Government of Newfoundland News

This release is being issued on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) is highlighting significant progress on repairs and renovations to the 143 provincially-owned vacant units identified in a request for quotations in October 2023. As of December 8, 2023:

• Work is complete on 62 of the 143 units identified in the request for quotations;
• Repairs or renovations are underway on another 56 projects; and
• Work is complete on units in the western region, with estimated completion of all units identified in the other regions expected by the end of the 2023-24 fiscal year.

A full breakdown of progress on these units to date can be found in the backgrounder below.

These 143 units are in addition to the standard repair and renovation process undertaken each year by the housing corporation, which is an ongoing part of its management of the province’s affordable housing units. When any NLHC unit or home becomes vacant, it requires repairs before new tenants can move in. In 2023-24, 298 units have been repaired and offered to tenants.

Work on these additional 143 units was supported by an investment of $3 million from the Provincial Government, increasing the NLHC’s overall repair and renovation budget to $6 million for 2023-24.

Access to safe and affordable housing is an important factor in an individual’s overall health and well-being, which is why the Provincial Government continues to make strategic investments to meet the changing demands for housing. These include:

• The Five-Point Plan to improve the availability of housing that is affordable, with actions valued at $65 million that are expected to add upwards of 500 new housing options to the market;
• A provincial investment of over $80 million in the Affordable Rental Housing Program, which will support 91 private and community sector projects that will result in the construction of more than 900 new affordable rental homes; and
• Continued implementation of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Benefit, which has expanded access to affordable housing in the private rental market to nearly 500 new households.

Quote
“With over 80 per cent of these additional renovations either complete or underway, we have shown our government’s commitment to moving forward rapidly on actions that will increase the availability of affordable housing in Newfoundland and Labrador. We will continue to work with our partners in the community and with other levels of government on shared solutions to address the changing housing needs being experienced nationally.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

-30-

 

Photos showing pre- and post-renovation of one vacated NLHC unit repaired this year in St. John’s.

Learn more
Provincial Government Issues Request for Quotations for Repairs to Vacant Units

Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable

Provincial Government Announces Results of RFP for Affordable Rental Housing Program

Proposals Invited for Development of Land for Rental Housing That is Affordable

Follow us on X at @GovNL and @NLHousing

Like us on Facebook

BACKGROUNDER

Progress on Repairs and Renovations to 143 Provincially Owned Vacant Units as of December 8, 2023

Region Vacancies at Start Completed In-Progress Not Assigned Estimated Completion Eastern 85 34 44 7 January 31, 2024 Central 15 10 5 0 January 31, 2024 Western 12 12 0 0 Complete Labrador 31 6 7 18 February 28, 2024 TOTAL 143 62 56 25

 

The post Significant Progress Made in Repairs and Renovations of Provincially-Owned Vacant Units first appeared on News Releases.

The post Significant Progress Made in Repairs and Renovations of Provincially-Owned Vacant Units appeared first on News Releases.

Effective immediately, the Rocky Brook Road Bridge located approximately 13 kilometres north of the Town of Badger is closed to all traffic until further notice. Damage to the bridge has made it unsafe for use. Signage has been posted and barricades will be erected to prohibit public access.

Access to the Paul’s Lake Cottage Development Area is still available through the Aspen Brook Resource Road at the 28.5 kilometre mark.

For additional information, contact the Crown Lands inquiry line at: 1-833-891-3249.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Rocky Brook Road Bridge Closed Until Further Notice first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Rocky Brook Road Bridge Closed Until Further Notice appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced provincial funding support for Scanmudring Canada Inc. to aid in the establishment of a Digital Remote Operation Support Centre in St. John’s.

The Digital Remote Operation Support Centre will be established in collaboration with the Marine Institute’s The Launch facility located in Holyrood, and Scanmudring Canada Inc. The Provincial Government will provide more than $605,000 through the Innovation and Business Development Fund in non-repayable funding to support the project. The company and its partners are matching the funding to bring the total project funding to over $1.2 million.

The purpose of the new centre is to increase access to global supply chains and subsea excavation opportunities for oil and gas and renewable energy projects in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is anticipated that the centre will create up to eight new positions in the province while supporting Scanmudring Canada’s operations in St. John’s. The new centre will service local and global offshore projects and will support the company’s intentions to develop and trial Digital Remote Operation Support Centre technology, while expanding local supply, export and diversification opportunities.

