Government of Newfoundland News

A ‘What We Heard’ Report containing feedback received from the consultation process to inform the regulations for the Pay Equity and Pay Transparency Act was released today by the Provincial Government. The consultations took place from March 11 to May 7, 2023.

It is important to note this Act is not simply about same pay for same work. The legislation seeks to ensure equal pay for work of equal value and will contribute to addressing the under-valuation of traditional female occupations, narrowing the gender wage gap, and advancing equity and well-being among all people.

While over 800 community groups, employer organizations, business owners, labour groups, equity seeking and women’s organizations, Indigenous Governments and Organizations, as well as the public were invited to take part in the consultation process, there was low participation. A total of 439 individuals completed the online questionnaire via engageNL, as members of the public, rather than as employees or employers in the public or private sectors. Sixty-four individuals participated in the in-person and virtual sessions, 37 of whom were employers. Statistics Canada reports that there are over 15,000 businesses throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Common themes from the consultation feedback include human resources capacity, data infrastructure and collection requirements, and privacy considerations. A need for guidance and training on how to tackle pay equity was also identified, particularly across different job types and roles, hours of work and compensation structures. The requirements to operationalize pay equity and pay transparency will require substantial planning and collaboration across government departments, offices, and agencies, as well as from employers and business owners within the public and private sectors.

The Provincial Government’s initial approach was to coincide the release of the ‘What We Heard’ Report with the release of the regulations. This work is taking longer to complete due to its complexity, so the information is being released now, so the public can be better informed on the discussions that must take place with employers and employees throughout the province to implement pay equity and pay transparency. Work going forward will include consideration of such things as the annual reporting design and the employers’ capacity to report accurately and consistently, data factors like required infrastructure, and collection standards, privacy implications, and ongoing compliance activities.

Quotes
“This government strongly believes that pay equity and pay transparency are achievable, but they must be done the right way, not a rushed way. I want to thank all those who participated in the consultation process for their enthusiasm, and for exercising their right to engage with government and advocate for the needs of women, gender-diverse people and those who have faced marginalization in our province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“As President of Treasury Board, I can confirm that the Provincial Government complies with pay equity standards and assesses jobs in a gender-neutral manner. Today, women account for over 50 per cent of the core public service and they are in roles such as executives, directors, managers, and judges. Fairness and equality are defining values for our government – indeed for our society as a whole. We will continue to champion the advancement of women and gender diverse people.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and President of Treasury Board

“The ‘What We Heard’ Report shows that there is a need for more targeted consultation with employers and labour groups to inform the regulations. We are committed to this legislation and are working to ensure we take the time to get it right.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister Responsible for Labour

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Learn more
‘What We Heard’ Report – Pay Equity and Pay Transparency Act Consultations

Office of Women and Gender Equality

Job Evaluation System – Treasury Board Secretariat

Labour Relations and Standards

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will address delegates during the appreciation banquet of the Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador Conference, Trade Show and Annual General Meeting 2024 tomorrow (Saturday, November 9).

The banquet will take place at the Quality Hotel and Suites, 100 Trans-Canada Highway, Gander, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

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A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to help advance the Atlantic Wildfire Centre to the next stage of development.  

The RFP is seeking an advisor to engage with relevant stakeholders to assess the centre’s infrastructure and space requirements, as well as operational and functional considerations. This is a key step in advancing the project toward the design and construction phase.   

In October 2024, the Provincial Government announced it would establish an Atlantic Wildfire Centre in Central Newfoundland, with operational infrastructure in Labrador, to strengthen and enhance efforts to protect Atlantic Canada’s communities and forests and provide leadership and expertise in wildfire fighting and prevention.  

The Atlantic Wildfire Centre provincial headquarters and operations/training centre for wildfire management and training will be located in Gander, as well as a hangar to house the Air Services Division of the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. An operations office and aerial suppression infrastructure will be located at Wabush airport. 

Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl. The closing date for proposals is November 22, 2024. 

