Government of Newfoundland News

Today, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, recognized March 24-28 as Education Week in Newfoundland and Labrador. The theme this year is Adventure in Learning. Minister Howell was joined by Trent Langdon, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association (NLTA), in signing a proclamation to declare the week.

Education Week is a time to celebrate the educational experience of students, teachers and staff, and appreciate the dedication to support positive, inclusive learning and teaching spaces for all members of the K-12 education system.

The Department of Education supports continued learning of Newfoundland and Labrador’s rich cultural identity through the Cultural Connections Strategy, which receives $1.1 million in annual funding. Through this initiative, materials that reflect the province’s unique heritage such as textbooks and resources for music, visual arts, social studies, and Newfoundland and Labrador Studies courses are distributed in schools throughout the public education system.

Cultural Connections facilitates artist-in-residence opportunities in schools, student travel to cultural events, and the annual Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Theatre Arts Festival, which is supported by regional theatre festivals also organized by the department.

These efforts collectively contribute to fostering and preserving local artistic expression among students, encouraging them to adventure in learning in ways they find meaningful.

Quotes
“Education Week is an important time to honour all of the people who make our public education system thrive and grow. Students, educators and staff learn from each other and grow together through the educational experience. We continue to work to help create positive learning environments both inside and outside classrooms for all of our students.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Le gouvernement provincial reconnaît la Semaine de l’éducation à Terre‑Neuve‑et‑Labrador

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Cultural Connections

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Three forest access roads in Western Newfoundland will be temporarily closed to vehicle traffic effective Monday, March 24, until further notice. Signage will be posted at gates leading to the closed roads.

Temporary closures are required to protect forest access roads from damage during the spring thaw period. Roads will remain open for snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle use.

The following roads are scheduled for temporary closure:

• Pasture Road, located off the TCH approximately four kilometres east of Robinsons turnoff.
• O’Regan’s Resource Road in in the community of O’Regan’s.
• Abitibi Road from the Burgeo Highway to Beothuk Lake.

For information about forest access road closures, contact St. George’s Forest Management Office at 709-646-3721.

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Funding of $667,000 has been provided through the 2023-24 to 2027-28 Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on French-Language Services between Canadian Heritage and the Department of Digital Government and Service NL.

The funding supports 13 projects that will advance the planning and delivery of services in French throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and will be matched by contributions from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Twelve recipients have received funding through the agreement:

• 2025 Jeux du Canada Games Host Society
• ArtsNL
• City of St. John’s
• Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Memorial University of Newfoundland, School of Pharmacy
• MusicNL
• Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services
• Royal Newfoundland Regiment Advisory Council
• Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Town of Cape St. George
• Town of Fortune
• Town of Stephenville

For more information on the recipients and their projects, please see the backgrounder below.

This is the second round of funding provided through this agreement. Additional funding is expected to be made available in the coming months. Organizations can contact the Office of French Services at frenchservices@gov.nl.ca for more information.

The Office of French Services is responsible for building the capacity of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to deliver services in French. Staff work closely with community partners to support the development and vitality of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Francophone community.

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on French Language Services supports programming for the local Francophone community. Nearly 26,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians speak both English and French, and more than 5,500 identify French as their first language.

Quote
“The Provincial Government is pleased to provide access to many programs and services in French to support the Francophone community of Newfoundland and Labrador. These projects are excellent examples of how we can help advance initiatives that will grow our vibrant Francophone community. Congratulations to the recipients and all the best as you move forward with your projects.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs

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Annonce des bénéficiaires des subventions pour les services en français

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Recipients of French Language Services Grants Announced

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BACKGROUNDER

Applicant Project Description Funding from Agreement 2025 Jeux du Canada Games Host Society Francophone and Acadian artistic and cultural program during the Canada Summer Games. $36,000 2025 Jeux du Canada Games Host Society Official languages support during the Canada Summer Games. $106,000 ArtsNL Programming support to the Francophone Cultural Network. $14,159 City of St. John’s Translation of business startup guides. $2,025 Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador Translation of organization website. $1,800 Memorial University of Newfoundland, School of Pharmacy Translation of drug abuse prevention resources for Francophone educators and youth. $34,792 MusicNL Improving access and export readiness and branding for Newfoundland and Labrador Francophone and Acadian artists outside the province. $38,900 Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services Strengthening language access and French services. $380,000 Royal Newfoundland Regiment Advisory Council Installation and interpretation of an 18th century French cannon in St. John’s. $12,000 Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador French videos on how to prepare for a hearing. $20,000 Town of Cape St. George Francophone tourism initiative for the town. $9,000 Town of Fortune Translation of the town’s website. $2,649.85 Town of Stephenville Bilingual street signage in the town. $10,000 TOTAL $667,325.85

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Long Harbour Quarry                                            (Reg. 2348)
Proponent: Anytime Heavy Haul Ltd.

The proponent is proposing to develop a five-hectare quarry located in Long Harbour-Mount Arlington Heights. The proposed undertaking will be used to source roadway materials which will be utilized for roadway projects. The extraction activities will involve drilling, blasting, crushing, screening and washing.

