Government of Newfoundland News

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-040 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2023-040 Report Date: September 27, 2023 Public Body: City of St. John’s Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the City of St. John’s under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015, seeking access to records relating to a human resources complaint. The City disclosed 125 pages of records to the Complainant but redacted information citing sections 29 (policy advice or recommendations), 38 (disclosure harmful to labour relations interests of public body as employer) and 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy) of ATIPPA 2015. The Complainant submitted a complaint to this Office, arguing that the information should be disclosed under section 33 (information from a workplace investigation). We found that section 33 did not apply, the exceptions had been properly applied, and the City could continue to withhold the information.

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

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The Department of Health and Community Services has increased monthly rates provided for government-subsidized beds in personal care homes and community care homes, which will support operators to accept more residents who require a higher level of care.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will be available to media today (Thursday, September 28) at Confederation Building, West Block, beginning at 2:00 p.m. to discuss the increases. Minister Osborne will be joined by Beverly Russell, President of Quality Living Alliance for Seniors and Shaun Lane, President of the Personal Care Home Owners Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The additional annual investment of approximately $15.4 million will provide operators with increased subsidy rates, allowing them to support residents with higher care needs, help with recruitment and retention of personal care home workers, and allow for patients currently in acute care beds to receive care in personal care homes.

Personal care homes provide care and accommodations to seniors and older adults  who require assistance with daily living. Community care homes provide accommodations and supervision to individuals with persistent mental illness.

These subsidy rate increases support recommendations from Health Accord NL, which recommended providing appropriate and accessible care and protection for older persons in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Our government is focused on improving access to quality care for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, including our seniors and most vulnerable. Increasing the rates for operators of these homes will enable them to support more residents who have higher care needs, and allow for better recruitment of employees.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Our Personal Care Homes play a pivotal role in the continuum of care for seniors across this province. Today’s announcement will allow us to expand the delivery of care to welcome more complex needs seniors to our homes and will enable us to offer much deserved wage increases to our devoted Personal Care Attendants. We thank the Minister and his staff for their attention to our seniors and for supporting us as we continue to offer quality and exemplary care to our residents.”
Beverly Russell
President of Quality Living Alliance for Seniors

“Today’s announcement is a welcomed recognition of the important work that Personal Care Homes, especially their employees, are doing in caring for Seniors across Newfoundland and Labrador. We are pleased with Minister Osborne’s commitment to continue to work with our sector to build on the role we play in delivering quality affordable health care to seniors and to the sustainability of our industry.”
Shaun Lane
President of Personal Care Home Owners Association of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Review of Long-Term Care and Personal Care Home Programs in the Province Underway

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Tomorrow, September 28, is the first-ever Test Your Smoke Alarm Day in Canada, and the Provincial Government is encouraging residents to test home smoke alarms so everyone can be “Saved by the Beep”.

“Saved by the Beep” is the theme for this day of action, and highlights the fact that a working smoke alarm is your best chance to keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire. Ensuring smoke alarms are in good working order saves lives, cutting the risk of dying in a home fire by half.

Testing a smoke alarm is easy, and it’s something that can involve the whole family. To test a smoke alarm, press the button and it should make loud beeping sounds. Start in one room and then proceed to test all the smoke alarms in a house, replacing batteries as necessary. In Newfoundland and Labrador, smoke alarms are required to be installed in every room of a residence, including cabins, cottages, RVs, trailers and vacation homes.

Due to new construction materials and the popularity of open-concept living, residential fires are burning hotter and faster than before. Residential fires are also happening more often in bedrooms due to the increasing number of electronic devices in those areas of a home. Last year, there were approximately 650 reported fire-related incidents in the province, including residential structure fires and electrical fires, with seven related fire deaths.

If you need help, or advice about smoke alarms, contact your local fire department. Resources to educate children about fire safety, including videos, games and activities are available from Sparky the Fire Dog at www.sparky.org.

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The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, will speak at the John Howard Society’s Annual General Meeting and Conference tomorrow (Thursday, September 28).

The event takes place at Lester’s Farm Chalet, 92 Pearltown Road, St. John’s beginning at 9:00 a.m. Minister Hogan is scheduled to speak at 1:15 p.m.

