Government of Newfoundland News

The Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) is encouraging the public to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations as the province is seeing an increase in cases of whooping cough (pertussis) across the province.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations.

Pertussis typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, mild fever and cough. As the illness progresses, individuals may experience episodes of severe, prolonged coughing, often accompanied by a distinctive “whooping” sound during inhalation. These coughing fits can persist for up to eight weeks.

Pertussis spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as from contact with contaminated surfaces. Given its contagious nature, pertussis can easily be transmitted within communities.

Infants, particularly those too young to be fully vaccinated, are at the highest risk of pertussis complications, such as pneumonia, seizures and interruptions in breathing (apnea), which may require hospitalization.

It is crucial for individuals, especially those in close contact with infants, to ensure they are up to date with their pertussis immunization to protect these infants from the infection.

• Immunization against pertussis is provided to children at two, four, six and 18 months of age, before school entry (pre-kindergarten), and in Grade 9.
• Adults are recommended to receive a booster dose of the pertussis vaccine at least 10 years after their adolescent vaccination.
• Pregnant individuals are advised to receive the pertussis vaccine between 27 and 32 weeks of pregnancy to pass on protective antibodies to their newborns.

Antibiotics can effectively treat pertussis, especially when administered early in the course of the illness. However, vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention.

For more information on pertussis vaccination schedules, symptoms, and preventive measures, please consult your healthcare provider or contact your local public health office.

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Applications are now being accepted for the Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Graduating Student Leadership Bursary.

The bursary awards a $500 tuition voucher for post-secondary education to graduating students who have shown leadership in establishing and maintaining safe, caring and inclusive school communities.

The Provincial Government awards up to 15 Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Graduating Student Leadership Bursaries each year. The deadline for submissions is May 10, 2024. More information on the bursary, including the application, can be found here.

Applications must be sent to sisstudentawards@nlschools.ca for schools under NLSchools. For schools under the Conseil scolaire francophone provincial de Terre-Neuve et Labrador, applications can be emailed to pbourdeau@csfp.nl.ca.

The Safe and Caring Schools Policy helps to establish school-based protocols and practices that challenge all forms of bullying, harassment and inappropriate behaviour and create an environment of acceptance, belonging, respect and empathy.

The Provincial Government promotes an inclusive and welcoming school culture, where all members of the school community feel accepted, are able to realize their potential and contribute to the school community.

Quote
“Our graduating students, who choose to share their educational experiences as they reflect on the past year, provide valuable knowledge as we continue to strengthen safe, caring and inclusive school communities in Newfoundland and Labrador. This bursary recognizes efforts made throughout the school year, and I look forward to learning about this year’s recipients.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Les demandes sont ouvertes pour la bourse des écoles accueillantes, sécuritaires et inclusives

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Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED
New Harbour Agriculture Development           (Reg. 2298)
Proponent: Melissa Williams

The Proponent is proposing to develop approximately 23 hectares of land for agriculture use near New Harbour, Trinity Bay. The land would be used to produce hay, strawberry plants, fruit trees and root vegetables. Development would include removal of trees, stumps and rocks, levelling, and the addition of soil amendments. A description of the Project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on April 10, 2024; the deadline for public comment is May 16, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by May 25, 2024.

Comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

Rocky River Recreational Cottage and Access Trail            (Reg. 2299)
Proponent: Steven Reddick

The Proponent is proposing to construct a recreational cottage and a 1.3-kilometre access trail along the Rocky River, south of the community of Markland, off Route 81.  Development would include construction of the cottage, and land clearing for both the cottage and trail. Bottled water would be brought onsite as a water supply and no septic system installation is proposed. A description of the Project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on April 11, 2024; the deadline for public comment is May 16, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by May 26, 2024.

Comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

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

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

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

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Today, pursuant to section 87(4) of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (ATIPPA, 2015), Information and Privacy Commissioner Michael Harvey has written to the Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, to provide notice of his resignation, effective May 5, 2024.

The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia has today passed a motion recommending Mr. Harvey’s appointment as Information and Privacy Commissioner for that province, effective May 6, 2024.

