Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister of Labrador Affairs, is participating in the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly from October 17-19 in Reykjavik, Iceland.

The assembly is the largest annual international gathering on Arctic and northern issues. The event brings together representatives of governments, organizations, universities, policy institutes and Indigenous Governments and Organizations. Discussions are focused on international engagement and cooperation in areas such as economic development, energy and food security, and climate change.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Dempster Participating in Arctic Circle Assembly appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, is pleased to announce the province’s newest appointments to the King’s Counsel by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

The honorary title of King’s Counsel recognizes senior lawyers for exceptional merit and contribution to the legal profession. These lawyers have served a minimum of 10 years as a member of the bar, have gained the respect of the legal community and are in good standing with the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Appointments are made after consultation with the Legal Appointments Board as outlined in the King’s Counsel Act.

Those appointed to King’s Counsel are Frederick J. Constantine, Annette M. Conway, Justin S. C. Mellor, Regan P. O’Dea, Kathleen O’Reilly, Griffith D. Roberts, Allison M. Whelan and Denise Woodrow. Biographies of each appointee can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“My sincerest congratulations to those appointed to King’s Counsel. This designation is a symbol reserved for those who have truly demonstrated their exceptional commitment to their community and the legal profession. I look forward to their future contributions to our province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

-30-

BACKGROUNDER

Biographies for King’s Counsel Appointees
Fred Constantine
For over 25 years, Fred Constantine has served a variety of clients in the marine, environmental and fisheries industries as a partner with the St. John’s office of the regional firm Cox and Palmer. Currently, as the Vice-President and General Counsel for the Woodward Group of Companies, he is involved in commercial and corporate projects that include aviation services, auto dealerships and a regional, national and international shipping business. Mr. Constantine is an active volunteer and board participant with a variety of regional and national organizations, including positions with the provincial branch of the Canadian Cancer Society for nearly 20 years. Fred Constantine is a proud graduate of Memorial University and Dalhousie Law School.

Annette M. Conway
Annette Conway began her legal career with Curtis Dawe Law Firm as a summer student in 1993 and articled under Bruce Winsor, K.C. She was called to the bar in 1995. Her work has focused on civil litigation, insurance litigation, municipal law, and fertility law. In 2022, she became in-house counsel with Aviva Trial Lawyers as senior litigation counsel. She was peer-selected for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in Canada in both 2022 and 2023 for her work in corporate and commercial litigation, as well as insurance law and health care law. A graduate of Memorial University and the University of Windsor, she has appeared in all levels of court in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Ms. Conway is an active volunteer and is currently a director of Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador. Ms. Conway is the proud mom of her teenage children, Quinn and Mattie, and enjoys travelling with her family, writing, hiking, kayaking and practicing the martial art of aikido.

Justin Mellor
Justin Mellor holds a Bachelor of Arts, (Hons) in history from Memorial University, a Master of Arts in War Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada, as well as Bachelor and Master of Laws degrees from Dalhousie Law School. As the manager of Civil Litigation for the Department of Justice and Public Safety, he appears before all levels of court in this province, as well as the Federal Court of Canada, the Federal Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada. Through his tenure in the civil service, he has worked in a variety of fields, including litigation, human rights, environmental assessment, constitutional and Indigenous law. In 2010, Mr. Mellor was among a four-person team that received the Public Service Award of Excellence for successfully negotiating the Innu Land Claim Agreement in Principle. He has lectured at Memorial’s Law and Society program, and guest lectures in Osgoode Hall Law School’s Graduate Program in Law. Mr. Mellor is a Governor of the Law Foundation and has served on Memorial University’s Interdisciplinary Committee in Ethics in Human Research as well as the Health Ethics Research Board’s genetics and clinical trials committees. Justin Mellor lives in St. John’s with his wife Mary Jane and his sons Eli and Samuel.

