Government of Newfoundland News

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to recognize Pharmacy Appreciation Month and the more than 1,000 pharmacy professionals who work every day to meet the health care needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Pharmacy professionals continue to play a significant role in our health care system. Often the first point of contact for health services, pharmacists are trusted members of our communities and core to our clinical teams and hospitals. They ensure that patients get the most appropriate medication, manage drug interactions, assess and prescribe for many common conditions, provide knowledge of over-the-counter products, train patients on medical devices, and administer many vaccinations.

Our government is proud to have worked with the Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board and the Pharmacists’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador last year to give pharmacists a greater scope of practice and more autonomy than ever before.

By expanding the scope of practice, pharmacists can now extend prescriptions for patients to a maximum of 12 months and can assess for and prescribe hormonal contraception. They can also assess and prescribe for a total of 33 common ailments.

Our pharmacy professionals provide accessible health care across the province and are an integral part of our health care system.

Speaker, I ask all Honourable Members to join me in thanking our pharmacy professionals.

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The Provincial Government is taking applications for its Employment Steps for Success Program (ESS).

A total investment of $1 million is now available to non-profit community organizations to assist people with career planning and employment readiness.

Last year, the Employment Steps for Success Program funded 19 community organizations in delivering ESS programming.

Funding of up to $50,000 per stream is available to organizations that apply online under one or both of the following streams by March 13, 2024:

• Adult Pre-Employment
• Career Exploration for Youth

For full information about the program, and how to apply online, please visit the website.

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After a week full of competition, sport and camaraderie, the 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games came to a close this past weekend in Gander.

The Honourable Dr. John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and Member of the House of Assembly for Gander, attended both the opening ceremonies on February 24 and the closing ceremonies on March 2. At the event, Minister Haggie presented the Premier’s Cup to Team St. John’s/North, who finished at the top of the medal standings with nine gold, eight silver and three bronze medals.

The Sport Newfoundland and Labrador Trophy was presented to Team Mount Pearl/South for showing the most improvement from one Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games to the next.

The Lieutenant Governor’s Award was presented to Team Indigenous as the team that best demonstrated the overall spirit of friendly competition and sportsmanship – the essence of the Newfoundland and Labrador Games.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Games is the largest multi-sport event for youth in the province and has been encouraging participation in sport and the pursuit of athletic excellence for nearly 50 years.

To support this year’s Games in Gander, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador made $740,000 available, which is administered through Sport NL and the Town of Gander. Sport NL works in collaboration with the local host organizing committees and provincial sport organizations to deliver the Games.

For more information on the 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games, including event photos and final medal standings, please visit www.nlgames.ca.

Quotes
“Our province is home to many talented athletes and the Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games provides a great opportunity for them to showcase their skill and sportsmanship. Sport builds character, teaches leadership and fosters resilience, and competing in these games provides young athletes many opportunities to learn these qualities. They are inspiring examples of the bright future that is in store for our province and I congratulate all of them on their successes this past week.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games are a week full of opportunities for our young people to shine and that is just what they did this past week in Gander. Congratulations to all who competed, inspiring participants and spectators alike. Thank you to the coaches, managers, parents and volunteers as well as the host organizing committee for your unwavering commitment to these young athletes and to making these games a resounding success. Your contributions are instrumental in promoting sport as part of a healthy, active lifestyle.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“It was great to participate in the opening and closing ceremonies and awards presentations of the 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games in Gander. The atmosphere throughout the town and within the venues was electric! Thank you to everyone who was involved in making the Games a tremendous success. Congratulations to all the athletes for engaging in fair and spirited competition. I hope you have fond memories of your time at the Games here in Gander.”
Honourable Dr. John Haggie
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
MHA for the District of Gander

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NL Games

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Applications are open for the 2024-25 big game license draw. The deadline to apply is May 3, 2024.

Applications for resident moose, caribou, black bear and trapper licences are available online only. Eligible hunters and trappers must have a Wildlife Information Management System (WIMS) account to apply for a license.

The 2024-25 moose quota for the island of Newfoundland is 27,590 licences, including 18,390 either-sex, 8,740 male-only, and 460 not-for-profit licences. This is a net increase of 15 licences from 2023-24; however, quotas have been adjusted in 23 moose management areas (MMA). In Labrador, 345 moose licences are available for the resident big game draw, an increase of five licenses.

