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Public Advisory: Update on Holy Redeemer Elementary School

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 14:00

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure continues to work closely with an environmental consultant to investigate the source of the smell at Holy Redeemer Elementary School.

On May 15, a chemical smell was first detected at the school and a decision was promptly made to close the facility. Since the closure, students have been temporarily relocated to the following neighbouring schools:

  • K to Grade 3 – Bay Roberts Primary
  • Grades 4 to 6 – All Hallows Elementary (North River)
  • Grades 7 to 9 – St. Peter’s Elementary (Upper Island Cove)

This temporary relocation will be in effect for the remainder of the school year. The Provincial Government’s priority is the safety of students and staff at Holy Redeemer Elementary School, as the investigation on the source of the chemical smell continues.

At this time, there have been no conclusive findings from the investigation that determine the source of the odour, and additional testing is planned. The department will release the results to the public.

If there are any questions on this process, please reach out to jimsinnott@nlschools.ca.

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Public Advisory: Spruce Budworm Control Program Set to Begin

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 13:30

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Spruce Budworm Early Intervention Control Program will be active along parts of Western Newfoundland and the Northern Peninsula this summer, subject to insect development and weather. Spruce budworm is a destructive forest insect capable of causing widespread defoliation leading to tree mortality and growth losses.

Aerial treatments will take place on forest land located south of the Bay of Islands, east of Gros Morne National Park extending to the Baie Verte area, north of Gros Morne National Park up to the Plum Point area, and the Roddickton-Bide Arm area.

Up to 90,000 hectares of forest is scheduled to be protected using one or more applications of the biological control agent Btk, which has been approved for use by the Health Canada – Pest Management Regulatory Agency. Additional information about Btk is available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website.

Program information including times, locations and maps related to treatment activities will be available on the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture 2024 Forest Insect Control Program website or by calling the Forest Insect Control Program Daily Update Line at 1-877-636-2996. Public signage and maps will be posted along access roads leading to areas where treatment is planned.

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Media Advisory: Minister Pike to Announce Support for Persons with Disabilities

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 13:15

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, will announce an initiative to improve benefits and achieve a basic income for persons with disabilities tomorrow (Friday, June 7).

Minister Pike will be joined by Dr. Pat Parfrey, Deputy Minister, Health Transformation, as well as Duane Morgan, CNIB Vice President, Atlantic Canada, and Dennis Gill, father of an adult son living with disabilities, Past President of Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador and the Chair of the Buildings Accessibility Advisory Board.

The event will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 11:00 a.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 10:00 a.m.

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Statement from Minister Crocker Regarding Service Impacts Related to the New Marine Atlantic Vessel, Ala’suinu

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 12:50

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is expressing strong concern with the news of service impacts related to mechanical issues with Marine Atlantic’s new vessel, Ala’suinu.

“Marine Atlantic’s announcement of service impacts on the Argentia route could not come at a worse time. We are on the cusp of an incredibly busy and critically important tourism season. There are thousands of people who are traveling to and from the province this summer, and vehicular traffic marks an important demographic of visitors who stay longer and spend more than other travelers.

This is extremely disappointing news. It is incumbent upon Transport Canada and Marine Atlantic to come up with a better, more permanent solution to the lack of capacity in serving the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

I have spoken with the CEO of Marine Atlantic, Murray Hupman, to voice my concerns, and will be meeting with the Federal Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, on Monday (June 10) to reiterate that the challenges around lack of capacity coming from Marine Atlantic need addressing.

I have also been in contact with Craig Foley, CEO of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, and we stand united in our expectation that Marine Atlantic find a swift and efficient solution to this issue to ensure travel is not interrupted during the tourism season.”

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Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Attend Opening of Co. Innovation Centre

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 10:30

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will deliver remarks during the grand opening of the Co. Innovation Centre tomorrow (Friday, June 7).