Regan O’Dea
Regan O’Dea currently serves as Vice-President, General Counsel with Fortis. He practices primarily in the areas of corporate/commercial, corporate finance, tax, compliance, governance and business law, including advising on the acquisition of public utilities in North America and major initiatives. A graduate of Mount Allison University, Mr. O’Dea obtained his Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick in 2000. He is an active community volunteer, participating on several not-for-profit boards and advisory committees. Regan O’Dea lives in St. John’s with his wife Stacey O’Dea, their two teenage children, Cian and Reese.

Kathleen O’Reilly
Upon graduation from Memorial University, Kathleen O’Reilly spent several years teaching English abroad before deciding on a career in law, graduating from the University of Calgary in 2003. She has spent most of her career as a Crown Prosecutor. Currently, her role in the Special Prosecutions Office includes the prosecution of homicides and complex prosecutions, appellate work before the Court of Appeal of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Supreme Court of Canada. During her tenure in private practice with Morris Martin Moore, she represented victims of abuse and participated in the Journey Project Legal Support Service, providing legal advice to survivors of sexual violence. She is a member of the Federal Judicial Advisory Committee and the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Disciplinary Committee and is an active community volunteer. Kathleen O’Reilly lives in St. John’s with her husband Kris Carnell, and is the proud mother of John, Una and Timothy.

Griffith D. Roberts
A graduate of Memorial University and Dalhousie Law School, Griffith Roberts is a partner at Cox and Palmer, having joined one of its predecessor firms in 1993 as a student at law. Recognized by Lexpert as a leading practitioner in the areas of banking, corporate commercial, electricity, as well as insolvency and financial restructuring law, Mr. Roberts has also been named by the Best Lawyers in Canada as a Lawyer of the Year in the areas of banking and finance, corporate, and insolvency and financial restructuring law. He has actively volunteered with community organizations throughout his career, including the Rotary Club of St. John’s, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, and the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, where he was a board member and corporate secretary for 15 years. Griffith Roberts lives in St. John’s with his wife Laurie, who is also a lawyer and the secret to all his success. While his two sons, Thomas and Nathaniel did not become lawyers, both have successfully embarked on careers of their own providing AI-based research services to the legal profession.

Allison Whelan
Recognized as a Lexpert ‘Rising Stars: Leading Lawyers Under 40’ in 2023, Allison Whelan is currently the Managing Partner of the Stewart McKelvey St. John’s office.
She earned her undergraduate degree from Memorial University in 2005, and her law degree from the University of New Brunswick in 2008. Ms. Whelan received her Master of Laws in Taxation from Osgoode Hall Law School in 2018 and has since developed a specialized practice in tax litigation, serving clients across the Atlantic region, while working closely with energy clients in the development of their renewable energy projects. Ms. Whelan is an active member of her community, recently finishing board terms with Kids Eat Smart Foundation and the Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission Board of Commissioners. Allison Whelan lives in St. John’s with her husband, John Whelan, and their two children, Jack and Evelyn.

Denise Woodrow
Denise Woodrow received her Bachelor of Commerce (Co-operative) from Memorial University in 1999 and Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University in 2003. Currently the Assistant Deputy Minister, Legal Services with the Department of Justice and Public Safety, she has served as a solicitor with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for over 17 years, advising several departments on a wide variety of matters.
Ms. Woodrow lives in St. John’s with her husband and is kept busy with two daughters who occupy most of her time, including volunteerism associated with school activities and sports teams. Denise Woodrow has been a practicing member of the Bar of Newfoundland and Labrador since 2004.

The post Minister Davis Announces King’s Counsel Appointments appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will take part in an event tomorrow (Thursday, October 17) to mark the completion of construction of the new adult Mental Health and Addictions Centre in St. John’s.

The event will take place at the new centre located on the site of the Health Sciences Centre, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John’s, beginning at 3:00 p.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 2:30 p.m. Media will meet at the main entrance for an escort to the location of the technical briefing.