The John Howard Society is a voluntary, non-profit agency that provides intervention, residential, employment and related programs and services to adult and youth involved in the criminal justice system.

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The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, and members of the department’s recruitment team will be travelling to communities in Saskatchewan on October 3 to recruit health care professionals to work in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Minister Osborne will be available to media at Confederation Building, East Block, tomorrow (September 28) at 2:30 p.m. to discuss the recruitment trip.

Recent highlights of the department’s recruitment strategy include:

• More than 40 physicians have agreed to work in the province since the start of the fiscal year (April 1, 2023); and
• More than 200 internationally-educated nurses have been recruited to the province.

Budget 2023 included the largest ever investment in health care, with more than $23 million in funding for health care recruitment and retention efforts.

Health care professionals interested in learning about the opportunities and incentives to work in Newfoundland and Labrador can find more information at WorkInHealthNL.ca.

Quote
“Newfoundland and Labrador has a lot to offer health care professionals. Our financial incentives are among the best in Canada, including up to $450,000 for physicians and up to $100,000 for nurses. We are happy about the results of our recruitment strategy and recognize there is still more work to be done, and we look forward to working with health care professionals who are interested in working in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will deliver an apology to former students of the residential school system and family members at the Cartwright Recreation Centre in Cartwright, Labrador on Friday, September 29, 2023. The delivery of an apology is being undertaken in collaboration with the NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC), as committed in 2017. Joining the Premier for the event are the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, and Todd Russell, President of the NCC.

The apology event will start at 1:00 p.m. ADT. NCC and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes former students, their family members, community members, and others impacted by the residential school system to attend.

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.

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The second meeting of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council took place on September 26 and 27, 2023 in Corner Brook. The goal of the Reconciliation Council is to coordinate and lead meaningful action to address existing challenges and obstacles in the areas of culture, health and wellness, justice, and human security, which impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Discussions took place regarding the Terms of Reference and potential sub-committees. There were discussions and action planning surrounding ‘starting point’ recommendations brought forward at the inaugural June 2023 meeting, as well as the various other recommendations contained in the “Hear Our Voices: MMIWG Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador” report.

The meetings included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies along with prayers. In addition, presentations were delivered on the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence and on health transformation.

The establishment of the Reconciliation Council holds particular significance in light of the upcoming National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. The Council plays a pivotal role in acknowledging the historical injustices experienced by Indigenous communities in Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada.

By engaging with the Calls for Justice regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, fostering collaboration with Indigenous communities, and heightening public awareness about the imperative for reconciliation, the Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council is just one example of the Provincial Government’s commitment to rectifying past wrongs and advancing a more equitable and inclusive future for all residents.

The Reconciliation Council is composed of 11 members, including five Provincial Government representatives and six Indigenous women representatives. There are three Co-Chairs: one appointed to represent government, and two Elders appointed by the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee.

The formation of the Reconciliation Council was a recommendation of the “Hear Our Voices” report. This action is a further commitment from the Provincial Government to work collaboratively and in partnership with Indigenous Governments and Organizations to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Quotes
“Violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people will not be tolerated in this province. By working in partnership with Indigenous women, their governments and organizations, and listening to their concerns, we will make positive strides together, to prevent violence in our communities.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“It is gratifying to see the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council moving forward and setting forth a plan. Guided by the recommendations contained in the report, the Council is embarking on a path to work as one to deal directly with the violence faced by Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“Today we gathered with a shared commitment to healing and justice. The 196 recommendations put forth in the four pillars of the report on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of affected communities. Together, we are forging a path forward, guided by compassion, respect, and a committed dedication to reconciliation. It will be through our efforts that we will turn these recommendations into meaningful action, ensuring that our voices and experience of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are not only heard, but honored.”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council

“I am happy to be part of the Reconciliation Council that was formed to help end violence and racism against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. We are in the beginning and planning stages, however, I am hopeful that with government and Indigenous people working together, we can make a difference, and start to see change happening that will have a positive impact in our communities.”
Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council

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Learn more
Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council to be Established to Support Efforts Related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People

National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence

Hear Our Voices Report

Office of Women and Gender Equality

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The Provincial Government is celebrating the work of environmental public health public sector employees by proclaiming September 25 to October 1, 2023 as Environmental Public Health Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s theme, “standing up to protect everyone’s health each and every day,” recognizes the vital work of environmental public health professionals, who protect residents by ensuring safe and healthy environments.