Formed in 1985, Scanmudring is a leader in the development, manufacture, and operation of advanced subsea heavy machinery. The company specializes in dredging, excavation and construction work for marine renewables, oil and gas, aquaculture and infrastructure projects. The company has built up experience of more than 160,000 hours on the seafloor, gathering feedback, data and operational expertise that facilitates the continual improvement of services. They have offices in Mandal and Stavanger, Norway, as well as St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“This investment will see the creation of jobs and will help us to improve the competitiveness of the province’s offshore service offerings, while also helping us to maximize the value and benefits of our offshore for the province. Collaborating with Scanmudring Canada and the Marine Institute, our government is showing our commitment to supporting innovation and diversification in the energy sector.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Scanmudring is committed to sustained growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our continued partnership with the province is truly mutually beneficial, allowing us to develop technological advancements, cultivate local talent, and service local and global subsea projects. The Remote Operations Centre will remove a historic barrier to entry and fortify our competitiveness as a company and a province.”
Jason Price, P.Eng.
Scanmudring Canada Inc.

-30-

Learn more
Scanmudring Canada Inc.

Follow us on X (Twitter)  @IET_GovNL

Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

The post Supporting Innovation in the Offshore Sector first appeared on News Releases.

The post Supporting Innovation in the Offshore Sector appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government is extending the deadline for online submissions on adult literacy and high school equivalency programs.

All members of the public are invited to share their input by visiting EngageNL.ca. The deadline for completing the online questionnaire is December 15, 2023.

In addition to the online questionnaire, government has been hosting targeted stakeholder consultation sessions to gather feedback. Online and in-person sessions have been occurring throughout the province.

Written submissions are also being accepted during that time frame and may be sent to either of the following:

Mail:
Department of Education
3rd Floor, West Block
Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL   A1B 4J6

Email: EduABE@gov.nl.ca

-30-

 

The post Public Advisory: Deadline Extended for Online Submissions on Adult Literacy and High School Equivalency Programs first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Deadline Extended for Online Submissions on Adult Literacy and High School Equivalency Programs appeared first on News Releases.

The following is distributed at the request of the 2024 Members’ Compensation Review Committee:

 The 2024 Members’ Compensation Review Committee (MCRC) is conducting public consultations. Established in accordance with section 16 of the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act, it will conduct an inquiry and provide recommendations respecting the salaries, allowances, severance and pensions paid to Members of the House of Assembly. The Committee was appointed by resolution of the House effective December 1, 2023 and must deliver its report to the Speaker on or before April 1, 2024.

The following options are available for persons and organizations wishing to provide input to the Committee:

1. Written submission:

Must be received on or before January 19, 2024 by:

Email:             mcrc2024@gov.nl.ca
Fax:                709-729-5895

Mail:
Members’ Compensation Review Committee
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL
A1B 4J6

Attention: Heather M. Jacobs, KC, MCRC 2024

2. Virtual session:

Persons or organizations interested in participating in a virtual session must pre-register on or before January 15, 2024 at:

Tel:      709-729-5870/1-833-711-0422
Fax:    709-729-5895
Email: mcrc2024@gov.nl.ca

These sessions will be scheduled during the week of January 29 to February 2, 2024. Further information regarding available dates and times will be provided following registration.

The Committee is interested in hearing perspectives and ideas regarding matters within its mandate and is encouraging individuals and organizations to participate. Information and feedback gathered from the consultations will be summarized in the final report, but will not include identifying information.

Further information on MCRC 2024, including its areas of inquiry and related references, is available at: www.assembly.nl.ca/mcrc/.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Members’ Compensation Review Committee Conducting Public Consultations first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Members’ Compensation Review Committee Conducting Public Consultations appeared first on News Releases.

Atlantic Premiers met virtually to discuss priorities for Atlantic Canadians, including health care and housing, and to reflect on regional successes this year while plotting a course for continued progress in 2024.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island was joined by Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick, Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia, and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premiers discussed immigration as key to meeting the region’s growing labour demands and bolstering economic growth, noting that newcomers make important contributions to Atlantic Canada’s communities. Atlantic provinces are leading the way in efforts to address labour mobility, streamline foreign credential recognition, and address labour shortages, including through legislative changes, launching the Atlantic Physician Registry, and advancing collaborative work on international recruitment of health care professionals. While improving internal labour mobility can support economic growth, it will not increase the total labour supply. Collaboration with the federal government on targeted immigration programming combined with improved foreign credential recognition is needed to assist in relieving current labour shortages.

Premiers were disappointed by the reduction in Atlantic Immigration Program levels and lack of increase to Provincial Nominee Program levels in the federal government’s 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan.  Atlantic provinces are best positioned to determine immigration needs based on local labour market demands and domestic capacity, and must have the ability to meaningfully collaborate with the federal government on immigration levels planning given the significant impact changes to these levels can have on the region. Premiers also recognize the need to balance welcoming newcomers with the ability to meet demand for services and amenities, such as housing, health care, and education.