A tour of a section of the new hospital will be provided for media following the event.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development; the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions; Karen Stone, KC, Interim CEO, NL Health Services; Brad Glynn, Executive Director, Lifewise Mental Health Peer Services; and Hafeez Habib, Senior Vice President, Plenary Americas, Avalon Healthcare Partnership.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Mark Completion of Construction of the New Adult Mental Health and Addictions Centre appeared first on News Releases.

The Department of Digital Government and Service NL is reminding the public that they should consider having their winter tires installed before road conditions turn to snow and ice.

Those who choose to use studded tires may do so as of Friday, November 1.

Motorists are encouraged to drive safely and exercise caution when they are on the road, and remember throughout the winter to:

• Slow down and drive according to weather conditions.
• Give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
• Pay attention and listen for any issued travel advisories.
• Carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.
• Remove all snow from your vehicle’s roof, hood, windows and lights.
• Ensure your tires are in good condition.
• Ensure your brakes, wipers and lights are all working properly.
• Ensure all fluid levels are checked regularly.
• Make sure to stay back 50 metres behind snowplows.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Studded Tires Permitted as of November 1 appeared first on News Releases.

The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-045 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report:  A-2024-045 Report Date: October 15, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made five access to information requests to the Department of Justice and Public Safety seeking information on legal bills and the costs of expert witnesses for several criminal prosecutions. The Department withheld all responsive records, asserting that the legal bills were covered by solicitor-client privilege and the expert witness costs were covered by litigation privilege. The Complainant argued that not all aspects of a legal bill would violate solicitor-client privilege if disclosed, and that all litigation in the criminal prosecutions was over and therefore litigation privilege could not apply. Given that the prosecutions were over, that the identity of the client was known, and that there were multiple criminal proceedings for which information was sought, the Commissioner recommended releasing specific parts of the legal bills in order to disclose the overall cost. As for the claim of litigation privilege, the Commissioner determined that it was not applicable in this case as the prosecutions were finished. The Commissioner therefore recommended the release of specific information within the responsive records that disclosed the total payments made to experts in the criminal prosecutions at the center of the access request.

-30-

 

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-045 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, is participating in Canada’s Productivity Summit today (Wednesday, October 16) in Calgary, Alberta. While in Western Canada, Minister Coady will attend investor relations meetings.

Canada’s Productivity Summit is an opportunity to share best practices and build a stronger economic foundation for growth. In Newfoundland and Labrador, the economy is performing well this year-to-date. Financial improvements, transformation and modernization, and effective treasury management are helping to build a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, sustainable province.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Coady to Participate in Canada’s Productivity Summit and Attend Investor Relations Meetings appeared first on News Releases.

PictureNL’s Year of the Arts Film Series, which shines a spotlight on the talented filmmakers from this province, continues this fall.

The October film will be Maudie, starring Ethan Hawke and Sally Hawkins and filmed in St. John’s, Keels and Trinity Bay. The film will be screened at The Rooms on October 17 and at the Rotary Arts Centre in Corner Brook on October 21. PictureNL will moderate a question-and-answer session after the screenings with director Aisling Walsh. Aisling Walsh will also host a free Beginner Screenwriting Workshop in Corner Brook on Monday, October 21, at the Rotary Arts Centre. To register, visit the Rotary Arts Centre website.

The November event will highlight six local short films: Faeries – Black Creates Program; Poster Child – Brianna Russell; Thumbs Up – Mike Simms; After – Nyah Williams; Scored by Time – Nicola Hawkins; and Sweet Pickle – Lois Brown. The date for this screening is November 21 at The Rooms and November 18 on the West Coast.

The December screening will be A Christmas Fury, starring Mary Walsh, Jonny Harris, Shaun Majumder, Joel Thomas Hynes and more, follows the Hatching, Matching and Dispatching family during a particularly catastrophic Christmas. This event will take place on December 5 in St. John’s and December 18 in Corner Brook.