Environmental public health professionals have a wide range of responsibilities including food safety inspections, monitoring the bacteriological quality of drinking water and carrying out health-related inspections of child care facilities, schools, personal care homes and long-term care facilities, as well as recreational facilities. They are certified to enforce public health legislation, ensuring that water, air, food, land and facilities in this province are safe. Their work is vital to ensuring access to good food, clean water, and quality education, all key social determinants of health that impact well-being.

The Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI) is a national professional association that works to protect the health of all Canadians by providing certification, education and ongoing professional competencies to environmental public health professionals.

Quotes
“The Provincial Government is pleased to recognize Environmental Public Health Week. This week, we thank our environmental public health professionals for their dedication and professionalism. Their work ensures that our restaurants, child care facilities, workplaces, and more remain safe.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“This week we highlight the important work of public sector employees in the environmental public health field who play a pivotal role in protecting the health and well-being of our families and communities. We recognize and appreciate your dedication and commitment to enhancing the lives of residents in our province each and every day.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

“I am glad to have the opportunity to thank our environmental health officers, who are indispensable to public health. The public does not often get to see them, but their work is essential to maintaining healthy, vibrant, resilient communities.”
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald
Chief Medical Officer of Health

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Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors

Public Health Framework

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The Provincial Government is investing nearly $346,000 to support agriculture infrastructure projects for fruit and vegetable producers under the 2023-24 Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program, including more than $127,000 for eight new entrants to the agriculture sector.

Access to good food is a key social determinant of health, and these projects will help support the well-being of residents by increasing food self-sufficiency, agricultural growth, and secondary processing in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Agriculture infrastructure projects include support for three greenhouse operations, and funding for equipment to help vegetable, fruit and forage producers enhance vegetable production, improve soil health and adapt to climate change. Details on investments are available in the backgrounder below.

Budget 2023 approved $2.25 million for the Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program to support current farmers and new entrants to the province’s agriculture and agrifoods sectors. The program has two streams, focusing on agriculture infrastructure and land development. Projects support food self-sufficiency, and increase agricultural growth and secondary processing.

The Provincial Government is also investing nearly $757,000 to support agriculture infrastructure projects for dairy and livestock producers, including more than $185,000 for pasture development projects and more than $60,000 for four new entrants to the livestock sector.

The Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program is one of two major programs that support Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture sector. Under the five-year, $3.5-billion Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Newfoundland and Labrador’s farmers and producers can also access more than $42 million in cost-shared funding. With the support of these programs, Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture sector has exceeded the Provincial Government’s goal of doubling food self-sufficiency in fruit and vegetable production from 10 per cent to 20 per cent, reaching more than 21 per cent by the end of 2022.

Quotes
“The variety of initiatives funded for fruit and vegetable producers under this year’s Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program reflects farmers’ commitment to diverse and environmentally sustainable farms. I am especially pleased to see new sector entrants committing to a future in agriculture. By working together and investing in agriculture, we are improving food self-sufficiency in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Fruit and vegetable producers are committed to diversifying crops, improving infrastructure, adapting to the challenges of climate change, and making this sector stronger and more self-sufficient. The Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program has consistently provided support to help us with the changing environment. We appreciate the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to expanding and enhancing our sector.”
Melvin J. Rideout
President, Fruit & Vegetable Growers Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more
Growing Strong: Provincial Government Investing in Infrastructure for Dairy, Livestock and Poultry Sectors

Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program

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BACKGROUNDER

2023-24 Agriculture Infrastructure Projects – Fruit and Vegetable Production

Vegetable, Fruit and Greenhouse Production Project Purpose Proponent Approved Funding Agriculture sprayer Decrease pesticide usage; enhance environmental sustainability practices and vegetable production

  Thomas Williams, Goulds $6,728.00 Vegetable washer, vegetable storage facility upgrades