On November 21, the federal government released their Fall Economic Statement, which had a significant focus on housing. Engagement with the Atlantic provinces will be required as federal programs are developed to align provincial and federal actions to address the housing crisis. To ensure that federal funding and programming can deliver the maximum benefit to Atlantic Canadians, program and funding parameters must recognize the opportunities and challenges in the Atlantic region. Atlantic provinces are working with the federal government to explore new approaches to increase the housing supply, especially those that take full advantage of regional innovations in construction.

Premiers noted their concern that no details on the next iteration of federal infrastructure funding were included in the Fall Economic Statement. Adequate and predictable funding is essential to multi-year provincial infrastructure planning. Atlantic Premiers call on the federal government to share details on future infrastructure funding and to maintain a base plus per capita allocation approach to recognize the unique needs of small and rural jurisdictions. They also reiterated the Council of the Federation request for a First Ministers Meeting on strategic infrastructure and competitiveness.

Premiers are committed to improving the delivery of health care services for Atlantic Canadians and are working together under the Atlantic Health Accord to address regional health care challenges. Premiers agreed to continue their collaborative efforts in 2024, including working together to ensure that Atlantic Canadians can access critical specialized services.

Interprovincial ferry services in Atlantic Canada are a key enabler of provincial and national economies, and play a vital role in contributing to the health, social and economic well-being of Atlantic Canadians by supporting domestic and international trade, tourism, and family connections. Premiers discussed the integral role of the federal government in ensuring the dependability of ferry service in the region, and the importance of a meaningful partnership with the federal government for these critical transportation links. Premiers urged the federal government to work closely with Atlantic Canada to ensure necessary federal plans are in place, so these crossings are affordable, reliable, and available into the future.

Premiers extended their appreciation to Premier King, the outgoing Chair, for his leadership and collaborative approach throughout 2023. In 2023, the Council of Atlantic Premiers successfully lobbied for the federal government to recognize the unique heating challenges faced in the region, leading to home heating oil being exempt from the federal carbon tax for three years, and enhanced supports for Atlantic Canadians who are transitioning to heat pumps. They also launched the Atlantic Physician Registry to improve physician mobility within the region, with 226 physicians joining the Registry since May.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was noted that Premier Furey will assume the CAP Chair in January 2024.

-30-

Les premiers ministres discutent des priorités atlantiques pour 2024 et reviennent sur les réussites de 2023

The post Premiers Discuss Atlantic Priorities for 2024 and Reflect on Successes in 2023 first appeared on News Releases.

The post Premiers Discuss Atlantic Priorities for 2024 and Reflect on Successes in 2023 appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government and the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security today announced that together they are providing $1.8 million to implement an innovative program to improve food access for vulnerable families in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, announced the initiative at the Brighter Futures Family Resource Centre located in East Point Elementary in St. John’s. Minister Howell was joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, Sarah Stern, Executive Director of the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security, and Serena Pomeroy of the Placentia and Area Family Resource Centre.

The Provincial Government will contribute $300,000 per year over the next three years to the initiative, which will be matched by the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security. The funding will directly support selected Family Resource Centres throughout the province to address food insecurity and improve health outcomes among families they work with.

Eligible families will be provided with support to access nutritious food such as grocery store gift cards, store credit where gift card capacity does not exist, or gift cards to non-profit food programs. The program begins in January 2024 and will be delivered by 16 Family Resource Centres in Newfoundland and Labrador. Expansion to further sites will be considered following an evaluation of the program.

The Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security works in collaboration with charitable organizations, the private sector, and governments on initiatives that offer structural solutions to improve food security. Newfoundland and Labrador has been identified by the Centre as a strategic partner given government’s commitment to strengthening the social determinants of health, including reducing poverty and food insecurity.

In November 2023, the Provincial Government announced a new Poverty Reduction Plan that focuses on improving the overall well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. As part of that plan, along with the initiative announced today, the province is working to improve food security by prioritizing income-based initiatives, including support for families with children, by:

• Expanding the Prenatal-Infant Nutritional Supplement up to age five and renaming it the Prenatal-Early Childhood Nutrition Supplement to better reflect its expanded scope;
• Increasing the Newfoundland and Labrador Child Benefit by 300 per cent; and,
• Providing additional funding to ensure school food programs are available in all Pre-Kindergarten and K-9 schools.