Tickets for these events can be purchased at The Rooms by calling 709-757-8090 or visiting The Rooms website. Tickets for Corner Brook screenings can be purchased on the Rotary Arts Centre’s website or by calling their box office at 709-630-0012.

Quote
“PictureNL’s Year of the Arts Film Series has been a great way to showcase the talent that exists in our local film industry. The fall schedule is excellent and I encourage anyone who is interested to take in the final screenings.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“With the Year of the Arts screenings, we’ve not only celebrated the rich talent and history of Newfoundland and Labrador’s film industry but also connected communities across the province with stories that resonate on a local and global scale. The success of these screenings reinforces our commitment to nurturing and showcasing the unique voices of our filmmakers, and we’re excited to see the continued growth and recognition of our homegrown talent.”
Laura Churchill
CEO, Picture NL

-30-

Learn more
PictureNL

Follow us on X @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

 

The post PictureNL’s Year of the Arts Film Series Continues this Fall appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, and the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Attorney General of Newfoundland and Labrador, will participate in the meeting of Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Justice and Public Safety in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories from October 17-18.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Ministers Davis and Hogan to Participate in FPT Meetings of Ministers Responsible for Justice and Public Safety appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture today announced new measures to remove barriers when applying for, or securing property title to, Crown lands.

Changes include amending the Lands Act to better support title seekers trying to acquire legal ownership of Crown lands based on adverse possession – commonly referred to as “squatter’s rights.”

Along with legislative amendments planned for the fall sitting of the House of Assembly, other measures include:

• Creating a new policy that enables the Provincial Government to relinquish its right to Crown lands by issuing a quitclaim deed to title seekers who have occupied lands long-term. This would enable title seekers to privately resolve challenges associated with securing title.
• Preparing to launch a modernized, mobile-friendly online portal that will improve the Crown lands application process.
• Continuing policy review that will improve and modernize Crown lands management, service delivery, application processing times, and enforcement.

In 2022, the Provincial Government engaged the public, interested parties and experts for input on improving Crown lands processes. Feedback indicated an expectation of reduced wait times for Crown lands applications, and removal of barriers for applications based on adverse possession or long-term possession of land.

Legislative measures include:

• Making it easier for applicants to prove adverse possession against the Crown by changing the required land possessory period from the current 20 continuous years immediately prior to January 1, 1977, to a period of 10 continuous years immediately prior to January 1, 1977.
• Enabling the Provincial Government to issue a certificate declaring it claims no interest in a parcel of land.
• Allowing the Minister the option to approve additional structures under Section 7 of the Lands Act related to shoreline reservations.
• Providing more flexibility for applicants by allowing the removal of timeframes currently required under the Act.

When enacted, the new policy to issue quitclaim deeds in certain cases where there has been long-term residential occupation will remove the Provincial Government’s interest from a property. This will help those seeking to obtain “good title” who can prove long-term possession of their primary residence but may not meet requirements to establish adverse possession under the Lands Act.

In response to the call for reduced wait times, the launch of a new Online Crown Land Application Portal will allow applicants to submit supporting documents, maps and fees online. The new portal will help eliminate application errors, simplify fee payments, and reduce the number of incomplete submissions received.

Quote
“Securing Crown land title or proving long-term land possession can be challenging, especially during times when difficult decisions and major life changes are at hand. The measures announced today aim to lessen some of the emotional and financial burdens so often associated with real estate transactions, estate management, and other legal concerns. We appreciate the thoughtful and valuable insights we received from the public and interested groups as we strive to strike a balance between our duty to manage and protect Crown lands, and our duty to serve the needs of the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on X @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

Like FFA on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Announcing Upcoming Legislation and New Measures to Transform Crown Lands Approvals, Access and Wait Times appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will attend the Expertise Hub Co-operative grand opening ceremony tomorrow (Wednesday, October 16).

The event takes place at the Centre for Social Enterprise, BN-4015, Faculty of Business Administration, Memorial University, St. John’s, at 11:00 a.m.

