Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will host the 19th Annual Premier’s Athletic Awards tomorrow (Wednesday, October 4).

The event will take place at the Newfoundland and Labrador Sport Centre (PowerPlex), 90 Crosbie Road, St. John’s at 4:30 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, as well as Olympic Gold Medalists Mike Adam and Jamie Korab.

The Premier’s Athletic Awards recognize athletic excellence in Newfoundland and Labrador and provide financial support to help young athletes with the costs of training and competition.

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The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Present Annual Athletic Awards first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Present Annual Athletic Awards appeared first on News Releases.

The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, will officially open new affordable homes on Brown Avenue in Gander tomorrow (Wednesday, October 4).

The announcement will take place at the Gander Town Council Chambers, 100 Elizabeth Drive, Gander at 2:30 p.m.

Minister Pike will be joined by Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, as well as the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and MHA for Gander.

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The post Media Advisory: Federal and Provincial Governments to Officially Open New Affordable Homes in Gander appeared first on News Releases.

October is National Foster Families Month in Newfoundland and Labrador, an opportunity to celebrate and recognize foster families for their dedication and commitment to children and youth in care. This year’s theme is “Foster Families: Nurturing Hearts and Strengthening Families.”

In Newfoundland and Labrador, there are approximately 580 foster families providing safe and nurturing homes to children and youth who are experiencing complex and challenging circumstances.

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, was pleased to participate in a proclamation signing and flag-raising ceremony today at Confederation Building in St. John’s to celebrate National Foster Families Month.  Minister Pike was joined by Kelli Hodder, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, the association’s staff and board members, as well as foster parents and departmental staff. The ceremony also included performances by the Stella’s Circle Inclusion Choir and Inuit throat singers.

The Provincial Government values the important work of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association. In collaboration with the department, the association continues to encourage, recruit and support foster parents throughout the province. During this month, the association is holding training sessions and networking activities for foster families in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For more information on taking the next step to becoming a foster parent, call the department toll-free at 1-855-683-8111 or visit www.fosterafuture.ca, or call the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association toll-free at 1-877-754-0218.

Quotes
“National Foster Families Month provides us with the opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude and respect for foster families throughout the province. Each foster family truly plays a crucial role in the lives of children and youth in their care. Together with the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, we will keep striving to ensure the very brightest of futures for the children and youth of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“October is Foster Families Month in Newfoundland and Labrador. This year’s theme is “Foster Families: Nurturing Hearts and Strengthening Families.” Foster parents make immeasurable investments of love, time, and nurturance into the lives of children and youth in need of temporary care. They do so with selflessness and a desire to help a child in need, changing lives and making our communities stronger. As an association, we acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of the 580 foster families throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and thank them for everything they do.”
Kelli Hodder
Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association

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Foster a Future

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The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is joining 11 companies from Newfoundland and Labrador to participate in the Defence Security and Aerospace Exhibition Atlantic 2023 (DEFSEC) in Halifax, Nova Scotia from October 3-5, 2023.

DEFSEC organizers and the Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association (ACADA) will facilitate business-to-business meetings for companies such as Lockheed Martin, Bombardier and Boeing; international departments of defence and/or military branches of government; and international companies working in Canada that need to fulfill Industrial Benefits Agreements. These meetings present important business opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador companies attending the conference.

The 11 companies attending the conference are: Avalon Holographics, Bluedrop Training and Simulation, BluMetric Environmental, C-CORE, Canadian Maritime Engineering, Gastops, Genoa Design, Glamox Canada, Kraken Robotics, Pennecon Hydraulic Systems and Virtual Marine.

DEFSEC Atlantic, presented by ACADA, is the second largest event of its kind in Canada. The 2022 show included 176 exhibits, over 500 organizations, 45 government agencies and 17 countries. In addition, 638 private business-to-business meetings were facilitated, making the exhibition attractive to companies looking to connect with possible partners and customers worldwide.

Quote
“Our department will be working with strategic partners at this conference to promote and foster business growth, support the continued development of the aerospace and defence sector, and attract companies and investment in the sector to the province. Officials will be promoting Newfoundland and Labrador as a place to do business, and helping our local companies make the connections they need to succeed.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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DEFSEC Atlantic 2023

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The post Provincial Government to Participate in DEFSEC Atlantic 2023 appeared first on News Releases.