Quotes  

“The issuing of the Request for Proposals for an advisor is an important step in advancing this important initiative for our province. As I have said many times, we have a great team in place doing incredible work in our Air Services Division and in the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture. This centre will provide them with the equipment, training and support needed for their continued service.”  

Honourable Fred Hutton  

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure  

Minister of Rural Economic Development  

“The Atlantic Wildfire Centre will support Canadians by delivering effective wildfire management and emergency responses to protect the region’s forests, communities, and people. With strategic investment in wildland fire management, science and training, as well as vital equipment to increase the province’s air services complement, the establishment of the Atlantic Wildfire Centre is quickly advancing.” 

Honourable Gerry Byrne  

Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture  

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, recognize Indigenous Veteran’s Day today (November 8) and honour the commitments made by those who served to protect our province and country.

Indigenous peoples have demonstrated incredible courage and a commitment to military service in Newfoundland and Labrador, and abroad. It is imperative that we recognize our responsibility to honour their sacrifices.

This past July, Minister Reid joined the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, and 10 Indigenous youth in France and Belgium as part of the Trail of the Caribou Pilgrimage to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Confederation. The youth represented the five Indigenous Governments and Organizations in the province – Nunatsiavut Government, Innu Nation, NunatuKavut Community Council, Miawpukek First Nation and Qalipu First Nation.

We encourage people to remember and reflect on the bravery of Indigenous peoples and their commitment to protect our families, homes and way of life.

Quotes
“On this day, we are mindful of the unique contributions made by Indigenous service members in times of war and peace. It is a time of remembrance for the many years of military service by brave Indigenous veterans throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We pay tribute today to the sacrifices made by Indigenous Veterans and we honour their bravery and resilience. Their contributions to military service have protected our freedoms and provided peace and security for Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced $380,000 in funding for Sparrow BioAcoustics Inc. to support the completion of its final proof of concept for its digital stethoscope phone app.

The company’s app, called Stethophone, turns any smartphone into a medical-grade cardiac scanner, thereby enabling fast, convenient and effective early detection of common cardiac diseases. The app is approved for use by both doctors and the public in Canada and the U.S., which represents an industry first for smartphone stethoscope products, and is currently available for use in Apple smartphones.

Sparrow BioAcoustics has used tens of thousands of cardiac audio recordings to develop machine learning and AI models with the goal of providing diagnostic levels of accuracy acceptable to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This project will support the development of more advanced AI that can be incorporated into the Stethophone app to enhance its functionality and provide sufficient medical accuracy to have the app cleared by the FDA as a Class II medical device. This proposal also incorporates a clinical study in the U.S. on up to 120 subjects.

Two new full-time positions will be created because of this project. Provided the FDA approves Class II medical device status, Sparrow BioAcoustics will work towards full commercialization of the software as an over-the-counter app on the Apple App Store and Android Marketplace. The Provincial Government’s investment helps to leverage a $349,000 investment from Sparrow BioAcoustics and a $500,000 investment from ACOA for total project funding of $1,229,000.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology offers programs to support research and development projects for both commercial and non-commercial applicants. These programs help de-risk projects with commercial potential, and support the development of highly qualified people, research, innovative programming, and infrastructure that have the potential to strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s research and development capacity.

Quotes
“Sparrow BioAcoustics is another in a growing series of health tech success stories, and further shows that important and impactful health innovations are being launched from here in our province with increasing frequency. Our department is pleased to support work that will put an advanced and much-needed cardiac diagnostic tool in the palm of the hand of anyone with a smartphone.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Sparrow BioAcoustics is doing amazing work in the fight against heart disease right here in Newfoundland and Labrador. With tech like their Stethophone, they are making it easier for folks to access quality heart care in their own homes.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Investing in research and development projects in health care can be instrumental in helping people live a healthy, active lifestyle which aligns with the Health Accord’s recommendations.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Having the provincial government support new and innovative businesses is a hallmark of this administration. I offer my congratulations and best wishes to this local company for their success to date here in the province and as it extends it business across the country.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
MHA for District of St. John’s East-Quidi Vidi

