Government of Newfoundland News
Media Advisory: Auditor General to Deliver Performance Audit Report on the Oil and Gas Corporation
Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, will deliver a performance audit report on the Oil and Gas Corporation (OilCo) to the House of Assembly tomorrow (Wednesday, June 12).
A technical briefing for media will take place on Wednesday, June 12, beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the Office of the Auditor General’s boardroom, 7 Pippy Place, 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 11:00 a.m.
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Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Participate in Terra Bruce Announcement
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will participate in Terra Bruce’s Summer Series announcement today (Tuesday, June 11).
The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Theatre Hill Cafe, 390 Duckworth St., St. John’s.
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Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Western Newfoundland Expansion Complete By June 30
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary will complete its jurisdictional expansion in western Newfoundland effective Monday, June 30, 2024 at 12:01 a.m.
There is no change to 9-1-1 services. As always, dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency.
Effective June 30, the municipalities of Cox’s Cove, Gilliams, Humber Arm South, Hughes Brook, Irishtown-Summerside, Lark Harbour, Little Rapids, McIvers, Meadows, Pasadena, Steady Brook and York Harbour will become new areas served by the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. This is the second and final phase of expansion for the RNC in western Newfoundland, with the first phase taking place on February 1, 2024 for the communities of Massey Drive and Mount Moriah.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will continue to maintain a presence in the region, with the continuation of the Corner Brook detachment for specialized and federal policing services, as well as the RNC/RCMP Joint Forces Operation West.
All residents with ongoing files reported to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police prior to June 30, 2024, will remain with the RCMP until concluded, unless otherwise notified. Residents should continue engaging with the appropriate police agency that is handling their file.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for its years of dedication and commitment to the residents of western Newfoundland. Together with communities, both police agencies, and the Government of Canada, the province is working to deliver services in the most effective and efficient way possible to ensure all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feel safe and secure.
Quotes
“I commend the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as officials within the Department of Justice and Public Safety, for working together to ensure a smooth transition in police services for the people of western Newfoundland. No matter where you are in the province, residents are reminded that in case of emergency to always call 9-1-1.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General
“This is a significant moment in our history and an exciting time for the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary! The expansion reflects the dedication of the officers who have been assigned and are currently assigned to the Corner Brook region. We have developed a policing standard that the communities we serve can rely on and expect. We will continue to work every day to build on existing relationships with residents and increase public safety for all those we serve.”
Chief Patrick R. Roche
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
“This expansion is an excellent example of how cooperation between levels of government can result in the best outcomes for our communities. The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary policing model will bring patrol and community-based policing services to our town 24 hours a day, seven days a week and ensure that, as Pasadena continues to grow, we remain a safe, secure and ideal place to live and raise a family. I thank Minister Hogan, Chief Roche and our MHA Scott Reid for their personal attention and involvement to bring this to fruition.”
Darren Gardner
Mayor, Town of Pasadena
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Grade Configuration Announced for School in Kenmount Terrace
The Provincial Government has announced the grade configuration for the new school in Kenmount Terrace. The school will include kindergarten to Grade 7 in English and French streams and will have capacity for pre-kindergarten programming.
Once constructed, it is anticipated that the school will be the largest in the province with this grade configuration, with space for more than 850 students in the modern school. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure will launch an RFP process this fall for the design and build of the school.
Further decisions on current school infrastructure in the catchment area will be made once work concludes related to teacher allocation and class composition needs. This work is ongoing and was a focus of the Teachers Think Tank held in February.
A “What We Heard” document featuring highlights from the public consultation process on the Kenmount Terrace/Prince of Wales Collegiate School System is available on the engageNL website.
The Provincial Government is taking action to modernize the education system, including building new infrastructure to meet the needs of students, teachers and communities. Budget 2024 provides over $52 million for school infrastructure, as well as $146 million allocated over the next three years for new schools in Cartwright, Kenmount Terrace, Portugal Cove-St. Philips, and Pilley’s Island, and planning for a new high school in Paradise.
