Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, will make an announcement tomorrow (Tuesday, May 28) to support the recruitment and retention of early childhood educators in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Minister will be joined by Élisabeth Brière, Parliamentary Secretary to the Government of Canada’s Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Skye Taylor, Executive Director of the Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador.

The announcement takes place at the Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador, 59 Pippy Place, Unit 1A, St. John’s, at 11:30 a.m.

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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Education
709-729-1906; 709-691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I am happy to rise in this Honourable House to welcome a delegation from the Republic of Korea, including representatives from the Ministry of Education and the Office of International Cooperation, who join us here today, as we continue to develop a working partnership related to early learning and child care and post-secondary opportunities.

Speaker, I had the opportunity to visit the Republic of Korea this past October to attend the Canada-Korea Colleges/Universities Networking Seminar. The visit was engaging and informative as we had conversations to find potential opportunities for collaboration in all areas of education.

We had one-on-one meetings with participants and discussed potential partnerships in several program areas including early learning, K-12 education, engineering, and fine arts. During these discussions, we determined that both of our jurisdictions can learn from each other.

Speaker, our province has a prominent history in developing positive working relationships with other countries. We will continue to promote Newfoundland and Labrador on the global stage while creating opportunities for our residents here at home.

I look forward to joining our guests to tour some early learning and child care centres during their visit, and to having further discussions with them on more opportunities for our jurisdictions to collaborate.

Thank you.

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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:

Veterans, dignitaries and distinguished guests, as the 14th Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, it is my most distinct honour and privilege to rise in this Honourable House to speak about the Repatriation of an Unknown First World War Soldier and share the speech I made on Friday evening.

The name Beaumont-Hamel is spoken with a sense of melancholy in our province.

But with an even deeper sense of pride.

For every Newfoundlander and Labradorian, it is sacred ground.

In a leafy corner of Bowring Park there’s a sculpture called “The Fighting Newfoundlander.”

His right arm is cocked back, caught in mid throw of a grenade.

His left arm holds his rifle with a fixed bayonet.

Around his neck is a gas mask.

Beneath a push broom mustache, he looks confident. Intent. Ready.

The man who posed for this sculpture was Corporal Thomas Pittman from Little Bay East in Fortune Bay.

A tiny corner of our world.

Thomas was injured in the Battle of the Somme but made it through the war to come home.

Thomas was one of the lucky ones.

The statue he posed for, while stationed in England, is more about those that did not make it back.

Those who gave their lives fighting for something they felt was bigger than themselves.

That’s the essence of sacrifice.

That is bravery and courage.

That is being a hero.

Hundreds more like Thomas Pittman answered the call.

They proved their mettle in places like Monchy-le-Preux, where just 10 of them held off an advancing German army for over 11 hours before being relieved.

The Newfoundland Regiment was the only regiment to be given a Royal title by then King George V.

No other regiment of the British army was to have such a distinction awarded to it during the First World War while fighting was still in progress.

But great valour came with a high cost.

In graveyards and memorials across Europe, many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are among those tombs bestowed with the words “known unto God.”

But they are known to us.

Our brothers. Our heroes.

They came from tiny communities, towns and ports from across the province where today many memorials list the names of those who never returned.

This soldier is one of them.

A name etched in stone.

Etched in the heart of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Through the crack of artillery, the rumours of gas, I wonder how often he thought of home.

Longed for that kind of quiet that comes when you’re embraced by the craggy cliffs or hear a breeze drift across the barrens.

I wonder how often his family hoped for word from him but feared the news from the front, so far away.

In the long days, weeks and years that followed, I’m sure they dreamed that somehow,

some way, he would make his way home.

On Saturday, we fulfilled that dream.

To symbolically answer the long-ago prayers of many families across Newfoundland and Labrador, we began the journey to bring “one of ours” home.

While his journey started over 100 years ago for this young man. It was only a couple of days ago that I had the privilege and honour to stand alone with my family and him and reflect on the impact of lost sons and family members.

I felt his family’s fear.

I felt his family’s loss.

I felt his family’s need to bring him home.

It shook and moved me to tears.

July 1st is Canada Day and across our big nation there are celebrations and fireworks.