“Early detection leads to faster and better care. Our mission is to help millions of people by making cardiac screening accessible to everyone, everywhere, whenever they need it. It’s a problem worth solving and support here will make a huge impact.”
Mark Attila Opauszky
CEO, Sparrow BioAcoustics

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Sparrow BioAcoustics

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The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development:

Speaker, the last phase of the Team Gushue Highway was identified as a key provincial infrastructure priority, involving the completion of a north-south arterial highway route in St. John’s and Mount Pearl. It is a project that will provide significant benefits for years to come. That is why I was delighted to join our Premier in September to announce the awarding of a contract for $30 million to Bursey Excavating and Development for its completion.

Once completed, this highway will provide an alternate and more efficient route for residents on the southern Avalon to access key provincial services and infrastructure, including the province’s largest health care and post-secondary facilities. This project will alleviate traffic congestion, improve safety and enhance access to and from the cities of St. John’s and Mount Pearl and the surrounding urban and rural communities.

Speaker, this highway represents more than just asphalt and concrete. It symbolizes our government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of the southern Avalon and improving connectivity. First envisioned in the 1970s, its impact will be felt throughout the broader community, strengthening our economic foundation and providing benefits for residents.

I am also delighted to inform this honourable House that construction on the multi-year project began a few weeks ago, with an anticipated completion date of fall 2026.

Thank you, Speaker.

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The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development:

Speaker, the last phase of the Team Gushue Highway was identified as a key provincial infrastructure priority, involving the completion of a north-south arterial highway route in St. John’s and Mount Pearl. It is a project that will provide significant benefits for years to come. That is why I was delighted to join our Premier in September to announce the awarding of a contract for $30 million to Bursey Excavating and Development for its completion.

Once completed, this highway will provide an alternate and more efficient route for residents on the southern Avalon to access key provincial services and infrastructure, including the province’s largest health care and post-secondary facilities. This project will alleviate traffic congestion, improve safety and enhance access to and from the cities of St. John’s and Mount Pearl and the surrounding urban and rural communities.

Speaker, this highway represents more than just asphalt and concrete. It symbolizes our government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of the southern Avalon and improving connectivity. First envisioned in the 1970s, its impact will be felt throughout the broader community, strengthening our economic foundation and providing benefits for residents.

I am also delighted to inform this Honorable House that construction on the multi-year project began a few weeks ago, with an anticipated completion date of fall 2026.

Thank you, Speaker.

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

Speaker, as we approach Remembrance Day, I rise in this honourable House to reflect on the sacrifices made by Newfoundland and Labrador veterans for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

During the First World War, 12,000 men from the then Dominion of Newfoundland valiantly volunteered to help the war efforts. Women volunteered as nurses overseas, while others rallied support efforts back here at home.

We lost a generation of young men during that war – sons, brothers, fathers and friends who never came home. The bravery and grit they demonstrated were unmatched and, as a result, the regiment was given the title of “Royal” – the only military unit to receive this title during the First World War.

In May, we brought the remains of a First World War Royal Newfoundland Regiment soldier home from the battlefields of Northern France and, on July 1, we laid him to rest at the National War Memorial in St. John’s. His tomb overlooks the St. John’s Harbour, where he and so many other young men left home with high spirits and bravery, determined to fight for king and country.

Speaker, I ask all honourable members to join me in a minute of silence to remember the sacrifices of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during armed conflicts.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

Lest We Forget.

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

Speaker, as we approach Remembrance Day, I rise in this honourable House to reflect on the sacrifices made by Newfoundland and Labrador veterans for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

During the First World War, 12,000 men from the then Dominion of Newfoundland valiantly volunteered to help the war efforts. Women volunteered as nurses overseas, while others rallied support efforts back here at home.