Quotes
“I thank the community members who shared feedback on their wants and needs for a new school in Kenmount Terrace. Once complete, this school will provide a modern educational environment for current and future generations. I look forward to breaking ground on this important project for Kenmount Terrace and surrounding neighbourhoods.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“Modern school infrastructure is critical to foster the education of and enhance future opportunities for students. The planning for construction of the new Kenmount Terrace school remains on-track and without interruption. I look forward to the opening of the new school in September 2026.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
“I’m very happy to see the school progressing, I have heard from many families who are anxiously waiting for their children to attend the new school in Kenmount Terrace. I continue to work with my colleagues in the Department of Education and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to ensure we have the best possible outcomes for our children.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio
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Learn more
What We Heard – Kenmount Terrace School/Prince of Wales Collegiate School System Public Consultation
Public Engagement Process Begins for Kenmount Terrace School
Provincial Government to Build a New High School for Paradise
Site Announced for New School in Kenmount Terrace
Location Unveiled for Site of New School in Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s
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Provincial Government Advances Safety Measures to Improve Moose Sightings on Provincial Roads Network
The Provincial Government is making an investment of $5 million to improve the visibility of moose along provincially operated highways. The initiatives, which stem from collaboration with the Save our People Action Committee (SOPAC), will help prevent moose-vehicle accidents, and ultimately improve highway safety.
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation, made the announcement today at the Memorial University Botanical Garden, where he was joined by Lucy Stoyles, MHA for Mount Pearl North, and members of SOPAC.
Of the $5 million, $4 million is allocated for brush clearing and $1 million for moose fencing on provincially operated highways. The $4 million allocated for brush clearing represents a $2 million increase from last year.
A tender for moose fencing will be issued today and will include approximately two kilometres westbound of Route 90 and approximately four kilometres eastbound of Route 90. Construction is anticipated to begin later this year.
Additionally, the Provincial Government continues to invest in initiatives aimed at helping minimize moose-vehicle collisions in Newfoundland and Labrador. This includes 17 kilometres of moose fencing on the west coast near Stephenville, as well as the $30,000 annually for SOPAC’s Moose Sightings Hotline and public awareness campaigns.
Building on previous moose fencing pilots in the province, the Provincial Government continues to explore moose fencing as a possible measure to help improve safety on provincial highways along additional hot-spot locations in the province. A vegetation suppression program is also being explored which will help slow growth in areas where brush clearing has occurred.
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“The safety of our travelling public on our highways is a top priority for our government, including mitigating moose-vehicle collisions. I am delighted to make this announcement to continue to enhance highway safety and reduce moose-vehicle incidents, as well as continue to build upon our own relationship with SOPAC. We are continuing to invest in additional brush clearing efforts, vegetation suppression and other sections of highway for moose fencing.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
“Moose accidents have changed so many lives, not to mention the associated financial burden these accidents have cost the province’s healthcare system. Today’s announcement highlights the government’s commitment to improve highway safety related to moose sightings in the province.”
Lucy Stoyles
MHA Mount Pearl North
“We are delighted to join with our government partners today and continue our work to help reduce moose-vehicle accidents. We know that our collective efforts can make a difference, even if it’s one accident that we help prevent. We look forward to our continued collaboration on this important topic that affects all residents of the province.”
Art Puddister
Treasurer, SOPAC
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Public Advisory: Online Companies and Deeds Portal Temporarily Unavailable During Planned Maintenance
The Companies and Deeds Online (CADO) portal on the Digital Government and Service NL website will be unavailable from 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 13 to 8:30 a.m. Monday, June 17. The outage is necessary to complete planned system maintenance.
The Commercial Registrations Division office at 59 Elizabeth Avenue in St. John’s will be open during the outage to accept new documents for registration and to provide search access to paper-based historical records; however, digital searches will not be available.
The Companies and Deeds Online portal gives the public online access to some of the services provided by the Commercial Registrations Division, including:
- The ability to search for companies, condominiums, co-operatives, deeds, mechanics liens, and lobbyists information.
- The filing of Articles of Incorporation for local companies.