The following is being distributed at the request of Her Honour, the Honourable Judy M. Foote P.C., O.N.L, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Her Honour, The Honourable Judy M. Foote, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador and Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be joined by the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, at the investiture ceremony for recipients of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 4 at 11:00 a.m. at Government House in St. John’s.

The ceremony will be streamed live on Facebook and YouTube.

Media are asked to be in place by 10:15 a.m.

10:15 a.m.      Media representatives are in place in the Billiards Room to cover investiture and will enter through west side entrance of Government House

10:30 a.m. –    Recipients and guests arrive at Government House
10:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m.       Investiture Ceremony

The seven inductees this year are David A. Elms, Noreen Golfman, Dr. Kevin Noel Melvin, Rick Mercer, O.C., Dr. Patrick Parfrey, O.C., Jean Claude Roy and Andrus Voitk.

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The post Media Advisory: Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Investiture Ceremony  appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is increasing rates for home support agencies that provide support to seniors, children, and adults with disabilities who require personal and behavioural assistance to maintain individual independence at home.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will be available to media to discuss the increases today (Tuesday, October 3) in the West Block Lobby of Confederation Building at 11:30 a.m. Minister Osborne will be joined by Elizabeth Jenkins, President of the Home Care Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Provincial Government is investing an additional $7.9 million in 2023-24 to support these rate increases, which will help ensure provision of high quality of care and will allow individuals who need support to live independently.

The Department of Health and Community Services, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, and the Home Care Association of Newfoundland and Labrador are working collaboratively to develop new Home Care Agency Standards and a Service Level Agreement that focus on increasing quality of services provided through the program.

Agencies that implement quality improvement initiatives related to the new standards and agreement will receive an additional increase.

A differential payment model for workers at home support agencies in Labrador will also be provided as per the Labrador Allowance in the Labrador Benefits Agreement.

Quotes
“This is another step our government is taking to improve care for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Increasing the hourly rates will ensure that home support agencies continue providing a high quality of care, allowing them to support individuals who need support to live independently.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“On behalf of the membership of the Home Care Association of Newfoundland & Labrador, we would like to thank the Department of Health and Community Services for their continued support of the Home Care industry. The department and association have been working collaboratively over the past number of years on quality improvements, revised operational standards and new service level agreements. These changes enable agencies to continue supporting home care recipients in the province, allowing them to age in place, happily in their homes. We look forward to continued collaboration with the department for long term sustainability of the industry.
Elizabeth Jenkins
President of the Home Care Association of Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will speak at the Kids Eat Smart Week launch on Tuesday, October 3.

The event will take place at East Point Elementary School, 14 Middleton Street, St. John’s beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services.

Kids Eat Smart supports the education, health and well-being of school age children in Newfoundland and Labrador through nutrition programs in Kids Eat Smart Clubs run by volunteers at schools and community centres. These Clubs are inclusive programs where every child is welcome and there is no cost to families. There are 275 Kids Eat Smart Clubs throughout Newfoundland and Labrador operating with the assistance of volunteers, school administrators, teachers and staff, with 40,000 meals served every school day.

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The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Participate in the Kids Eat Smart Week Launch appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:
Deer Lake Tailrace Bridge Geotechnical Work                                 (Reg. 2271)
Proponent: Department of Transportation and Infrastructure

The Proponent is proposing to complete a geotechnical investigation required for the replacement of the Deer Lake tailrace bridge on the Trans-Canada Highway in the Town of Deer Lake. Project activities would include drilling boreholes in the water and on land to determine subsurface soil and rock conditions at the site to provide recommendations for foundation design for the new abutments and spanning piers. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on September 28, 2023; the deadline for public comment is November 3, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by November 12, 2023.

Flat Bay Brook Outfitters Lodge                                                           (Reg. 2270)
Proponent: Mountain Top Cabin Ltd.