The event takes place at the Co. Innovation Centre, 710 Torbay Road, St. John’s, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The Co. Innovation Centre is a multi-sectoral space for established and growing companies to converge, collaborate, and cocreate.

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Minister Loveless Assumes Chair of the Canadian Council of Forestry Ministers

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 09:05

The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, participated in Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM) meetings in Cranbrook, British Columbia this week to discuss shared priorities, common challenges, and emerging opportunities in Canada’s forest sector.Minister Loveless assumes the CCFM chair from outgoing chair, the Honourable Bruce Ralston, British Columbia’s Minister of Forests.

With wildfire season underway across Canada and wildland fire events increasing in frequency, intensity and cost, ministers discussed ways to support preparation and response activities, as well as collaboration and coordination of resources to help protect people, property and critical infrastructure.

Newfoundland and Labrador has endorsed the CCFM’s Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy. The strategy outlines actions to enhance whole-of-society collaboration and coordination that help reduce the risk of wildland fire, including expanding investment in prevention and mitigation. Implementation will be ongoing and focus on ensuring a resilient Canada where all parts of society are prepared, empowered, and engaged in preventing and mitigating the negative effects of wildland fires.

Ministers were also updated on continued work regarding sustainable forest management and international trade, including engagement with key partners and Indigenous organizations.

The CCFM was established in 1985 to provide a platform for federal, provincial and territorial governments to work together on common concerns relating the forests. The CCFM provides leadership on national and international issues and sets direction for the stewardship and sustainable management of forests across Canada (www.ccfm.org).

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“While all provinces and territories have varied forest management regimes our discussions this week have highlighted our shared interests and common ground. Thank you to our counterparts in British Columbia and outgoing CCFM chair, Minister Bruce Ralston for their stellar work and leadership. Newfoundland and Labrador is honoured to take the CCFM helm and continue guiding the agenda on the growth and diversification of Canada’s forest sector.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Significant Interest in Green Transition Fund Results in Project Approvals and Second Expression of Interest

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 08:18

There has been significant interest shown for the Provincial Government’s Green Transition Fund with approximately $2.1 million in funding awarded to date. Today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the second call for expressions of interest for the fund, as well as details of a number of approved projects.

To date, throughout the province there have been 11 projects approved and 18 are currently under assessment by the department. For the 29 proposals received, the total project value was $28.2 million with a Green Transition Fund request totaling $9.8 million. This funding has leveraged significant investment from the Federal Government and private sources.

The Green Transition Fund aims to propel forward the development of renewable energy and clean technologies in the province and position Newfoundland and Labrador as a leader in the global green transition. This fund supports the greening of commercial operations, research and development, manufacturing and extractive resource development, and other areas that help transition to a greener economy. An Expression of Interest launched on June 21, 2023 led to 107 applications for funding being received, including six Indigenous-led projects and 24 rural projects.

Following this success, the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is announcing the second expression of interest for the program. This funding will be for projects for businesses, business development organizations, post-secondary institutions and industry associations, as well as other collaborative efforts to assist with the province’s transition to a green economy. Applicants have until July 12, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. NDT to apply. For details on submitting an application, please visit the Green Transition Fund Program webpage.

The department previously announced projects for the St. John’s International Airport Authority and Larch Grove Farm Ltd in Cormack. Information related to additional projects that were recently approved can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“I am encouraged to see the interest being shown in the green transition in this province. We are all working towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050, fighting climate change, advancing environmental stewardship and clean economic growth and will continue to support programs that help us achieve those goals.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“The green economy opportunity that is before Newfoundland and Labrador is truly enormous. Our province has the potential to make a substantive contribution to the world’s fight against climate change. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s creation of the Green Transition Fund – and investments being made through it into projects like those announced today – will help us to seize these opportunities and reach our potential.”
Kieran Hanley
Chief Executive Officer, econext

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Learn more
Green Transition Fund Program

Provincial Government Launches New Green Transition Fund

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BACKGROUNDER

Below are projects approved to receive funding from the Green Transition Fund.