But in Newfoundland and Labrador, the day is also a day of mourning.

It marks the great sacrifice of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment at Beaumont-Hamel.

This July 1st will also mark the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Newfoundland National War Memorial.

This year we have the great honour and responsibility of having this unknown First World War Newfoundland soldier reinterred in a new tomb at the War Memorial.

A place in the heart of downtown, overlooking the St. John’s harbour from where soldiers and volunteers, our brave men and women, departed for Europe over a century ago.

We completed that journey for one, and honour all who remain behind.

A quiet chorus to remind us of what was lost.

And what should never be forgotten.

I would like to express my gratitude to those who made this historic journey possible. A heartfelt special thanks to Mr. Berkley Lawrence, Mr. Frank Sullivan, and Mr. Gary Browne from the Royal Canadian Legion – Newfoundland and Labrador Command for their commitment to honoring our sacrifice in the First World War. Please join me in a round of applause, as they are here in the gallery today.

I also want to acknowledge the Commonwealth War Graves Commission for allowing the repatriation of our unknown soldier’s remains with the same dignity and respect as they do other Commonwealth Countries.

Their ongoing care for our fallen heroes is gratefully appreciated by us all.

We must also recognize the Republic of France for their unwavering commitment to our Allied comrades and their remembrance of their sacrifices in both World Wars.

Finally, I want to thank the dedicated support of Veterans Affairs Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces.

Without their assistance, this journey and the commemorative events in Newfoundland and Labrador would not have been possible.

Your efforts ensure that the legacy of those who served, both past and present, will be remembered by future generations.

Their names will be spoken.

This unknown soldier will represent the collective contribution, courage and sacrifice of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who served, fought, and died in all branches of the military and respective support services, especially those who have no known graves.

We are taught from a very young age about the strength and sacrifice of what’s known as the fighting Newfoundlander.

That legend was born in the muddy trenches of the Somme in the dark days of the First World War.

I was fortunate enough to previously be here with my father.

And to return with my own children as well.

To pass the torch from one generation to the next.

I’ve always felt this is a pilgrimage every Newfoundlander and Labradorian should make.

To live the well-quoted line from the Ode to Newfoundland that says, “where once they stood, we stand.”

Because you can return these souls home when you carry them in your heart.

Lest we forget.

God guard thee, Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will announce support for the Royal St. John’s Regatta as part of Confederation 75 celebrations tomorrow (Tuesday, May 28).

The announcement will take place at 11:00 a.m. in the Winner’s Circle at Quidi Vidi Lake, 10 Clancey Drive, St. John’s. In the event of inclement weather, the announcement will move inside the Royal St. John’s Regatta Boathouse.

Minister Crocker will be joined by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Member of the House of Assembly for the district of St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi, and Ashley Peach, President of the Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee

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 The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour, will bring greetings to the launch event for a new graduate-level course focused on climate change and sustainable employment relations at Memorial University tomorrow, Tuesday, May 28.

The event is being held at the RBC Atrium, Faculty of Business Administration, Morrissey Road, St. John’s, beginning at 12:00 p.m.

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, today joins the Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador to proclaim May 26 to June 1 as Early Childhood Educators’ Week.

Minister Howell joined Skye Taylor, Executive Director of the Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador, in signing a proclamation recognizing the week.

Early childhood educators play a significant role in the lives of children during their early learning years. This week celebrates their commitment and dedication as they support enriched early childhood experiences for children in their care.

Minister Howell also extends congratulations to Carla Saunders of Baie Verte on receiving the 2024 Joanne Juteau Early Childhood Education Scholarship, as presented by the Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador. Ms. Saunders is completing her Early Childhood Education diploma from Academy Canada this summer, and she has maintained a 4.0 GPA each semester. A biography of Ms. Saunders is included in the backgrounder below.

The Provincial Government is committed to growing the early learning workforce and is supporting efforts to recruit and retain early childhood educators. Close to $33 million has been allocated through Budget 2024 for the continued implementation of the early childhood educator wage grid, and for bursaries and grants for students to become an early childhood educator.

Access to high-quality, affordable and inclusive early learning and child care for families continues to be a priority for the Provincial Government. There are currently close to 9,400 child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or less in the province and a further 2,000 spaces are in development.

