipal authorities to ensure the use of personal fireworks do not violate local regulations that may be in effect.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Fire Commissioner is advising municipalities to implement and enforce any applicable municipal bylaws or directives relating to open fires and the discharge of fireworks. Residents in violation of provincial Forest Fire Regulations may be subject to fines and penalties, including costs associated with fighting a forest fire as well as imprisonment.

If you are using fireworks, please note:

• Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area. If applicable, only use in an approved location designated by a community, city or fire department.
• Monitor wind strength and direction to ensure fireworks do not impact buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions or dry brush/grass.
• Respect your neighbours and their properties. Be aware of the impact fireworks can have on family pets. It is a good idea to advise neighbours with pets that you intend to use fireworks.
• Ensure all spectators are at least 20 metres away from the fireworks at all times;
• Wear eye protection and non-flammable clothing when lighting fireworks.
• Always bury aerial fireworks to half their length either in the ground or in a large bucket filled with soil or sand.
• Always have water ready to soak fireworks after they have fired.
• Wait 30 minutes before attempting to pick up misfired fireworks and never attempt to re-light them. After retrieving them, soak them in water along with used fireworks.
• Dispose of soaked fireworks in an outdoor, fire-resistant garbage can, away from buildings and flammable materials.

In accordance with provincial Fire Protection Services Regulations a person shall not discharge or display family fireworks unless that person is over 18 years of age, discharges fireworks in accordance with instructions printed on each item or package, and exercises care and caution in the discharge of those fireworks.

A reminder that 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. For more information regarding the fire ban contact your local Forest Management District Office.

Residents are urged to do everything they can to prevent forest fires. Anyone planning a fire should check Public Reminders for Forest Season and current Fire Hazard Ratings for their area for information.

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).

The Forest Fire Season for the island portion of the province started on May 1 and will remain in effect until September 30, while in Labrador the forest fire season started on May 15, and will remain in effect until September 30.

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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 meters 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 meters 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 the community of Churchill Falls. The outdoor fire ban 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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Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Local Government considered a number of issues at their annual meeting in St. John’s. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working together to advance priorities related to local governments and share best practices.

“I was pleased to welcome Ministers responsible for Local Government to Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Dr. John Haggie, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and 2023-24 Chair of the Provincial-Territorial Table of Ministers for Local Government. “This year’s annual meeting provided ample opportunity to work together to learn more about shared priorities and the actions we are taking to advance those priorities.”

Provincial and Territorial Ministers invited the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities of Canada, for a brief discussion about the continued need for increased meaningful engagement by the Federal Government with provinces and territories during the development of new programs. They conveyed that infrastructure is a priority for all jurisdictions and reiterated the need for predictable and flexible federal infrastructure funding that complements and aligns with provincial and territorial investments and priorities, including economic growth, affordable housing, climate resiliency, as well as community safety and well-being.

Ministers also discussed land use planning, financial and fiscal tools to support growth and talked about new innovative legal provisions introduced by some provincial governments. Ministers also discussed lessons learned with respect to bilateral infrastructure agreements.

“As provincial and territorial ministers, we remain committed to strengthening our municipalities, and working with the Federal Government to ensure required resources are available to address challenges municipalities are facing,” said Minister Haggie.

The Table of Ministers Responsible for Local Government approved the priorities for the year ahead on infrastructure funding, addressing sustainable growth, as well as governance and capacity building. Working groups will develop work plans that identify strategic outcomes and report back to the table.

The Ministers agreed on the importance of constructive, cooperative provincial, territorial and local government relationships and the need to share information and ideas on key issues relating to local governments and communities across Canada.

The next annual meeting of Ministers Responsible for Local Government will be held in New Brunswick in 2025.

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Les ministres provinciaux et territoriaux responsables des administrations locales se sont réuni à St. John’s, à Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador, pour discuter des priorités communes des municipalités au Canada

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Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are reminded that the lying in state for Newfoundland and Labrador’s unknown soldier begins tomorrow (Friday, June 28).

Members of the public are invited to pay their respects in the main lobby of Confederation Building, East Block from Friday, June 28, to Sunday, June 30.