ASL Energy
ASL Energy is receiving $161,404 in funding for a 10-month recycling pilot project to prove the technology in the Newfoundland environment to recycle and add value to waste High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) from the aquaculture industry. The proposed project aims to collect, clean, and process the waste HDPE products, diverting them from landfills and redirecting them to HDPE manufacturers in Canada and globally. ASL Energy’s new technology will reduce the number of trucks required to transport the materials substantially, and will repurpose HDPE materials as a usable product, diverting waste from landfills.

Big River Camps (2012) Inc.
Big River Camps, situated on the banks of Big River in Labrador is receiving $335,590 in funding to reduce their carbon footprint. is an exclusive wilderness retreat accessible only by float plane or helicopter. The camp caters to anglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts and offers all modern conveniences which requires large amounts of energy through a diesel generator system. Big River Camps is proposing to install a custom three phase solar inverter system to operate the facility which is located in an unserviceable area. Big River Camps plans to replace fossil fuel usage with a renewable energy source, decrease energy costs and alleviate the risks associated with the transportation of fossil fuels across ecological sensitive areas. In addition, it lessens air and noise pollution, opens new revenue streams with environmentally conscience visitors and advances the sustainable tourism product offerings in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Brenton Investment Limited
Brenton Investments Limited, who operates the only concrete manufacturing plant located on the Burin Peninsula, is receiving $252,000 in funding. This will assist in expanding operations to include a new split silo to store other types of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs). The use of the SCMs will allow them to produce 30 per cent less CO2 in their concrete operation. In the present to near-term, the cement and concrete sector is focused on optimizing clinker substitutes, reducing reliance on fossil fuels by switching to lower-carbon alternative, increasing the use of recycled materials contributing to the circular economy, promoting market uptake of low-carbon cements and concretes, and maximizing efficiency in concrete design and construction.

econext
econext is receiving $249,550 for their “Greening Business in Newfoundland and Labrador” project, which will focus on three main areas: the development of six educational modules for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) around Green Transition activities, the delivery of these modules both in-person and through online courses, and 25 firm-level SME energy and waste assessments across a variety of industry sectors. The overall goal is to increase awareness of environmental issues/opportunities from a commercial context and to evaluated current companies to determine firm-level opportunities for the 25 participating companies and broad level themes that can be applied province wide.

Energy NL
Energy NL is receiving $270,000 to establish The Energy NL Collective, with plans for it to be a focal point of the sector and foster collaboration within the broader energy sector. Through this collaboration, the unique capabilities and skills of the Newfoundland and Labrador supply and service sector will be enhanced, will lower carbon and waste, and become globally competitive from an environmental perspective. The Energy NL Collective will lead engagement with industry stakeholders and the wider public and seek to broaden the understanding of the province’s energy sector, including investment, supply chain, and the labour force issues and opportunities. The Energy NL Collective will also support members of the province’s energy sector as they progress through their journey in the energy transition, through a pilot program with 20 companies in the Newfoundland and Labrador energy supply chain to participate in a detailed environmental assessment. The target audience for this project is offshore operators, renewable energy companies.

Igloo Lake Lodge
Igloo Lake Lodge, a premier trout fishing lodge located southeast of Goose Bay, Labrador, is receiving $112,611 in funding for the installation of a solar system at the lodge to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and the current need of a diesel generator. With the installation of the solar system, the environmental and cost savings over the future seasons of Igloo Lake will be significant. With the installation of the solar system, the environmental and cost savings over the future seasons of Igloo Lake will be significant.

Miawpukek Horizon Maritime Services Ltd.
Miawpukek Horizon Maritime Services Ltd. is receiving $300,000 from the Green Transition Fund to enable a project to introduce the novel C-Bud Robotics harvesting technology to Canada and to establish Conne River, Newfoundland and Labrador (Miawpukek), as the technical and operating hub for marine robotics for fisheries. The project will see the training and capacity development of Miawpukek First Nation members to lead this emerging market and export technology and services across Canada from Conne River. The new technology presents an environmentally preferable solution to shellfish harvesting and meets the objectives that the world is moving towards related to climate and ecological protection. The technology reduces the carbon footprint of the harvest by approximately 50% while preserving the delicate ocean floor and biodiversity and harvesting a higher quality product, maximizing value, compared to traditional methods.