- The filing of corporate annual returns, changes to directors for local companies, changes to mailing addresses and changes to registered office addresses.
- The reserving of corporate names and the ability to search previously reserved names.
- The ability to order/print Certificates of Good Standing.
Digital Government and Service NL thanks the public for their patience during the outage and apologizes for any inconvenience caused by this service interruption.
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Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Mark Official Opening of Western Memorial Regional Hospital
The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will mark the official opening of the new Western Memorial Regional Hospital today (Monday, June 10) beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and MHA for Corner Brook; Scott Reid, MHA for St. George’s – Humber; Teara Freake, Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Western Zone, NL Health Services; Robert Andrews KC, Chair of NL Health Services Board of Trustees; and Lloyd Walters, Vice Chair of NL Health Services Board of Trustees.
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Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Make Road Safety Announcement
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, is participating in a provincial road safety announcement on Monday, June 10.
The event will take place in the Memorial University Botanical Garden conference room, 306 Mount Scio Road, St. John’s at 11:30 a.m.
Minister Abbott will be joined by Lucy Stoyles, MHA for Mount Pearl North, and representatives from the Save Our People Action Committee (SOPAC) at the announcement.
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Provincial Government Announces a Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit to Achieve a Basic Income for Persons with Disabilities
Today, the Provincial Government launched a Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit that will achieve a basic income for Persons with Disabilities. The new initiative, enabled by a $26 million investment, further highlights the Provincial Government’s commitment to improving the well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
The announcement was made by the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities. Minister Pike was joined by Dr. Pat Parfrey, Deputy Minister, Health Transformation, as well as Duane Morgan, CNIB Vice President, Atlantic Canada, and Dennis Gill, father of an adult son living with disabilities, Past President of Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador and the Chair of the Buildings Accessibility Advisory Board.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit will come into effect in July 2025, and will include:
- Up to $400 per month to persons with disabilities; and,
- The $1,200 in the Registered Disability Savings Program (RDSP), which will begin in January 2025, for those that qualify.
Eligibility for the Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit is based on income level for persons aged 18-64 and is in addition to other provincial financial supports that persons with disabilities may receive.
This benefit will also be in addition to other supports the Provincial Government provides to persons living with low income. On top of those two forms of support, the new benefit also builds on federal benefits the same way as other provincial benefits, such as the Newfoundland and Labrador Income Supplement, Child Benefit, and Seniors’ Benefit.
The RDSP is a long-term savings plan for persons with disabilities and their families which aims to help provide financial security for their futures.
Quotes
“We will continue to take action and make investments that will contribute to building a province that is inclusive, accessible and equitable. With this new benefit that will achieve basic income for persons with disabilities, our goal is to directly target the challenges impacting persons with disabilities and their families that are compounded when they are experiencing low income.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Our government recognizes that the higher cost of living has impacted everyone, particularly those most vulnerable, including persons with disabilities. This new program is a positive step toward addressing some of the inequities experienced by persons with disabilities.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities
“As someone living with blindness in Canada and working to support others in our community, I have firsthand knowledge of the significant financial strain on individuals with disabilities, both inside, and outside the home. There are the obvious costs for people in the blind community—assistive computer software and video magnifiers. Then there’s the less obvious expenses—like transportation. The announcement of the Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit is an important step in better meeting these needs and supporting all living with disabilities in the province.”
Duane Morgan
CNIB, Vice President of Atlantic Canada
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Provincial Government Marks World Oceans Day
June 8 is World Oceans Day, a special day commemorated annually around the world to celebrate our oceans, the many benefits they provide, and those who earn a livelihood in ocean-related industries and organizations.
The Newfoundland and Labrador World Oceans Day Planning Committee has scheduled several fun-filled, educational, ocean-themed events highlighting this year’s theme, Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing.
The committee will host a World Ocean Day Celebration at Marine Institute, 155 Ridge Road, St. John’s, on Saturday, June 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Lucy Stoyles, MHA for Mount Pearl North and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will participate in the celebration.
This all-ages event is free for the whole family and includes games, arts and crafts, touch tanks, science demonstrations and music. Other opportunities to participate in virtual events and activities are highlighted at World Oceans Day – Newfoundland and Labrador.