The undertaking was registered on March 20, 2025. The deadline for public comment is April 25, 2025; and the Minister’s decision is due by May 4, 2025.

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

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

Anyone submitting comments on a project under environmental assessment should notify the Department of Environment and Climate Change if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the project proponent.

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Nominations are now open for the Council of the Federation Literacy Award, presented annually by premiers from each province and territory to recognize outstanding achievement, innovative practice, and excellence in literacy. The deadline for submissions is May 1, 2025.

For 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador nominations are being accepted for the category of Community Organization. This category is for organizations that provide or develop programs, services, or projects that promote literacy and/or help to better the lives of others by improving reading and writing skills and preparing them for post-secondary education and/or employment.

The award will be presented in fall 2025. The winner will receive a Council of the Federation Literacy Award engraved medallion and a certificate signed by the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Please take this opportunity to nominate a community organization that has demonstrated excellence and leadership in the field of adult literacy.

The guidelines are available online here.

Quotes
“Literacy plays a crucial role in boosting confidence and empowering Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to realize their full potential every day. Our ongoing commitment to supporting adult literacy in the province continues to make a meaningful difference, benefiting individuals and programs across Newfoundland and Labrador. I encourage individuals to nominate one of the many deserving organizations that is helping to improve literacy in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Literacy is essential to helping people navigate daily life, improve job prospects, and engage fully in their communities. This award honours community organizations that play an important role in improving adult literacy in our province. By supporting adult literacy and the organizations who foster it, we help people unlock their potential and build a stronger, more informed society.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Learn more
Council of the Federation Literacy Award

Newfoundland and Labrador Call for Nominations (Guidelines)

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As part of the Year of Sport initiative, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is pleased to offer free public swims every Sunday at the two provincially operated swimming pools in Gander and Corner Brook (J.R. Smallwood Arts and Culture Centre Swimming Pool and Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre Swimming Pool).

Free swims begin this Sunday (March 23, 2025) and will continue every Sunday until the end of the year. Qualifying swims include open, family, lane, and adult swims and are available on a first come, first served basis.

The provincially operated pool schedules can be found here. Please note that some Sunday swims have the potential to be impacted by scheduled maintenance or swim meets. Interested swimmers are encouraged to check the schedule and availability ahead of time.

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The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, today announced an investment of $371,715 to support the long-term sustainability of the St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative. The funding will allow the market to diversify revenue streams and support its role as a hub for small businesses and community events.

The funding will support a three-year project that includes:

• Hiring a development and revenue diversification manager.
• Building partnerships with corporate entities and tourism agencies.
• Developing and launching pilot corporate events and workshops.
• Executing targeted marketing and promotional activities.

With a fully accessible facility, ample parking, a commercial kitchen and direct connection to local food and craft vendors, the market will use this funding to help position itself as a venue-of-choice in the St. John’s metro region.

To highlight this support, Minister Stoodley will ring the opening bell at the market on Saturday, March 22, at 9:00 a.m.

This initiative also supports the Buy Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada campaign by helping to ensure the availability of a market and event space used by local entrepreneurs. Every dollar spent on local products stays in our province, supporting families, businesses and the broader economy. Our government recognizes the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs and helping to make it easier to connect with buyers in our communities.

For nearly 20 years, the St. John’s Farmers’ Market has been a key driver of economic and community activity. It currently supports over 300 small businesses and attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually.

Funding for this project is made possible through the Government of Canada’s investment in the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement.

Quotes
“This investment will help ensure the market remains a sustainable and vibrant space, welcoming local vendors, artisans and cultural groups while expanding its potential as a premier venue for events. The St. John’s Farmers’ Market is a vital part of our local economy and cultural landscape, providing opportunities for small businesses to thrive. By supporting this initiative, we are helping to create new opportunities for growth and sustainability.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“The St. John’s Farmers’ Market is a vital regional economic driver and community hub. Today’s funding will help the market expand and innovate its operations to support more small businesses and invite more visitors to the region year-round.”
Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Jobs and Families

“We are grateful to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the opportunity to further grow and diversify the St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative – a vital community hub. The market is best known for its Saturday markets, providing space and a supportive environment for the more than 150 small local businesses that operate under our umbrella. We also offer a unique and flexible facility that can host a wide range of events. We are excited to work with the Provincial Government, our vendors, and our community partners to expand and enhance the rental side of our cooperative.”
Pam Anstey
Executive Director, St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative

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Celebrate a senior in your life or community today by nominating them for a Seniors of Distinction Award.

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Seniors of Distinction Awards, which honours and celebrates the many contributions and achievements of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Whether it be enhancing their community, strengthening the local economy, or lending a helping hand to a neighbour or organization – seniors across the province enrich all aspects of Newfoundland and Labrador.

To be eligible, a senior must be:

• nominated by an individual or group
• 50 years of age or older
• a current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador

Nominations will be considered for individuals, for both voluntary and paid work, and posthumous awards may be given. Nominations from previous years can be reconsidered at the request of the nominator or nominee.

Please note, the deadline for submissions is Friday, May 9, 2025.

Nomination packages can be found here. Have a question on how to fill out a form or wondering what to include in your nomination? Please touch base by calling toll-free 1-888-494-2266.