Quotes
“Let us celebrate the hard work and dedication of all our early childhood educators in this province, and those that are currently in programs to become an early childhood educator. The work you do is appreciated as you encourage and nurture the youngest of our province as they make new discoveries every day. I am also pleased to send my sincere congratulations to Carla Saunders, recipient of this year’s Joanne Juteau Early Childhood Education Scholarship.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Early Childhood Educators Week honours and celebrates the significant contributions of early childhood educators to our society. We extend our gratitude to these educators for their dedication to guiding children’s early learning and development through thoughtfully designed, inclusive play-based programs, and for providing vital support to families in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Skye Taylor
Executive Director, Association of Early Childhood Educators NL

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Learn more
Building More Child Care Spaces for Families in Newfoundland and Labrador

Ministerial Statement: Newfoundland and Labrador Ranked Among Top Provinces in Early Learning and Child Care EffortsFollow us on X @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

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BACKGROUNDER

Biography of Carla Saunders
Carla Saunders came into the early learning field as a mature student looking for a career change and to follow her passion. Through her volunteer contributions and raising two children she has combined her love for the community and children. Ms. Saunders’ volunteer work has included the Kids Eat Smart program, Spree by the Sea and the AYSC Youth Centre. She helped develop and implement a Sunday school program and, as a girl guide leader, has taken on a leadership role to oversee the organization of the program in her community.

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The Department of Health and Community Services is providing $100,000 in funding to NL Health Services to support a comprehensive review of inpatient addiction treatment services throughout the province.

The funding will enable NL Health Services, in partnership with the department, to hire an external vendor to review best practices and make recommendations regarding the delivery of consistent, evidence-based inpatient addictions treatment.

The review will involve the Grace Centre in Harbour Grace, Recovery Centre in St. John’s, Hope Valley Youth Treatment Centre in Grand Falls-Windsor, and Humberwood Treatment Centre in Corner Brook.

The review will include analysis of evidence-based best practices in other jurisdictions and recommendations for updated policies and procedures for all four facilities, such as:

• Wait time reduction.
• Length of stay.
• Relationships between clients.
• Discharge practices and community reintegration.
• Medical and non-medical approaches to withdrawal management.
• The role of virtual care in service delivery and sharing of resources between facilities.
• Gender informed practices.

The funding supports actions under the Provincial Alcohol Action Plan, specifically evaluation related to substance use services.

A call for proposals will be issued by NL Health Services with a review anticipated to be completed in 2024.

Budget 2024 includes funding for mental health and addictions services for individuals seeking help and support, including funding to expand access to programs and services when and where people need them, the mobile crisis response teams, and the Harm Reduction Team to improve care for vulnerable individuals.

Quotes
“We recognize the severe impact substance use and addiction have on a person’s health and well-being. We also recognize more work can be done, which is why we made significant investments in mental health and addictions services in Budget 2024. I look forward to the findings and recommendations of this review to further guide the delivery of mental health and addictions programs and services in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“NL Health Services is committed to delivering quality, people-centred, evidenced-informed health and addictions support through a continuous improvement lens. We want to ensure that the people of our province receive the health-care services they need and deserve. Our health-care staff work tirelessly to deliver high-quality mental health and addictions services across the province. This review will provide important information to help us enhance our services for patients.”
Kelli O’Brien
Vice-President of Quality and Learning Health Systems, NL Health Services

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Learn more

Follow us on X @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Budget 2024

The Provincial Alcohol Action Plan

Towards Recovery

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The Provincial Government continues to work closely with its community partners, including municipalities and law enforcement, to raise awareness and educate people about the importance of road safety and safe driving practices.

Today, the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, and the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, announced the Provincial Government’s multi-phased approach to implement speed cameras in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Minister Stoodley will be available to the media to discuss the multi-phased approach today (Monday, May 27) at 11:30 a.m. in the East Block Lobby of Confederation Building. 

A Request for Proposals (RFP) will be issued in the coming months for a vendor which will be responsible for the management, maintenance, and installation of speed cameras, as well as the issuing of tickets. The vendor will be authorized to issue a ticket to the owner of any registered motor vehicle that is speeding excessively as determined by a speed camera.