Kindergarten to Grade 12 students throughout the province submitted 721 entries to the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s 2024 World Oceans Day Art Contest. Category winners are listed in the backgrounder below.
Officials from the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture are members of the NL World Ocean Day Committee, along with representatives from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Parks Canada, World Wildlife Fund Canada, Canadian Parks Wilderness Society – NL Chapter, and the Marine Institute of Memorial University.
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“Newfoundland and Labrador’s identity and prosperity are deeply intertwined with the ocean. World Oceans Day is a great opportunity to consider actions we can take to protect this vital resource for future generations. Congratulations to the World Oceans Day NL committee members for their dedicated efforts to raise awareness and encourage action to sustain our oceans and coastal environments, particularly among our province’s youth.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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World Oceans Day – Newfoundland and Labrador
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BACKGROUNDER
2024 World Oceans Day Art Contest Winners
Kindergarten
Winner: A. Whittle, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: J. Hart, St. Joseph’s Elementary, Harbour Breton
Grade 1
Winner: H. Renouf, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: V. Spurrell, École des Grands-Vents, St. John’s
Grade 2
Winner: T. Young, Jakeman All Grade, Trout River
Honourable Mention: A. Hearn, Fogo Island Central Academy, Fogo Island
Grade 3
Winner: A. Olmstead, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: E. Simms, Bayside Academy, Port Hope Simpson
Grade 4
Winner: B. Peach, Southwest Arm Academy, Little Heart’s Ease
Honourable Mention: K. Payne, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Grade 5
Winner: E. Beaulieu, Gros Morne Academy, Rocky Harbour
Honourable Mention: J. Dunne, Elwood Elementary, Deer Lake
Grade 6
Winner: G. Parsons, Holy Family Elementary, Paradise
Honourable Mention: W. Qi, Mary Queen of Peace, St. John’s
Grade 7
Winner: S. Tucker, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: E. Peach, Southwest Arm Academy, Little Heart’s Ease
Grade 8
Winner: K. Hancock, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: L. Ryan, French Shore Academy, Port Saunders
Grade 9
Winner: K. Spingle, St. Paul’s Intermediate, Gander
Honourable Mention: S. Strugnell, St. Lewis Academy, St. Lewis
Grade 10
Winner: C. Sutton, Holy Heart of Mary, St. John’s
Honourable Mention: F. White, Jakeman All Grade, Trout River
Grade 11
Winner: K. Mazarao, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: C. Lauraice Paas, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Grade 12
Winner: A. Rogers, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Corner Brook
Honourable Mention: S. Skinner, Jakeman All Grade, Trout River
2024 World Oceans Day Art Contest Class Winners
Primary: N. Drover, Perlwin Elementary, Winterton
Elementary: V. Stratton, Gill Memorial Academy, Musgrave Harbour
Junior High: D. Macbeth, Frank Roberts Junior High, Conception Bay South
High School: K. Jesso, Riverwood Academy, Wing’s Point
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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Announces Program to Help Attract New Nurses to the Profession
To complement ongoing recruitment activities, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is introducing a new tuition relief program for nursing students at select campuses. For students entering nursing in September 2024, the new program will help attract interest in nursing programs and support students through tuition assistance as early as entry.
The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will be available to media today (June 7) to discuss the initiative at 11:30 a.m. Minister Osborne will be joined by Dr. April Pike, Interim Dean, Memorial University Faculty of Nursing; Debbie Walsh, Vice President, Centre for Nursing Studies, NL Health Services; and Cheryl Dyke, Associate Dean, School of Health Sciences, College of North Atlantic. The availability will take place at the Confederation Building, West Block, Department of Health and Community Services lobby, To participate, media are asked to RSVP Tina Coffey (tcoffey@gov.nl.ca).
This initiative includes more than $2 million over a two-year period to students who are starting the first year of nursing programs. Students are eligible to receive up to $8,000 tuition relief during the first two years of their program. This funding will be provided to the post-secondary education institutions and will help to further reduce tuition costs for nursing students.