The Proponent is proposing to construct an outfitter lodge to accommodate clients with guided moose hunts. The site is located approximately 12 kilometres southeast of St. Georges on a gravel road known as Steel Mountain Road. The lodge would include an in-ground septic system and drilled water well. A description of the project can be found on the department’s project web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on September 28, 2023; the deadline for public comment is November 3, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by November 12, 2023.

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT GUIDELINES ISSUED:

White Hill Pond JCL Quarry                                                                    (Reg. 2246)
Proponent: JCL Investments Inc.

The minister has approved the final guidelines for the preparation of the environmental preview report (EPR) for the White Hill Pond JCL Quarry. The EPR guidelines identify the information that the Proponent is required to include in the EPR. The EPR guidelines document is available on the department’s project web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2246/

PLANS ACCEPTED:
Labrador – L1301 Transmission Line Decommissioning               (Reg. 2236)
Proponent: Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro

On September 27, 2023, the minister advised the Proponent that the Waste Management Plan (WMP) and Caribou Protection and Impacts Mitigation Plan (CPIMP) for the Labrador – L1301 Transmission Line Decommissioning project were reviewed and found to be acceptable. The WMP and CPIMP were required by conditions of release from environmental assessment and are available on the department’s project web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2236/.

UNDERTAKING RELEASED:

Windmill Bight Bridge Replacements                                                 (Reg. 2263)
Proponent: Department of Transportation and Infrastructure

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

• The Proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (FFA) requires the following:
  • The registration document indicates that the Proponent will require the contractor(s) to submit a Contractor Environmental Mitigation Plan to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval. FFA requires that the Contractor Environmental Mitigation Plan must also be submitted to its Wildlife Division for approval, prior to the start of project construction.
• The Proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca.
• The Proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all  permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required. Please email the project updates to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca.

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_September-2023.pdf

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

Project comments may be forwarded to: EAprojectcomments@gov.nl.ca

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin first appeared on News Releases.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

In recognition of the rapidly aging world population, in 1991 the United Nations designated October 1 the International Day of Older Persons.  The occasion focuses on protecting and promoting the rights of older people, and acknowledging the important contributions they make.

In Canada, October 1 is National Seniors Day, a day that encourages everyone to acknowledge the valuable contributions of older people to Canadian society.

Annually, Newfoundland and Labrador marks this day by recognizing the lifetime contribution of seniors to their communities and province, and thanking seniors for their continued role in making a difference in our homes, communities and workplaces. Seniors are the volunteers, the coaches, the community leaders and a source of support to many.

While it is important to honour and recognize the contributions of seniors every day, October 1 is a day to reflect on the issues older adults experience and ways to improve the lives of seniors. The purpose of National Seniors Day is to ensure the protection and promotion of the rights of older adults, which is even more important now as seniors struggle with the cost of living, adequate safe housing and accessible primary health care.

Today and every day, the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate continues to advocate for improved services to meet the needs of seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quote
“Today we recognize the contributions that seniors have made and continue to make. As a society, we can demonstrate our respect by working to ensure that every senior in Newfoundland and Labrador has the ability to live their lives the way they wish, with comfort and dignity. My Office will continue to advocate on behalf of the seniors in this province to ensure improved services that meet their needs.”
Susan Walsh
Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

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The post International Day of Older Persons and National Seniors Day appeared first on News Releases.

A new land reserve is being established in the area of Ragged Beach in order to further protect the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve bird populations from potential impacts of future development.

Eighty-two per cent of all of North America’s puffins breed around the coastline of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve has North America’s largest colony of Atlantic Puffins with over 600,000 breeding birds, and is located one to two kilometres offshore from the Ragged Beach area.

As a result of the reserve, new development of Crown land in that area will be restricted. This will ensure that light pollution in the Ragged Beach area is minimized and protections are enhanced for the Atlantic Puffin and Leach’s Storm Petrel populations of the nearby Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

Individuals who would like more information or assistance with Crown Lands services can call 1-833-891-3249 or email crownlandsinfo@gov.nl.ca. Appointments can be booked online, if necessary. Information in general about the Crown Lands Division may be found on our website.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, delivered an apology on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to members of NunatuKavut who attended residential schools in the province.