This enforcement approach will also later be used to identify vehicles speeding through construction zones and school zones, vehicles passing school buses that are stopped with the school bus stop arm extended, and red-light infractions.

To facilitate this process, legislative changes to the Highway Traffic Act and the Provincial Offences Act will begin second reading in the House of Assembly today.

Amendments to the Highway Traffic Act would authorize the vendor as a traffic compliance officer with the powers of a peace officer for the purpose of enforcement using a speed camera. Amendments to the Provincial Offences Act would provide the vendor authority to serve these tickets electronically.

Speed cameras do not identify who is driving at the time of the violation, meaning tickets can only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle. Demerit points cannot be issued. The Fines Administration Division with the Department of Justice and Public Safety will collect amounts owing on these tickets, using processes that already exist. Under this approach, those who fail to pay their tickets would also be subject to the same enforcement currently being used, including the inability to renew their driver’s licence and/or vehicle registration until all fines are paid. Tickets may be contested in Traffic Court, as per current processes.

To begin, 10 cameras will be installed.

The implementation of speed cameras in Newfoundland and Labrador follows the results of a successful pilot project completed with the City of Mount Pearl and the Town of Paradise in summer 2023. About 93,721 vehicles were captured speeding 11 kilometres/hour or more over the posted speed limit, of which 21,958 were speeding 20 kilometres/hour or more above the limit.

Quotes
“We need to change the driving culture in Newfoundland and Labrador. Speeding poses a significant public safety danger and leads to preventable accidents. Traffic camera enforcement is a safe and effective way to improve road safety in our communities and on our provincial roadways.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

“The results of the traffic camera pilot project show that more can be done to curtail speeding and uphold public safety on our roadways. Through the use of image capturing enforcement, we are breaking new ground with a public safety tool that will help deter aggressive driving, reduce speeding and increase the safety of provincial roadways.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

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Learn more
Traffic Camera Pilot Project Launched to Improve Road Safety

Increased Fines for Traffic Offences Come into Effect

Proposed Changes to the Highway Traffic Act Impose Stronger Penalties for Speeding Offences

Proposed Changes to Highway Traffic Act Will Allow for Further Improvements to Public Safety

Follow us on X @GovNL, @DGS_GovNL and @JPS_GovNL

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Elections Newfoundland and Labrador advises electors that tomorrow, Monday May 27, Polls will be open in the By-Election for the District of Baie Verte – Green Bay.

Voting will take place from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm.

For more information, contact the Baie Verte – Green Bay Returning Office at 709-566-2015, or Elections Newfoundland and Labrador toll-free at 1-877-729-7987 or visit www.elections.gov.nl.ca

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

 

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Newfoundland and Labrador’s film and television industry continues its trend of growth and success with CBC and Hawco Productions’ announcement of a new original series titled, Saint-Pierre.

Saint-Pierre is the result of a creative partnership between Newfoundlanders and Labradorian’s Allan Hawco and Perry Chafe, and Robina Lord-Stafford. Allan Hawco will also star in the series.

This year, PictureNL has been promoting the province as a prime filming location at film festivals throughout the world such as the Berlin International Film Festival in February and the Cannes Film Festival earlier this month. PictureNL will showcase the province once again at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024.

PictureNL will also be participating in a mission to Los Angeles in early June to market Newfoundland and Labrador’s valuable film incentives and stunning film locations to global film and television studios.

Over the past 12 months, 39 projects have filmed in Newfoundland and Labrador and the College of the North Atlantic’s film and television school has had its highest enrollment to date with 77 students.

Budget 2024 affirmed the Provincial Government’s support of this incredible industry by increasing Picture NL’s operational budget by $400,000; offering $10 million for the Film and Television Equity Investment Program; and supporting the All Spend Film and Video Production Tax Credit, which provides up to 40 per cent of project costs with a maximum tax credit of $10 million annually per project.