The caribou quota on the island of Newfoundland is 583, including 373 either-sex and 210 male-only licences, an increase of eight licences from 2023-24. Caribou hunting is prohibited in Labrador.

Due to positive results from an initiative to re-introduce Newfoundland woodland caribou on the Grey Islands (Bell Island and Groias Island), a small quota of eight licences has been set for 2024-25.

To be considered eligible for the 2024 big game license draw, you must:

• Be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Be at least 16 years of age by August 31, 2024
• Have a Hunter Certificate Number
• Have already completed the Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course or transferred hunting credentials by November 30, 2023

For further information, visit the 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide, or contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025/709-729-2630 or by email at wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“The 2024-25 Big Game Season will see a few improvements as we continue to manage the province’s wildlife resources sustainably and responsibly. We are streamlining the application process to provide a smoother online service and working to ensure the recreational and food security benefits big game harvesting offers are accessible to all. I encourage eligible hunters and trappers to get their applications in and get ready for another safe and successful big game season.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more
2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide

Wildlife Information Management System

Follow us on X @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

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The follow statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General:

 Speaker, I rise today to celebrate John Howard Society Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For over 70 years, the John Howard Society has been a dependable, consistent advocate for people involved in the criminal justice system. This organization plays an important role, and does so by working closely with all stakeholders, including government.

Speaker, the Department of Justice and Public Safety proudly works with the John Howard Society to better meet the complex needs of a changing inmate population. Recently, we supported the launch of the New Day Program, an intensive case management program for individuals living with mental health concerns. In addition, the department supports other trauma-informed programs such as Seeking Safety, which is a recovery-based program that helps those impacted by substance abuse make changes in their lives; or Anger Solutions, which is a person-centered program that helps those who want to better manage their emotions.

It is supports and services like these, and so many more, that make the provincial chapter of the John Howard Society so important. I commend the efforts of Cindy, Joan, Dan and Melissa, and all the team, who work so hard towards a more effective, just, and humane response to the causes and consequences of crime, including an improved correctional system.

Speaker, I ask all Honourable members to join me in acknowledging the work of the John Howard Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Thank you.

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Today, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is announcing an extension of the tax reduction on gasoline and diesel until March 31, 2025. This maintains a lower price at the pump by 8.05 cents per litre (includes HST), the lowest provincial tax on gasoline among all the provinces.

This measure is one of many the Provincial Government has put in place to address affordability for the residents, families and businesses of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced more than a half billion dollars in targeted short- and long-term measures to help residents with affordability since March 2022, including increases to the income supplement and seniors’ benefit, eliminating retail sales tax on personal property insurance, reducing the cost of registering vehicles, and providing free driver medicals for people 75 years of age and older.

Quote
“We recognize that affordability remains a concern for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Our province currently has the lowest gasoline tax among all Canadian provinces because of the reduction in gas tax. Maintaining this measure, first introduced in 2022, is one of many we are using to help residents with their daily expenses.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Minister of Finance

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The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is advising athletes throughout Newfoundland and Labrador that provincial sport organizations are now accepting applications for the 2024 Athletic Excellence Fund.

The Athletic Excellence Fund supports local athletes by providing financial assistance to help offset costs associated with training and competition. Funding is provided to athletes through four channels – the Premier’s Athletic Awards, the Team Gushue Awards, the Elite Athlete Assistance Program, and the Sport NL Scholarship Program.

In order to apply, applicants must be members in good standing of a Provincial Sport Organization. Individuals must submit their applications to their respective Provincial Sport Organization by March 20, 2024. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. The application form and guidelines for applicants are available here.

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The Provincial Government is supporting a local technology manufacturing company as it looks to bring its smart thermostats and energy management software platforms to new markets.

Minister Andrew Parsons today announced $100,000 in funding for Empowered Homes Inc. (Mysa) as it undertakes a market expansion strategy project in Europe. The Provincial Government’s investment of $100,000 helps to leverage a $170,500 investment from Empowered Homes for total project funding of $270,500.

The St. John’s-based manufacturing and technology company employs 80 full-time employees. This project is expected to increase its full-time employment by six or more. The company focuses on providing solutions to help homeowners reduce energy consumption and lower home heating costs. Mysa smart thermostats are designed for high-voltage electric baseboard heating systems.