The Seniors of Distinction Awards is a highlight ever year for the Provincial Government. Since its inception in 2009, over 95 seniors across Newfoundland and Labrador have been recognized with a Seniors of Distinction Award.

Quotes
“Every day we see the profound impact that seniors and older adults are having in communities, here at home and around the world. Today, we encourage you to nominate outstanding seniors for the prestigious Senior of Distinction Awards.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“It is important that we recognize and celebrate the unique and ongoing contributions of older Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Highlighting their stories and saying thank you is what this awards program is all about, and I encourage everyone to consider nominating someone deserving of this honour.”
Josh Carey
Vice-Chair, Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors

“Many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians make special contributions to communities and causes at home and abroad without any desire for accolades or recognition. Receiving a Seniors of Distinction Award is truly an honour that recognizes the fruits of an individual’s efforts and passions. I remain hopeful that such recognition inspires others to make a difference in their own unique way.”
Robert Parsons
2024 Seniors of Distinction Award Recipient

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Seniors of Distinction Awards

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The Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada have finalized a 10-year agreement under the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF) aimed at existing municipal infrastructure needs and those associated with future housing developments.

Through this agreement, Newfoundland and Labrador has been allocated $123.1 million to address municipal infrastructure projects that preserve existing capacity or increase reliability and access to drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and solid waste systems to support current and future populations. By building or improving this critical infrastructure in the province, opportunities to build new homes and support community growth are increased.

The Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund agreement complements federal, provincial and municipal investments in municipal infrastructure that are also being supported through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. Through this program, the Provincial Government is investing $40.3 million, while the Federal Government is investing $36.2 million and municipalities are contributing a combined $14.4 million for 73 projects aimed at building and upgrading water and wastewater infrastructure in various towns and communities throughout the province.

A list of the projects can be found in the backgrounder below.

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

Quotes
“Our government is pleased with the support that is aimed at addressing pressing infrastructure needs, as well as enabling more housing in the province. Through the combined efforts of all levels of government, we are helping to ensure we have the necessary infrastructure in place to support the current needs of our towns and communities, as well as much-needed future housing initiatives.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Rural Economic Development

“All governments are committed to working together to help increase the housing supply across the country. This ten-year initiative will help improve and expand our province’s infrastructure network and strengthen the foundation upon which our homes are built.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
Acting Minister of Housing

“Today’s investments are about more than just infrastructure—they’re about creating a better future for everyone in our province. Good things happen when we work together, and these projects will help communities in Newfoundland and Labrador build more homes with the right infrastructure support in place.”
Honourable Joanne Thompson
Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
Member of Parliament for St. John’s East

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Learn more
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada – Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund

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BACKGROUNDER

Canada Housing Infrastructure (CHIF) Provincial and Territorial Agreement Stream

Location Project Name Project Details Federal Funding Newfoundland

and

Labrador 10-year

CHIF Provincial Agreement Through this agreement, communities across Newfoundland and Labrador will be able to build or improve the critical infrastructure related to drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste – that will in turn help them build more homes. $123.1 million

 

Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP)
 