The Expertise Hub Co-operative is a Newfoundland and Labrador grown solution to the challenges facing international professionals migrating to the province and to the country. Drawing on the seven principles of co-operatives, their mission is to foster inclusion, dismantle barriers, and generate momentum for economic transformation.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Attend Expertise Hub Co-operative Grand Opening appeared first on News Releases.

Provincial Government online payment services are undergoing required maintenance overnight Wednesday, October 16, between 9:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. (8:30 p.m. and 2:30 a.m. in parts of Labrador).

Payments for all Provincial Government online services will be unavailable during this time, with the exception of Arts and Culture Centre Ticketing and Personal Property Registry.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Required Maintenance for Online Payment Services appeared first on News Releases.

As of today, operator safety training is mandatory for users of off-road vehicles who:

• Are under 16 years of age.
• Are registering an off-road vehicle with the Motor Registration Division for the first time.
• Have had their off-road vehicle registration suspended or cancelled because of a conviction under the Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations, as a condition of reinstatement.

Anyone who is supervising a person under the age of 16 who is operating an off-road vehicle will be required to ensure that the person has completed the training.

While training is only mandatory for some users, anyone who operates an off-road vehicle is encouraged to complete the training.

Operators are encouraged to download and review the free Off-Road Vehicles Handbook and take the free test online at MyGovNL. Upon completion of the training, which requires a minimum score of 80 per cent, the operator can print a certificate of completion or save it to a mobile phone.

Anyone without a device to complete the training or print the certificate may do so at an Employment Support Centre or public library or contact the Motor Registration Division at 1-877-636-6867. The training is also available in alternate formats by calling the Motor Registration Division.

Approximately 1,600 users have already completed the free safety training program, which has been available on MyGovNL since May 24, 2024. Those who completed the training before October 15, 2024, will not have to complete it again, unless their off-road vehicle registration is suspended or cancelled because of a conviction under the Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations, as a condition of reinstatement.

Other training courses approved by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles, such as in-person training, will also be accepted.

Proof of successful completion of safety operator training must be carried at all times while using an off-road vehicle.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Off-Road Vehicle Operator Safety Training is Now Mandatory appeared first on News Releases.

Co-operatives play a vital role in creating jobs and supporting local economies in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. To recognize their contributions, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, in cooperation with the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Co-operatives (NLFC), has declared October 13-19 as Co-op Week in the province.

This week offers a chance to reflect on the positive impact that co-operatives have on the lives of Canadians and to celebrate their role in building stronger communities.

There are about 70 registered co-operatives in Newfoundland and Labrador employing more than 1,000 people supported by some 100,000 people who are member-owners. Co-operatives are helping to improve, sustain and stimulate the social and economic conditions in communities throughout this province, providing opportunities in areas such as housing, child care and financial services.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology recognizes the important work of the NLFC in supporting the ongoing growth and development of the co-operative sector. The department and the NLFC collaborate to support existing co-ops and the development of new co-ops and micro-businesses in the province. For example, the department’s financial contribution to the NLFC Co-operative Incubator Pilot Program for co-op startups led to three co-ops successfully graduating and becoming provincially incorporated.

Through the Community Capacity Building (CCB) program, as well as the Regional Development Program (RDP), the department supports co-operatives and other community-based economic development organizations to enhance skills and implement projects essential to regional economic planning and development. Groups interested in learning more about the co-operative business model and available opportunities should contact their local IET office or the NLFC.