Rob Clarke Motorsports Inc.
Rob Clarke Motorsports, an adventure tourism and hospitality company servicing the North-Central and Western portion of the island, is receiving $40,931 in funding to minimize the ecological footprint of Silver Mountain Lodge and Rob Clarke Motorsports while maximizing environmental, economic and operational benefits. The project aims to reduce waste, become energy efficient, comply with international standards for environmental management, and eliminate two major sources of fuel consumption -generators and vehicles – by embracing renewable energy sources. The environmental benefits are multi-faceted, encompassing a substantial reduction in solid waste and greenhouse gas emissions. The funding will be used for technical assistance/environmental consultation and a comprehensive off-grid solar energy system.

The OldMill 4-Seasons RV Campground & Lodge Ltd.
The OldMill 4-Seasons R.V. Campground & Lodge Limited, located outside the Town of Avondale is receiving $14,000 in funding for the installation of solar panels to improve operations and become more environmentally friendly. By embracing solar energy, the RV park not only reduces its reliance on traditional energy sources but also sets an example for rural, sustainable living in Newfoundland and Labrador and contributes to the broader adoption of green energy solutions in the tourism industry. The park’s commitment to solar energy will also be an educational tool for guests.

 

 

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Applications Now Open for the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund

Thu, 06/06/2024 - 08:02

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, today announced a call for proposals for the Newfoundland and Labrador Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to further support industrial initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is an application-based funding program that provides financial assistance to support projects that result in verifiable greenhouse gas reductions in industrial sectors across the province. The industrial sector includes electricity generation, mining and quarrying, oil and gas, as well as manufacturing.

Further information on application eligibility and guidelines is available here. The deadline to apply is July 26, 2024.

Valued at over $431,000, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund was established under the Management of Greenhouse Gas Act and is funded solely by regulated industrial facilities. Under the Act, industry operators make payments to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to purchase credits to offset emissions.

Quote
“Our Government remains committed to ensuring a sustainable and green Newfoundland and Labrador for future generations. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is a significant step towards this goal. I encourage industry players to avail of this opportunity and be an active participant in the global transition to a low carbon economy.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

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Learn more
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Application

Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Program Guidelines

Management of Greenhouse Gas Act

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Premier Furey and Minister Dempster Congratulate New Leadership Team of Miawpukek First Nation

Wed, 06/05/2024 - 15:05

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, congratulate the elected Chief and council members of Miawpukek Mi’kamawey Mawi’omi.

The following individuals were declared elected on June 4 by Miawpukek Mi’kamawey Mawi’omi:

  • Chief: Brad Benoit
  • Council: Frank Benoit, Susan Hill, Mike Drew, Barry Joe, Yvonne John, Fernando Jeddore

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador thanks the former members of the council for their role in serving the interests of their community. The Provincial Government also extends appreciation to all individuals who advanced their names as candidates in the election.

Quotes
“Congratulations to Chief Brad Benoit on his re-election and to the council members who are taking on an important responsibility. I am looking forward to working with the leadership team and building on the partnership which we have established with the Miawpukek First Nation.
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Chief Benoit and the newly-elected members of the council have earned the trust and support of the people of Miawpukek Mi’kamawey Mawi’omi. It is an honour and a privilege to serve and work on behalf of the people of your community. We share the responsibility of working together to advance the priorities and vision of the council and the Mi’kmaq people.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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Miawpukek First Nation

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Media Advisory: Minister Davis to Participate in Event to Celebrate Porter Airlines New St. John’s – Ottawa Route

Wed, 06/05/2024 - 13:46

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will participate in St. John’s International Airport Authority’s launch event for the new Porter Airlines St. John’s – Ottawa route tomorrow (Thursday, June 6).