Quotes

“Addressing food insecurity collectively in our province will help families to access nutritious food. This program will support children to be better prepared to learn when they attend early learning programs or school. I thank the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security for partnering with us on this important issue as we support the well-being of children and families in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Our government recognizes the key role the social determinants of health, such as food security, play in overall health outcomes and the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Partnering with community stakeholders in initiatives like these, align with recommendations from Health Accord NL, and will help us achieve our goal of being one of the healthiest provinces in Canada by 2031.”
Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Newfoundland and Labrador has shown vision and leadership by advancing a comprehensive approach to improving both health and food security. We look forward to growing our partnership and delivering on a shared goal of structurally reducing food insecurity.”
Michael McCain
Honorary Chair, Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security

“People who are food insecure are more likely to face negative health outcomes. It’s crucial that we develop new strategies to enhance food accessibility among those at risk. By delivering this program through Family Resource Centres, we can reach more people by meeting them where they are. We hope that learning and outcomes from this initiative will provide a framework that can be scaled provincially and even nationally.”
Sarah Stern
Executive Director, Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security

“Family Resource Centres are connected to hundreds of families throughout the province who often struggle to put nutritious food on the table. This program will help parents and children to improve their food security and will empower them to decide and purchase which food is most appropriate for their families.”
Serena Pomeroy
Placentia and Area Family Resource Centre

-30-

Learn more
Family Resource Centres

Poverty Reduction Plan

Follow us on X @GovNL, @EDU_GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Partners with Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security to Improve Food Access for Families first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Partners with Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security to Improve Food Access for Families appeared first on News Releases.

Seventy-five years ago today, a delegation appointed by the Commission of Government signed the Terms of Union making what was then known as Newfoundland the 10th province of Canada.

This morning, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced plans to commemorate 2024 as the 75th anniversary of Confederation.

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will have a variety of opportunities to recognize and celebrate the anniversary throughout the year.

The Confederation 75 Celebration Grant Program will support community activities and celebrations, and heritage or Indigenous cultural projects that commemorate the anniversary. Details about the program will be released in early 2024.

The Provincial Government will also create a 75th Anniversary of Confederation Medal to recognize Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who have made significant contributions to their communities and the province over the past 75 years. The medals will be awarded to residents in each electoral district throughout the province, recognizing people who largely go unnoticed while contributing their time and energy to making Newfoundland and Labrador a better place to live.

In addition, a special Confederation 75 Scholarship will be created. The scholarship will be awarded to 75 Grade 12 students, to support post-secondary education and the fulfillment of their career goals.

Passenger vehicles, light trucks, pick-up trucks, trailers and antique autos that are registered for the first time in the province in 2024, between January 1 and December 31, 2024, will receive a licence plate bearing the Confederation 75 logo. These licence plates will be issued by authorized dealerships, as well as through Motor Registration and Government Service Centre locations throughout the province.

Anyone who would like to have a Confederation 75 licence plate on their current vehicle can purchase one for $30 or $13 for individuals 65 years of age or older. Current plates that are peeling due to manufacturer defect can be exchanged for a Confederation 75 plate, free-of-charge.

On December 11, 1948, Canada and Newfoundland entered into a Memorandum of Agreement, commonly known as the Terms of Union, establishing the terms under which Newfoundland would join Canada as its 10th province.

Quotes
“Our entry into Canada on March 31, 1949, was the latest chapter of our unique political evolution from colony to Dominion to province of Canada. While we are the youngest province, we have been a strong and equal member of Confederation, with contributions ranging from our vibrant and unique culture to our ample and rich natural resources, and our emerging tech sector. Newfoundland and Labrador is an integral part of the Canadian Confederation. We are better because of it and Canada is better because we are a part of it. As we reflect on the past 75 years, let’s look forward with optimism as we envision the next 75 and beyond.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The 75th anniversary of Confederation is an opportunity for us to reflect on the remarkable journey that resulted in our union with Canada. The Confederation 75 Celebration Grant Program will support communities throughout the province who wish to celebrate our fascinating history and the vibrant culture that makes up a unique part of our national identity.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“I am pleased that our government is marking this important moment in our province’s history by awarding a scholarship to 75 students in the province. The Confederation 75 Scholarship will support the post-secondary goals of recipient students as they continue their educational journey and contribute to our province’s future.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Premier Furey Announces Initiatives to Commemorate 75th Anniversary of Confederation first appeared on News Releases.

The post Premier Furey Announces Initiatives to Commemorate 75th Anniversary of Confederation appeared first on News Releases.

This release is being issued on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

On Friday, December 22, 2023, the Virginia Park Community Centre will temporarily close to allow staff from the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation and partners to complete an assessment of renovation needs at the facility.