  Enhance efficiency and food safety practices; increase vegetable storage capacity Larry Warren, Springdale $18,134.00 Fertilizer application and drip irrigation system Improve soil health and nutrient efficiency; increase productivity; adapt to climate change and enhance water use efficiency

  Craig Barrett, Whitbourne $1,608.00 Irrigation systems Support environmental stewardship and adapt to climate change; enhance farm productivity

  Triple E Farms Ltd., Comfort Cove $27,808.00 Round baler, round bale wrapper and self-loading round bale trailer for forage production

  Support on-farm diversification; enhance productivity; increase forage sales Fusion Holdings Ltd., Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s $50,000.00 Irrigation water pump for cranberry crop production Increase farm capacity and efficiency when flooding cranberry fields for harvest; increase acreage and harvest

  Glenfair Farms Ltd., Wooddale $24,437.00 Post-harvest trailer for small fruit crop production

  Enhance small fruit production 86143 NL Inc., Wooddale $10,411.00 Rock burier, greenhouse furnace, flexible strawberry row tunnel for fruit crop production

  Enhance farmland productivity; reduce fossil fuel consumption; extend fruit crop seasons Lester’s Farm Market Inc., Mount Pearl $75,000.00 Greenhouse equipment Enhance productivity; support environmental stewardship; increase vegetable sales Murray’s Horticultural Services Ltd., Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s

  $4,380.00 New Entrants Environment controlled vegetable production system

  Enhance vegetable production; preserve product quality; increase vegetable sales

  Green Farm Innovations Inc., Mount Pearl $4,665.00 Potato planter, disc harrow, pallet forks

  Enhance vegetable production David Dawe, Conception Bay South $6,382.00 Tractor, loader attachment Increase vegetable production Chris LeDrew, Conception Bay South

  $20,000.00 Tractor, loader attachment Increase vegetable production Murray Perrett and Tanya Schlossek, Happy Valley-Goose Bay

  $20,000.00 Tractor, loader attachment, equipment storage building

  Increase vegetable production M&M Farming Company Ltd., Deer Lake $55,000.00 Vegetable production system and portable low tunnels

  Support labour-saving technology, extend seasons, and enhance vegetable production Tavis Russell and Anja Sajovic, St. John’s $15,000.00 Field irrigation equipment Enhance small fruit production Springdale’s Gardens Inc., Springdale

  $2,889.00 Vegetable transplanter Support labour-saving technology, enhance farm productivity, increase vegetable sales

  Terry Travers, Sandringham $3,490.00 (Total new entrants: $127,426.00) Total vegetable, fruit and greenhouse production: $345,932.00

 

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The review of increasing Memorial University’s Doctor of Medicine undergraduate program from 80 to 90 students to allow for an additional 10 medical students from Newfoundland and Labrador each year is now underway.

A contract valued at approximately $120,000 to review the expansion has been awarded to Spindle Strategy Corp to complete the review, which will include requirements such as infrastructure, potential building expansion, staffing, resources, and equipment.

The expansion will help support more medical learners to receive the high quality of medical education at Memorial University and gain valuable clinical experience to attract them to practice in the province upon completion of their training.

The Department of Health and Community Services and Memorial University anticipate the report to be completed by next summer.

Spindle is a privately-owned consulting firm with a focus in health sciences. It specializes in complex strategy development and strategic planning for academic and health-care organizations.

The 80 seats in the Faculty of Medicine’s four-year undergraduate medical program currently includes 66 seats for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, with the remaining 14 seats allocated for learners from other parts of Canada.

More information for health care professionals interested in learning about the opportunities and incentives to work in Newfoundland and Labrador is available at WorkInHealthNL.ca.

Information on tenders and requests for proposals issued and awarded by the Provincial Government and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com.