Tuition relief is available for:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing students at satellite nursing sites in Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, and Happy Valley-Goose Bay;
- Practical nursing students at the Centre for Nursing Studies; and
- Practical nursing students at College of North Atlantic.
More information about this program and the wide range of bursaries and incentives available for students and health care professionals looking to explore a career in Newfoundland and Labrador is available by visiting www.WorkInHealthNL.ca or emailing the Provincial Office of Health Professional Recruitment and Retention at recruit@WorkinHealthNL.ca.
Budget 2024 includes $10 million to continue recruitment and retention of health care professionals.
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“The retention and recruitment of nurses, and all health care professionals, is a priority for our government. Our approach has been focused on recruiting locally, nationally, and globally and through this new tuition incentive we are hopeful to attract new nurses to study, and eventual work, in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“On behalf of College of the North Atlantic, we extend our gratitude to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for implementing this tuition grant for practical nursing students. This initiative not only eases the financial burden on aspiring nurses but also empowers them to pursue their passion for healthcare while removing some of the financial barriers. This support is a vital investment in the future of our healthcare system, ensuring that we continue to cultivate skilled and dedicated nurses who will make a profound difference in our province.”
Dr. Barbara Elliott
Dean of Health Sciences, College of North Atlantic
“This is an excellent opportunity for more applicants across Newfoundland and Labrador to start their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor and Happy Valley-Goose Bay this fall.”
Dr. April Pike
Interim Dean, Memorial University Faculty of Nursing
“NL Health Services welcomes government’s investment in students, practical nursing education, and the nursing workforce in Newfoundland and Labrador. Providing targeted financial incentives will support students in completing the practical nursing program in one of the multiple sites across our province and will help support the delivery of quality health care in our province.”
Debbie Walsh
Vice President, Centre for Nursing Studies, NL Health Services.
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Work in Health NL
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Media Advisory: Minister Davis to Attend Tree Planting Event at Vanier Elementary School
The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will participate in a tree planting initiative to celebrate Environment Week tomorrow (Friday, June 7).
The event will take place at the Vanier Elementary School, 75 Ennis Avenue, St. John’s, NL, beginning at 11:45 a.m.
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Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-026 Released
The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-026 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.
To view the Report in its entirety, please go to https://www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.
Report: A-2024-026 Report Date: June 6, 2024 Public Body: Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Summary: The Complainant submitted two access requests to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary for records related to various RNC policies and procedures. The RNC relied on section 17(2) of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to neither confirm nor deny whether responsive records exist. This Office found that the RNC failed to meet the two-part test and therefore section 17(2)(a) was not applicable. It was recommended that the RNC identify any records responsive to the requests that may exist and redact them accordingly under section 31 (if applicable) and provide new responses to the Complainant within 20 business days of receipt of this Report.-30-
Media contact
Sean Murray
Director of Research & Quality Assurance
709-729-6309
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Public Advisory: Update on Holy Redeemer Elementary School
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure continues to work closely with an environmental consultant to investigate the source of the smell at Holy Redeemer Elementary School.
On May 15, a chemical smell was first detected at the school and a decision was promptly made to close the facility. Since the closure, students have been temporarily relocated to the following neighbouring schools:
- K to Grade 3 – Bay Roberts Primary
- Grades 4 to 6 – All Hallows Elementary (North River)
- Grades 7 to 9 – St. Peter’s Elementary (Upper Island Cove)
This temporary relocation will be in effect for the remainder of the school year. The Provincial Government’s priority is the safety of students and staff at Holy Redeemer Elementary School, as the investigation on the source of the chemical smell continues.
At this time, there have been no conclusive findings from the investigation that determine the source of the odour, and additional testing is planned. The department will release the results to the public.
If there are any questions on this process, please reach out to jimsinnott@nlschools.ca.
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Public Advisory: Spruce Budworm Control Program Set to Begin
The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Spruce Budworm Early Intervention Control Program will be active along parts of Western Newfoundland and the Northern Peninsula this summer, subject to insect development and weather. Spruce budworm is a destructive forest insect capable of causing widespread defoliation leading to tree mortality and growth losses.