Location Project Name Project Details Federal Funding Provincial Funding Municipal Funding Appleton Appleton – Watermain Replacement Circular/TCH Replacement of watermain on Circular Road. This will also include new services to 11 houses on this street. Watermain will also be placed nearby on the side of the TCH with the purpose of servicing four houses in the area. $239,404 $299,255 $59,851 Bay St. George South Jeffrey’s Pumphouse Improvements New pumphouse in Jeffrey’s. $112,497 $140,622 $28,124 Belleoram Water and Sewer Replacement Replacement of water and sanitary sewer mains in the town of Belleoram. $290,187 $362,734 $72,547 Birchy Bay Birchy Bay – Water Filtration System (AP-MCW-22196) Installation of a new water treatment system in the Town of Birchy Bay, including a new filtration system and settling tanks. The installation will require an extension on the existing building to house the new equipment. $175,192 $218,990 $43,798 Bishop’s Falls Turners Road Waterline and Sanitary Sewer Upgrades Upgrade the Newtown Road waterline from Main Street to the pumphouse in the town of Bishop’s Falls. The project includes installing watermain and sanitary sewer on Turner’s Road. $141,894 $141,894 $70,947 Bonavista Lift Station Retrofits Mechanical and electrical retrofits to four lift stations in the Town of Bonavista. $369,069 $369,069 $184,534 Botwood Commonwealth Drive Watermain Replacement Upgrade watermain on Commonwealth Drive in Botwood, including seven fire hydrants, the reinstallation of water service piping to complete the reinstallation of 75 household services from the new watermain up to and including curb stops replacement. $809,717 $1,012,146 $202,429 Burnt Islands Lift Station Upgrades The project consists of upgrading three lift stations in the Town of Burnt Islands. $201,655 $252,069 $50,414 Campbellton Waterline extension on Road to the Isles and Kingman/Decker Drive  (AP-MCW-23038) Water system extensions in Campbellton. $253,886 $317,537 $63,471 Cape St. George Cape St. George Waterline Replacement Waterline replacement in the town of Cape St. George. $181,267 $226,584 $45,317 Carmanville Water and Sewer Services Phase 4 Installation of new water and sanitary sewer lines in the Town of Carmanville. $439,383 $549,229 $109,846 Cartwright Sanitary Sewer Sanitary sewer main service extension in the Town of Cartwright. $504,927 $631,158 $126,232 Channel-Port aux Basques High Street Stormwater Rehabilitation Identification and elimination of stormwater infiltration into the sanitary system in Channel-Port-aux-Basques $258,798 $258,798 $129,399 Channel-Port aux Basques Dennis Road Water Supply Booster Station Installation of a water pressure booster station to increase available pressure for expansion of the Grand Bay West subdivsion area. $265,342 $265,342 $132,671 Charlottetown (Labrador) Water and Sewer, Phase 5.2 – Big Cove Extension Supply and installation of water and sewer infrastructure in the Town of Charlottetown, Labrador. $993,811 $1,242,264 $248,453 Come By Chance Water and Sewer Upgrading – Shaheen Crescent – Phase 2 Installation of new water, sewer and storm pipes in the town of Come By Chance. $360,920 $451,150 $90,230 Daniel’s Harbour Replace Valves at Pumphouse Pumphouse mechanical upgrades in the Town of Daniel’s Harbour. $22,450 $28,062 $5,612 Deer Lake Main Lift Station Upgrades Upgrade of main lift station in Deer Lake. $887,890 $887,890 $443,945 Deer Lake Lift Station Upgrades – Church Street Upgrade of two existing lift stations in the town of Deer Lake. $115,405 $115,405 $57,703 Fermeuse Future Sanitary Sewer – Phase 3 Installation of new sanitary sewer infrastructure on Port Kirwan Road in Fermeuse. $171,458 $214,323 $42,865 Fermeuse 2022 Phase 2 of Sewer System Extension Supply and installation of new sanitary sewer infrastructure on Oate’s Lane, O’Neill’s Lane and Ryan’s Road in Fermeuse. $342,021 $427,526 $85,505 Flatrock Red Head Road Ditching Ditching of a portion of Red Head Road in the Town of Flatrock. $183,669 $229,586 $45,917 Fortune Bunker Hill Road Water and Sewer – Phase ll Upgrade both a sewer and water system in Fortune. $341,221 $426,526 $85,305 Fortune Bunker Hill Road Water and Sewer Phase 1 Upgrade of the current water and sewer systems along Bunker Hill Road in the Town of Fortune. $394,768 $493,460 $98,692 Gander Gander Pumphouse Upgrades to Improve Potable Water Efficiency, Reliability and Capacity Upgrade of two pumphouse water supply systems located in Gander. $1,722,805 $1,292,104 $1,292,104 George’s Brook-Milton Milton Watermain Replacement (Phase 3) Extension of the trunk watermain in Milton (Phase 3) in the Town of George’s Brook-Milton. $253,914 $317,392 $63,478 Heart’s Content Installing 8 Inch Line from the S.U.F Hall on Main Road to Booster Pumping Station Installation of a water line from the S.U.F Hall to the booster pumping station in the Town of Heart’s Content. $201,140 $251,426 $50,285 Humber Arm South Webcon Road Storm Sewer System Upgrade of Webcon road with a sub, gutter and storm sewer system in the Town of Humber Arm South. $119,675 $149,593 $29,919 Humber Arm South New Chlorination Building Construction of a new chlorination building with a filtration system for the town of Humber Arm South. . $243,274 $304,093 $60,819 Indian Bay Water & Sewer Upgrades – Phase I Completion of water, sewer and road upgrades in the Town of Indian Bay. $193,241 $241,552 $48,310 Isle aux Morts Phase 4 – Water and Sewer Upgrades Upgrade of water and sewer distribution systems in Isle aux Morts, $306,641 $383,302 $76,660 Labrador City Storm Sewer Upgrades (Walsh River, Harrie Lake, Duley) Upgrades to the storm sewer system in the Harrie Lake subdivision of the Town of Labrador City. $563,048 $422,286 $422,286 L’Anse au Loup Water Shed Dam Area Reconstruction Reconstruction of the water shed area in the town of L’Anse Au Loup. $247,017 $308,771 $61,754 Lewisporte Water Tank Bypass Line and Intake Supply Line Repairs Upgrades to the water distribution system in the town of Lewisporte. $151,350 $151,350 $75,675 Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove Power’s Lane Stream Crossing Removal of two existing culverts and replacing them with a bottomless concrete structure in the town of Logy