Quotes
“The co-operative sector contributes significantly to the local and provincial economy by providing programs and services and creating employment opportunities across Newfoundland and Labrador. I would like to thank the NLFC for their continued work to support individuals and purpose-led businesses to have a positive impact on communities small and large. We will continue to work with co-operatives and the NLFC to support the ongoing growth and development of the co-operative sector.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“For 75 years, the Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Co-operatives has been supporting the co-operatives of our province representing over 100,000 members! This Co-op Week, we assert that “CO-OP’S MEAN BUSINESS!” While driven by social benefits like quality of life for members and their shared communities, economic goals of profitability and providing jobs are equally prioritized. Co-operative businesses are ensuring a future for our province!”
Dave Walsh
Managing Director, Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

-30-

Learn more
Community Capacity Building

Social Enterprise Action Plan

Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

Follow us on X @IET_GovNL

Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

 

The post Provincial Government Celebrates Co-op Week appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will hold a news conference to announce actions that will remove barriers when applying for, or securing title to, Crown lands.

The announcement will be held in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, on Tuesday, October 15, at 1:00 p.m.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Byrne to Announce Crown Land Changes that Remove Barriers and Improve Access   appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

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

The Proponent is proposing to develop 11.5 kilometers of mountain biking and silent-sport trails that would connect to an existing trail network also owned and operated by the proponent. Construction would involve hand tools and mechanized equipment, following the construction standards of the International Mountain Biking Association. A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on October 11, 2024; the deadline for public comment is November 15, 2024, and the Minister’s decision is due by November 25, 2024.

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT SUBMITTED:

Botwood Flowers Hill Quarry (Reg. 2287)
Proponent: C&H Construction

The Proponent has submitted an environmental preview report (EPR) for the above undertaking as required by the Minister. The EPR document is available on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2287/

Public comments regarding the EPR are welcome and may be emailed to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca or they may be mailed to the address below:

Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6

Public comments must be received by November 15, 2024; and the Minister’s decision on the EPR is due by November 25, 2024.

UNDERTAKING RELEASED:

Torbaymans Pond Concrete Batch Plant (Reg. 2320)
Proponent: Eastern Ready Mix and Precast Ltd.

The Project is released from environmental assessment subject to the conditions as outlined in the Minister’s decision letter available on the Department’s Project web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/projects-2320/.

Learn more

Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

A ceremony commemorating the culture and historical significance of the Beothuk was held today at the Confederation Building in St. John’s.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, participated in the unveiling of a bronze statue honouring Demasduit, her husband, Nonosabasut, and their infant son; and an unveiling of artwork depicting a Beothuk family.

The Premier and Minister were joined by Indigenous leaders or their designates from Newfoundland and Labrador, including:

• Minister David Dicker, Jr. and Minister Terry Vincent, Nunatsiavut Government
• Jodie Ashini, Innu Nation
• Chief Brad Benoit, Miawpukek First Nation
• Chief Jenny Brake, Qalipu First Nation
• Todd Russell, NunatuKavut Community Council
• Saqamaw Mi’sel Joe, Traditional Chief
• Brendan Mitchell, Regional Chief for Newfoundland, Assembly of First Nations

The Beothuk statue, which is situated at the base of the steps leading to the front entrance of Confederation Building, was created by Morgan MacDonald of the Newfoundland Bronze Foundry in St. John’s. A proposal submitted by the sculptor was selected following a call for Expressions of Interest issued by the Provincial Government. A design submitted by Brittany Wiseman of Conne River provided the inspiration for the bronze statue. The Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation collaborated with Indigenous Governments and Organizations and Mr. MacDonald to finalize the design for the life-size bronze statue.

The painting, which commemorates the Beothuk people who formerly lived in parts of the Island of Newfoundland, was created by artist Craig Goudie of Grand Falls-Windsor. The Provincial Government issued an Expression of Interest to acquire the Beothuk artwork.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has acquired six pieces of artwork. They include the Beothuk painting and five pieces of art from each of the five Indigenous Governments and Organizations in the province. The artwork will be displayed as part of a permanent exhibit in the East Block lobby of Confederation Building.

Ceremonies to unveil the artwork representative of the Nunatsiavut Government, Innu Nation, Miawpukek First Nation, Qalipu First Nation and the NunatuKavut Community Council will be held at later dates.