The hours for the lying-in-state are as follows:

June 28, 2024
1:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

June 29, 2024
11:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

June 30, 2024
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Visitation can be accessed via the main entrance to the East Block Lobby. People with mobility issues can enter Confederation Building via the accessible north-east entrance (House of Assembly public gallery entrance). See attached map.

For enhanced safety, please be advised that security screening with wands will be conducted at the building entrance. Additionally, visitors are reminded that backpacks will not be permitted in the lying-in-state space and security may request to search bags upon entry.

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The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-029 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 https://www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report: A-2024-029 Report Date: June 26, 2024 Public Body: Memorial University Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to Memorial University for records relating to the drafts of the Auditor General’s performance audit of the University that was released in October 2023. The University withheld all responsive records related to this request on the grounds that they were “audit working papers.” Pursuant to section 30(2) of the Auditor General Act, 2021, the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 does not apply to the disclosure of audit working papers. The Complaint claimed that the definition of audit working papers was too broad and that the exception could not be applicable to records created after the final draft of the audit report was delivered to the Provincial Government but not yet tabled in the House of Assembly. This Office agreed with the University’s classification of the records as audit working papers, noting that the withheld records dealt explicitly with matters relating to the preparation and execution of the audit. With respect to the date upon which an audit is deemed completed, this Office determined that all of the responsive records were subject to section 30(2) of the Auditor General Act, 2021.

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

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has filed its statement of claim in the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador (General Division) challenging the constitutionality of the Government of Canada’s equalization program. The statement of claim was filed on Friday, June 21.

The statement of claim outlines how the Government of Canada’s equalization program does not achieve its constitutional purpose. The program unreasonably and unfairly penalizes Newfoundland and Labrador by failing to transfer sufficient funds which are needed to ensure that residents benefit from levels of public services that are reasonably comparable to those in other provinces.

Relief being sought from the court involves declaring elements of the equalization program as unconstitutional, including:

• The absence of including the costs of providing public services when calculating equalization payments.
• The fiscal capacity cap.
• The inequitable distribution of excess equalization program funding.
• The gross domestic product growth ceiling.

The statement of claim can be viewed here.

Equalization is a federal program enshrined in section 36(2) of the Constitution Act, 1982, under which Canada transfers funds to provinces to address fiscal disparities. It is intended to ensure provincial governments have sufficient revenues to provide reasonably comparable levels of public services at reasonably comparable levels of taxation.

Quotes
“This statement of claim presents our arguments regarding unconstitutional aspects of the equalization program and what can be done to remedy this unfair situation that penalizes Newfoundland and Labrador. We look forward to the upcoming court process and the opportunity to improve a program that does not accord with basic principles enshrined in the Canadian Constitution.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

“This challenge is all about ensuring that equalization achieves what is intended in the Constitution – to ensure fairness among all provinces within Canada relating to the cost of delivering public services. From our perspective, the Government of Canada’s equalization program is insufficient in that it does not consider the cost of delivering services in a province such as ours with a geographically dispersed population; nor does it consider the inequity caused by including 100 per cent of our natural resource revenue in the formula. We want the equalization program to treat provinces equitably.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

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Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to Launch Challenge of Federal Equalization Program

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Equalization Correspondence

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will deliver remarks at the Arnold’s Cove Area Chamber of Commerce Lobster Dinner tomorrow (Thursday, June 27).

The event takes place at the Sunnyside Wellness Center, 40 Goulding Avenue, Sunnyside, at 6:00 p.m.

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Effective Sunday, June 30, at 12:01 a.m. the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary will be the new police of jurisdiction for the municipalities of Cox’s Cove, Gilliams, Humber Arm South, Hughes Brook, Irishtown-Summerside, Lark Harbour, Little Rapids, McIvers, Meadows, Pasadena, Steady Brook and York Harbour.

All residents with ongoing files reported to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police prior to June 30 will remain with the agency until concluded, unless otherwise notified. Residents should continue to engage with the appropriate police agency that is handling their file.