Bay – Middle Cove – Outer Cove. $186,646 $233,308 $46,662 Lourdes Town of Lourdes – Water Treatment Facility Improvements New water treatment facility to clean the sediment filters as well as proper support, adequate egress for workers, and a safe building to house mechanical equipment. $180,369 $225,461 $45,092 Makkovik Chlorine Booster Station Design and construction of a new chlorine booster station in Makkovik. $180,901 $226,126 $45,225 Marystown Mayo’s Road/Levi’s Road Water, Sewer & Storm Sewer Upgrades (Phase 1) Upgrade of water and sewer infrastructure in Marystown. $174,381 $174,381 $87,190 McIvers Water Treatment System Installation of carbon filters to improve water quality and remove colour from its potable water, including the construction of a building to house the equipment. $510,711 $638,389 $127,678 Meadows Meadow Crescent Lift Station Replacement Upgrade of  the Meadows Crescent Lift Station in the Town of Meadows. $145,094 $181,367 $362,732 Middle Arm Falls Road Water & Sewer Installation of water and sewer mains in the town of Middle Arm. $158,086 $197,608 $39,522 Mount Pearl Water, Sanitary and Storm Sewer, Asphalt, Curb and Sidewalk Replacement – Jackman Drive Replacement of asphalt, sidewalks, and underground water, sanitary and storm systems for Jackman Drive in the City of Mount Pearl. $1,818,840 $1,364,130 $1,364,130 New-Wes-Valley Water Treatment Plant Construction of a water treatment plant in the town of New-Wes-Valley. $4,045,934 $5,057,418 $1,011,484 New-Wes-Valley Water Storage and Distribution System Phase one of a water treatment plant, including a treated water storage tank and distribution system. $2,248,225 $2,810,281 $562,056 Norris Point Lift Station #3 Upgrade of existing lift station on Harbourview Drive in the town of Norris Point. $127,506 $159,383 $31,877 Norris Point Lift Station #1 Upgrade of existing lift station on Jenniex Lane in the Town of Norris Point. $141,244 $176,556 $31,877 Norris Point Lift Station #2 Upgrade of existing lift station on Pearce’s Lane in the Town of Norris Point. $127,506 $159,383 $31,877 North West River 2022 Storm Drainage Improvements Storm drainage improvements in the Town of North West River. $211,901 $264,876 $52,975 Old Perlican Septic System Installation Installation of a new outfall septic tank in the Town of Old Perlican. $167,884 $209,855 $41,971 Pasadena Tipping Drive Water Lines Phase 2 Extension of the east end waterline to the remaining residents and the campground in the Town of Pasadena. $616,648 $616,648 $308,324 Pasadena Lakeshore/Tipping Drive Sewer Installation Installation of a sanitary sewer collection system in the Town of Pasadena. $471,554 $471,554 $235,777 Point Leamington Water main phase 2 Upgrade of the watermain in the Town of Point Leamington. $362,658 $453,323 $90,665 Pool’s Cove Water System Improvements Upgrades to the water distribution system in the town of Pool’s Cove. $269,962 $337,452 $67,490 Port Saunders Lift Station #3 and #4 Upgrade of existing lift stations (#3 and #4) in the Town of Port Saunders. $253,914 $317,392 $63,478 Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s St. Philips WWTP Treatment Expansion Expansion of the St, Philip’s Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR) Treatment System. $434,080 $325,560 $325,560 Rigolet Lift Station and Force Main Upgrades Replacement of a lift station and the replacement of sewage force main in the community of Rigolet. $251,758 $314,698 $62,940 Roddickton-Bide Arm Bide Arm Water Supply Dam Replacement Removal of existing structure and replacement of the dam with a new concrete gravity base structure. $362,734 $453,417 $90,683 Sandy Cove Barbour Avenue Water Main Extension Extension of a water main in Sandy Cove. $193,341 $241,676 $48,335 Springdale Main Street (Hemlock to Little Bay Road) Water, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Sewer Installation and Road Resurfacing Upgrades of water, sewer and storm sewer systems in the Town of Springdale. $609,467 $761,834 $152,367 St. Alban’s Main Street Water and Sewer Replacement – Phase 1 Upgrade of Main Street in the Town of St. Alban’s. $902,029 $1,127,536 $225,507 St. Anthony West Street Waterline Upgrading Installation of a new water main, services and street reinstatement on West Street in the Town of St. Anthony. $1,342,051 $1,677,563 $335,513 St. Bride’s Southside Dam Upgrade and Chlorination System Chlorination of water supply in the town of St. Bride’s. $214,141 $267,676 $53,535 St. John’s 275 Southside Road Ditch Inlet & Storm Sewer Storm sewer improvements in the area of 257-275 Southside Road in St. John’s. $725,468 $544,101 $544,101 St. Lunaire-Griquet Replace Circular Road Watermain Water upgrades to Circular Road in the town of St. Lunaire-Griquet. $378,540 $473,175 $94,635 Steady Brook Sewer Lagoon Upgrade Sewer lagoon upgrades near the Humber River. $939,824 $1,174,780 $234,956 Stephenville Crossing Seal Cove Road Phase 5, Water Sewer and Storm Replacement Final phase of work on Seal Cove Road, including the completion of water, sewer and storm water upgrades on the road. $626,269 $782,836 $156,567 Stephenville Rose Avenue Reconstruction Improvements to the water system on Rose Avenue in the Town of Stephenville. $720,152 $720,152 $360,076 Stephenville Main Street Reconstruction Water, sewer and storm upgrades to Main Street in the Town of Stephenville. $1,363,088 $1,363,088 $681,544 Swift Current Hollett’s Point Well water quality improvement New aeration unit and filters for Hollett’s Point Road well. $7,255 $9,068 $1,814 Torbay North Pond Water Treatment Plant – Phase 2 Construction of a new water treatment plant in Torbay. $1,088,202 $816,151 $816,151 Torbay North Pond Water Treatment Plant – Phase 1 Upgrades of the  chlorination and soda ash treatment to a full water treatment plant at North Pond in the Town of Torbay. $344,597 $258,448 $258,448 Twillingate Lift station retrofit – Coast Guard Sewage Lift Station and Smith’s Lane Complete retrofit of two lift stations in the Town of Twillingate. $253,914 $317,392 $63,478 Wabana West Dam Water Supply Phase 4 Construction of a water treatment system in the Town of Wabana. $994,704 $1,243,380 $504,158       $36,210,514.00 $40,530,910 $14,363,547