This project is supported through the Business Development Support Program, which allows the Provincial Government to support small and medium-sized businesses that are committed to develop and grow their operations by improving operational productivity, focusing on trade opportunities and developing their markets.

Quotes
“Clean technology offerings from Mysa provide a highly scalable opportunity to grow the province’s economy by pushing into large markets eager to generate energy efficiencies. As a leading Newfoundland and Labrador cleantech company, Mysa represents an opportunity to showcase the province’s innovation and energy conservation and sustainability solutions that will prove beneficial in markets at home and abroad.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“I am happy to endorse this level of investment by the provincial government in a local company that continues to demonstrate a keen insight to the home energy management market. I wish them continued success as they enter the European market.”
John Abbott
MHA St. John’s East-Quidi Vidi

“As Mysa continues to innovate and create incredible products aimed at enhancing energy efficiency for homeowners and businesses alike, we recognize the importance of reaching new markets and customers, both domestically and internationally. This pivotal moment in our journey is where the province’s funding becomes crucial. It enables us to amplify our marketing strategies and extend our reach, which is not just vital for our growth but also essential in scaling our impact towards combating climate change. We are immensely grateful for the support that allows us to take our mission further, making a significant difference in the world by promoting energy conservation and efficiency.”
Joshua Green
CEO, Mysa

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Learn more
Business Development Support Program

Empowered Homes

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

Speaker, I rise in this honourable house today to reflect on a true leader, whose wisdom and counsel crossed political party lines, and who saw our great federation of Canada as what it truly can be – working to make it better for all of us.

In the passing of Brian Mulroney, our 18th Prime Minister, Canada has lost a true patriot and statesman.

Ever a friend to our province, Mulroney had a lasting impact on Newfoundland and Labrador through the original Atlantic Accord, shaping our offshore oil industry.

From the Health Accord to the economy, I treasured his insight and advice. The last time we spoke was in the fall. We discussed the current state of politics, extremism, and personal attacks in the current national context.

Always a gentleman, and so generous with his time. Brian Mulroney did not simply understand what it really meant to be a Canadian, he lived it.

As Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, I extend our province’s deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all mourning his loss.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in the house to remember and reflect on the life of our friend and colleague, Derrick Bragg.

All members in this house, and those in his life outside the walls of the Confederation Building, knew Derrick Bragg as a man filled with passion and pride for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Throughout his lifetime, Derrick showed his passion for our province by giving back, serving Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as a minister of Municipal Affairs, Transportation, and, of course, Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

But that service began in his beloved hometown of Greenspond for years as clerk, town manager and fire chief – never missing a beat in his community.

To honour his legacy and commitment to Newfoundland and Labrador, we renamed a road to the causeway in Greenspond as Derrick Bragg Way – so generations to come will know him and learn about his contribution to this province.

Derrick once famously declared, right out there on those steps, that he “had more guts than brains.” What he didn’t realize, is that it takes a lot of brains to have guts.

To his family, friends and those who knew him best, let me again offer my deepest condolences on your loss, our loss.

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Today, the Provincial Government unveiled plans to build a new high school in the Town of Paradise.  The school will help foster a strong sense of community spirit for the growing number of high school aged students in the town, while also supporting positive student outcomes.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, made the announcement at the Paradise Double Ice Complex. Minister Howell was joined by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio, the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Housing and MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, and Dan Bobbett, Mayor of the Town of Paradise.

With funding allocated through Budget 2024, next steps in this project – including site selection, design and configuration – will begin in the coming months.

Projects such as a new high school in Paradise demonstrate the Provincial Government’s investment in communities now and into the future, supporting students, and building towards a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, and sustainable province.

More than $127 million has been allocated in recent years for new schools in Kenmount Terrace, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s and Cartwright, as well as the redevelopment of the school in Pilley’s Island.