“It has been a great privilege to serve as Information and Privacy Commissioner for Newfoundland and Labrador since 2019. I have enjoyed the honour of serving people of this province, which will always be my home, as a public servant for almost two decades. I am deeply grateful to the House of Assembly for entrusting me with these responsibilities, and to the expert, dedicated and professional staff of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for their support throughout my term,” said Commissioner Harvey. “The rights of access to information and privacy are fundamental for our democratic governance and our way of life. As we advance onward into the Information Age, the context for these rights is becoming ever more complex. I encourage all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to value and protect their access and privacy rights and to advocate for their enhancement.”

Commissioner Harvey was appointed to a six year term as Information and Privacy Commissioner on August 5, 2019. He first joined the Newfoundland and Labrador public service on January 3, 2006.

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

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The refurbishment of the National War Memorial in St. John’s is well on its way to completion. Earlier this week, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure marked a significant milestone in the project with the installation of the tomb portion of the Memorial.

On July 1, 2024, the repatriated remains of an unknown First World War soldier from what was then known as the Dominion of Newfoundland will be placed in the tomb, a final resting place, here at home.

The remaining work to be completed prior to July 1 includes:

• Reinstatement of granite stairs around tomb;
• Concrete walkways, stairs, sidewalks and paving stones (work has been ongoing throughout winter);
• New granite feature wall;
• Ironwork installation (handrails, light pedestals and associated electrical work); and
• Completion of site grading, and installation of topsoil, sod, trees and plants.

The tomb cover, which is being made from Nain-sourced Labradorite, will be placed following the July 1 ceremony.

The Department worked closely with the City of St. John’s on an earlier phase of the project, allowing the city to replace municipal infrastructure under the National War Memorial site in late 2023. Work has continued during the winter months and will be completed before July 1.

The National War Memorial site holds sentimental and historical significance for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

In 2022, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion – NL Command, the Government of Canada and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission announced the refurbishment of the Newfoundland National War Memorial, including the incorporation of a tomb, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its official unveiling in 1924.

Quotes
“The National War Memorial site will be a space for residents and visitors to walk through, reflect and honour the sacrifices of those who served and continue to serve for our rights and freedoms. Today’s update highlights significant progress in construction work ahead of the ceremony on July 1, 2024.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The placement of the granite base for the tomb is a considerable milestone in our progress on the National War Memorial’s refurbishment. The significance of the centennial of the Memorial, as well as the repatriation of an unknown solider from the battlefields of Northern France who represents the collective contribution and sacrifice of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians from all branches of the military and respective support services, cannot be overstated. We have the only National War Memorial outside of our nation’s capital and, after July 1, we will have the only other tomb of an unknown soldier in the country. The July 1 anniversary and the events surrounding it will be so powerful, speaking volumes to Newfoundland and Labrador’s significant role in First World War history.”
The Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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A joint investment of approximately $690,000 by the Provincial Government and the Town of Grand Bank will support the development of a warming centre under the Municipal Capital Works Program.

The project involves upgrades to the Salvation Army Church so it can serve as a warming centre for the residents of Grand Bank and surrounding communities, thereby providing an important service for the community when needed. The upgrades include the installation of a back-up generator, installation of interior and exterior ramps, and bathroom upgrades.

The Municipal Capital Works program fosters the development of cost-shared projects for many types of municipal infrastructure. Typical projects include water and wastewater treatment, seawalls, roads, recreational facilities, town halls and fire halls. Funding is cost-shared between provincial and municipal governments and is available to municipalities, local service districts and Inuit Community Governments. More information on initiatives to facilitate and build on municipal capital works throughout the province can be found here.