 

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The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will hold a media availability tomorrow (Friday, March 21) to announce funding for the St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative.

The availability will take place at 10:00 a.m. at the St. John’s Farmers’ Market at 245 Freshwater Road, St. John’s.

Minister Stoodley will be joined by Pamela Anstey, executive director of the St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced total investments of $59,411 for three projects in the western region which will help boost the area’s potential for investment attraction, as well as provincial food security.

The City of Corner Brook will receive $46,090 to secure a consultant to conduct an industrial park feasibility study and to enhance accessibility at Bartlett’s Point Park. In a separate project, the city will also receive $7,500 to engage professional services to conduct a feasibility study on the establishment of a farmers’ market in Corner Brook.

The Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation will receive $5,821 to support Qalipu business owners through increased marketing, production of content and member business profiles within the western region.

Corner Brook is a vital economic hub on the west coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, serving as a centre of industry, commerce and innovation. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing in projects in this region to help strengthen the local economy.

Quotes
“Western Newfoundland is attracting considerable commercial interest from alternative energy producers and the mining industry that will require resources and infrastructure such as industrial parks and upgraded recreation assets. With this funding we will help ensure our municipal, First Nation and economic partners will be ready to meet the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Providing financial support empowers Qalipu business owners to expand their reach, share their culture, and drive economic growth. By working together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive economy that honours the resilience and innovation of Indigenous businesses.
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“These investments in Corner Brook not only support the growth of our city, but also our regional food security. We have a lot to offer in the Corner Brook area with beautiful public spaces, local agricultural products, and Qalipu businesses. I look forward to the fruitful outcomes of these projects.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture and MHA for Corner Brook

“We’re excited to take this important step toward growing Corner Brook’s economy. This funding allows us to explore accessibility to our green spaces, the potential for a market for our local food producers as well as business opportunities with a new industrial park. This is made possible thanks to the support of our Provincial Government as we work to strengthen our community and drive future development.”
His Worship Mayor Jim Parsons
City of Corner Brook

“Supporting Qalipu business owners is essential to strengthening our community and local economy. This investment will help promote our members’ businesses, increase their visibility, and create new opportunities for growth. We are proud to highlight the talent and entrepreneurship within the western region and look forward to seeing the positive impact this initiative will bring.”
Chief Jenny Brake
Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation

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Some forest access roads in the Point Leamington, Botwood, Lewisporte, Glenwood, Birchy Bay, Gander Bay, Gambo and Glovertown areas will be temporarily closed to vehicular traffic effective Wednesday, March 26, until further notice. Signage will be posted at gates leading to closed roads.

Temporary closures are required to protect forest access roads from damage during the spring thaw period. Roads will remain open for snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle use.

Access roads scheduled for temporary closure include:

• Salmon Pond
• Birchy Bay
• Clarke’s Head
• Otter Pond
• Shipbuilder’s Pond
• Stoneville
• Osmonton Arm
• Southern Lake
• Burnt Bay Lake
• Wings Point
• Neil’s Brook
• Rod and Gun Club
• Island Pond
• Second Pond
• Chapel’s Island
• Mint Brook Forest
• Drover’s Ridge
• Northwest Pond
• Weir’s Pond
• Kinden’s Ridge

For information about forest access road closures, contact the Lewisporte Forest Management Office at 709-535-2706 for areas west of the Gander River or the Gambo Forest Management Office at 709-674-4625 for areas east of the Gander River.

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In response to today’s Auditor General’s Report on the Medical Care Plan and Dental Health Plan, the Department of Health and Community Services is advising that it has accepted the recommendations and is highlighting ongoing work to address the issues raised.

Guided by Health Accord NL to reimagine the delivery of health care in Newfoundland and Labrador, the department has already actioned many initiatives that are consistent with the Auditor General’s recommendations. Work in these important areas includes:

• Supported by strategic investments, work is ongoing with the Office of the Chief Information Officer and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services to modernize digital health care technology such as the MCP system, including such things as the state of the aging system, general control deficiencies, and the lack of data entry controls.
  • This builds on the $620 million allocated last year for a new health information system that will significantly transform digital health capabilities.
• Engaging with WorkplaceNL to prevent and detect double billing, which has already led to five audits regarding possible double billing of services.
• Working with the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association to review the compliance program to educate physicians on billing practices and to reduce unnecessary administrative burden.
• Working closely with the Department of Justice and Public Safety and external legal counsel representing providers with outstanding accounts receivable balances to bring resolution to those audit files and to advance matters throughout the recovery processes.
• Ensuring all manual reimbursements through the adult dental program have appropriate management approvals, improve the auditing process, and ensure funds are properly distributed to providers of the MCP and dental health plan.
• Continuing to increase resources where appropriate to ensure timely collection of overpayments.