The Premier apologized at a ceremony today in Cartwright, Labrador. He was joined by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, and Todd Russell, President of the NunatuKavut Community Council. In attendance were former students of residential schools, their family members, community members, others impacted by the residential school system, and members of the Governing Council of the NunatuKavut Community Council.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador apologized for the neglect, abuse, hardship and discrimination experienced by former students at the hands of people and institutions who were entrusted to provide care and nurturing. The apology acknowledged there was a failure to treat NunatuKavut children with equality and respect.

The Premier said his words do not suggest an apology could relieve the weight of the pain and suffering endured by former students of the residential school system, and noted that he hoped by going to Cartwright to deliver a public apology, the journey of healing can continue. Only by truly understanding the history of residential schools can the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and residents of the province hope to advance Reconciliation.

The Premier acknowledged and thanked the NunatuKavut Community Council for their support during the planning process to deliver a formal apology to former students of the residential school system.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador remains committed to delivering apologies to former students of the residential school system, and will continue to engage with other Indigenous Governments and Organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador on their respective apologies.

The Statement of Apology to Former Students of Residential Schools in NunatuKavut is available at these links:

• English
• Inuttitut

Quotes
“The stories of children who were separated from their communities and the treatment they endured in the residential school system is a chapter of our history that must never be forgotten. The apology I delivered on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador acknowledges the pain and suffering experienced by former students and their families, and honours them for their bravery and resiliency.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“It is extremely difficult to come to terms with the neglect and discrimination experienced by former students who were part of the residential school system. The memories which they have shared are painful and heart-wrenching. As a people, a society, and a province, we have committed to never repeat the past and hope our actions are steps toward our shared journey of healing.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“Today is a profoundly important day. I want to recognize the strength, courage and resilience that NunatuKavut Inuit residential school students have shown. It is an inspiration to all of us who carry on the work of our ancestors to build strong and healthy families and communities. We thank Premier Furey and his government for taking this important step in acknowledging the harm caused by the residential school system in NunatuKavut. We know this apology alone will not heal all wounds but we are hopeful that it is a turning point in the path to Reconciliation that we are walking on together.”
Todd Russell
President, NunatuKavut Community Council

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Learn more
Provincial Government Observing a Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Orange Shirt Day

Newfoundland and Labrador Residential SchoolsNunatuKavut

The post Premier Furey Delivers Apology to Former Students of the Residential School System in NunatuKavut first appeared on News Releases.

The post Premier Furey Delivers Apology to Former Students of the Residential School System in NunatuKavut appeared first on News Releases.

Today, Joanne Thompson, Member of Parliament for St. John’s East on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC), and Danny Breen, Mayor for the City of St. John’s announced $5 million in funding for St. John’s, one of the 41 recipients of the third round of the Rapid Housing Initiative’s (RHI) Phase 3 Cities Stream.

As part of its Investment Plan for the Cities Stream, the City of St. John’s awarded the funding to Stella’s Circle who will renovate a former office building into 15 new homes for women who are experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic abuse and/or may have had prior involvement with the criminal justice system.

The projects are comprised of:

• a conversion of office space into six homes; and
• a newly constructed extension which includes nine homes.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, through the NLHC, contributed $800,000 in funding towards this project.

This is made possible by the Government of Canada’s additional investment of $1.5 billion through RHI, bringing the program’s total to $4 billion to support the country’s most vulnerable. The additional funding for the third round of RHI will be divided into two streams: $1 billion through the Projects Stream and $500 million towards the Cities Stream. This investment is expected to create at least 5,000 more affordable housing units for Canadians in severe housing need across the country, with 25 per cent of investments going towards women-focused housing projects. The total number of units created with all three phases of the RHI is now over 15,500 across Canada.

Also included in today’s announcement, is a combined $6.1 million investment that will create a total of 20 new homes through the Rapid Housing Initiative Phase 2.

Six new affordable homes are complete and operational in St. John’s thanks to Stella’s Circle. Four of the homes are reserved for individuals receiving services connected to the Stella’s Circle Community Support Program (CSP), of which one home will be reserved for women. The other two homes will be reserved for women who are receiving counselling and support services through the Just Us Women’s Centre.