Budget 2024 includes more than $172 million for community infrastructure projects being completed under the Municipal Capital Works Program and the now-concluded Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Quotes
“Capital works encompasses a wide range of municipal infrastructure projects and allows towns like Grand Bank to deliver much needed municipal services and meet their infrastructure needs. This funding will allow for the creation of an emergency warming centre for the residents of Grand Bank and neighbouring communities, providing an important function when required by the residents of the area.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“I’m delighted to see this investment being made in the community of Grand Bank which will have a tremendous impact on the entire region. Having a safe, reliable and functioning warming centre is essential and provides an invaluable service to the area. I would like to thank Minister Abbott and the Town of Grand Bank for their collaborative work in making this a reality.”
Honourable Paul Pike
MHA for Burin-Grand Bank

“The Town of Grand Bank is proud to partner with the Provincial Government and the Salvation Army to provide the residents of Grand Bank and surrounding communities with a fully equipped and fully accessible centre that will be made available to all citizens in the event of an emergency situation in the town, or nearby towns. This funding is a major positive step forward in protecting and providing for all residents in a time of need.”
His Worship Rex C. Matthews
Mayor of Grand Bank

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will bring greetings at the Clean Energy Series, presented by PictureNL, tomorrow (Friday, April 12).

The event will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the College of the North Atlantic Film School, 40 Strawberry Marsh Road, St. John’s.

The Clean Energy Series seeks to unite industry experts, filmmakers, and stakeholders to delve into, converse about, and advocate for sustainable practices within the film and television sector.

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Members of the media are advised that Elections Newfoundland and Labrador requires advanced notice of intent to visit polling stations on by-election day, Monday, April 15.

Please contact Rexanne Eddy, using the email address below, with the following details:

• Name of Reporter
• Polling location(s) they intend to visit
• Approximate time of visit

Voting will take place from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the following locations:

• Anglican Church Hall (Fogo Island Centre)
• Community Centre (Cape Freels, Deep Bay, Port Albert)
• Community Hall (Carmanville, Noggin Cove, Stag Harbour)
• Fire Hall (Aspen Cove, Centreville, Deadman’s Bay, Greenspond, Main Point, Musgrave Harbour, Stoneville, Wings Point)
• Lion’s Club (Fogo, Trinity)
• Recreation Centre (Carmanville, Horwood)
• Salvation Army YP Hall (Hare Bay)
• St. John the Baptist Hall (Wareham)
• St. Luke’s Parish Hall (Newton)
• St. Patrick’s Parish Club (Tilting)
• SUF Hall (Badger’s Quay)
• Town Council Office (Indian Bay)
• Town Hall (Dover, Change Islands)
• United Church Hall (Frederickton, George’s Point, Lumsden, Wesleyville)

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Media contact
Rexanne Eddy
Communications and Training Officer, ATIPP Coordinator
Elections Newfoundland and Labrador
Office of the Chief Electoral Officer
709-729-1474
rexanneeddy@electionsnl.ca

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, today announced an investment of $395,000 to the Rotary Arts Centre for workforce development in cultural industries featured at the centre’s Corner Brook-based theatrical performance and visual arts space.

The two-year investment, provided by the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement, will enable the Rotary Arts Centre to focus more clearly on developing a cultural industry workforce and providing stronger support to local talent. This investment will provide skills and job development for emerging artists.

The Year of the Arts aims to position Newfoundland and Labrador as a creative and cultural hub, where artists can both create art and pursue careers in their chosen field.

Quotes
“With the Year of the Arts in full swing, it is important to recognize our province’s growing legacy, both as a force of culture, but also an economic force. This two-year investment, which will see skills development and job opportunities for emerging artists working out of the Rotary Arts Centre, is a strong endorsement of our cultural communities and those who devote their lives to the work that helps sustain this great province – a place with a culture like no other.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“Any investment that supports the arts in this province is a good investment, especially during this year’s special Year of the Arts celebration. Artists and arts organizations bring vibrancy and colour to our communities. The Rotary Arts Centre in Corner Brook is a community hub for artistic creation and this funding will support their continued work and growth.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“We are grateful for this government support of the Rotary Arts Centre. These funds will help us to focus even more on cultural industry workforce development in our area, giving local artists an opportunity to develop and disseminate their talents and enhancing the cultural vibrancy of our community.”
Jerry Etienne
Chairperson, Rotary Arts Centre Board

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The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has concluded the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process for replacement of Her Majesty’s Penitentiary.

The RFQ closed on February 16, 2024, and one submission was received from New Avalon Corrections Partners (NACP). The evaluation of the submission has been completed, and NACP has been deemed qualified to continue the procurement. The private sector partnership is led by Plenary Americas and PCL Investments.