Quotes
“Students who study and complete their medical education in their home province have a higher rate of staying and practicing in that province. By providing an opportunity for more students from Newfoundland and Labrador to learn and train here in the province, we’re increasing the likelihood that they stay here to practice.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine plays an important role in educating new physicians, as well as providing continuing medical education for practicing physicians in our province. Expansion of the undergraduate medical doctor program class size, support of generalist training and increased rural opportunities offered by our medical education programming, all can support physician recruitment and retention in Newfoundland and Labrador. We look forward to working with Spindle on this very important project.”
Dr. Dolores McKeen
Dean of Medicine, Memorial University

“Spindle is exceptionally proud to be working with Memorial University and its health system and government partners to develop an evidence-based roadmap for the expansion of the medical program. We recognize what a critical role the med school plays in maximizing access to excellent care and community health and wellbeing in Newfoundland and Labrador and are thrilled to contribute to this important initiative.”
Dr. Tina McDivitt, PhD.
CEO and President, Spindle Strategy Corp.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with Mr. Ahmet Yildiz, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Government of the Republic of Türkiye, and His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of the City of St. John’s, will unveil a monument to honour the Martyrs of Gallipoli at a special ceremony tomorrow (Thursday, September 28).

The unveiling will take place at the Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park, 66 The Boulevard, St. John’s at 6:00 p.m.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and MHA for Virginia Waters-Pleasantville, will serve as emcee for the ceremony. Also present will be Her Honour, The Honourable Judy M. Foote P.C., O.N.L., Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador; Her Excellency, Esra Demir, Ambassador of the Republic of Tűrkiye to Canada; Mr. Ilhami Aktaş, Governor of Çanakkale, Tűrkiye; Mr. İsmail Kaşdemir, President, Gallipoli Historic Site; and members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make an education infrastructure announcement in St. John’s tomorrow (Thursday, September 28).

The event will take place at the Kenmount Terrace Community Centre, 85 Messenger Drive, St. John’s beginning at 12:00 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable John Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio, and His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of St. John’s.

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The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will be speaking at the Atlantic Social Impact Exchange Summit to discuss health care, social well-being and health care transformation and innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador tomorrow (Wednesday, September 27).

The event will take place at the Delta Hotel, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The Atlantic Social Impact Exchange Summit is a gathering of delegates from across Atlantic Canada, including leaders from various sectors, non-profit organizations, social enterprises, and government bodies. The primary goal of the summit is to foster collaboration and exchange knowledge on the interconnected topics of social impact work, the social determinants of health and community development across Atlantic Canada.

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Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced the Provincial Government’s fall vaccination plan for influenza and COVID-19, which will commence on Monday, October 16, 2023.

The Provincial Government is stressing the importance of residents keeping their vaccinations up-to-date, and will be providing vaccines that target the latest strains of COVID-19 and influenza. Individuals six months of age and older are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine this fall, if it has been six months since their last COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 infection.

Those at high risk for severe disease are strongly recommended to get the vaccine when eligible, including:

• Adults 65 years of age and older;
• Residents of long-term care and other senior congregate living facilities;
• Individuals with underlying medical conditions that place them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 infection;
• Individuals who are pregnant and
• Individuals who identify as First Nation, Inuit or Métis.

Influenza vaccine will be offered to all individuals six months of age and older this fall. It is strongly recommended that those who are higher risk for severe influenza get the vaccine this fall, including:

• Children aged six months to five years of age;
• Adults 65 years of age and older;
• Residents in seniors congregate living;
• Individuals with certain medical conditions that place them at higher risk of influenza-related complications or hospitalizations;
• Individuals who are pregnant; and
• Individuals who identify as First Nation, Inuit or Métis.

Vaccination clinics will begin Monday, October 16. Appointments can be booked online starting October 10 through regional health zone clinics by visiting the Time For the Shot website. Additionally, appointments can also be made through participating pharmacists and physicians. Individuals may need to check periodically for availability at any of these vaccine sites, as appointments are continually being added as vaccine supply is received.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends a dose of the XBB.1.5-containing COVID-19 vaccine to people six months and older this fall.

It is expected that COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory viruses will be circulating in our communities this fall and winter. To minimize the impact of these viruses this season, public health encourages residents of the province to get the influenza vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine this fall.

Both vaccines are proven safe and effective in reducing the spread of influenza and COVID-19 and the incidence of severe disease from these viruses. It is safe for individuals to receive both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time.

Public Health would also like to remind all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to stay home when sick, and to practice good hygiene measures.