Funding provided for this project is as follows:

• $1.12 million from the Federal Government through the Rapid Housing Initiative.
• $250,000 from the Provincial Government, through NLHC.
• $117,621 in contributions from the Community Housing Transformation Centre .
• $410,891 in cash equity from Stella’s Circle Foundation Inc.

The Young Parents Resource Centre, completed, operational and fully occupied, is an upstream approach to target at-risk, young women (ages 16 to 29), pregnant young women and parenting young women and their children. This development used traditional construction to build the 14-unit complex (four one-bedroom units and 10 two-bedroom units). Six units are accessible and the project will achieve high energy efficiency targets. Program supports for tenants will be offered through the existing Momma Moments program, a strengths-based program at Choices for Youth that provides family first oriented supports. The program supports at-risk young pregnant and parenting mothers between the ages of 16-29.

Investments provided for this project are as follows:

• $3.87 million from the Federal Government, through the Rapid Housing Initiative Phase 2;
• Land equity from the Provincial Government, through NLHC;
• $276,105 in cash equity from Choices for Youth; and
• $100,000 contribution from the City of St. John’s.

Quotes
“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Through the Rapid Housing Initiative, we are quickly providing new affordable housing units for people who need them most, right across Canada, including right here in St. John’s. We are working closely with our partners to create more affordable housing that meets the needs of Canadians.”
Honourable Sean Fraser
Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

“Funding renovation and retrofit projects like these ones are a great way to get the local economy moving, because it puts construction workers and tradespeople to work quickly. At the same time, we’re improving the quality of life for residents of St. John’s, keeping their homes safe and affordable.
Joanne Thompson
Member of Parliament for St. John’s East

“Access to a safe and affordable home is important to helping individuals and families build a stable and secure future. Today’s announcement highlights the strength of working together with our federal, municipal, and community partners to address diverse housing needs throughout the province and to build stronger and healthier communities.”
Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“The City of St. John’s is pleased to be administering this important fund. By working collaboratively, we are addressing an urgent need, creating 35 affordable homes quickly in our community.”
Danny Breen
Mayor for the City of St. John’s

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Learn more
RHI3 and Eligibility Criteria

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

National Housing Strategy

Housing Funding Initiatives Map

BACKGROUNDER

Quick facts

• The Government of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS) is an ambitious, 10-year plan that will invest more than $82+ billion to give more Canadians a place to call home.
• Launched in 2020, the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) is delivered by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), under the NHS.
• The RHI takes a human rights-based approach to housing, serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and other vulnerable people under the NHS, including women and children fleeing domestic violence, seniors, young adults, Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities, people experiencing mental health and addiction issues, veterans, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, racialized groups, and recent immigrants or refugees.

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, was joined by the Honourable Jenna Sudds, federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development today to announce several measures to help increase child care capacity throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

The announcement is a part of the $306 million invested through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. The initiatives include an increase in funding availability and supports for the sector offered through the Child Care Capacity Initiative program, including:

• $7.5 million in funding to support infrastructure and renovations to regulated child care services availing of the operating grant program, to increase child care capacity by 750 spaces, with priority for the creation of toddler spaces in not-for-profit child care services;
• The hiring of a Project Manager within the Provincial Government to oversee and support not-for-profit child care capacity projects; and
• An increase to the personnel budget category of projects operating under the Child Care Capacity Initiative program, which includes an hourly wage increase from $17 per hour to $25 per hour for developmental workers.

The announcement was held at The Fluvarium, a public environmental education centre in St. John’s that focuses on environmental education. The facility was able to access funds through the Child Care Capacity Initiative program and is in the process of converting a portion of its building into a child care centre, with an estimated 55 new child care spaces.

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Action Plan is increasing access to regulated child care through the creation of approximately 6,000 spaces by 2025-26, as well as improving affordability, inclusivity and the quality of early learning and child care programming in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing high quality, affordable child care that is accessible throughout the province. There are currently over 8,300 child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or less in the province, with government on track to achieve the creation of 1,000 new spaces in 2023.