The department will continue to advance procurement of the project with guidance from its independent advisors who help develop the specifications and other project documents and help ensure the proposal results in the best value for taxpayers’ money.

The department will provide more information in the coming weeks on the next steps in the procurement process.

Quotes
“I am delighted that we are now moving toward the next stage in the replacement of Her Majesty’s Penitentiary, following the evaluation of the submission of qualifications by New Avalon Corrections Partners. By the end of this procurement, through this process, we look forward to a new facility that will meet the long-standing needs of inmates, staff and the community as a whole.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Our government remains committed to a new penitentiary, one that is fiscally responsible to taxpayers, and meets the evolving needs of staff and inmates. Now that the parameters of this project have been re-evaluated, the next phase of the process can begin.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Residents of Happy Valley-Goose Bay are encouraged to be vigilant after recent reports on social media about the presence of a wolf in the community. Conservation officers have increased patrols throughout the community and will continue to closely monitor the area.

The public are strongly encouraged to take appropriate steps to avoid attracting wolves to residential properties, including keeping pets inside or under close supervision and properly storing garbage. Wolves have been known to occasionally attack small to medium-sized pets.

Wild animals can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable when approached by humans. If you encounter a wolf within the town:

• Never approach or crowd the animal.
• Give the animal an escape route.
• If the animal approaches, be loud and aggressive – wave your arms, shout.
• Do not run away, back away slowly.

Any wolf sightings in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay area should be reported to the North West River Forest Management Office by calling 709-497-8479 or after hours at 709-897-7116.

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and MHA for Burin – Grand Bank, will participate in a Municipal Capital Works funding announcement for the Town of Grand Bank.

The event will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army located at 29 Citadel Road in Grand Bank on Thursday, April 11.

The Municipal Capital Works program fosters the development of cost-shared projects for many types of municipal infrastructure. Typical projects include water and waste-water treatment, seawalls, roads, recreational facilities, town halls and fire halls. Funding is cost-shared between provincial and municipal governments and is available to municipalities, local service districts and Inuit Community Governments.

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will announce funding for workforce development in cultural industries on Thursday, April 11, at the Rotary Arts Centre, 5 Park Street, Corner Brook.

Minister Byrne will be joined by Rotary Arts Centre Board chairperson Jerry Etienne.

The event will begin at 11:00 a.m.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-015 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-2024-015 Report Date: April 08, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made an access request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Justice and Public Safety. The Department did not respond to the request in the timeframe required by section 16 of the Act and was deemed to have refused access. The Complainant made a complaint to this Office. The Commissioner found the Department had not complied with its obligations under the Act, in particular sections 13 (duty to assist) and 16 (time limit for final response). The Commissioner recommended the Department comply with its statutory duties in the future, apply for extensions when necessary, provide updates to applicants if deadlines are missed, provide periodic partial disclosure when appropriate and provide a final response to the request within 10 business days of receipt of this Report.

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

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, was joined by Jason Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer, YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador, in Marystown today to announce that applications are now open for the 2024 Summer Camp Inclusion Grant.

Piloted in 2023, the Provincial Government is pleased to continue the Summer Camp Inclusion Grant in Budget 2024 to provide financial assistance to pay for a support person so children with disabilities can participate in summer camps.

This support person may be an inclusion worker, a caregiver, an attendant, an American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter, a designated camp staff member, or any other person deemed appropriate by the family to support the child’s needs and participation at summer camp.

The Summer Camp Inclusion Grant provides funding of:

• Up to $1,000 to families with children with disabilities who require a support and/or inclusion worker to attend summer camp; or
• Up to $5,000 to organizations providing summer camps who wish to hire support and/or inclusion workers to accommodate children with disabilities.

Nine organizations and eight families availed of the Summer Camp Inclusion Grant in 2023. Further details on organizations that received the grant can be found in the backgrounder below.

The grant guidelines and application form can be found here. You can also call toll-free 1-888-729-6279; text 709-725-4463; or email CSSDGrantPrograms@gov.nl.ca. Video Relay Service calls are also welcome and applications are available in alternate formats. The deadline to submit an application is May 31, 2024.