Quotes
“As we head into flu season, it’s important to protect yourself and your loved ones. We take this time to remind residents of Newfoundland and Labrador the importance of staying home when sick and keeping up to date on vaccinations.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Vaccination against COVID-19 and influenza is a safe and effective way to reduce the spread of these infections, prevent severe disease, and protect our communities and health system. I encourage all eligible Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to get their fall vaccinations.”
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald,
Chief Medical Officer of Health

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will address the Council for Innovation and Commercialization of the Conference Board of Canada tomorrow (Wednesday, September 27).

The event takes place at Memorial University’s Marine Institute, lower level conference centre, 155 Ridge Road, St. John’s at 9:15 a.m.

The meeting, with the theme “From Resources to Riches: Transitioning to an Innovation Economy” aims for participants to gain an understanding of the transition towards an innovation economy in Newfoundland and Labrador, and how the region’s advantages in clean energy and mineral resources can be harnessed to create sustainable and globally competitive opportunities.

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The Provincial Government is reminding employers that the minimum wage will increase by 50 cents to $15.00 per hour effective October 1, 2023.

In May 2022, the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister Responsible for Labour, announced increases to the minimum wage in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Previously, on October 1, 2022, the minimum wage increased by 50 cents, bringing it to $13.70 per hour. On April 1, 2023, the minimum wage increased by a further 80 cents, bringing the rate to $14.50 per hour.

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The following statement is issued on behalf of Québec Premier François Legault, Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King, Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey, Nova Scotia Deputy Premier Allan MacMaster, and New Brunswick Minister responsible for Economic Development and Small Business Greg Turner, along with Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Maine Governor Janet Mills, Vermont Governor Phil Scott, and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu following the 44th Annual Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers, held in Québec City on September 24 and 25, 2023.

The New England governors and Eastern Canadian premiers are pleased to have been able to meet in person for the 44th Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG-ECP), marking the 50th anniversary of this important forum for intergovernmental cooperation in the region.

50 years of cross-border collaboration
The governors and premiers noted that since the first meeting in Prince Edward Island in 1973, collaboration among NEG-ECP members has promoted shared cross-border priorities and the development of an integrated and prosperous regional economy. The NEG-ECP has established some of the world’s most ambitious regional action plans on issues such as acid rain (1998), mercury (1998), climate change (2001 and 2007), and transportation and air quality (2008 and 2013). More recently, several resolutions have been adopted on major issues such as biodiversity conservation through ecological connectivity, economic development and trade (2016), response to climate-related emergencies (2017), and the continued benefits offered by the North American Free Trade Agreement and cross-border integration (2018).

The governors and premiers wish to acknowledge the success of past work undertaken concerning the environment. In this regard, a number of the NEG-ECP’s initiatives have received international awards over the years in recognition of their visionary character such as the Low Carbon Leader Award presented in 2005 by Bloomberg and The Climate Group.

In 2001, the NEG-ECP adopted regional greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets for 2010, 2020, and 2050. The region exceeded its GHG emission reduction targets for 2010 and 2020 while ensuring the growth of its economy.

Priorities
The governors and premiers agree on their current shared priorities linked to the green economy: economic development; energy, including energy independence and the transition to affordable, clean, and renewable energy; and the development of critical and strategic minerals essential to decarbonization.

Economic development
The governors and premiers remain committed to consolidating their economic ties. In 2021, the combined GDP of the NEG-ECP’s member jurisdictions was approximately CAN$2.176 trillion (approximately US$1.7 trillion). This represented 6.9% of the combined Canadian and U.S. GDP. In this period of global economic change, areas of cooperation between the U.S. northeast and eastern Canada should be deepened to strengthen and optimize the region’s strategic positioning as key to North American competitiveness.

Economy
The global geopolitical context confirms the importance of strengthening regional supply chains. The governors and premiers will act collaboratively to increase the resilience of the region’s economies and ensure supply chain security, including with respect to energy and sustainable transportation.

2050 Goals
The governors and premiers are committed to meeting the target adopted in 2015 to reduce GHG emissions by at least 35% below 1990 levels by 2030. In addition, they aim to be leaders in North America in the transition to a low-emission economy and aspire for the region to become a net-zero producer of GHG emissions by 2050. Governors and premiers are committed to doing so in a way that recognizes each may have their own goals, and that all should follow their own path while cognizant that regional energy planning based on a long-term vision will be key to achieving this ambition.