Quotes
“Our government recognizes that a positive educational environment requires appropriate and modern infrastructure. I am pleased that we are planning to build a high school in Paradise that will meet the needs of a dynamic and growing community.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Building new educational infrastructure means increasing educational opportunities for students in Newfoundland and Labrador. I am very pleased that we are moving forward with the planning of a new school for Paradise that will culminate in a new, modern learning environment for students in the area.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“As the MHA representing Elizabeth Park, I have heard from constituents and families in Paradise loud and clear, that students need to have a high school in their growing community of nearly 23,0000 residents. I commend the dedicated group of parents who helped drive this announcement. Their collaborative, respectful and insightful efforts were instrumental in achieving this significant win for the Town of Paradise.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio

“Paradise is a vibrant, rapidly growing community in our province. As an MHA representing a large number of the people of Paradise, I am delighted to be a part of a government that is responding to the needs of the area well into the future with the commitment of a new high school.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Housing and MHA for Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s

“On behalf of the Town of Paradise, I extend our sincere thanks to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for making a high school a reality for our Town. Our residents and past and current Councils have been voicing the need for a high school and we commend Government for listening. As one of the fastest growing municipalities in the province with the youngest average-aged population, a high school is a welcome complement to our four elementary schools and intermediate school. We look forward to working with Government on this project and we can’t wait to welcome students to the new High School. It is indeed a great day in Paradise!”
Dan Bobbett, Mayor
Town of Paradise

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Learn more
Site Announced for New School in Kenmount Terrace

Location Unveiled for Site of New School in Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s

Budget 2023 Infrastructure Investments

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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.

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

St. George’s – Great Atlantic Salt Project                          (Reg. 2290)
Proponent: Atlas Salt Inc.

The Proponent is proposing to develop an underground salt mine on the west coast of Newfoundland within the town of St. George’s. The project would produce and export crushed salt for the road de-icing market with initial production of approximately 2.5 million tonnes of rock salt per year. Project components would include an underground mine and ore processing facilities, mine site surface infrastructure, an overland conveyor system, use of the existing Turf Point marine facility, and associated ancillary infrastructure including access roads, water and sewer systems, and power supply. 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 February 29, 2024; the deadline for public comment is April 5, 2024, and the minister’s decision is due by April 14, 2024.

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

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT REQUIRED:

Great Coastal Trail – Parson’s Pond to Daniel’s Harbour             (Reg. 2284)
Proponent: Central Development Association

The minister has advised the proponent that an environmental preview report (EPR) is required for the project. The EPR is required to include:

• Identification of any overlap of the trail with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (TI) property, including rights-of-way, and measures that will be undertaken in consultation with TI to mitigate land use conflicts;
• Identification of any overlap of the trail with other land ownership/use, such as municipal development plans, Local Service Districts, private lands, the Crown Land Wind Land Reserve Order, the Arches Provincial Park, etc., and mitigations that will be undertaken to address potential land use conflicts;
• Avoidance of sand dunes along the trail, particularly at Portland Creek and Cliffy Point;
• Digital mapping of the trail, in consultation with the Crown Lands Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (FFA);
• Plans to engage the Wildlife and the Crown Lands Divisions of FFA, and TI in discussions on the design of future phases of the Great Coastal Trail;
• Plans for a Short-eared Owl survey to be conducted by a qualified independent third party between late June and late July of the construction year;
• A Contingency Plan that considers potential accidents and malfunctions and takes into account site-specific conditions and sensitivities;
• A Management Plan that includes appropriate preventative measures to minimize the risk of adverse effects on migratory birds and their habitats;
• An Environmental Protection Plan that describes measures that will be undertaken to:
• prohibit motorized vehicle access on the trail;
  • prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species into waters from machinery and equipment working in/near water;
  • avoid Bank Swallow nesting colonies and critical habitat along/near the trail, particularly near areas with known breeding colonies at Parson’s Pond and Portland Creek;
  • maintain a minimum 30-meter undisturbed buffer along all waterbodies (except coastline and water crossings) and wetlands (including bogs and marshes) that appear on 1:50,000 National Topographical Survey maps;
  • avoid a small section of a wetland next to the outfall of Portland Brook; and
  • monitor and maintain trail construction and operation by developing a Trail Monitoring and Maintenance Program that commits the proponent to overseeing appropriate trail construction and use;
• A Waste Management Plan specific to the project;
• Demonstration that the finished grade of the trail crest near the town of Parsons Pond will be below the 20-year flood elevation to avoid interference with the flow of water or displacement of water that could create a worse flooding situation for other locations; and
• An Historic Resources Impact Assessment.

An Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the minister and to prepare guidelines to advise the proponent of the information to be included in an EPR. The public will be invited to provide comments on the EPR upon its submission. The EAC includes representation from the following government departments:

• Department of Environment and Climate Change
• Environmental Assessment Division – Chair
• Pollution Prevention Division
• Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Policy and Strategic Planning
• Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
• Provincial Archaeology Office
• Department of Transportation and Infrastructure

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Pinchgut Lake to George’s Lake Distribution Line Upgrade        (Reg. 2285)
Proponent: Newfoundland Power Inc.

The project is released from environmental assessment subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment, including the commitment to consult with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd. (CBPPL) regarding any overlap of proposed activities within CBPPL timber limits, and with other land users noted in the registration document.
• The Water Resources Management Division (WRMD) of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the proponent to submit an Erosion Control Plan that identifies erosion-susceptible areas of the project that occur within the Stephenville Crossing floodplain watershed and measures that will be implemented to mitigate the effects of erosion. The Erosion Control Plan must be approved by the WRMD prior to project commencement.
• The Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following:
  • Surveys for Black Ash and Red Pine are required before the project commences. Survey results must be presented to the Wildlife Division for further consultation regarding any potential mitigations/requirements for Black Ash and Red Pine prior to clearing activities.
  • Should any vegetation clearing commence prior to June 30 the proponent must contact the Wildlife Division at least 15 business days prior to the planned work start date with specific information on locations, planned activities, and associated equipment as well as proposed time frame, for review and approval to ensure no negative impacts to American marten or their denning sites.
  • Vegetation clearing is not to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) or within 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer applies to all other raptor nests (Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest sites must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
  • The proponent must submit a copy of the Environmental Protection Plan noted in the registration document, to the Wildlife Division for review and approval prior to project commencement.
• The proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Point Rousse Quarry                                                                   (Reg. 2286)
Proponent: Shoreline Aggregates Inc.

The project is released from environmental assessment subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Water Resources Management Division requires that a Water Resources Management Plan be submitted to and approved by the Division prior to commencement of any work related to the project.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following:
  • A minimum 50-metre undisturbed riparian buffer is to be maintained from the high-water mark of all wetlands and waterbodies within and adjacent to the project, that are identified on either the 1:50,000 scale National Topographic System Maps, or the topographic mapping layer shown in the Provincial Land Use Atlas, to protect sensitive riparian and aquatic species and their habitats.
  • Vegetation clearing is not to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) or within 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer applies to all other raptor nests (Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest sites shall be reported to the Wildlife Division.
• The proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

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

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, will make a school infrastructure announcement on Monday, March 4. Minister Howell will be joined by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio, the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Housing and MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, and Dan Bobbett, Mayor of the Town of Paradise.

The announcement takes place at the Paradise Double Ice Complex, 1 Sarah Davis Way, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, is attending the Prospectors and Developers Association Conference 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, from Sunday, March 3, to Wednesday, March 6.

More than 30 companies and 10 prospectors with a Newfoundland and Labrador presence are attending this year. The province has participated in the Prospectors and Developers Association Conference for over 40 years.

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and Member of the House of Assembly for the electoral district of Gander, will bring greetings at the closing ceremonies for the 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games tomorrow (Saturday, March 2).

The event will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Steele Community Centre, 155 Airport Boulevard, Gander.

Since their inception in 1976, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has supported the Newfoundland and Labrador Games program, which celebrates participation in sport and the pursuit of sport excellence in communities throughout the province.

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The Provincial Government is celebrating March as Multiculturalism Month in Newfoundland and Labrador by opening applications for this year’s Newfoundland and Labrador Multiculturalism Grant Program.

A total investment of $20,800, for grants of up to $1,000, is available to develop, plan and host initiatives that promote and celebrate cultural diversity in Newfoundland and Labrador. Special consideration will be given to initiatives focused on anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion. Grants will be assessed and awarded by region and on a competitive basis.

For full information about the program, please visit the website. Interested organizations must apply through the Labour Market Program Support System (LaMPSS) by Friday, March 15, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. All funds received by applicants must be spent by March 31, 2025.

Continuing to support multiculturalism in the province helps foster welcoming and inclusive communities that are drawing and retaining more newcomers than ever before.

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Cain’s Quest, the longest snowmobile race in the world, begins on Sunday, March 3. Racers from across the country, including teams from Newfoundland and Labrador, will embark on the journey of a lifetime, departing Tanya Lake in Labrador City at 10:00 a.m.