We lost a generation of young men during that war – sons, brothers, fathers and friends who never came home. The bravery and grit they demonstrated were unmatched and, as a result, the regiment was given the title of “Royal” – the only military unit to receive this title during the First World War.

In May, we brought the remains of a First World War Royal Newfoundland Regiment soldier home from the battlefields of Northern France and, on July 1, we laid him to rest at the National War Memorial in St. John’s. His tomb overlooks the St. John’s Harbour, where he and so many other young men left home with high spirits and bravery, determined to fight for king and country.

Speaker, I ask all honourable members to join me in a minute of silence to remember the sacrifices of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during armed conflicts.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

Lest We Forget.

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Changes to the Animal Health and Protection Act introduced in the House of Assembly this week, including increased fines and penalties, compliance measures that give a broader scope of enforcement action, and more precise and definitive language, will help ensure the legislation continues to reflect the highest possible standards for animal welfare.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will be available to media to discuss amendments to the Animal Health and Protection Act, today (Thursday, November 7) outside the House of Assembly, at noon.

The amendments update and modernize the legislation, clarify some of the language and specific definitions used throughout the Act, enable designated enforcement officials to issue compliance orders, and increase fines and penalties for animal cruelty offences.

Details on the amendments are included in the Backgrounder below.

Public engagement on the Animal Health and Protection Act provided thoughtful and insightful presentations from individuals and groups who all expressed deep care and concern about animal welfare, including animal health professionals, animal welfare organizations, organizations representing livestock producers, and the public.

Quote
“The Animal Health and Protection Act is a living piece of legislation that is amended when required, and we appreciate the input of all who contributed to these important amendments. With the support of all Members of the House of Assembly, the amended Act now includes more precise and definitive language, compliance measures to aid in enforcement, increased fines and penalties, and other important changes that strengthen our ability to protect animals.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more

Review of the Animal Health and Protection Act – What we Heard

Feedback Available from Animal Health and Protection Act Review

Provincial Government Seeking Input on Animal Health and Protection Act and Regulations

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BACKGROUNDER

Summary of Amendments to the Animal Health and Protection Act

Define “abandonment” to mean the at an animal:

• • Appears ownerless after reasonable steps have been taken to contact its owner.

• • Is found on rented premises after the expiration or termination of the tenancy agreement.
  • Has been left in the care of another person, establishment of facility and has not been retrieved for more than four days after the agreed-upon retrieval time, or
  • Has been left for more than 24 hours without adequate food, water or shelter.

Amend the definition of “distress” to state that an animal is:

• • In need of proper care, water, food or shelter.

• • In need of reasonable protection from heat or cold, appropriate to the animal.
  • Sick, injured, abused or in pain, or suffering undue or unnecessary hardship, privation or neglect.
  • Confined to an area that is unfit or has insufficient space, lighting or ventilation.
  • Suffering undue or unnecessary anxiety or distress.
  • Deprived of veterinary care or medical treatment.
  • Kept in conditions that contravene the standards of care prescribed in the regulations.
  • Confined in unsanitary conditions,
  • Deprived of the opportunity for adequate exercise.
  • Kept on premises with another animal that may have an adverse impact on the animal.
  • Has been abandoned by the owner in a manner likely to cause distress.

Amend the definition of “owner” to include: 

• • A person who has possession, custody, care, management or control of the animal or who is the owner of the property, house, premises, or part of a premises where an animal is kept or permitted to live or remain.
  • A person who had possession, custody, care, management or control of the animal before the animal was seized, taken into custody, or abandoned.
  • A parent of a minor who is an owner of an animal.
  • Any other person who has responsibility for the animal.

Prohibit the declawing of cats unless explicitly permitted in the regulations.

• • The current Act specifies a fine of up to $50,000, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to six months, or both a fine and imprisonment.
  • The amendment adds the penalty of a fine of up to $75,000 for a second or subsequent offence, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to 12 months of both a fine and imprisonment.
  • The by-laws of the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Veterinarians prohibits veterinarians from performing elective and non-therapeutic declawing of any felid, including domestic cats.
  • Amendments to prohibit the declawing of cats unless explicitly permitted in the regulations aligns with the by-laws and regulations for other prohibited activities, such as docking of tails and cosmetic surgery.