Transportation and Innovation
Recognizing the accelerated growth of the zero-emission vehicle sector, the governors and premiers wish to continue this impressive progress and the development of a standardized interoperable electric vehicle charging network.

They also recognize that the rapid development of technologies will make it possible to decarbonize heavy transportation and recognize the importance of promoting the infrastructure necessary to facilitate the deployment of these technologies in order to maintain the fluidity of trade at the border.

Moreover, the governors and premiers commit to fostering the development of concerted, efficient, rapid, and accessible intermodal transportation networks that will facilitate the increased mobility of people and goods.

Civil Safety
Citizen security is a priority that calls for enhanced cooperation regarding civil safety. In July 2000, governors and premiers adopted the International Emergency Management Assistance Memorandum of Understanding, which aims to provide mutual assistance in the event of an emergency or disaster.

The NEG-ECP members look forward to continuing their collaborative relationship in the coming year and to the 45th Annual Conference in Massachusetts in 2024.

The Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers was formed in 1973 to advance the common interests of the six New England states and five Eastern Canadian provinces. The Conference includes the following 11 states and provinces: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Québec.

La Conférence des gouverneurs de la Nouvelle-Angleterre et des premiers ministres de l’Est du Canada souligne 50 années de collaboration transfrontalière

The post The Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers Marks 50 years of Cross-Border Collaboration first appeared on News Releases.

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Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a media availability tomorrow (Tuesday, September 26) to discuss the fall influenza and COVID-19 vaccination plan.

The availability will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 11:30 a.m.

The availability will also be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook account.

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The post Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media first appeared on News Releases.

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A recent investigation conducted by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Resource Enforcement Division has resulted in two individuals being charged with offences under the Newfoundland and Labrador Fishery Regulations and the Fishery (General) Regulations.

On August 4, 2023, Resource Enforcement Officers from the Wabush detachment conducted an investigation near Emeril Railway Station after receiving multiple public reports about individuals engaging in overfishing in the vicinity of the Menihek Dam.

The investigation resulted in charges being laid against a resident of Middle Arm for violations related to the alteration of fish and exceeding the possession limit. A resident of Red Bay was also charged for violations related to the alteration of fish.

A significant quantity of filleted ouananiche (landlocked salmon), weighing in excess of 30 pounds, was seized.

Both individuals are scheduled to appear at Provincial Court in Wabush at a later date.

The public is encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing and hunting activity, as information provided by the public plays a significant role in assisting investigations being conducted by Resource Enforcement Officers.

The public can report suspicious activity anonymously at any time by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

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The post Public Advisory: Resource Enforcement Division Investigation Leads to Illegal Fishing Charges first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Resource Enforcement Division Investigation Leads to Illegal Fishing Charges appeared first on News Releases.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is joining three companies from Newfoundland and Labrador to attend the OCEANS 2023 Gulf Coast Conference and Expo in Biloxi, Mississippi, United States from September 25 to 28.

The Canadian Pavilion will be led by OceansAdvance, the Newfoundland and Labrador-based industry cluster. Three Newfoundland and Labrador companies are attending as part of a total of 12 Canadian companies. The three Newfoundland and Labrador companies attending are eSonar, GRI Simulations, and Vanguard (RS Marine). Representatives from the Marine Institute and its newest facility, The Launch, will also be a part of the delegation. There will also be a number of startup companies attending the event.

Over 500 technical papers are to be presented at the conference and discussed, along with multiple opportunities for networking, training sessions, workshops and demonstrations. The department’s participation will help develop and support outbound trade activities, and will reaffirm its commitment to Newfoundland and Labrador’s ocean technology industry.

The conference brings together over 2,000 ocean industry experts, researchers, academia, students, vendors, suppliers, businesses and representatives of governments and militaries from around the world to discuss the latest in ocean technologies, research and development.

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“Our participation in this conference demonstrates our continued commitment to help accelerate the competiveness and growth of the ocean technology sector in our province. The companies in Newfoundland and Labrador’s ocean tech sector are making great progress on building their reputation internationally as leaders in the industry.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Oceans Gulf Coast Conference and Exposition 2023

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