The event will begin at 4:00 p.m. at The Rock Steakhouse, 7 Navigator Avenue, St. John’s.

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Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Speak at 2024 Energy NL Conference and Exhibition

Wed, 06/05/2024 - 13:30

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will speak at the annual Energy NL Conference and Exhibition tomorrow (Thursday, June 6).

The event takes place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Energy NL was founded in 1977 to represent the supply and service sector of the energy industry. The organization represents over 460 members worldwide which are involved in, or benefit from, the energy industry of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Public Advisory: Raymond Brook Bridge on Pipeline Road in Goulds Closed

Wed, 06/05/2024 - 13:15

Raymond Brook Bridge on Pipeline Road in Goulds is closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic effective immediately due to damage.

Please see overview map for location details.

For further information contact the Land Management Division at 709-637-2081.

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Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Join Canadian Delegation Traveling to Normandy, France, in Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day

Wed, 06/05/2024 - 12:00

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, is travelling to Normandy, France, as part of a Canadian delegation to honour the 80th anniversary of D-Day today (Wednesday, June 5).

On Juno Beach on D-Day, during the Second World War, thousands of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians served at sea, on land and in the air.

Veterans and leaders from around the world are expected to be in attendance to participate in the commemorative events. The Canadian delegation will include the Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada; the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence; Canadian Second World War Veterans and their families, including those who fought on D-Day and during the Battle of Normandy; representatives of Veterans’ organizations and Indigenous groups; and parliamentarians.

Premier Furey will attend the signature commemorative ceremony on Juno Beach on June 6, 2024, which will be live-streamed through Canadian broadcasters, as well as the international commemorative ceremony on Omaha Beach later that afternoon.

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Media Advisory: Minister Davis to Attend New Gardening Initiative Demonstration

Tue, 06/04/2024 - 10:31

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will participate in a gardening initiative at the pilot installation site for the Growing Through the Ages program tomorrow (Wednesday, June 5).

The event will take place at the Sensory Gardens at the Torbay Commons, 8 Kinsmen Place, Torbay, NL, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Growing Through the Ages is an intergenerational gardening program administered by Conservation Corps NL in collaboration with community partners throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Changes to Lottery Licensing Regulations Effective in July

Tue, 06/04/2024 - 06:30

The Provincial Government is changing the rules for lottery licensing to modernize the process and make it easier for eligible charitable and religious organizations applying for a licence.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL will be available to the media to discuss the changes to the Lottery Licensing Regulations today (Tuesday, June 4) at 10:00 a.m. in the West Block lobby of Confederation Building.

Eligible charitable and religious organizations that wish to hold a series of events will now be able to obtain a two-year licence. Eligible organizations that run an annual lottery event will only have to submit a new licensing application every five years but will receive a licence annually upon notifying the department of the draw date and prize amount.

To allow time for charitable and religious organizations to prepare and modify any of their processes, the effective date of the changes will be July 2, 2024.

Applications submitted before July 2, 2024 will be assessed based on the current rules.

Information on this change and other changes to the lottery licensing process is available in the backgrounder below.

Information is also available on the department’s website about what organizations and activities are considered eligible or ineligible. To apply for a lottery licence, organizations can use the online application.

The changes are a result of consultations conducted by the Department of Digital Government and Service NL with key stakeholders and the public.

The consultations focused on five main areas:

  • Clarification of licensing requirements;
  • Electronic and online gaming;
  • Delegation of lottery operation and management;
  • Contract restrictions; and
  • Approved types of lotteries.

A What We Heard document is available online and outlines the feedback received during the consultation process.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Lottery Licensing Regulations align with the terms and criteria outlined in the Criminal Code of Canada. The Provincial Government encourages charitable and religious organizations interested in operating a lottery to become familiar with the rules for charitable lotteries in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Lottery Licensing Regulations are available in the Newfoundland and Labrador Gazette.