There is no change to 9-1-1 services. As always, dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will continue to maintain a presence in western Newfoundland, with the continuation of the Corner Brook detachment for specialized and federal policing services, as well as the RNC/RCMP Joint Forces Operation West.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for its years of dedication and commitment to the residents of western Newfoundland. Together with communities, both police agencies, and the Government of Canada, the Provincial Government is working to deliver services in the most effective and efficient way possible to ensure all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feel safe and secure.

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The Department of Health and Community Services, in partnership with NL Health Services, is expanding the coverage for drivers’ medical examinations for eligible seniors to include exams performed through the Newfoundland and Labrador Virtual Care Program.

Residents aged 75 years or older who do not have a primary care provider and are registered on Patient Connect NL can now request a drivers’ medical examination appointment, which will be provided via the Teladoc virtual care service.

Teladoc providers will complete the drivers’ medical examination report and will also coordinate in-person completion of a guided physical and eye examination.

The cost of the drivers’ medical examination, for eligible patients, is covered as an insured service.

Residents must be registered on Patient Connect NL to request a drivers’ medical examination appointment. To register for Patient Connect, visit https://patientconnect.nlchi.nl.ca or call at 1-833-913-4679. NL Health Services will continue to work to assign those who register to a family care team or primary health care provider when one becomes available in their area.

This expansion builds on the province’s virtual care contract with Teladoc awarded in November 2023 and is part of government’s commitment to increase access to primary care through virtual care services.

The Provincial Government’s Drivers Medical Examination Reimbursement Program, announced in 2023, covers the costs of required drivers’ medical examinations and helps ensure seniors can maintain the ability to drive without added expense.

This program is in addition to Budget 2024 investments in the Seniors’ Health and Well-Being Plan, which will support seniors to continue to live at home. The plan includes funding for seniors to repair and modify their home and for low-income seniors living at home to cover the cost of services, such as snow clearing and grocery delivery. The department anticipates providing more details on the plan this summer.

Quotes
“Our government is committed to improving the well-being of seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador. As part of our commitment, we are proud to leverage virtual technology to ensure seniors have access to the drivers’ medical examinations that allow them to remain independent in their homes and communities.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“NL Health Services is pleased to expand virtual care to include drivers’ medical examinations for seniors. This option is in addition to other existing virtual services and pathways that we currently offer in each of our zones. Providing this service ensures that seniors can access primary health care that is specific for them, allowing them to remain as independent as possible and removing potential barriers to important services.”
Steve Greene
Vice President responsible for Digital Health and Chief Information Officer
NL Health Services

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Provincial Government Covering the Cost of Drivers Medicals for Seniors

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In November 2023, the Provincial Government launched a new Poverty Reduction Plan to improve the overall well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The plan included a commitment to develop programming to help Income Support and other non-Employment Insurance (EI) eligible individuals secure meaningful and stable employment.

Today, applications are being accepted for the new Working Opportunities Program. Funded through a $3.5 million provincial investment in Budget 2024, the Working Opportunities Program will enable individuals who are not eligible for the federally funded Skills Development Program to avail of similar financial supports for training.

Working Opportunities enables non-EI eligible individuals with barriers to workforce participation and post-secondary education to retrain and upskill, creating more stable employment and improving their well-being. This program will also help address shortages in the workforce.

The program will support people eligible to attend post-secondary schooling that will lead to employment, including funding for a living allowance, child care and costs of training. Participants will attend full-time post-secondary programs that are a minimum of 12 weeks and a maximum of three years in duration at a public or private training institution in Newfoundland and Labrador

To find out more about the Working Opportunities Program, please go to www.gov.nl.ca/ipgs/working-opportunities/ or visit one of our 19 Employment Centres throughout Newfoundland and Labrador www.gov.nl.ca/ipgs/department/contact-emp/

Quotes
“Some individuals who want to participate in employment training have been unable to access training because they have not been recently eligible for EI and therefore are not eligible for the federal Skills Development program. People in this situation may be long-term unemployed and receiving Income Support or may be underemployed with barriers to post-secondary training and are without financial support. The new Working Opportunities Program addresses this gap by providing funding for education and training programs.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“Working Opportunities will help to remove educational barriers for vulnerable individuals who could not avail of other training programs to obtain the skills and education to secure meaningful long-term-employment. This innovative program will assist those eager to train for the many jobs that are currently in high demand, such as those in the health and child care sectors.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will provide an update on the fire in the Churchill Falls area today (Wednesday, June 26) at 2:00 p.m. (NT) in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building.