On January 8, 2024, programs and services offered through the community centre will resume at alternate locations within the community, expanding on existing community partnerships. Changes in the new year include:

• The community centre’s main offices will relocate to the Academy Canada building on Harding Road, which is located next door to the Virginia Park Community Centre;
• Youth programs offered by the community centre will be offered at East Point Elementary on Middleton Street; and
• Seniors programs offered by the community centre will be offered at St. Mark’s Anglican Church on Logy Bay Road.

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and MHA for Virginia Waters-Pleasantville, and Ron Ellsworth, Board Chair of the Virginia Park Community Centre, will be available to media to discuss the changes today (Monday, December 11) at the Virginia Park Community Centre, 51 Harding Road, St. John’s, at 10:00 a.m.

These changes will allow the Virginia Park Community Centre group to continue providing essential services to the community and will in some cases also facilitate improved accessibility for residents, while the assessment of necessary renovations is undertaken by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation.

Residents can continue to reach the community centre through email and by calling centre’s regular phone number (709-579-4534). The community centre remains dedicated to maintaining open lines of communication and is dedicated to addressing resident needs in a timely fashion.

The Virginia Park Community Centre was established in 1987, providing social, educational, recreational and career development programs and services for the residents of Virginia Park. The centre has built strong connections with community partners and contributed to a vibrant and supportive environment in the community.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Changes to Programming at Virginia Park Community Centre, Ministers Available to Media first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Changes to Programming at Virginia Park Community Centre, Ministers Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, will announce details of a food security initiative Monday, December 11.

The announcement will take place at Brighter Futures Family Resource Centre at East Point Elementary School, 14 Middleton Street, St. John’s, at 1:00 p.m.

Minister Howell will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, and Sarah Stern, Executive Director of the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister to Announce Food Security Initiative for Family Resource Centres first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister to Announce Food Security Initiative for Family Resource Centres appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will announce special initiatives to recognize the 75th anniversary of Confederation on Monday, December 11.

The event will take place at The Rooms, 9 Bonaventure Avenue, St. John’s, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce Special Initiatives to Recognize the 75th Anniversary of Confederation     first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce Special Initiatives to Recognize the 75th Anniversary of Confederation     appeared first on News Releases.

Tourism is a vital economic driver for many small and rural communities throughout Atlantic Canada. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, together with the Government of Canada, is investing to help the Port de Grave Peninsula Heritage Society Inc. prepare for the community’s annual boat lighting festival.

Today, the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality and MHA for Harbour Grace – Port de Grave, announced a non-repayable contribution of $9,165 for the Port de Grave Peninsula Heritage Society Inc. to help promote and enhance the 25th annual Port de Grave Boat Lighting Festival – a key part of this year’s annual Christmas in the Harbour 2023 celebration. The announcement was made on behalf of The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology.

Ken McDonald, Member of Parliament for Avalon, also announced a non-repayable contribution of $27,786 on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The investment will help the society attract more people to the popular festival while delivering an enriched visitor experience. Improvements include a welcome booth and signage to help visitors explore and navigate the festival area.

Through projects like this one, the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada are working together to create new opportunities for communities to engage and attract visitors, setting the stage for a strong, sustainable future.

Quotes
“Beginning with just a few boats, and growing over time, this amazing event has drawn local, national and international attention. The Annual Boat Lighting Festival is one of the key tourism attractions for the Baccalieu Trail region. For many, coming out to see the boats has become a cherished holiday tradition, and we are pleased to provide support for this event as it marks its 25th anniversary.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality and MHA for Harbour Grace – Port de Grave

“From Tibb’s Eve to the Mummers, the holiday season in Newfoundland and Labrador is special – and the boats in Port de Grave can’t be missed. With this investment, we’re helping share this holiday tradition with even more people and creating more opportunities for local businesses.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with organizations like the Port de Grave Peninsula Heritage Society to boost tourism and diversify our communities. By investing in projects such as the annual Boat Lighting Festival, we are collectively developing and enhancing the area’s tourism offerings, which will attract more visitors and provide them with first class tourism products and experiences.”
Ken McDonald
Member of Parliament for Avalon

“On behalf of the Port de Grave Boat Lighting Sub Committee of the Port de Grave Peninsula Heritage Society, we are extremely happy that ACOA and the Provincial Government have come onboard this year.  Funding from both Governments will help us do so much more than we have in the past 24 years.  We are super excited to be celebrating 25 years.”
Joyce Morgan
Chair, Port de Grave Peninsula Heritage Society Inc.

-30-

Learn more
Regional Development Fund

Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)

Port de Grave Peninsula

Christmas in the Harbour

Follow us on X (Twitter) @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Like Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

The post Port de Grave Harbour a Bright Spot for Local Tourism first appeared on News Releases.