Quotes
“I am delighted to open applications to the 2024 Summer Camp Inclusion Grant, which facilitates the inclusion of children with disabilities in summer camp activities which contribute to improved physical and mental health and well-being. Our government remains committed to removing barriers and creating meaningful opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in their communities. I encourage eligible families and organizations to reach out to my department for more information and to submit an application as early as possible.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

“The YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to have been a past recipient of the Summer Camp Inclusion Grant. Every day the YMCA strives to break down barriers, so everyone has equitable access to programs that improve their well-being. Inclusion is a founding principle at the YMCA and is critical to the healthy development of children and families. We are excited to share in today’s announcement which will help ensure an enriching summer camp experience for children with disabilities.”
Jason Brown
President and Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador

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As part of Budget 2024’s record investment in housing, the Provincial Government is investing $20 million to construct 50 provincially owned units in Corner Brook, helping to increase access to stable, safe and affordable housing for individuals and families in the western region.

The project will include multi-unit buildings that feature a combination of one- and two-bedroom homes, the greatest area of need in the current social housing portfolio. The majority of these homes will be built in the Crestview Avenue area of Corner Brook. The project scope will also include the demolition of 32 existing long-term vacancies in the area, paving the way for new modern, accessible and energy efficient homes.

The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Housing, was in Corner Brook today to highlight this important investment in the community. Minister Hutton was joined by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and MHA for Corner Brook, as well as His Worship Jim Parsons, Mayor of Corner Brook, Pamela Gill, Corner Brook councillor and chair of the City of Corner Brook Community Partners Standing Committee, and Jenny Brake, Acting Chief of the Qalipu First Nation.

A tender for the demolition stage of the project will be issued in the coming weeks. A request for proposals for construction will be issued shortly thereafter, and will encourage developers to consider various design approaches, including traditional and modular building methods.

Construction of all 50 homes is anticipated to be complete by 2026.

The Provincial Government continues to invest in programs and projects that will increase access to affordable rental housing throughout the province. This includes 10 projects conditionally approved under the Affordable Rental Housing Program in the western region, as well as a series of actions under the Five-Point Plan to Improve Access to Housing that is Affordable.

Quotes
“Budget 2024 includes the highest-ever provincial investment in housing, helping to support the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians by increasing access to safe and affordable housing. This investment will support 50 individuals or families in Corner Brook to secure homes they can afford within their existing community.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Housing

“This substantial investment will help to address the need for affordable, modern, high-quality, energy-efficient housing options in Corner Brook. These homes will become part of the solution to some of the greatest areas of housing demand. I look forward to seeing these units take shape across Corner Brook and ultimately giving 50 individuals and families access to safe, accessible and affording housing.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and MHA for Corner Brook

“I am thankful to the province and Minister Hutton for listening to the city and our regional partners and making this significant investment in the region. Fifty units will go a long way in providing necessary affordable housing for people who need it.”
His Worship Jim Parsons
Mayor of Corner Brook

“This investment in housing in the community of Corner Brook is much needed and appreciated. We are guided by the belief that housing is a human right and, as an Indigenous organization, we are pleased to work together with the province to ensure that our community members are supported with access to stable, safe and affordable housing.”
Jenny Brake
Acting Chief, Qalipu First Nation

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Budget 2024 – Transforming Our Health. Our Economy. Our Province.

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Registration is now open for the Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshop May 24-26, 2024, at Burry Heights on Salmonier Line.

Becoming an Outdoors Woman offers a variety of courses designed to enhance participants’ outdoor skills and knowledge. Courses focus on enhancing an appreciation for the stewardship and conservation of Newfoundland and Labrador’s natural, historical and cultural resources and include canoeing, wildlife and plant identification, firearm and archery basics, and outdoor cooking.

The program is designed for individuals 18 years and older and strongly promotes an accessible, inclusive and respectful environment for all participants. A $295 registration fee covers all meals, accommodations and courses.

Becoming an Outdoors Family will be offered June 22-23 at Butterpot Provincial Park. This workshop is designed for families with limited outdoor experience and teaches basic skills to help them prepare for a lifetime of outdoor recreational enjoyment. The three-day, two-night program includes Camping 101, outdoor cooking, campfire safety and basic survival, how to avoid wildlife conflicts, wildlife and plant identification, archery basics, and more.