Premier Furey will be joined by Jennifer Williams, President and Chief Executive Officer of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, Jamie Chippett, Deputy Minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture, and Blair Adams, Assistant Deputy Minister, Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

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

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, is pleased to congratulate the Inclusion Canada NL 2024 Inclusive Education Award recipient, Avoca Collegiate in Badger.

The award is presented each year to a K-12 school in the province that has shown exceptional spirit in creating a school that is welcoming and inclusive for students with an intellectual disability.

Avoca Collegiate was selected as the recipient of the Inclusive Education Award based on its work to design and implement programs and activities that are inclusive of all students. The school administration and staff approach work with a universal design for learning lens to create an environment where every student can reach their full potential. All academic programs, extracurricular activities and school events are created to promote participation of all students.

With a school population of about 50 students, Avoca Collegiate has been able to offer a leadership program and two basketball teams that are open to all students. The school is also affiliated with the Jays Care organization of the Toronto Blue Jays. Through Jays Care, Avoca Collegiate was able to operate two baseball programs to help build a sense of community and belonging for children and youth who often opt out of sport programming due to barriers. This year, 22 of the 47 students at Avoca Collegiate participated in the Jays Care baseball program.

Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador is a non-profit organization that works with and on behalf of the more than 15,000 people with intellectual disabilities in our province.

The Provincial Government supports a welcoming school culture where all members of the school community feel they belong, realize their potential, and contribute to the life of the school.

More information on the Inclusive Education Awards and a list of past recipients may be found here.

Quotes
“Inclusion is about creating spaces for people to feel acceptance and belonging as they learn and grow. Well done, Avoca Collegiate, for fostering an inclusive environment for the students at your school. Congratulations on receiving this award and keep up the good work that is no doubt having tremendous positive impact in your school community.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Inclusion Canada NL is honoured to name Avoca Collegiate as the recipient for the 2024 Inclusive Education Award for their incredible efforts to embrace the individuality of each student. Avoca Collegiate embraces diversity at every opportunity and promotes equitable participation for its community. This is the embodiment of inclusive education, and we are pleased to recognize Avoca Collegiate for their great work.”
Connie Pike
President, Inclusion Canada NL

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Last Thursday (June 20), the Standing Committee on Public Accounts held a public hearing to follow up on matters contained in several reports of the Auditor General. The matters under consideration included:

• Adult Custody and Community Corrections, with officials appearing from the Department of Justice and Public Safety;
• Food Premises Inspection & Licensing Program, with officials appearing from the Departments of Digital Government and Service NL, and Health and Community Services;
• Innovation and Business Investment Corporation, with officials appearing from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology; and
• Office of the High Sheriff, with officials appearing from the Department of Justice and Public Safety and the Office of the High Sheriff.

The Public Accounts Committee wishes to express its appreciation to all witnesses who appeared last week for their cooperation and testimony. The Committee’s follow-up work on these important matters will continue in the coming months, particularly respecting those recommendations that remain outstanding. Officials from concerned entities may be invited to appear before the Committee again at a future public hearing.

Archived audio of the public hearing is available on the House of Assembly website, and Hansard of the proceedings will also be available once prepared.

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“All members of the Public Accounts Committee are united in our responsibility to ensure accountability on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. Working in partnership with the Auditor General, we will actively continue our follow-up on these matters, taking measures to ensure improvements in the delivery of programs and services for the people of this province.”
Pleaman Forsey, MHA
Chair of Public Accounts Committee

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Public Accounts Committee – Work and Proceedings

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to inform residents that the home heating supplement program is open for applications until January 15, 2025. As announced in Budget 2024, maintaining the home heating supplement for furnace or stove oil is one of the measures the Provincial Government is undertaking to help residents with affordability.

Residents can apply online at Home Heating Supplement Program. To ensure the most efficient processing time, please make sure your application is complete. This includes:

• Providing a copy of your invoice(s), which includes the delivery address, for the purchase of at least 250 litres of furnace or stove oil.
• Signing your application.
• Double-checking that the social insurance number provided is correct.