Quote
“The valuable feedback we received during the consultation process has helped to inform these changes and I look forward to seeing how they will improve the experience of charitable groups and the public.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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BACKGROUNDER

Lottery Licensing Changes

Before After Eligibility for a lottery licence is assessed for each lottery licence application. Allow separate applications for lottery scheme licences and allow up to five-year eligibility for a lottery licence, subject to applicable criteria. A lottery licence period cannot be longer than 12 months, unless expressly authorized by the Department of Digital Government and Service NL. A lottery licence period for a series of lottery events can now be in effect for 24 months. The maximum pay out for a single Bingo event is $1,500 and for a combined Bingo event is $3,000. The maximum pay out for a single Bingo event is $2,500 and for a combined Bingo event is $5,000.

 

  Prize winners in a ticket lottery are notified of the results of the draw by telephone, registered mail or in person.

  Prize winners in a ticket lottery can now be notified of the results of the draw by email. Other than payout rules for Bingo lotteries and ticket lotteries, there are no payout rules for other types of lotteries.

  All types of lotteries now require payout rules. Contracts are only allowed where the method of payment is fixed and pre-determined.

 

Payment terms based upon a percentage or commission is not allowed.

 

20 per cent commission paid on ticket or entry sales are allowed.

  Percentage payment contracts or agreements with suppliers are now allowed with a cap of 15 per cent of gross receipts.

 

The 20 per cent commission paid on ticket or entry sales remain unchanged. No reference to electronic raffles or electronic gaming equipment.

  The operation of electronic raffles and the use of electronic gaming equipment is now allowed.

 

Rules on operational requirements and technical specifications for electronic raffles and electronic gaming equipment is available here.

 

  Electronic raffles are allowed for the selling of paper-based tickets only. Other electronic gaming equipment that allows the sale of an electronic ticket, selection of a winner and distribution of a prize, is now also allowed, in addition to electronic raffles.

  The rules for ticket lotteries only allow paper-based tickets. The rules for ticket lotteries have been updated to allow for electronic tickets, in addition to paper-based tickets.

 

 

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Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Speak at 2024 Energy NL Conference and Exhibition

Mon, 06/03/2024 - 13:45

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will speak at the annual Energy NL Conference and Exhibition tomorrow (Tuesday, June 4).

The event takes place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Energy NL was founded in 1977 to represent the supply and service sector of the energy industry. The organization represents over 460 members worldwide which are involved in, or benefit from, the energy industry of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Provincial Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program Now Accepting Funding Proposals

Mon, 06/03/2024 - 13:20

Funding proposals for the Provincial Government’s Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program are now being accepted for consideration. The program opened for submissions on June 1, and the deadline for submitting a proposal is June 28, 2024.

The Provincial Government’s Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program reaffirms the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to preventing violence experienced by Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals in the province.

Projects eligible to receive funding through the program include initiatives focused on:

  • Increasing awareness, education, and training,
  • Investing in leadership development,
  • Building community capacity, and
  • Enhancing opportunities for healing.

Through Budget 2024, the Office of Women and Gender Equality has allocated $271,000 to the Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program. Since 2005, over $3.9 million has been provided.

Program guidelines, criteria, application form and contact information can be found here.

Quotes
“Our government supports violence prevention efforts that are developed, led and implemented by Indigenous Governments and Organizations. The Provincial Government’s Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program supports initiatives that address the root causes of violence, promoting healing and resilience, while enhancing the safety and well-being of Indigenous women, children, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and their communities.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“We are pleased to continue working collaboratively with Indigenous women’s groups and organizations. In the spirit of Reconciliation, we are proud to support innovative and community-based projects that take aim at preventing violence, fostering healing, and sharing knowledge.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program

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Seniors’ Advocate Recognizes Seniors’ Month in Newfoundland and Labrador

Mon, 06/03/2024 - 12:55

Every June, Newfoundland and Labrador celebrates seniors. It is a time to acknowledge and recognize how much seniors contribute to their families, neighbours, communities and the province as a whole.