MCP continues to monitor and assess compliance, as well as apply safeguards as appropriate. There were 44 audits started from October 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024, and 54 audits started from April 2024 to present.

Quote
“We thank the staff of the Office of the Auditor General for their valuable work and the recommendations in this report. We have accepted all recommendations. We remain focused on working with stakeholders to make improvements to oversight and to replace the antiquated IT infrastructure at Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services. We are committed to continuing to making improvements and adding more oversight.”
Honourable John Haggie
Acting Minister of Health and Community Services

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This afternoon, the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation announced that the City of Corner Brook will host the 2026 Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games.

Minister Crocker was joined by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Member of the House of Assembly for Corner Brook, the Mayor of Corner Brook, his Worship Jim Parsons, and Darren Colbourne, member of the Board of Directors for Sport NL.

As the largest multi-sport event in the province, the Newfoundland and Labrador Games welcomes close to 1,600 athletes, coaches and staff and involves approximately 500 active and dedicated volunteers. The province’s top athletes between the ages of 11 and 18 years old will compete in a variety of summer sports at the 2026 Summer Games, including track and field, swimming, soccer and more.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Games are coordinated by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, in partnership with Sport Newfoundland and Labrador and provincial sport organizations. The Games are held every two years, alternating between winter and summer.

The announcement of the 2026 Summer Games location comes during the Provincial Government’s Year of Sport Celebration. To celebrate athletes and sport organizations throughout the province, approximately $4.5 million has been earmarked to support sport initiatives. The Provincial Government has also supported athletes and sport in this province through an investment of close to $50 million for the upcoming 2025 Canada Games, including legacy infrastructure which will support generations of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to come.

Quotes
“I am delighted to announce the City of Corner Brook as the location of the 2026 Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games. The Games are a fantastic event for young athletes and are about so much more than sport – the camaraderie and friendships made have the potential to last a lifetime. I wish the organizing committee the best as their planning ramps up for 2026 and I look forward to cheering on our province’s young athletes.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“With our well-deserved reputation for hospitality, volunteerism and top-of-the-line sports and recreation facilities, I am thrilled that Corner Brook will once again play host to the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games. These events are near and dear to the hearts of our province’s young athletes and the people who cheer them on every day. We can’t wait to see them all in Corner Brook in 2026.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
MHA for the District of Corner Brook

“Sport NL is excited that the City of Corner Brook and the Host Committee will host the 2026 Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games in Corner Brook. As the province’s premier event for young athletes, the Newfoundland and Labrador Games will offer an unforgettable experience while fostering future excellence. We are eager to work alongside the City of Corner Brook and the Host Committee to deliver a fantastic week of competition and camaraderie for athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers across the province.”
Raeleen Baggs
President, Sport NL

“Corner Brook is thrilled to welcome the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games in 2026, showcasing our city’s exceptional sports and recreation facilities. We have a proven track record of hosting successful sporting events, and our community is ready to provide an unforgettable experience. We eagerly anticipate hosting the athletes and their families, celebrating their achievements and the spirit of competition.”
His Worship Jim Parsons
Mayor, City of Corner Brook

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Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered a performance audit report to the House of Assembly on the Medical Care Plan (MCP) and Dental Health Plan. Today’s report contains findings and recommendations, many similar to those identified in a 2014 audit of MCP, regarding the ineffective compliance function, information technology issues, and an overall lack of program oversight.

“I am concerned that the Department of Health and Community Services is unable to ensure public health care funds are distributed appropriately to health care providers – doctors and dentists – for the services they provide to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Even more concerning, the issues I’ve identified in this audit report are some of the same issues that were reported in 2014, and I have yet to receive a reasonable explanation for why these issues are outstanding more than a decade later,” commented Denise Hanrahan, Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The audit found the department failed to make significant progress on the oversight issues identified in 2014. Further, high-risk areas, such as the failure to complete disaster recovery and business continuity plan testing, were identified; as well as the lack of processes to prevent or detect double payments with Workplace NL. In addition to the MCP IT system being old and complex, it may also not be entirely reliable, with a third of the claims processing rules we tested either serving no purpose or not working properly. The internal audit function within the department is also ineffective and underutilized.

“Aging digital infrastructure is as concerning as aging physical infrastructure,” added Auditor General Hanrahan. “The age and complexity of MCP’s systems contribute to inefficiencies, frustration for providers, and increased risks from error or fraud. Yet the internal audit function, which is meant to mitigate that risk, does not use the tools and processes available. With low productivity, procedural problems and insignificant recoveries, I question the effectiveness of the department relying on their internal audit function as an oversight measure for the MCP program.”

The full report as well as an audit overview can be found by visiting. www.ag.gov.nl.ca.