Printed materials to display in common areas can be downloaded here. Also, if a resident has an older parent or family friend who may be eligible for the program, please encourage them to apply.

There were approximately 22,500 applications to the home heating supplement program received for the 2023 program. Those residents are welcome to apply again if they meet the eligibility criteria. The supplement, which ranges between $200 and $500, is available to residents of the province whose adjusted family income for 2023 was $150,000 or less and have directly incurred costs for the purchase of furnace or stove oil to heat their principal residence.

For more information, please email OilSupplement@gov.nl.ca or phone 709-729-4645 (toll-free 1-844-729-4645).

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, today announced a call for applications for the 2024-25 Community Enhancement Employment Program.

This program provides funding to eligible project sponsors such as:

• Municipalities
• Inuit Community Governments
• Local Service Districts
• Community and economic development organizations
• Other non-profit organizations.

Community Enhancement Employment Program projects must directly contribute to tourism development, economic development, community/municipal infrastructure, or community services. In addition, projects are expected to provide skills development opportunities for workers and ongoing benefits to the region.

Individuals can be employed on a project for up to 470 hours to become eligible for federal Employment Insurance benefits. In 2023-24, the program provided funding for 152 projects, supporting more than 700 workers.

Applications for the Community Enhancement Employment Program are available here. Applicants can also email employmentsupport@gov.nl.ca or call toll free 1-866-508-5500.

The application deadline is Friday, July 26, 2024.

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“I encourage all eligible communities and organizations to avail of the Community Enhancement Employment Program, which supports individuals to gain local employment through important community development initiatives.”
Honourable Dr. John Haggie
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

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Today, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, announced that the Newfoundland and Labrador Studies 2205 course now offered as an elective in the high school curriculum in the public education system will become a graduation requirement for students who begin high school in September 2027.

In recent years, the Provincial Government has reflected on many critical moments in the province’s history and created new ways to tell important stories of the past. Recent initiatives like Year of the Arts 2024, Confederation 75, and the repatriation of an unknown First World War soldier all serve to promote pride of place and to strengthen Newfoundlanders and Labradorians’ understanding of our place in the country and in the world.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Studies course examines the rich and diverse culture and heritage of the province and encourages students to think deeply about the province with an arts and social sciences lens. Incorporating the course into high school graduation requirements ensures that students have a thorough understanding of the province’s past as they contribute to shaping its bright and prosperous future.

The Department of Education will review the course curriculum to ensure Indigenous history is reflected accurately for educators as they teach students. As part of the course review process, the department will begin consultation with Indigenous Governments and Organizations through meaningful discussion and conversation on the proper inclusion of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Indigenous heritage. The last update to the curriculum for Newfoundland and Labrador Studies 2205 was in 2010.

Quotes
“Our heritage and culture are vibrant and complex and should be reflected appropriately in the Newfoundland and Labrador Studies course offered to high school students. This course is important for all students to understand our province’s history. I look forward to progress updates on how we are making this course curriculum more robust to gain a better of understanding of our province and the diverse peoples who have lived here for centuries.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“I am pleased to see the Newfoundland and Labrador Studies 2205 course become mandatory for high school students. It is crucial that our younger generations continue to learn about our culture and history as Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission called on governments to ensure historical and contemporary contributions are part of changes in the curricula to accurately capture the perspective of Indigenous Peoples. With essential input from Indigenous Governments and Organizations and guidance from the Indigenous Education Advisory Committee, revising the Newfoundland and Labrador Studies course is an important step towards advancing Reconciliation.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will host the annual meeting of Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for Local Government taking place in St. John’s, June 26-27.

The meeting is being held at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s.

Topics for discussion focus on municipal priorities including municipal infrastructure, sustainable growth, and municipal land use planning.

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Atlantic Premiers met virtually today to discuss shared priorities and progress on collaborative work in areas of importance to Atlantic Canadians. This includes initiatives to improve affordability, housing, and health care, along with opportunities to address labour shortages and strengthen the region’s economy.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Dr. Andrew Furey was joined by Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island, and Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick.