Modernize the language respecting safe containment of dogs and prohibit owners from allowing livestock to run at large.

• • Amendments related to safe containment of dogs and prohibitions from allowing livestock to run at large modernize the legislation and align with language and practices in other jurisdictions.
  • The Act will state “an owner of a dog shall keep it safely contained at all times” and “an owner shall not permit livestock to run at large.”

Permit an inspector to issue an order requiring that a person comply with the Act and regulations.

• • An inspector who finds a person in non-compliance with provisions of the Act or Regulations may order compliance, including setting out the action required to remedy the non-compliance, and specify the time period required to comply with the order.

Increase the penalties and offences under the Act.

• • The current Act specifies a fine of up to $50,000, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to six months, or both a fine and imprisonment.
  • The amendment adds the penalty of a fine of up to $75,000 for a second or subsequent offence, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to 12 months of both a fine and imprisonment.

Incorporate gender-neutral language to modernize the Act and Regulations.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make a highway naming announcement today (Thursday, November 7).

The event will take place in East Block Lobby, Confederation Building, at 12:30 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development.

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission:

Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 50th anniversary of the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Service Commission.

I’m pleased to recognize its significant contribution to the protection of merit in our province, through recruitment practices that are fair, equitable and transparent.

The Public Service Commission is responsible for many crucial programs and initiatives that help our government operate every day – from training and development to employee safety and wellness initiatives and hiring of staff for core government departments.

So far this year, more than 15,000 courses have been completed through our learning and development programs. Our ergonomics team has performed more than 150 ergonomic assessments, which contributes to the health and safety of our employees.

Today, the Public Service Commission has a head start on recruiting the next generation of public service employees. They’ve invited employees with children in Grade Nine to visit the House of Assembly as part of National Take Our Kids to Work Day. We welcome these employees and students here today.

Thank you to the Public Service Commission and its dedicated employees for their service to the province over the past 50 years. I’m proud to be part of their journey as they continue to build a strong and professional workforce, while supporting the well-being of every member of the public service.

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I rise in this honourable house to highlight the resources available and initiatives underway to commemorate Confederation 75 within the K-12 education system.

Our government has a cultural strategy for K-12 education in Newfoundland and Labrador titled Cultural Connections. This initiative aims to increase the presence of cultural content in the school curriculum and foster links between the arts and school communities. To enhance this strategy, and in support of Confederation 75, additional resources are available to educators through the K-12 Professional Learning platform. Lessons are available in English and French and cover a range of topics and titles such as:

• Canada A-Z;
• More Alike than Different;
• The Province in Confederation; and,
• Historical Exploration of Confederation.

Speaker, to complement the 75th anniversary of Confederation, this House of Assembly is offering a professional development opportunity for educators on democracy, governance and citizenship.

Furthermore, in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, Confederation 75 educational resource packages are being offered to schools, and scholarships will be presented to 75 Grade 12 students in the province.

Speaker, all K-12 students will enhance their understanding of Newfoundland and Labrador’s vibrant history and its path before, during and since Confederation. I encourage all K-12 educators to take advantage of these insightful resources and opportunities.

Thank you.

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To ensure that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians receive the most effective policing service, and to meet the evolving needs of our diverse communities, the Provincial Government is enhancing the delivery of policing in the province.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, today announced a $20-million investment in public safety over the next two years.

Part of the $20-million investment will include the establishment of a provincial, 10-member Joint Task Force Unit. The unit will be comprised of RNC and RCMP officers to conduct targeted weapon, drug and contraband enforcement activities. The preliminary focus will be on the Avalon region and the unit will decide the medium and long-term plans, based on crime trends.