The post Port de Grave Harbour a Bright Spot for Local Tourism appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to announce that the tentative collective agreement with the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association (NLTA) has been ratified. The association represents approximately 6,500 educators and administrators across the province.

The Provincial Government and NLTA worked together to reach a fair and responsible agreement that reflects both the value we place on our educators throughout the province and the goals and objectives of improving student outcomes as we integrate the education system into the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Highlights of the agreement include:

• A two per cent wage increase each year for four years (2022-2026);
• A one-time teacher recognition bonus payment of $2,000;
• Wage recognition to ensure competitiveness;
• Recruitment and retention incentives for teachers in rural and remote regions of the province;
• Improvements in recruitment processes for the timely selection of teachers prior to the start of the academic school year;
• An additional report card day to assist teachers in managing workload;
• Agreement to review the responsive teaching and learning model; and
• Modernization of the definitions of harassment and discrimination.

To date, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has successfully negotiated most of its collective agreements with its public sector unions, encompassing nearly 37,000 public service employees. As collective bargaining continues with a number of public service unions, the Provincial Government is continuing to diligently work to secure agreements through progressive and respectful negotiations.

Quotes
“I am pleased that the educators and administrators who make up the membership of the NLTA have ratified this collective agreement. The negotiating teams from government and the NLTA engaged in fair and respectful negotiations throughout the bargaining process. I thank everyone for their collaboration in reaching an agreement that benefits not only our teachers but the young people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board

“I am very pleased that the agreement has been ratified, as collaboration is integral to a strong education system. We will continue to work on further initiatives to support the recruitment and retention of educators in the province. I look forward to continued dialogue with the NLTA to ensure that we are supporting teachers and administrators to provide a high-quality educational experience for students.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

-30-

Learn more
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Reaches Tentative Collective Agreement with Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association

Provincial Government and Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador Sign Collective Agreement

Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreements with CUPE

Provincial Government and NAPE Sign Collective Agreements

Provincial Government and Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador Sign Collective Agreement

Provincial Government and Labrador West Teachers Ratify Tentative Agreement

 

The post Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreement with Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreement with Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association appeared first on News Releases.

The following is being distributed at the request of the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador:

During a hybrid (in-person and zoom) ceremony today at Government House in St. John’s, the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission presented the 2023 Human Rights Award. The Human Rights Award is presented annually in celebration of International Human Rights Day. It recognizes an individual who has made and/or continues to make a meaningful contribution to advancing and furthering human rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

We are pleased to announce that the 2023 Human Rights Award was presented to Courtney Clarke. Courtney received an original painting by Grenfell Visual Arts student, Grace Prince.

Courtney Clarke (she/her) is from Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove (PHMC) and currently lives in Mount Pearl. She has been actively involved in the province’s community sector for most of her life. Whether it’s her work in violence prevention, gender parity in politics, accessibility, or economic well-being, Courtney brings an intersectional, trauma-informed approach to the work that she does.

In her early twenties, she was a Project Manager of an entrepreneurial bootcamp for veterans called Prince’s Operation Entrepreneur with Prince’s Charities Canada, through Enactus Memorial, and spent time volunteering on local arts, heritage and museum committees with her father in her hometown. When COVID-19 began and before NL had a provincial domestic abuse hotline, Courtney, while chairing Violence Prevention Avalon East (VPAE), helped the organization launch Unsafe at Home; a domestic abuse support platform supporting 100+ crisis calls from individuals isolated with abusers. They then partnered with Spirit Horse NL to provide free equestrian-based counselling to 500+ survivors, called Stable & Safe. A survivor of gender-based violence, herself, Courtney established the Jane Doe Graduate Award in Anti-Violence Research at Memorial University to support local researchers.

Chairing Equal Voice NL, Courtney helps women and gender diverse individuals get elected to all levels and parties of government. Through this role, she also sits on the NL Premier’s Roundtable for Gender Equity. In January 2022, she helped Equal Voice co-author a study on sexual harassment in Canada’s legislative Provincial & Federal Assemblies for the Justice of Canada and looks for any opportunity to advance gender parity in the system. Re-elected for a second term as a Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union (NLCU), Courtney represents the financial interests of 20,000+ members. Also passionate about accessibility, Courtney was able to fundraise over $1-million dollars towards accessibility advancements across all regions of NL, between 2019 and 2021. In January 2023, Courtney was appointed to the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Also at today’s ceremony, Dome Lombeida and Émile Sopkowe were named Human Rights Champions. The Human Rights Commission grants this recognition to someone who has made a meaningful, contribution to human rights in Newfoundland and Labrador. This year it was awarded to two recipients.