Quotes
“I cannot say enough about Newfoundland and Labrador’s film and television industry and how much promise it holds. Just this year, we had two feature length films hit the theatres – The King Tide (which premiered at TIFF) and Sweetland. Our television series continue on their successful paths, as well, and I have no doubt that Saint-Pierre will be an excellent addition to the weekly television lineup. Congratulations to Allan Hawco, Perry Chafe and Robina Lord-Stafford on their newest project.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Recreation

“PictureNL is thrilled to witness the continued growth and success of Newfoundland and Labrador’s film and television industry. The launch of Saint-Pierre marks another milestone in showcasing the talent and creativity of our local industry. With the Provincial Government’s increased support, we are confident that Newfoundland and Labrador will remain a vibrant hub for film and television production. Congratulations to Hawco Productions on their exciting new series.”
Laura Churchill
PictureNL

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Members of the media are advised that Elections Newfoundland and Labrador requires advanced notice of intent to visit polling stations on by-election day, Monday, May 27.

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

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

Voting will take place from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm at the following locations:

• • College Building – Room #3 (Springdale)
  • College of the North Atlantic – Room #5 (Baie Verte)
  • Community Centre/Hall (Beachside, Burlington, Little Bay, Nippers Harbour, Robert’s Arm, Westport)
  • Fire Hall (Coachman’s Cove, Harry’s Harbour, Jackson’s Cove, King’s Point)
  • John Smith Centre (Smith’s Harbour)
  • Kin Centre (La Scie)
  • Municipal Building (Triton)
  • Rattling Brook Hall (Rattling Brook)
  • Recreation Centre (Pilley’s Island)
  • Residence – 3 Church Road (Sheppardville)
  • Royal Canadian Legion (Baie Verte, Springdale)
  • Springdale Stadium – Curling Club (Springdale)
  • Town Hall/Office (Beaumont, Brent’s Cove, Brighton, Fleur de Lys, Middle Arm, Ming’s Bight, Pacquet, Port Anson, Seal Cove, South Brook, Wild Cove, Woodstock)
  • United Church Basement (Shoe Cove)
  • Valley Vista Recreation Centre (Springdale)

 

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

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A free safety training program is now available on MyGovNL for users of off-road vehicles in Newfoundland and Labrador as the province prepares to make training mandatory for some users later this year.

The new Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations, most of which came into effect on May 19, 2022, strengthens and modernizes safety requirements for operating off-road vehicles. Mandatory training requirements will come into effect for certain users when the training provisions of the Act are proclaimed into force in the coming months. The public will be notified when that date is set.

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

Training will be required for anyone who:

• Is under 16 years of age.
• Is registering an off-road vehicle with Motor Registration Division for the first time.
• Has been convicted of an offence under the Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations and has had their off-road vehicle registration suspended or cancelled, as a condition of reinstatement.

In addition, anyone who is supervising a person under the age of 16 who is operating an off-road vehicle will have to ensure that the person has completed a training program.

Users should review the Off-Road Vehicles Handbook before logging in to MyGovNL to complete the training program.

Upon completion of the training, the user can print a certificate to carry with them while using an off-road vehicle.

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

The online training may also be completed by visiting a local Employment Support Centre or public library and is available in alternate formats by calling the Motor Registration Division at 1-877-636-6867.

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Tomorrow (Saturday, May 25), the remains of the unknown First World War soldier will arrive on Newfoundland and Labrador soil.

The Canadian Armed Forces aircraft carrying the remains is scheduled to land at 7:00 p.m. A hearse will then take the remains of the unknown to a secure location, passing several points of historical significance on its way: the former Camp Pleasantville (where First World War soldiers trained), the 5 CDSG Garrison along The Boulevard, the National War Memorial, the Sergeant’s Memorial and the CLB Armoury.

The Royal Canadian Legion – NL Command members will be saluting our fallen hero and the hearse along this route.

More information on the Newfoundland National War Memorial and the commemorative events can be found here.

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Telephone services at the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve are currently under repair.

During this time, visitor services remain open and are following regular hours of operation.

The hours of operation for the visitor centre at Cape St. Mary’s are Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

More information on the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve is available online.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador today announced an investment by the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation (IBIC) of $15 million for a new Harvester Enterprise Loan Program. This program is an enhancement of the Fisheries Loan Guarantee Program and will expand supports for independent fish harvesters positioning the sector for future success.