Aerial treatments will take place on forest land located south of the Bay of Islands, east of Gros Morne National Park extending to the Baie Verte area, north of Gros Morne National Park up to the Plum Point area, and the Roddickton-Bide Arm area.
Up to 90,000 hectares of forest is scheduled to be protected using one or more applications of the biological control agent Btk, which has been approved for use by the Health Canada – Pest Management Regulatory Agency. Additional information about Btk is available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website.
Program information including times, locations and maps related to treatment activities will be available on the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture 2024 Forest Insect Control Program website or by calling the Forest Insect Control Program Daily Update Line at 1-877-636-2996. Public signage and maps will be posted along access roads leading to areas where treatment is planned.
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Media Advisory: Minister Pike to Announce Support for Persons with Disabilities
The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, will announce an initiative to improve benefits and achieve a basic income for persons with disabilities tomorrow (Friday, June 7).
Minister Pike will be joined by Dr. Pat Parfrey, Deputy Minister, Health Transformation, as well as Duane Morgan, CNIB Vice President, Atlantic Canada, and Dennis Gill, father of an adult son living with disabilities, Past President of Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador and the Chair of the Buildings Accessibility Advisory Board.
The event will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 11:00 a.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 10:00 a.m.
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Statement from Minister Crocker Regarding Service Impacts Related to the New Marine Atlantic Vessel, Ala’suinu
The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is expressing strong concern with the news of service impacts related to mechanical issues with Marine Atlantic’s new vessel, Ala’suinu.
“Marine Atlantic’s announcement of service impacts on the Argentia route could not come at a worse time. We are on the cusp of an incredibly busy and critically important tourism season. There are thousands of people who are traveling to and from the province this summer, and vehicular traffic marks an important demographic of visitors who stay longer and spend more than other travelers.
This is extremely disappointing news. It is incumbent upon Transport Canada and Marine Atlantic to come up with a better, more permanent solution to the lack of capacity in serving the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.
I have spoken with the CEO of Marine Atlantic, Murray Hupman, to voice my concerns, and will be meeting with the Federal Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, on Monday (June 10) to reiterate that the challenges around lack of capacity coming from Marine Atlantic need addressing.
I have also been in contact with Craig Foley, CEO of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, and we stand united in our expectation that Marine Atlantic find a swift and efficient solution to this issue to ensure travel is not interrupted during the tourism season.”
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Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Attend Opening of Co. Innovation Centre
The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will deliver remarks during the grand opening of the Co. Innovation Centre tomorrow (Friday, June 7).
The event takes place at the Co. Innovation Centre, 710 Torbay Road, St. John’s, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
The Co. Innovation Centre is a multi-sectoral space for established and growing companies to converge, collaborate, and cocreate.
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Minister Loveless Assumes Chair of the Canadian Council of Forestry Ministers
The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, participated in Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM) meetings in Cranbrook, British Columbia this week to discuss shared priorities, common challenges, and emerging opportunities in Canada’s forest sector.Minister Loveless assumes the CCFM chair from outgoing chair, the Honourable Bruce Ralston, British Columbia’s Minister of Forests.
With wildfire season underway across Canada and wildland fire events increasing in frequency, intensity and cost, ministers discussed ways to support preparation and response activities, as well as collaboration and coordination of resources to help protect people, property and critical infrastructure.
Newfoundland and Labrador has endorsed the CCFM’s Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy. The strategy outlines actions to enhance whole-of-society collaboration and coordination that help reduce the risk of wildland fire, including expanding investment in prevention and mitigation. Implementation will be ongoing and focus on ensuring a resilient Canada where all parts of society are prepared, empowered, and engaged in preventing and mitigating the negative effects of wildland fires.
Ministers were also updated on continued work regarding sustainable forest management and international trade, including engagement with key partners and Indigenous organizations.
The CCFM was established in 1985 to provide a platform for federal, provincial and territorial governments to work together on common concerns relating the forests. The CCFM provides leadership on national and international issues and sets direction for the stewardship and sustainable management of forests across Canada (www.ccfm.org).