Registration for the family event will open June 1. Registration fees are $15 per individual family group. Limited camping spaces will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The fall 2024 Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshop will be held at Camp Emmanuel in Lewisporte September 6-8. Registration will open July 24, 2024.

Event sponsors include the Provincial Government, Friends of Salmonier Nature Park, Wildlife Habitat Canada and ParksNL. A wide variety of other provincial and community organizations including search and rescue groups, local rod and gun clubs, instructor volunteers, and businesses also support these events.

For more information or to request a registration package email salmoniernaturepark@gov.nl.ca or call 229-7888.

Quotes
“It’s been wonderful to see the impact our outdoor workshops have had on so many people since Becoming an Outdoors Woman started in 1997, and to know that the program remains as popular as ever. The expanded family program has given even more people an opportunity to gain skills that will not only enhance their appreciation of our outdoor resources, but also mark the start of a lifetime of memories. Thank you to our wildlife staff, the volunteer instructors, and Friends of Salmonier Nature Park for organizing and supporting these worthwhile initiatives and to all the participants who make these workshops truly special.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Participating in programs like Becoming an Outdoors Woman and Becoming an Outdoors Family not only empowers women to embrace the wonders of nature, but also fosters a deeper sense of connection and confidence in outdoor pursuits, enriching both individual lives and family experiences.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Becoming an Outdoors Woman Program
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The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, announced today approximately $245,000 in funding to support mental health services offered through the Strongest Families Institute. This program provides readily available services with a trained mental health coach for any child, youth or adult in the province.

Strongest Families is widely recognized for its high-quality, accessible and award-winning programs aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of people of all ages through the provision of highly skilled coaches and innovative technology.

The institute recently launched its expanded Stepped Care programming, which increases accessibility while removing barriers to care. Families with children ages three and up can gain quick access regardless of where they live or when they need it. Coaches will teach positive coping skills to promote mental wellness and prevent behaviour, anxiety and depression from worsening.

Since its implementation in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2015, the program has served thousands of children and families, and is available to parents/guardians of a child or youth experiencing anxiety or behavioural concerns as well as adults looking for support.

To learn more about access to these services, visit Strongest Families Institute, call 1-866-470-7111 or visit Bridge the gapp online.

Supporting Strongest Families Institute aligns with recommendations from Health Accord NL to support the community sector and the social determinants of health.

Quotes
“This investment represents a continued commitment to fostering safe, caring and inclusive learning environments for all children, youth and families throughout the province. Strongest Families further helps complement other readily available programs and supports such as Doorways walk-in clinics and the Provincial Warm Line.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We are so grateful to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for their commitment to improved mental health and well-being. These additional funds, coupled with our Stepped Care programming means we can equip more families with valuable skills to promote, prevent, and improve mental health and well-being in the broader population. Most people report that Strongest Families skills have been life changing. With these new enhancements and additional funding, we can bring these life-changing skills to children, youth, and families when they need us.  We are proud to partner with the government to bring these and our adult mental health program to residents at no cost. We welcome people to make Strongest Families skills part of their mental fitness routine.”
Dr. Patricia Lingley-Pottie
President and CEO, Strongest Families Institute

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The post Provincial Government Providing Funding to Support Mental Health Services appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, will bring greetings this morning at the announcement of the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society’s 2024 festival lineup.

The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the Cyan Room of the ALT Hotel, 125 Water Street, St. John’s.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society celebrates, preserves and promotes the traditional and contemporary folk arts of Newfoundland and Labrador at home and away, through public outreach and events, including their annual Folk Festival.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Participate in Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival Lineup Announcement appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will deliver a keynote address at the banquet of the Professional Municipal Administrators 52nd Annual Convention and Trade Show tomorrow (Wednesday, April 10).

The banquet will be held at the Quality Hotel and Suites, 100 Trans-Canada Highway, Gander starting at 6:30 p.m.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Haggie to Speak at the Professional Municipal Administrators 2024 Convention and Trade Show appeared first on News Releases.