The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture, and Greg Pretty, President of the FFAW, will be available to the media to discuss the new program today (Friday, May 24) at 10:00 a.m. outside of the House of Assembly.

The program has been enhanced to increase maximum guarantee thresholds. New components have been added to allow for downpayment loans and interest payment rebates to harvesters to support eligible activities.  $10 million is available to support the downpayment requirements of accessing a loan from a financial institution to support eligible activities, as well as $5 million for interest payment requirements.

The enhanced program will be open to applications in early July 2024.  At that time, the Provincial Government will release updated program guidelines and application instructions and will arrange information sessions with stakeholders.

Under the program, loan guarantees and the new supports are available to assist harvesters in the province in obtaining financing for:

• vessel related items such as construction, purchase and/or refit.
• combining of enterprises and license acquisitions.
• refinancing of loans owed to fish processors for fixed assets and/or license acquisitions.
• refinancing of loans previously obtained from chartered banks for vessel related purposes and fish license acquisitions (concurrent with combining of enterprises).

The establishment of the Harvester Enterprise Loan Program is the latest initiative that the Provincial Government has undertaken to position the province’s fishing industry for future success.  It has also permitted outside buyers to apply for fish buyer licences for seafood products harvested in this province, increased processing capacity for the crab fishery based on an increased Total Allowable Catch for 2024, and have agreed to undertake a comprehensive review of the provincial fishing sector. These measures are in addition to ongoing advocacy to the Federal Government on management decisions and funding of projects through the federal-provincial Atlantic Fisheries Fund.

 

Quotes
“I am delighted to announce the establishment of the new Harvester Enterprise Loan Program for Newfoundland and Labrador. We have listened to harvesters and their union and recognize access to financing is a serious impediment impacting the ability of many harvesters to operate effectively. I am confident this new program will provide the necessary support that will enable many fish harvesters to maintain their livelihoods, build enterprises, attract new generations to the fishing profession, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our province’s seafood industry.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Today’s announcement of the establishment of the new Harvester Enterprise Loan Program for Newfoundland and Labrador is a well-received demonstration of the Provincial Government’s support of the harvesting sector, and a solid first step for enhancing the independent inshore fishery in our province. Our Union is very pleased that the provincial government has heard our recommendation for enhancements to financing programs for harvesters that will serve to restore stability and provide a funding avenue that allows enterprise owners to maintain the integrity of their business. Further, the provincial government’s agreement to cover the downpayment for successful applicants to the Program is a strong support for succession planning of the industry by enabling new entrants to have greater risk tolerance.”
Greg Pretty
President, FFAW

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Media contacts
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 709-640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca

Lesley Clarke
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5777, 709-699-2910
lesleyclarke@gov.nl.ca

Courtney Langille
Fish, Food, and Allied Workers Union (FFAW-Unifor)
709-576-7276, 709-693-8454
clangille@ffaw.ca

 

BACKGROUNDER
Harvester Enterprise Loan Program

The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program is an enhancement of the Fisheries Loan Guarantee Program and will expand supports for independent fish harvesters positioning the sector for future success.

Under the program, a government guarantee is provided for loans through eligible financial institutions and is available to assist harvesters in the province in obtaining financing for:

• vessel related items such as construction, purchase and/or refit.
• combining of enterprises and license acquisitions.
• refinancing of loans owed to fish processors for fixed assets and/or license acquisitions.
• refinancing of loans previously obtained from chartered banks for vessel related purposes and fish license acquisitions (concurrent with combining of enterprises).

Amount of Loan Guarantee

The Provincial Government’s guarantee can provide up to 100 per cent of an outstanding loan.

The new program will provide an increase in the maximum loan guarantee thresholds as compared to the current program. The total maximum guarantee amounts are increased to accommodate: loan guarantees of up to $3 million (previously $2 million for vessel-only related items; $4 million (previously $3 million) for combining of enterprises; and up to $2 million (previously $1.5 million) for license acquisition only.

Down Payment Loans

Borrowers typically must provide down payments of a minimum of 10 per cent of overall costs for vessel acquisition and construction, and a minimum of 15 per cent for all other purposes.