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Media contact
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Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will make an announcement regarding the Newfoundland and Labrador Games tomorrow (Wednesday, March 19).

The announcement will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the Corner Brook Civic Centre (1 Canada Games Drive, Corner Brook).

Minister Crocker will be joined by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Member of the House of Assembly for Corner Brook, His Worship Jim Parsons, Mayor of Corner Brook, and Darren Colbourne from Sport NL.

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The House of Assembly advises that a meeting of the Management Commission is scheduled for tomorrow (March 19) at 9:30 a.m.

The meeting will be available live via the House of Assembly broadcast channel, website and social media channels (Facebook and YouTube).

Briefing materials for the public meeting will be available on the website at 9 a.m. on Wednesday. The agenda for the meeting follows.

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House of Assembly Management Commission
Agenda

Date:              March 19, 2025
Time:             9:30 a.m.
Location:      Videoconference

Televised

1. Approval of minutes:
   a. July 17, 2024;
   b. October 22, 2024;
   c. November 25, 2024;
   d. December 4, 2024;
   e. December 20, 2024;
   f. February 3, 2025.
2. Reports:
   a. Speaker’s report – rulings on allowance use;
   b. Clerk’s report – authorizations for furniture & equipment;
   c. Financial reports – 30 September 2024 & 31 December 2024;
   d. Audit Committee report.

   3. Appointment of auditor – fiscal year ended 31 March 2025.
   4. Approval for payment of invoice from previous fiscal year.
   5. Budget transfer request.
   6. Disposal of House of Assembly assets.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, is in Japan this week to help further strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s efforts to diversify trade markets and investment opportunities. While in Japan, Premier Furey will meet with executives of industry organizations and corporations in various sectors including seafood, natural resources, and critical minerals.

This trade mission is aligned with the province’s goal to expand its strategic global partnerships to advance economic growth that is mutually beneficial.

It is also part of the broader work of the ongoing Buy From Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada campaign launched last month in response to United States tariffs on Canadian products and goods entering the American market.

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The Provincial Government is improving access to fertility services in the province, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg preservation, that will eventually eliminate the need to travel outside of the province to access IVF treatment, improving the quality of life and well-being for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians seeking treatment.

Funded through Budget 2025, these improvements are based on recommendations in a report completed by Thinkwell Research Inc., that examined the viability of offering IVF treatment in-province, the financial subsidy to assist with the cost of IVF, and service delivery options.

The review included consultation with key people with direct experience and expertise in fertility services, including previous and current clients of fertility services and people considering using fertility services in the future. The report recommended providing funding upfront so patients do not have to find alternative methods to pay for treatment while awaiting reimbursement.

Based on the review:

• The subsidy for IVF is now one-time funding of up to $20,000. This is an increase from the previous funding of $5,000 per IVF cycle up to a maximum of three cycles.
• The Department of Health and Community Services is beginning consultation with stakeholders to create a plan to establish IVF services within the province, which may include legislative changes, procurement and infrastructure requirements, and human resource implications.

Since 2021, 230 individuals have availed of the IVF subsidy program for an investment of $2.1 million.

Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services currently provides many services for the diagnosis and treatment of fertility issues including counselling, fertility investigation, follicular tracking, intrauterine insemination, therapeutic donor insemination, and fertility preservation of sperm.

The full report by Thinkwell Research Inc. is available on the Department of Health and Community Services website.

Quotes
“We recognize that infertility impacts one in six individuals and can significantly impact their quality of life and well-being. Our commitment to expand fertility services in province and to include IVF confirms our commitment to ensure people who require fertility treatment can receive that here in Newfoundland and Labrador. We’re excited about the next steps in establishing a facility in the province.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“By expanding fertility services to offer IVF treatment in the province, we can ensure that people affected by infertility can receive the treatment they need here at home. Increasing the IVF subsidy will make it easier for people to get this treatment outside of the province in the interim.”
Honourable John Haggie
Acting Minister of Health and Community Services

“Providing expanded fertility services in Newfoundland and Labrador isn’t just about medical care – it is about providing individuals and couples with hope, choice and opportunity to ensure that, regardless of circumstance, they have the support they need to build the family they dream of.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“NL Health Services welcomes this announcement to expand fertility services, which will benefit current and future patients of the Newfoundland and Labrador Fertility Services program. The program currently provides outpatient services for the diagnosis and treatment of fertility issues for people across the province, and we thank the dedicated and compassionate health-care professionals and staff who provide support and quality care each day to patients. We look forward to continuing to work with the provincial government on the expansion of fertility services.”
Ron Johnson
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer – Eastern Urban Zone, NL Health Services

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Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, will deliver a performance audit report on the Medical Care Plan (MCP) and Dental Health Plan to the House of Assembly tomorrow (Wednesday, March 19).

Embargoed access to the report will be provided to media on Wednesday, March 19, beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Office of the Auditor General’s boardroom, 43 Major’s Path, St. John’s.

Media representatives planning to participate are asked to RSVP to Chrysta Collins (chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca).

The Auditor General will be available to the media beginning at 10:30 a.m.

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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

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