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“While all provinces and territories have varied forest management regimes our discussions this week have highlighted our shared interests and common ground. Thank you to our counterparts in British Columbia and outgoing CCFM chair, Minister Bruce Ralston for their stellar work and leadership. Newfoundland and Labrador is honoured to take the CCFM helm and continue guiding the agenda on the growth and diversification of Canada’s forest sector.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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Significant Interest in Green Transition Fund Results in Project Approvals and Second Expression of Interest
There has been significant interest shown for the Provincial Government’s Green Transition Fund with approximately $2.1 million in funding awarded to date. Today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the second call for expressions of interest for the fund, as well as details of a number of approved projects.
To date, throughout the province there have been 11 projects approved and 18 are currently under assessment by the department. For the 29 proposals received, the total project value was $28.2 million with a Green Transition Fund request totaling $9.8 million. This funding has leveraged significant investment from the Federal Government and private sources.
The Green Transition Fund aims to propel forward the development of renewable energy and clean technologies in the province and position Newfoundland and Labrador as a leader in the global green transition. This fund supports the greening of commercial operations, research and development, manufacturing and extractive resource development, and other areas that help transition to a greener economy. An Expression of Interest launched on June 21, 2023 led to 107 applications for funding being received, including six Indigenous-led projects and 24 rural projects.
Following this success, the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is announcing the second expression of interest for the program. This funding will be for projects for businesses, business development organizations, post-secondary institutions and industry associations, as well as other collaborative efforts to assist with the province’s transition to a green economy. Applicants have until July 12, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. NDT to apply. For details on submitting an application, please visit the Green Transition Fund Program webpage.
The department previously announced projects for the St. John’s International Airport Authority and Larch Grove Farm Ltd in Cormack. Information related to additional projects that were recently approved can be found in the backgrounder below.
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“I am encouraged to see the interest being shown in the green transition in this province. We are all working towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050, fighting climate change, advancing environmental stewardship and clean economic growth and will continue to support programs that help us achieve those goals.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“The green economy opportunity that is before Newfoundland and Labrador is truly enormous. Our province has the potential to make a substantive contribution to the world’s fight against climate change. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s creation of the Green Transition Fund – and investments being made through it into projects like those announced today – will help us to seize these opportunities and reach our potential.”
Kieran Hanley
Chief Executive Officer, econext
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Provincial Government Launches New Green Transition Fund
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BACKGROUNDER
Below are projects approved to receive funding from the Green Transition Fund.
ASL Energy
ASL Energy is receiving $161,404 in funding for a 10-month recycling pilot project to prove the technology in the Newfoundland environment to recycle and add value to waste High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) from the aquaculture industry. The proposed project aims to collect, clean, and process the waste HDPE products, diverting them from landfills and redirecting them to HDPE manufacturers in Canada and globally. ASL Energy’s new technology will reduce the number of trucks required to transport the materials substantially, and will repurpose HDPE materials as a usable product, diverting waste from landfills.
Big River Camps (2012) Inc.
Big River Camps, situated on the banks of Big River in Labrador is receiving $335,590 in funding to reduce their carbon footprint. is an exclusive wilderness retreat accessible only by float plane or helicopter. The camp caters to anglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts and offers all modern conveniences which requires large amounts of energy through a diesel generator system. Big River Camps is proposing to install a custom three phase solar inverter system to operate the facility which is located in an unserviceable area. Big River Camps plans to replace fossil fuel usage with a renewable energy source, decrease energy costs and alleviate the risks associated with the transportation of fossil fuels across ecological sensitive areas. In addition, it lessens air and noise pollution, opens new revenue streams with environmentally conscience visitors and advances the sustainable tourism product offerings in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Brenton Investment Limited
Brenton Investments Limited, who operates the only concrete manufacturing plant located on the Burin Peninsula, is receiving $252,000 in funding. This will assist in expanding operations to include a new split silo to store other types of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs). The use of the SCMs will allow them to produce 30 per cent less CO2 in their concrete operation. In the present to near-term, the cement and concrete sector is focused on optimizing clinker substitutes, reducing reliance on fossil fuels by switching to lower-carbon alternative, increasing the use of recycled materials contributing to the circular economy, promoting market uptake of low-carbon cements and concretes, and maximizing efficiency in concrete design and construction.