The acquisition of a Beothuk statue and the Beothuk artwork is founded on a belief that actions which respect and honour the culture and heritage of Indigenous Peoples are an important step on the path towards Reconciliation. The statue and artwork are part of a broader objective of the Provincial Government to promote symbols that better reflect the diversity, resilience and history of the Indigenous Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that Indigenous Governments and Organizations and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador achieved in procuring a statue and artwork that commemorates the culture and history of the Beothuk. Finally, Indigenous peoples can see themselves represented at the seat of Government.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We have taken a big step towards our commitment to do a better job of recognizing the history and culture of Indigenous Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador. Today’s events honouring the Beothuk and their history are significant because they were accomplished together with Indigenous leaders.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

-30-

Learn more
Nonosabasut and Demasduit Returned to Newfoundland and Labrador

The Beothuks

Follow us on X @GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Premier Furey, Minister Reid and Indigenous Leaders Commemorate History of Beothuk During Unveiling Ceremonies at Confederation Building appeared first on News Releases.

The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-044 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report:  A-2024-044 Report Date: October 10, 2024 Public Body: Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture seeking all records to and from the Newfoundland and Labrador Beekeeping Association. At issue in this complaint is an email exchange between the Provincial Apiarist and the President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Beekeeping Association, from which information was withheld pursuant to section 29 (policy advice or recommendations). During the investigation, the Department claimed section 36(b) (disclosure harmful to conservation) also applied to the information. The Commissioner disagreed that section 29(1)(a) applied, but agreed to consider the applicability of section 36(b) notwithstanding it was put forward late in the investigation process. The Commissioner recommended the Department continue to withhold the redacted information pursuant to section 36(b).

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-044 Released appeared first on News Releases.

Visitor services at Salmonier Nature Park will close for the 2024 tourist season on Tuesday, October 15. The park will re-open to the public on June 1, 2025.

The visitor centre and nature trail are open daily this weekend, including Monday, October 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In-person and off-site education outreach programs will continue for schools and events this fall, and virtual outreach programs are available to schools and community groups. Contact the education team at salmoniernaturepark@gov.nl.ca or 709-229-7888 for details.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Salmonier Nature Park Closing for the Season on October 15 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, is today acknowledging October 11 as International Day of the Girl Child. Established by the United Nations in 2011, this day brings attention and awareness to the rights, challenges and potential of girls around the world. It also celebrates the achievements of girls who have overcome adversity and encourages global action towards gender equality.

This year’s theme, Girls’ Vision for the Future, resonates strongly in Newfoundland and Labrador where efforts to empower girls continue to shape a brighter and more equitable future, by ensuring they are free from gender-based violence, have access to education, healthcare, well-being, economic empowerment and leadership opportunities to develop to their full potential.

Quote
“International Day of the Girl Child is a time to recognize the strength, potential and resilience of young girls throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. By empowering them with opportunities and supporting their education, physical and mental health, and human rights, we are not only fostering their success, but also ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for all of us.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

-30-

Learn more
International Day of the Girl Child

Office of Women and Gender Equality

Follow us on X @GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Celebrating International Day of the Girl Child: Empowering Future Leaders in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

Visitor services at the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve and the Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will close for the 2024 tourist season on Friday, October 18, and will remain closed until spring 2025.

The visitor centre at Cape St. Mary’s is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Mistaken Point Interpretation Centre operates daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Viewing of the fossils at Mistaken Point occurs through guided hikes, which can be booked by email at mistakenpointtour@gov.nl.ca or by telephone at 709-438-1011.

When planning your visit, please remember that for the safety and comfort of both wildlife and other visitors, pets are not permitted in the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve or on the guided hikes at Mistaken Point.

This season, the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve has recorded 13,572 visitors to date. The Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve has seen 2,482 tour participants to date.

More information on the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve and the Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site is available online.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Cape St. Mary’s and Mistaken Point Ecological Reserves Close for the Season on October 18 appeared first on News Releases.