Premiers reiterated their commitment to support Atlantic Canadians, and indeed all Canadians, as wildfire season intensifies, including those affected by the ongoing fires near Churchill Falls, Newfoundland and Labrador, who remain under evacuation order. Premiers also discussed forest management best practices as well as the establishment of a Regional Centre of Excellence, located in central Newfoundland and Labrador, for training in fire preparedness and response. These efforts seek to improve the region’s resilience and readiness for present and future challenges by strengthening communities’ ability to manage forests sustainably and respond effectively to wildfires.  Premiers discussed pilots underway to improve cell service during emergency situations.  They urge the federal government to expand this initiative to all Atlantic Canada.

Affordability and Housing
Atlantic provinces are all making unprecedented investments to address the pressing issue of affordability, including the availability and rising costs of housing and shelter. Premiers shared their experiences and best practices in launching a variety of initiatives, including low-interest loans for the development of affordable rental properties, assistance for first-time homeowners, and in-law suites. Premiers recognize that access to housing remains a challenge and is crucial to growing vibrant communities.

Premiers underlined their commitment to continue their work together and with key partners to expand housing supply and access to affordable housing options as rapidly and responsibly as possible. This includes continuing to work with the federal government to ensure that housing investments are maximized for Atlantic Canadians and done in a manner that is sustainable for the future.

Health Care Collaboration
Through the Atlantic Health Accord, the Atlantic Provinces work together to improve patient-centered healthcare access, system efficiency, and patient outcomes.

Premiers have joined forces to help build a stable and sustainable healthcare workforce in Atlantic Canada. Committed to sharing resources and expertise, Atlantic Premiers, through the Atlantic Working Group on International Recruitment, are collaborating to help alleviate healthcare worker shortages and improve healthcare access in underserved areas.

Labour Market and Productivity
All provinces and territories are feeling the impacts of labour shortages, which are slowing economic growth, productivity, and innovation. In Atlantic Canada, these shortages are especially acute in the health care, construction, and service sectors. Federal Budget 2024 brought an unexpected reduction of $625 million in workforce development programs that help people find and maintain jobs in sectors facing critical labour shortages such as construction, early learning childcare, and healthcare. These Labour Market Transfer Agreements (LMTAs) support persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, women and newcomers, helping them to get the training and supports necessary to secure meaningful work, while also assisting employers to meet their labour demands.

With this cut, LMTA funding will revert to pre-2017 levels at a time when inflationary costs continue to have profound impacts on citizens. Provinces and territories were not notified of this cut prior to the release of the Budget on April 16, 2024. Premiers noted the negative impact the funding cut will have on the 120,000 individuals and 8,500 employers and organizations that have benefitted annually from these programs throughout Atlantic Canada. Premiers urged the federal government to immediately reverse these cuts to Labour Market Transfer Agreements.

Infrastructure, Economic Growth and Competitiveness
Atlantic Premiers discussed the critical infrastructure needed to power economic development in the region, including infrastructure that supports resilient and reliable supply chains, transportation and communications networks, energy distribution, and community development. Premiers noted the federal government has yet to announce an adequate successor to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which is now closed. Without dedicated support for the full range of infrastructure needs and the program flexibility to address the region’s unique requirements, Atlantic Canada’s economic growth and community development will be hampered.

Investing in well-functioning trade corridors improves the flow of people and goods in Atlantic Canada and helps Atlantic Canadians compete in key global markets, trade more efficiently with international partners, and keeps the region’s supply chains competitive and resilient. As a business and leisure destination, Atlantic Canada needs a strong and reliable domestic and international air service network to support economic growth, tourism and competitiveness. Atlantic Premiers are working together to identify gaps and ways to improve air linkages within the region.

The Chignecto Isthmus, which joins New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, contains the only road, rail, and telecommunications connection between the two provinces, and between Nova Scotia and the rest of Canada. Approximately $35 billion in goods and services moves through the isthmus every year. Collaboration with and support from the federal government is vital to protect this critical economic trade link, which faces increasing threats from more frequent and severe weather events.

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Au coeur des progrès : les premiers ministres de l’Atlantique se concentrent sur l’accessibilité, le logement, les soins de santé et l’économie

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