Further questions on the application process for the Child Care Capacity Initiative program can be sent to createaspace@gov.nl.ca.

Quotes
“Increasing access to high-quality child care has positive outcomes for children, for families, and for the economy. We have successfully reduced the cost of child care in the province, and we remain focused on meeting the demand. Early learning and child care is key to ensuring a bright future for Newfoundland and Labrador, and we will continue to focus our efforts on these important initiatives.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“We cannot build a national Early Learning and Child Care system without creating new child care spaces. Programs like Newfoundland and Labrador’s Child Care Capacity Initiative will help us reach our goal of creating 250,000 new spaces across Canada by 2026, and provides children and families in the province better access to high-quality, inclusive, flexible and affordable early learning and child care opportunities. We remain committed to our common goal of giving all children in Canada the best possible start in life.”
Honourable Jenna Sudds
Minister of Families, Children and Social Development

“The Fluvarium has always been a space for children, students and families to visit and learn about ecology and our local freshwater environment. We are excited to expand our work in education by creating a child care centre space. The interpretation centre will remain on the bottom floor of The Fluvarium, and we look forward to sharing further details on the main floor child care centre in the coming months.”
Shantille Butler
Executive Director, The Fluvarium

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Learn more
$10-a-day Child Care Now a Reality for Families in Newfoundland and Labrador

Early Childhood Educator Wage Grid

Operating Grant Program

Child Care Capacity Initiative

Budget 2021: A Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Plan

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Increased Funding Available to Grow Child Care Service Capacity in Newfoundland and Labrador first appeared on News Releases.

The post Increased Funding Available to Grow Child Care Service Capacity in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will participate in a proclamation signing and flag-raising ceremony, hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, on Tuesday, October 3.

The ceremony will take place in the main lobby of East Block, Confederation Building starting at 10:00 a.m.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Pike to Participate in Proclamation Signing and Flag-Raising to Recognize Foster Families Month first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Pike to Participate in Proclamation Signing and Flag-Raising to Recognize Foster Families Month appeared first on News Releases.

The following joint statement was issued on behalf of Social Development Minister Jill Green, who is also minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation; Prince Edward Island Housing, Land and Communities Minister Rob Lantz; Nova Scotia Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Lohr; and Newfoundland and Labrador Children, Seniors and Social Development Minister Paul Pike, who is also minister responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

A meeting was held September 28 between the Atlantic ministers responsible for housing. The ministers discussed topics of mutual concern, such as access to housing, housing affordability and supporting vulnerable populations.

As a result of the meeting, the ministers agreed as follows:

• Ministers will continue to share best practices to identify ways regional collaboration could support improved housing access and affordability and support those experiencing homelessness in the region.
• Housing ministers will advance a regional approach to drive innovation and productivity in housing construction to accelerate housing supply.
• Provincial Governments will continue to advocate to make federal funding more accessible and flexible so that it better complements existing provincial programs tailored to the unique needs of Atlantic Canada.

Quotes
“I was thrilled to host my counterparts and discuss how we can work collaboratively to improve housing options in Atlantic Canada. We share many of the same interests when it comes to housing. The collaboration and sharing of experience and expertise from across Atlantic Canada was productive. I would like to thank Minister Rob Lantz of Prince Edward Island, Minister John Lohr of Nova Scotia, Minister Paul Pike from Newfoundland and Labrador, and their teams for travelling and being so generous with their time and ideas.”
Honourable Jill Green
Minister of Social Development and Minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation

“The Atlantic region has a strong history of working together. This continues today and extends to strategizing on the issues of housing, affordability and supports to individuals experiencing homelessness. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes every opportunity to meet and collaborate with our other Atlantic colleagues to address the housing and homelessness needs in our region. Today’s meeting provided an opportunity to learn from each other and discuss best practices, innovative ideas, funding initiatives as well as identify opportunities to align and advance the priorities common across the Atlantic region.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“We are always pleased to gather with our neighbours and discuss what needs to be done to improve things for Atlantic Canadians. Our problems are not unique to each province, but our solutions may be. We can make the biggest difference for the region by continuing to work together and thinking differently.”
Honourable Rob Lantz
Minister of Housing, Land and Communities, Prince Edward Island

“The Atlantic region faces unique challenges and opportunities that we need to leverage to effectively address the housing crisis we are all facing. We know we can achieve more when we work together, and we can make a real difference to those in housing need by developing innovative solutions together.”
Honourable John Lohr
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Nova Scotia

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The post Statement on Atlantic Housing Ministers’ Meeting first appeared on News Releases.