Travelling in pairs, 32 teams have signed up for the challenge. Racers will stop at  checkpoints and required rest layovers in five communities throughout Labrador before returning to the finish line on Tanya Lake.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has proudly supported Cain’s Quest since the first race was held in 2006 and is investing a total of $116,760 in this year’s race from the departments of Industry, Energy and Technology; Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation; and Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.

Cain’s Quest is an extreme endurance race which is held every two years. During the race, participants cover more than 3,000 kilometres of Labrador’s rugged, challenging terrain.

Quotes
“Cain’s Quest has earned a reputation for the extensive work it devotes to organizing an endurance snowmobile race that is the most challenging of its kind in the world. Congratulations to the board of directors, staff, volunteers, sponsors and many others in Labrador West for their hard work and efforts to get this year’s race underway.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“As the world’s longest snowmobile race, Cain’s Quest has come a long way since the first event in 2006 and it has certainly placed Labrador on the map. This is more than a race, it’s an event that has boosted the Labrador economy during the winter season and it brings Labradorians together with much excitement and anticipation. I wish all teams a great race and a safe return across the finish line.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
MHA for Cartwright – L’Anse au Clair

“Since 2006, Cain’s Quest has placed a spotlight on Labrador’s unique geography, cultures and communities while also raising the region’s profile within the winter tourism industry. We are proud to support this event as it continues to boost development of tourism, business and community partnerships. I wish all teams the best of luck as they race across this beautiful and rugged part of our province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Snowmobile enthusiasts will have their eyes on Cain’s Quest and the entire Labrador Region this week as participants begin their 2024 adventure. Labrador’s rugged, natural beauty partnered with the support of local residents and communities will make this a memorable and authentic experience. I wish everyone involved a safe, successful race.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Cain’s Quest is the perfect showcase and celebration of Labrador lifestyle and culture, once again showing the world all of the adventure, excitement and natural wonder that comes with living in this province. Best wishes to all competitors for a safe and exciting race.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“It will give racers an extreme snowmobiling adventure while uniting all of Labrador, its people and cultures,” said Chris, chair of Cain’s Quest. “It will also showcase the raw beauty of this part of the province, from the iron-rich Labrador trough to the fjords and mountains in the north and the bogs, hills and valleys in the south.”
Chris Lacey
Board Chair, Cain’s Quest

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has committed over $400,000 to expand the Clinical Harm Reduction Outreach Team. This expansion will increase access to primary health care services for people who may be vulnerable and marginalized.

The Harm Reduction Outreach Team, which was implemented in NL Health Services’ Eastern Urban Zone in 2020, provides services including:

• A walk-in clinic.
• A street reach program.
• A shelter outreach program.
• Harm reduction supplies distribution.
• A managed alcohol program.
• Mental health and substance use counselling.
• Hepatitis C Virus and HIV diagnosis and treatment.
• Housing supports through End Homelessness St. John’s.

The funding announced today will be used to increase staffing and renovate the team’s van and equipment.

In the last year, demand for harm reduction services has increased. The team completed more than 3,400 appointments and saw approximately 980 individuals in the walk-in clinic with more individuals cared for during the team’s street walks. The harm reduction walk-in clinic is open Monday to Friday from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at 50 Mundy Pond Road in St. John’s.

The expansion is part of government’s commitment to transform the health system based on recommendations from Health Accord NL, including increasing access to community-based primary health care through innovative collaborative team-based models and to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Quotes
“The dedicated members of the Harm Reduction Team serve our most vulnerable and marginalized. Our government is proud to support the expansion of their team and services so they can continue to provide health care and supports both at the walk-in clinic and on the streets.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“NL Health Services is pleased to work with government and our community partners to deliver a comprehensive service to vulnerable and marginalized persons, as well as persons who are precariously housed and homeless. Our Harm Reduction Team brings health care directly to these individuals, removing systemic barriers to access that are often felt by these populations and we look forward to the enhanced level of care we will be able to provide through this expansion.”
Ron Johnson
Chief Operating Officer – Eastern Urban Zone, NL Health Services

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for the Office of Women and Gender Equality, today announced the awarding of $405,125 for nine community organizations to carry out important violence prevention work in the areas of outreach, education and awareness.

The funding is provided under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, a four-year bilateral agreement the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has signed with Women and Gender Equality Canada, resulting in $13.6 million in new funding to invest in violence prevention-related initiatives throughout the province.