The updated program will make $10 million available to support loans for the purpose of meeting the down payment requirements of accessing a loan from a financial institution for eligible activities. The current program does not offer support for down payments.

The support will be in the form of a secured loan of up to 15 per cent, to a maximum of $450,000, with a maximum term of 20 years, to support down payment requirements. No interest accrual or payments will be required for the first five years. Repayment and interest accrual begins in year six; interest will be charged at the Bank of Canada’s policy rate, which is currently five per cent.

Interest Rebates

Finance charges on guaranteed loans offered by financial institutions are negotiated between the borrower and the institution. The program places a ceiling on finance charges by allowing institutions to charge interest on guaranteed loans at the bank prime rate (currently 7.2 per cent) plus a maximum of 2.0 per cent or 2.5 cent depending on the nature of the loan.

The updated program will allocate $5 million to support rebates related to interest payment requirements of accessing a loan from a financial institution for eligible activities. The current program does not offer support for financing costs associated with loans from financial institutions.

Rebates will cover interest paid in excess of the bank prime rate, up to the maximum financing charge amounts established by the program. Rebates will be provided directly to borrowers on the basis of the eligible portion of interest paid for up to five years.

Interest Rates

A harvester may choose a fixed or floating interest rate and a floating rate may be converted to a fixed rate at any time.

Repayment Terms

The terms of the loan and repayment options are to be determined as negotiated between the harvester and the lender, based on the following:

• 20-year term – a maximum of 20 years is provided for vessels, depending on life expectancy, for construction, purchase and upgrades. Maximum of 20 years is also offered for the combined purchase of vessels, equipment and licenses.
• 15-year term – a maximum of 15 years is provided for license acquisition only.

Flexible loan repayment options are available, including annual principal payments, assignment of catch and/or a percentage of gross revenue.

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, is pleased to announce the inaugural Mace tour, an education and outreach initiative in which the Speaker and House officials will travel to various areas of the province with the Mace, visiting schools and hosting broader community events. The underlying principle of the initiative is to increase citizen engagement with Parliament for people in areas who cannot readily visit the Legislature in person, and to increase awareness respecting democracy, governance and citizenship.

The Mace tour also complements commemorations for the 75th anniversary of Confederation, given that the current Mace was gifted from the Province of British Columbia upon Newfoundland and Labrador joining Canada as its 10th province.

The inaugural tour is scheduled to commence on Monday, June 3. A preliminary schedule of dates and locations for school visits and community-based events follows. More detailed information will be available as confirmed in the coming weeks.

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“As Speaker of the House of Assembly, I’m excited to announce this initiative that will bring the Mace – a ceremonial symbol representing authority of Parliament – across Newfoundland and Labrador. Outreach and education are key pillars of democracy, and I look forward to engaging with residents of all ages on governance and citizenship, as well as on the history, symbolism and authority of the Mace. I encourage residents across the province to attend events scheduled on the inaugural Mace tour.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly

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Preliminary Schedule of Dates & Locations – House of Assembly Mace Tour

Date Location Visit Monday, June 3 Bonavista peninsula

  School Monday, June 3 Clarenville Community-based

  Tuesday, June 4 Summerford School

  Tuesday, June 4 Gander School Tuesday, June 4 Lewisporte Community-based

  Wednesday, June 5 Grand Falls-Windsor

  Community-based Wednesday, June 5 Springdale School

  Wednesday, June 5 Deer Lake Community-based

  Thursday, June 6 Stephenville School

  Friday, June 7 Port Saunders School

  Friday, June 7 St. Anthony

  Community-based Monday, June 10 L’Anse au Loup

  School Monday, June 10 Mary’s Harbour

  Community-based

  Tuesday, June 11 Lake Melville

  Community-based Wednesday, June 12 Rigolet School & Community-based

  Thursday, June 13 Churchill Falls School

  Friday, June 14 Labrador City School

 

The post Speaker of the House of Assembly Announces Education & Outreach Initiative appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to highlight the efforts of the Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador to enhance adult literacy in the province.

With funding provided from the Provincial Government, the Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing enhanced literacy services to adults with disabilities. These services include screening, one-on-one tutoring, assistive technology training, advocacy support, and empowerment programs which aim to improve literacy skills and workforce readiness.