We recognize seniors by showing respect and by valuing the knowledge, wisdom and skills that come from a lifetime of experiences. Seniors are the moving force in Newfoundland and Labrador as community leaders, conscientious voters, workforce members and volunteers.

On June 1, we recognized Intergenerational Day, and we remember that opportunities to fully participate in all aspects of society must never be restricted or limited by a lack of understanding between generations. It is these interpersonal connections that help build stronger communities and families and enhance our well-being. To strengthen ties, we must focus on what is shared rather than the years between us.

To promote positive attitudes during Seniors’ Month, the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate is conducting a social media campaign to dispel stereotypes about aging and to celebrate the many opportunities that can come with growing older. Please visit our website www.seniorsadvocatenl.ca/SeniorsMonth.aspx for more information on this campaign and to submit an application.

Quote
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to all seniors throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. We recognize you and all you have done and continue to do for your families and communities. And I would like to especially offer my heartfelt gratitude to the hundreds of seniors who have invited me into your communities and taken the time to meet and tell me about what is important to you as Newfoundland and Labrador seniors.”
Susan Walsh
Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contact
Arlene Mullins
709-729-6603, 1-833-729-6603 (toll free)
seniorsadvocate@seniorsadvocatenl.ca 

The post Seniors’ Advocate Recognizes Seniors’ Month in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

Public Advisory: New High-Cost Credit Regulations Now In Effect

Mon, 06/03/2024 - 12:20

Amendments to the Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act that establish a regulatory framework and rules for high-cost credit lenders operating in Newfoundland and Labrador, came into effect on Saturday, June 1.

The purpose of the new rules is to better protect consumers who may need to use high-cost credit services to take out a loan.

This makes Newfoundland and Labrador the first Atlantic province to implement a regulatory regime specific to high-cost credit lenders.

The new rules include prohibitive practices for high-cost credit lenders, as well as specific guidelines that these lenders are required to follow in order to enter into a credit agreement with a consumer. A loan with an interest rate at or above the Bank of Canada rate, plus 22 per cent, is considered a high-cost credit product in Newfoundland and Labrador under the new rules. This is tied with Quebec for the lowest threshold in the country.

High-cost credit lending services are distinct from services provided by banks, credit unions and payday lenders, and offer installment loans at high interest rates. The cost of borrowing for a consumer may include additional fees and compounding interest. These financing arrangements may be used for various purposes, including lease-to-own home furnishings, renovations, or vehicle purchases.

Information on high-cost credit licensing is available here.

Since April 1, 2019, Newfoundland and Labrador has been regulating payday loans. Payday loans are for small amounts of less than $1,500 with payment terms under 62 days. The maximum cost of borrowing for payday loans in this province is $14 per $100 loaned, which is the lowest in the country.

Information on payday lender licensing is available here.

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Premier Furey and Minister Crocker Share Condolences on the Passing of Roger Jamieson

Mon, 06/03/2024 - 11:36

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is sharing their condolences following the passing of Roger Jamieson.

“It is with deep sadness that we share our condolences on the passing of friend and valued contributor to the tourism and hospitality industry, Mr. Roger Jamieson.

Roger was the owner and operator of Kilmory Resort in Swift Current, winning numerous awards, including Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s 2022 Accommodation of the Year most recently.

Not only was Roger a tourism operator, he was also a passionate advocate for the province’s tourism industry. Over the course of his life, he was a longtime board member and chair of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism Board and served on the boards of both the Tourism Industry Association of Canada and Destination Canada (formerly the Canadian Tourism Commission).

On behalf of our province, we extend deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, past and present. There is no doubt that his decades of commitment to the industry have helped put Newfoundland and Labrador on the map as a premiere travel destination. Thank you, Roger. Rest easy.”

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