St. John’s Status of Women Council is receiving $38,000 to expand and promote the Empowering Them e-course. This free, publicly accessible course teaches participants how to think differently about the myths and stereotypes surrounding gender-based violence, recognize the signs, and change behaviours with bystander intervention and check-ins.

Corner Brook Status of Women Council is receiving $45,000 to enhance violence prevention outreach and develop resources and educational tools for prevention efforts involving the use of technology. These resources will be shared with partnering groups across the province.

Burin Peninsula Voices Against Violence is receiving $45,000 to work with the Department of Education on curriculum development for violence prevention outcomes in schools. In addition, this organization will work with other violence prevention groups to enhance existing, in-school education and awareness tools that deal with harassment, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, family violence, sexual violence, emotional violence, and other forms of gender-based violence.

Thrive is receiving $45,000 to enhance outreach and support for the Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth (CASEY) program to address youth sexual exploitation and anti-human trafficking. This work will align with the organization’s Breaking the Culture of Silence in Newfoundland and Labrador: Provincial Assessment of Youth Sexual Exploitation report released in January 2023.

Thrive is also receiving $36,000 to produce an awareness video for youth, parents, teachers, youth service workers, professionals, and the public about sexual exploitation in Newfoundland and Labrador. The video will be translated into multiple languages, including Indigenous languages, and languages most common to the province’s newcomer populations, as well as closed captioning for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Multicultural Women’s Organization of Newfoundland and Labrador is receiving $45,000 to increase outreach and engagement for targeted programming on gender-based violence prevention specific to newcomer, immigrant and refugee women and their families.

Seniors NL is receiving $16,125 to update and modernize the Respect Aging resource and training program that addresses ageism and stigma behind gender-based violence among seniors.

Violence Prevention South Central is receiving $45,000 to develop resources and educational tools for the prevention of gender-based violence in the workplace. This work will be carried out in partnership with other stakeholders through engagement and focus groups.

Violence Prevention Avalon East is receiving $45,000 to expand the Navigating Modern Masculinity/Navigating New Norms of Masculinity program, which engages men in the prevention of intimate partner violence. Priorities for the funding will support skills development for trainers and expand the program to include trans, Indigenous and newcomer perspectives.

Communities Against Violence is receiving $45,000 to develop resources and educational tools for the prevention of violence and abuse against seniors. This work will be carried out in partnership with gender-based violence prevention organizations, Office of the Seniors’ Advocate NL, Seniors NL, and 50-plus clubs.

Quotes
“Investing in the prevention of gender-based violence through outreach, education and awareness initiatives throughout our province is an investment in the rights, dignity and safety of our residents. Together we can break the cycle of violence so that no one lives in fear.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Office of Women and Gender Equality

“I’m proud to see so many organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador benefitting from the investments under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence. This funding will provide prevention, outreach and targeted programming that will help survivors of gender-based violence, and their families, and will provide more access to educational tools and resources. These investments and these organizations are a key part of ending gender-based violence.”
Joanne Thompson
Member of Parliament for St. John’s East, on behalf of The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

“The funding announced today is providing the necessary resources to implement impactful initiatives at a grassroots level. These funds enable organizations like Thrive to expand its reach, strengthen programs, and provide vital support services to individuals and families affected by gender-based violence. By investing in these community-driven efforts, we can create safer, healthier and more resilient communities.”
Angela Crockwell
Executive Director, Thrive

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New requirements for occupational health and safety programs and committees will come into effect today following amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act passed in the House of Assembly last spring.

These new requirements raise the worker threshold for occupational health and safety programs and committees from 10 or more to 20 or more workers at a worksite.

Employers with fewer than 20 workers at a worksite require an occupational health and safety policy and representative.

Where there are fewer than six workers at a worksite, the employer is to appoint a workplace health and safety designate.

These changes will make it easier for smaller workplaces to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, without compromising the health and safety of their workers. These amendments will also harmonize the requirements for occupational health and safety committees with most other jurisdictions throughout the country and with the Government of Canada.

Active occupational health and safety committees in workplaces with between 10 and 19 workers do not need to disband. The Occupational Health and Safety Act sets a minimum standard. The optimal situation is to have a committee with management and labour working together to address safety.

The amended Occupational Health and Safety Act is available online.

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