The post Statement on Atlantic Housing Ministers’ Meeting appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, will join Joanne Thompson, Member of Parliament for St. John’s East on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, and Sheilagh O’Leary Deputy Mayor for the City of St. John’s, at an announcement related to housing in St. John’s today (Friday, September 29).

The announcement will take place in the Foran Greene Room, St. John’s City Hall, 10 New Gower Street, St. John’s at 1:00 p.m.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Pike Participating in Housing Announcement in St. John’s first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Pike Participating in Housing Announcement in St. John’s appeared first on News Releases.

A monument to the Martyrs of Gallipoli, who, like members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, laid down their lives for freedom during the First World War, now stands at the Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park beside Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John’s.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador; Her Honour, The Honourable Judy M. Foote P.C., O.N.L., Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador; and His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of the City of St. John’s welcomed Mr. Ahmet Yildiz, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Government of the Republic of Türkiye; Her Excellency, Esra Demir, Ambassador of the Republic of Tűrkiye to Canada, Mr. Ilhami Aktaş, Governor of Çanakkale, Tűrkiye and Mr. İsmail Kaşdemir, President, Gallipoli Historic Site to unveil the monument at a special ceremony this evening.

The installation of the Turkish monument completes a reciprocal agreement between Newfoundland and Labrador and the Republic of Türkiye, which included the unveiling of the sixth and final statue on the Trail of the Caribou in Gallipoli in September 2022. The City of St. John’s supported the project by providing the land for the Turkish monument.

The front of the monument features the undulating Turkish flag and its profile at the back refers to the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial. References to the topography of the region and poppies appear toward the pedestal of the monument, and a shape resembling an open window at the top symbolizes a horizon and a road of peace and friendship between Gallipoli and St. John’s.

Quotes
“We are honoured to display this beautiful memorial to the Martyrs of Gallipoli, who bravely fought with the same sense of bravery and purpose as ‘Our Own’, the members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. We remember them together here at the Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park, just as the men from our two nations made the ultimate sacrifice together on the battlefields of the First World War.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“I am deeply honoured to attend the official unveiling ceremony of our Monument in St John’s, dedicated to the memory of our Çanakkale Martyrs. This project was made possible with the joint efforts and close cooperation between Türkiye and Canada. We are thankful to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as each and every person who contributed along the process. I believe that this monument will be a symbol of our strong ties and inspire our peoples, especially young generations, to learn more about our common history and the sacrifices made by our ancestors.”
Mr. Ahmet Yildiz
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Government of the Republic of Türkiye

“The City of St. John’s is honored to donate the land for this incredibly meaningful monument that pays tribute to the brave Martyrs of Gallipoli. This monument, which fittingly sits in the Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park, will serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by both our nations during World War I, creating a bond based on history and the courageous actions of those who gave their lives.”
His Worship Danny Breen
Mayor of the City of St. John’s

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Learn more
Newfoundlanders Honoured in Gallipoli with Dedication of Final Caribou Monument

Trail of the Caribou

Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial

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The post Monument to Honour the Martyrs of Gallipoli Unveiled at Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park first appeared on News Releases.

The post Monument to Honour the Martyrs of Gallipoli Unveiled at Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, will be joined by the Honourable Jenna Sudds, federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development tomorrow (Friday, September 29) to announce initiatives to increase child care capacity in the province.

The event will take place at The Fluvarium, 5 Nagles Place, St. John’s at 11:30 a.m.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Announce Further Initiatives to Increase Child Care Capacity first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Announce Further Initiatives to Increase Child Care Capacity appeared first on News Releases.