This investment also includes:

• Five new RCMP officers for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, as recommended in the public safety review for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, completed by the Policing Transformation Working Group.
• 19 additional officers, starting in 2026-27. These officers will be allocated based on a review of resource requirements, led by the Policing Transformation Working Group.
• An RNC leadership position for the intimate partner violence unit.
• Support for ongoing police training, equipment, fleet, and operational requirements, as required for these initiatives.

In the last five years, the Provincial Government has invested nearly $40 million in additional funding to support RCMP and RNC policing. Budget 2024 allocated 10 new frontline police officers for the RNC, as well as continued funding to address gun and gang activity. It also provided an additional $3 million to support RCMP policing. This builds on the additional $17 million that provided to the RCMP in 2022.

Quotes
“Public safety is paramount to this government. Today’s announcement is a significant step forward to enhancing the delivery of policing in Newfoundland and Labrador. I am pleased to see continued collaboration between the RNC and the RCMP as we work collectively to support the increasing complexity of crime in Newfoundland and Labrador. I look forward to the implementation of the task force and I thank Chief Roche and Assistant Commissioner Cahill for their dedication to public safety and policing across the province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“Any investment in public safety is a positive thing for the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. More officers will help us to meet the expectations of those we serve and increase public confidence in policing. I look forward to working with our friends at the RCMP on the creation of this new unit that will focus on tackling some of the most serious threats in our communities. I believe today’s announcement sends a strong message to drug trafficking networks – as a province we will not tolerate harms caused by illegal drugs and firearms.”
Chief Patrick Roche
Chief of Police, Royal Newfoundland and Labrador Constabulary

“We are extremely pleased with today’s announcement by the Department of Justice and Public Safety to commit additional funding to Public Safety in Newfoundland and Labrador. The creation of an RNC/RCMP joint weapon and drug enforcement team for the province will undoubtedly serve this area well in our efforts to combat weapon and drug related crimes. The two provincial police forces working together sharing intelligence and resources will bring positive results. The addition of five new frontline RCMP positions in Happy Valley-Goose Bay will certainly be an asset and well received by the citizens of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, as well as our officers who are currently posted and working there. Additional funding in support of further resources and day-to-day operations is also very encouraging and will assist our abilities to further combat crime throughout the province and keep our communities safe.”
Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill
Commanding Officer, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labour, proposed amendments to the Labour Standards Act in the House of Assembly today. These include additional unpaid job-protected leave for long-term illness, long-term injury and organ donation; and updated leave provisions for reservists.

With these amendments, workers will now have access of up to 27 weeks per year of job protected leave for long-term illness, long-term injury, or organ donation; or 104 weeks if an illness or injury is the result of a criminal offence.

If passed, the amendments will also update the province’s reservist leave provision to align with protections offered in other jurisdictions, providing reservists with greater access to training and development opportunities, and employers with increased certainty of the duration of the leave. These changes move towards a harmonized national standard for military leave in the country.

The Provincial Government is committed to ensuring labour standards legislation in Newfoundland and Labrador balances the needs of both employers and employees.

The amended Labour Standards Act lays the foundation for enhanced job protection for employees, while supporting business entities with better continuity planning.

Quotes
“This proposed update to the Labour Standards Act ensures those workers who have to be off work for extended periods of time can do so without the added burden of worry related to job security. Whether a worker needs unpaid time off to recover from illness, injury, or organ donation, or if they’re preparing to serve their country, it is important we recognize the need for job protection during that time.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour

“Diabetes Canada supports the proposed amendments to the Labour Standards Act in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. For the nearly 75,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians living with diabetes, these amendments would provide the critical time to take care of one’s health and ensure that the financial impacts of living with a complex condition are minimized through job protection.”
Maria Campbell
Director of Government Affairs and Advocacy at Diabetes Canada

“Nearly 40 per cent of people diagnosed with cancer are in their working years, ages 20 to 64. That means cancer often comes at a time when expenses are high, and others are depending on you. There are already enough worries that come with a cancer diagnosis; wondering if you have a job to come back to shouldn’t be one of them. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is demonstrating strong leadership for expanding job protection for those with serious illnesses to 27 weeks. We know that cancer doesn’t wait – but your job should.”
Andrea Seale
CEO of Canadian Cancer Society

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Issues Addressed by the Labour Standards Act – Environment and Climate Change

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will be available to media to discuss new public safety initiatives, as well as other public safety commitments, today (Wednesday, November 6) at 1:00 p.m. outside of the House of Assembly.