Speaker, by using in-person, online, and hybrid approaches and leveraging community partnerships, the Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador has expanded its reach in urban and rural areas of the province. Those efforts are paying off.

Registrations for adult tutoring programs are increasing, and the total number of active learners receiving tutoring reached a high of 62 this past January. A total of 1,695 one-on-one tutoring sessions were delivered this year, with an overall total of 3,429 sessions delivered since the project’s inception.

Speaker, I ask all honourable members to join me in commending the work of the Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador to enhance adult literacy in the province.

Our government will continue to support projects and partnerships throughout the province as we increase adult literacy and promote a vibrant and prosperous Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement: Minister Howell Recognizes Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador Adult Literacy Initiative appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality:

Speaker, I rise to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the first group of women to take the oath to become regular members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Known as Troop 17, this group of 32 women from across Canada demonstrated what was possible for women in the RCMP, inspiring future generations to join the organization.

From detachment officers to forensic labs, to the Musical Ride, air services and VIP protection, there’s a place for women in all of the RCMP’s 150 career specializations.

Three members of Troop 17 are from right here in Newfoundland and Labrador. They include retired Staff Sergeant Gail Courtney, retired Constable Cheryl LaFosse and retired Constable Rosemary Coffey.

I’m sure blazing the trail wasn’t always easy for these women, but it was their perseverance and dedication that fundamentally changed the RCMP for the better.

Today, one fifth of the force’s officers are women, many holding leadership positions.

So, I am also proud to recognize Assistant Commissioner Jennifer Ebert, Commanding Officer of the RCMP here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

I encourage women in this province to explore the diverse range of career roles the RCMP has to offer – you too can become trailblazers in the future of policing.office

Thank you, Speaker.

The post Ministerial Statement: Minister Pam Parsons Recognizes the 50th Anniversary of Women Becoming Regular Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police appeared first on News Releases.

According to the World Health Organization, ageism refers to “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age” (WHO, 2021). Experiencing ageism can negatively impact a person’s self-worth and instill a sense of invisibility which can lead to social isolation.

June is Seniors’ Month in Newfoundland and Labrador, a time to show appreciation and celebrate the many contributions of seniors. Yet, many seniors in the province continue to experience ageism. Therefore, the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate (OSA) is marking Seniors’ Month this year by addressing ageism.

Today the OSA has launched a Social Media Campaign to showcase seniors throughout the province, highlighting their interests, community contributions and the many possibilities that come with aging.

From May 23 until June 14, 2024, we invite seniors throughout the province to share with the OSA their positive experiences of aging. Throughout June, the OSA will use the information and pictures provided by the seniors of this province in social media to combat negative stereotypes about aging by celebrating the many active, engaged, and valuable seniors of Newfoundland and Labrador.

To learn more about the campaign and to complete an application, please visit our website: www.seniorsadvocatenl.ca.

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“Too often, seniors and the aging process are reflected in a negative way, as something to fear, disparage or worry about. However, I have visited many communities throughout this province and have met some incredible seniors who are challenging stereotypes about aging by simply being who they are. We developed this campaign to shine a light on the many seniors who reinforce the positive side of aging every day.”
Susan Walsh
Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contact
Arlene Mullins
709-729-6603, 1-833-729-6603
seniorsadvocate@seniorsadvocatenl.ca  

The post Seniors’ Advocate Launches Social Media Campaign to Address Ageism appeared first on News Releases.

The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-022 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-2024-022 Report Date: May 21, 2024 Public Body: Department of Environment and Climate Change Summary: The Complainant made a request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Environment and Climate Change for records about a public survey on behalf of the Department by the Public Engagement and Planning Division. Responsive records were identified by the Department, though the survey responses were still being processed by Public Engagement and Planning. The Department provided a final response to the Complainant that did not include the survey responses and further failed to address why the survey results were not included. Subsequently, the Department advised the Complainant to make a new access request for the survey responses. This Office determined that the Department did not comply with section 13 of the Act (duty to assist applicant) by not providing a clear and definitive response as to why the survey results were not part of the Department’s final response.

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

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