The location of a new school for the Kenmount Terrace area of St. John’s was unveiled today at an event at the local Kenmount Terrace Community Centre. The new school, which is scheduled to open in September 2026, will be located on Ladysmith Drive – across from Petite Forte Drive.

While it is anticipated that the school will have primary and elementary grades, consultations will be held to determine the exact grade configuration to best meet the needs of students and families in the area. A total of $50 million over four years has been allocated for the new school.

In the meantime, the background work will continue on this project, with the next step being the issuing of a Request for Proposals for a consultant team that will provide government with technical advisory services for development of a Design-Build tender package for the new school.

Budget 2023 includes an unprecedented investment in provincial highways and roads, as well as new schools and health care facilities. More than $1.1 billion has been allocated for infrastructure, including more than $127 million for new schools in Kenmount Terrace, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s and Cartwright, as well as the redevelopment of the school in Pilley’s Island.

Quotes
“A solid, educational foundation in a modern school setting is essential for current and future generations. When we invest in infrastructure like the Kenmount Terrace School, we are also investing in those futures. I am delighted to be part of this important announcement for the Kenmount Terrace community.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our government’s investment in infrastructure contributes to the overall well-being of our towns and communities. We are pleased to support the construction of a new school in Kenmount Terrace, recognizing the value it holds for the residents of the area.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The construction of a new school in Kenmount Terrace will ensure that students have access to the spaces, the technology, and support they need to have a positive learning experience with their peers and teachers. I look forward to seeing the progress on planning of the new school for families in the area.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“The Kenmount Terrace area of the Northeast Avalon has grown extremely fast, and we need to ensure that we provide services and support to this community. The investment of a new school will provide much needed infrastructure to the area. I look forward to the ongoing planning processes and engagement with families as the school is built.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL
MHA for Mount Scio

“The City of St. John’s is pleased to see this new investment into school infrastructure for the Kenmount Terrace area, which continues to see considerable growth. The addition of a new school will help further connect the families and children that call Kenmount Terrace and nearby areas home, and will provide them with a modern facility that fosters learning and growth.”
His Worship Danny Breen
Mayor of the City of St. John’s

“Our industry is so thrilled to welcome today’s announcement by Premier Furey. This is such a meaningful development for our children and families in Newfoundland and Labrador, building on other recent announcements to support education in the province. The NLCA and construction industry look forward to bringing our talented employees to work on this and other key projects that will continue to build Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Rhonda Neary
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association

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Learn more

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

Budget 2023 Infrastructure Investments

The post Site Announced for New School in Kenmount Terrace first appeared on News Releases.

The post Site Announced for New School in Kenmount Terrace appeared first on News Releases.

The Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered a performance audit on the Office of the High Sheriff to the House of Assembly. The audit reports on findings and recommendations regarding the Office’s financial processes, staffing complement and competencies, security systems, and departmental oversight. The audit period was April 2020 through December 2022.

The audit concluded that the Department of Justice and Public Safety did not provide effective oversight in support of the Office’s responsibilities and legislative requirements. The Office also did not have the financial control processes or related staff competencies and complement to fulfill its operational responsibilities for receiving and distributing court-ordered payments.

In addition, the audit determined that the department was slow to respond to critical financial reporting and vacancy issues, and as of April 2020, annual audits had not been completed since 2017. Prior to January 2022, there was limited evidence to indicate that Justice and Public Safety took steps to address this issue.

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

Quote
“In my January 2022 Annual Report, I noted that the Office of the High Sheriff audited financial statements had not been completed since March 2017, potentially increasing the risk of undetected error or fraud. I cannot audit what does not exist, and while no error or fraud was detected in this performance audit, the risk remains as long as there are outstanding financial statements or internal control deficiencies. It is essential for the Department of Justice and Public Safety to provide effective oversight to the Office of the High Sheriff and ensure it has appropriate financial control processes and the staff to meet its operational requirements to fulfill its mandate in an efficient and effective manner.”
Denise Hanrahan
Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

The post Auditor General Releases Performance Audit of the High Sheriff’s Office first appeared on News Releases.

The post Auditor General Releases Performance Audit of the High Sheriff’s Office appeared first on News Releases.