econext
econext is receiving $249,550 for their “Greening Business in Newfoundland and Labrador” project, which will focus on three main areas: the development of six educational modules for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) around Green Transition activities, the delivery of these modules both in-person and through online courses, and 25 firm-level SME energy and waste assessments across a variety of industry sectors. The overall goal is to increase awareness of environmental issues/opportunities from a commercial context and to evaluated current companies to determine firm-level opportunities for the 25 participating companies and broad level themes that can be applied province wide.
Energy NL
Energy NL is receiving $270,000 to establish The Energy NL Collective, with plans for it to be a focal point of the sector and foster collaboration within the broader energy sector. Through this collaboration, the unique capabilities and skills of the Newfoundland and Labrador supply and service sector will be enhanced, will lower carbon and waste, and become globally competitive from an environmental perspective. The Energy NL Collective will lead engagement with industry stakeholders and the wider public and seek to broaden the understanding of the province’s energy sector, including investment, supply chain, and the labour force issues and opportunities. The Energy NL Collective will also support members of the province’s energy sector as they progress through their journey in the energy transition, through a pilot program with 20 companies in the Newfoundland and Labrador energy supply chain to participate in a detailed environmental assessment. The target audience for this project is offshore operators, renewable energy companies.
Igloo Lake Lodge
Igloo Lake Lodge, a premier trout fishing lodge located southeast of Goose Bay, Labrador, is receiving $112,611 in funding for the installation of a solar system at the lodge to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and the current need of a diesel generator. With the installation of the solar system, the environmental and cost savings over the future seasons of Igloo Lake will be significant. With the installation of the solar system, the environmental and cost savings over the future seasons of Igloo Lake will be significant.
Miawpukek Horizon Maritime Services Ltd.
Miawpukek Horizon Maritime Services Ltd. is receiving $300,000 from the Green Transition Fund to enable a project to introduce the novel C-Bud Robotics harvesting technology to Canada and to establish Conne River, Newfoundland and Labrador (Miawpukek), as the technical and operating hub for marine robotics for fisheries. The project will see the training and capacity development of Miawpukek First Nation members to lead this emerging market and export technology and services across Canada from Conne River. The new technology presents an environmentally preferable solution to shellfish harvesting and meets the objectives that the world is moving towards related to climate and ecological protection. The technology reduces the carbon footprint of the harvest by approximately 50% while preserving the delicate ocean floor and biodiversity and harvesting a higher quality product, maximizing value, compared to traditional methods.
Rob Clarke Motorsports Inc.
Rob Clarke Motorsports, an adventure tourism and hospitality company servicing the North-Central and Western portion of the island, is receiving $40,931 in funding to minimize the ecological footprint of Silver Mountain Lodge and Rob Clarke Motorsports while maximizing environmental, economic and operational benefits. The project aims to reduce waste, become energy efficient, comply with international standards for environmental management, and eliminate two major sources of fuel consumption -generators and vehicles – by embracing renewable energy sources. The environmental benefits are multi-faceted, encompassing a substantial reduction in solid waste and greenhouse gas emissions. The funding will be used for technical assistance/environmental consultation and a comprehensive off-grid solar energy system.
The OldMill 4-Seasons RV Campground & Lodge Ltd.
The OldMill 4-Seasons R.V. Campground & Lodge Limited, located outside the Town of Avondale is receiving $14,000 in funding for the installation of solar panels to improve operations and become more environmentally friendly. By embracing solar energy, the RV park not only reduces its reliance on traditional energy sources but also sets an example for rural, sustainable living in Newfoundland and Labrador and contributes to the broader adoption of green energy solutions in the tourism industry. The park’s commitment to solar energy will also be an educational tool for guests.
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