Minister Davis will be joined by Pat Roche, Chief of Police, Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill, Commanding Officer of RCMP B-Division.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced the issuing of a Request for Proposals to award the mineral rights for the Glover Island Exempt Mineral Land.

Glover Island is located within Grand Lake in Western Newfoundland, roughly 30 kilometres southeast of the City of Corner Brook. The Exempt Mineral Land consists of the Lunch Pond gold deposit with an NI 43-101 resource estimate as well as 19 mineral prospects and showings, the majority of which are for gold, but there are also separate prospects for base metals like copper and/or zinc.

The property is currently designated an exempt mineral land, meaning that the mineral rights are reserved for the Crown and may be disposed of by the minister by public tender as per section 30(1) of the Mineral Act.

The successful proponent will be granted exclusive mineral rights under the Mineral Act. The proponent’s commitments will be incorporated as terms and conditions upon issuance of the licence. The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology does not bind itself to accept any proposal or to proceed with disposal of the exempt mineral land.

Closing date for receipt of proposals is January 22, 2025. Further information can be found on the department’s website.

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“Newfoundland and Labrador’s geology provides diverse opportunities for the exploration of mineral resources. We recognize the impact the mining industry has on our economy and are committed to looking at exempt mineral lands with known mineral resources and high potential for development.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Motorists on the Northern Peninsula are advised to be cautious when travelling between Plum Point and the St. Anthony Airport, and on the roadway between St. Anthony Airport and the Town of Main Brook.

Caribou are currently active in these areas and the likelihood of caribou-vehicle collisions may increase. These animals are expected to remain in the region throughout the fall and winter.

Help reduce the risk of a caribou-vehicle collision by:

• Scanning both sides of the highway.
• Paying attention to caribou warning signs on roads and highways.
• Avoiding driving at dusk and dawn when caribou are more active near roads.
• Encouraging passengers to watch for caribou.
• Reducing speeds when driving at night when caribou are more difficult to see.

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The Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, is sharing his condolences following the passing of Murray Sinclair.

“Mr. Sinclair was a true champion of Indigenous rights in Canada, and I am saddened to hear of his passing.

He was a skilled litigator and judge, a passionate advocate, and an experienced senator who offered a wise and measured approach to the most challenging issues.

A former chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Mr. Sinclair’s efforts led the way for transformational change in this country.

As a leader in the justice system, Mr. Sinclair was well known as a diligent helper to young law students and dedicated his life to providing good guidance to those focused on the journey towards Reconciliation.

On behalf of our province, I extend my deepest condolences to Murray Sinclair’s family, his many friends and valued colleagues.”

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills:

 Speaker, I am pleased to share an update on our government’s Working Opportunities Program, a new skills-development initiative empowering residents to overcome barriers to employment and obtain education and skills for better jobs, better pay, and improved well-being.

Working Opportunities is a $3.5-million program that supports the Provincial Government’s Poverty Reduction Plan. It enables eligible unemployed or precariously employed individuals to attend a post-secondary program with the benefit of receiving funding for training costs, a living allowance, and childcare.

This September, the inaugural Working Opportunities class of 44 participants began their journey.

These 44 individuals are attending full-time post-secondary programs ranging from 12 weeks to three years in duration, including practical nursing, paramedicine, pharmacy technician, carpentry, and early childhood education. These individuals are learning new skills that will benefit all of us.

Speaker, I ask all members to join me in wishing the inaugural class of Working Opportunities success in their endeavors, and I encourage members to suggest this program to their constituents.

Thank you.

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