Dome Lombeida (they/them) is a queer migrant settler from Guayaquil, Ecuador who first came into St. John’s in 2017 as an international student and since has worked with different Refugee, Migrant and Social Justice Organizations. They hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geography and have experience with anti-colonial and feminist science practices. Dome actively volunteers and works closely with 2SLGBTQIA+ community like their research work with Quadrangle NL in the barriers to healthcare and their work with 2SLGBTQIA+ Newcomer Group formed by the YWCA, as well as being part of the Project Advisory Committee working on the LGBTQ+ Newcomer Settlement and Integration in NL. They are very passionate about hosting and creating community spaces for those with intersectional oppressions and hope to see a better future for those folks in NL.

Émile Sopkowe (they/them/iel) is a trans and queer teacher who has made 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion a keystone of their pedagogical approach. Driven by a desire to create equitable, inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ educators, students, and their families, their passion for advocacy and change led to the creation of the Gender and Sexual Diversity Special Interest Council (GSDSIC) of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association (NLTA) in 2020, of which they are now Vice-President.  Throughout Émile’s career, they established Gender and Sexuality alliance groups in multiple schools in both the English and francophone school districts,  provided countless 2SLBGTQ+ professional development sessions for their colleagues and for NLESD and provincial educational leaders, and worked extensively in the area of restorative justice. In 2022, Émile was honoured with the Barnes Award, the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association’s highest award for professional development and curriculum work. In addition to their work within the education system, Émile is devoted to volunteering with diverse community organizations outside of education, and is also the Trans Youth Group facilitator with Parents of Trans, Two-Spirit, and Gender Diverse Kids NL.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission recognizes and sincerely thanks all those who nominated individuals for the 2023 Human Rights Award. The Commissioners had a challenging time deciding this year’s Human Rights Award and Human Rights Champion recipients. Congratulations again to all 8 of the short-listed nominees.

-30-

Learn more
For more information on the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission, please visit www.thinkhumanrights.ca.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission can be followed on Twitter and/or Instagram @nlhumanrights.

Media contact
Hilary P. Hennessey
Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission
709-729-5644
hilaryhennessey@gov.nl.ca

The post Human Rights Commission Announces Winners of the 2023 Human Rights Awards first appeared on News Releases.

The post Human Rights Commission Announces Winners of the 2023 Human Rights Awards appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality and MHA for Harbour Grace – Port de Grave, will attend the annual Port de Grave boat lighting on behalf of the Provincial Government tomorrow (Friday, December 8.)

The event takes place at the Port de Grave Wharf beginning at 5:30 p.m.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Attend Annual Port de Grave Boat Lighting first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Attend Annual Port de Grave Boat Lighting appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will be available to the media tomorrow (Friday, December 8) to discuss the province’s participation in the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The availability will take place outside the House of Assembly beginning at 11:30 a.m.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Davis Available to Media first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Davis Available to Media appeared first on News Releases.

Federal, provincial and territorial privacy authorities, including Newfoundland and Labrador’s Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner, have launched a set of principles to advance the responsible, trustworthy and privacy-protective development and use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in Canada.

The authorities introduced the principles during an international symposium on privacy and generative AI that was hosted in Ottawa by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.

While AI presents potential benefits across many domains and in everyday life, the regulators note that there are also risks and potential harms to privacy, data protection, and other fundamental human rights if these technologies are not properly developed and regulated.

Public bodies and custodians of personal health information in Newfoundland and Labrador have a responsibility to ensure that their use of AI complies with existing privacy laws, however those privacy laws will likely prove inadequate to effectively protect the public interest. Governments in Canada and around the world have begun to recognize this, and many have begun to enact specific laws and legislative amendments that are meant to address the unique challenges of AI. Commissioner Michael Harvey stated:

Artificial Intelligence is already embedded within some of the products and services we use, and governments and health care bodies will certainly want to harness the power and potential of AI in Newfoundland and Labrador for the benefit of citizens. It is important that there be laws in place to ensure that privacy and ethical considerations are appropriately addressed. We have made recommendations to government to amend both the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 and the Personal Health Information Act to ensure that AI programs are appropriately assessed during their development, and that these assessments are subject to oversight from both a data ethics and privacy perspective.

The joint document launched by privacy regulators lays out how key privacy principles apply when developing, providing, or using generative AI models, tools, products and services. These include:

• Establishing legal authority for collecting and using personal information, and when relying on consent ensuring that it is valid and meaningful;
• Being open and transparent about the way information is used and the privacy risks involved;
• Making AI tools explainable to users;
• Developing safeguards for the protection of privacy rights; and
• Limiting the sharing of personal, sensitive or confidential information.

Developers are also urged to take into consideration the unique impact that these tools can have on vulnerable groups, including children.

The document provides examples of best practices, including implementing “privacy by design” into the development of the tools, and the labelling content created by generative AI.

Principles for Responsible, Trustworthy and Privacy-Protective Generative AI Technologies

-30-

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

The post Canadian Privacy Regulators Launch Principles for the Responsible Development and Use of Generative AI first appeared on News Releases.

The post Canadian Privacy Regulators Launch Principles for the Responsible Development and Use of Generative AI appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government has reached the next phase to establish an integrated ambulance service with a request for proposals (RFP) seeking a proponent to design, manage, and operate a single, integrated road and air ambulance service in the province. An integrated ambulance service was a key recommendation of Health Accord NL and will further modernize the province’s health care system.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will be available to speak to media about the RFP today (Thursday, December 7), outside the House of Assembly, Confederation Building, beginning at 2:30 p.m. He will be joined by Cassie Chisholm, VP Transformation – Health Systems, NL Health Services.

The successful proponent will be responsible for managing the program, staff, and budget on behalf of the provincial health authority, and planning to ensure efficient operations as part of the contract. NL Health Services will employ paramedicine staff.

When the contract is awarded, additional employees will be required. The Provincial Government and NL Health Services anticipate that all ambulance staff currently employed with private and community operators will be offered employment.

In the future, all aviation services related to medivac are to be contracted and all medical flight staff will remain with the public health system. While air services employees will be offered employment in public service positions that they are qualified for, the successful proponent will also be required to make offers of employment in available positions to any impacted Department of Transportation and Infrastructure air services employees identified by the Provincial Government.

Submissions are due in early 2024 and the successful proponent will be required to:

• Provide clinical and operational management staff;
• Manage the dispatch for all emergency calls, routine medical transfers, and non-medical transfers throughout a single, integrated road and air ambulance system;
• Manage the road ambulance base infrastructure and determine the optimal positioning and deployment of road ambulances;
• Implement a ten-year plan to upskill and transition the paramedicine workforce to a minimum of Primary Care Paramedic certification, allowing emergency medical responders to become a part of the public service, including non-medical transports; and
• Work with government and NL Health Services to implement a long-term plan for developing a province-wide helicopter emergency medical service.

Budget 2023 allocated $9 million to begin the consolidation of 60 separate road ambulance services into a single, integrated service with a centralized approach.

More details on the RFP, tenders, and other requests for proposals issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Quotes
“This integration is a significant undertaking and the right move for government, for people who rely on ambulance services, and for the people providing the services. This is all a part of our plan to make ambulance services better for residents and everyone involved. Improved wages and benefits will lead to a greater retention of ambulance staff under the new system and we look forward to seeing the new service begin in 2024.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Change in paramedicine services in this Province is long overdue. We have been guided by and challenged by Health Accord NL to put in place an integrated network that enables new ways of delivering better healthcare to patients and residents who rely on medical transportation and emergency services. Releasing this RFP is a critical step towards realizing that vision.
Cassie Chisholm, VP – Transformation, Health Systems
NL Health Services

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Issuing Request for Proposals for Integrated Ambulance Service first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Issuing Request for Proposals for Integrated Ambulance Service appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will be available to speak to the media today (Thursday, December 7) regarding a meeting held with the organizers of the tent encampment.

Minister Abbott will be joined by His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of the City of St. John’s, and Doug Pawson, Executive Director, End Homelessness St. John’s.

The availability will begin at 1:15 p.m. outside of the End Homelessness St. John’s office at 16 Forest Road, St. John’s.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Provide Update on Meeting with Tent Encampment Organizers first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Provide Update on Meeting with Tent Encampment Organizers appeared first on News Releases.

The following is being distributed at the request of the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador:

The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission will present the 9th annual Human Rights Award at a ceremony happening today (Thursday, December 7th). The event begins at 2:30 p.m. at the Government House in St. John’s.

The 2023 Human Rights Award recognizes an individual who has made and/or continues to make a meaningful contribution to advancing and furthering human rights in the province.

To request a link to the ceremony, please email Hilary Hennessey at hilaryhennessey@gov.nl.ca. For more information on the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission, please visit www.thinkhumanrights.ca.

You can also follow us on Twitter & Instagram @nlhumanrights

-30-

Media contact
Hilary P. Hennessey
Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission
709-729-5644
hilaryhennessey@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: 2023 Human Rights Award Ceremony first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: 2023 Human Rights Award Ceremony appeared first on News Releases.