Government of Newfoundland News

The House of Assembly advises that, in accordance with the 2025 parliamentary calendar, the House will reconvene on Monday, March 3, at 1:30 p.m. (1:00 p.m. in most of Labrador).

Proceedings throughout the spring sitting will broadcast live via the House of Assembly television channel and stream via the House of Assembly website and social media channels (Facebook and YouTube).

The public galleries will be open throughout the sitting. Closed captioning is now available via monitors in both the east and west galleries.

-30-

Media contact
Mark Jerrett
House of Assembly
709-729-6943
markjerrett@gov.nl.ca

The post Resumption of the House of Assembly for the Spring Sitting appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government, through Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador, is inviting nominations for the 2025 Inclusive Education Award.

Each year, the award is presented to a K-12 school in Newfoundland and Labrador that has shown exceptional spirit in creating a school that is welcoming and inclusive for students with intellectual disabilities.

The deadline for submissions is May 9, 2025, and the nomination form can be found online here.

The recipient in 2024 was Avoca Collegiate in Badger. The school was selected based on its work to design and implement programs and activities that are inclusive of all students. The school administration and staff approach work with a universal design for learning lens to create an environment where every student can reach their full potential.

All academic programs, extracurricular activities and school events are created to promote participation of all students. With a school population of about 50 students, Avoca Collegiate has been able to offer a leadership program and two basketball teams that are open to all students. The school is also affiliated with the Jays Care organization of the Toronto Blue Jays through Jays Care.

Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador is a non-profit organization that works with and on behalf of the more than 15,000 people with intellectual disabilities in our province.

February is Inclusive Education Month in Canada. The Provincial Government supports a welcoming school culture where all members of the school community feel they belong, realize their potential, and contribute to the life of the school.

Quotes
“Celebrating diversity and our talents is what makes us stronger. I hope that everyone takes time to celebrate each other and our individual and unique talents. Inclusion is about creating and making space for everyone and fostering an environment where everyone feels that they belong. Learning from each other makes all of us appreciate one other. I encourage students and teachers to share their experiences about inclusion and apply for the Inclusive Education Award.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Inclusive education is a fundamental right that benefits all students, fostering a sense of belonging, respect, and opportunity in our schools and communities. When students with and without disabilities learn together, they develop lifelong collaboration, understanding, and empathy skills. At Inclusion Canada NL, we are committed to advocating for strong, inclusive learning environments that support the success of every child. As we open nominations for this year’s Inclusive Education Award, we encourage educators, schools, and community members to recognize those who go above and beyond to create welcoming and supportive classrooms. Their dedication to inclusion shapes a brighter, more equitable future for all students in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Kem Young
President, Inclusion Canada NL

-30-

Learn more
Inclusion Canada NL

The post Call for Nominations for Inclusive Education Awards appeared first on News Releases.

Big game licence applications for the 2025-26 season are open until April 25 for resident moose, caribou, and black bear licences. Eligible hunters and trappers must have a Wildlife Information Management System account to apply for a licence.

Current population trends for most of the province’s game and furbearer species are stable and harvest quotas require only minimal changes for the upcoming season. The 2025-26 moose quota for the Island of Newfoundland is 27,515 licences, including 19,165 either-sex, 7,890 male-only, and 460 not-for-profit licences. This is a decrease of 75 licences from 2024-25, with quotas adjusted in 13 moose management areas (MMAs).

In Labrador, 348 either-sex moose licences are available for the resident big game draw, an increase of three licences with quotas adjusted in three MMAs.

The caribou quota for the Island of Newfoundland is 612 animals, including 353 either-sex and 259 male-only licences, an increase of 16 licences from 2024-25. Caribou hunting remains prohibited in Labrador due to the conservation status and limited recovery of George River and Boreal caribou populations.

Some important changes designed to support increased hunting and trapping opportunities on the Island of Newfoundland will be in effect this season, including:

• Establishing Caribou Management Area 80 for Upper Grey Island.
• Extending the season of Caribou Management Areas 71 and 80.
• Extending the fall black bear season to November 30 and re-structuring black bear management areas to broaden hunter opportunities.
• Adding a trapper’s beaver licence to permit trapping in unoccupied traplines. Traplines currently assigned to trappers and vacant traplines with waitlists will not be impacted.
• Making break-away devices mandatory on neck snares used for trapping furbearers.

To be considered eligible for the 2025-26 big game licence draw, you must:

• Be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Be at least 16 years of age by August 31, 2025.
• Have a Hunter Certificate Number.
• Have already completed the Canadian Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course or, for new residents, have transferred hunter education credentials by November 30, 2024.

For further information, visit the 2025-26 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Quote
“It is heartening to see that hunting and trapping remain near and dear to the hearts of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Along with the essential contribution hunting and trapping make to food self-sufficiency and wildlife management, these traditional outdoor pursuits have a tremendous impact on our mental and physical well-being. The continued cultural importance of these activities reminds us of who we are, and the value we place on our shared natural resources.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

-30-

Learn more
2025-26 Hunting and Trapping Guide

Wildlife Information Management System

Follow us on X @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

Like FFA on Facebook

The post Applications Open for Big Game Licence Draw appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced $25,000 in funding to PerSIStence Theatre Company’s Raise Her Up campaign, to support the completion of a life-size bronze statue of Armine Gosling, a pioneer in social reform and feminism, who led the fight for women in Newfoundland and Labrador to achieve the right to vote.

This funding is being provided in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of women achieving the right to vote and hold public office in Newfoundland and Labrador on April 3, 2025.

The Gosling statue will be the second of a historical woman to be erected in the City of St. John’s. The first was Demasduit, a Beothuk woman (and her husband Nonosabasut, and infant son), unveiled at Confederation Building in October 2024. The unveiling of the Gosling statue, designed by Newfoundland and Labrador artist Sheila Coultas, is scheduled for June 2025 at Bannerman Park.

In 2023, the Provincial Government helped kickstart the Raise Her Up campaign with a contribution of $40,000 from the Office of Women and Gender Equality.

Quote
“Armine Gosling was a trailblazer, whose unwavering determination helped secure the right to vote for women in Newfoundland and Labrador. This statue is a testament to her courage, resilience, and the progress the Women’s Franchise League fought for, reminding us that democracy is strongest when all voices are heard.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“We greatly appreciate the ongoing support of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador towards raising a bronze statue of women’s suffrage leader Armine Gosling. This financial support represents a tangible and ongoing commitment to making our public history more inclusive and, on the 100th anniversary of the vote, it recognizes the importance of this transformative social movement that continues to lead our province forward.”
Dr. Margot Duley
Chair of the Armine Gosling Statue Committee, PerSIStence Theatre Company

-30-

Learn more
Office of Women and Gender Equality

Provincial Government Provides Funding Support to Raise First Statue of A Historical
Woman in St. John’s

Raise Her Up – The Gosling Statue

Follow us on X @GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Supports Project Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Women Achieving the Right to Vote appeared first on News Releases.

In March 2024, the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate invited young people and families who have direct experience with the mental health system here in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as professionals and other stakeholders, to reach out to the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate to share their experiences and ideas.

To date, the Office has heard from many stakeholders and interested parties reaching out by phone, email, in-person and through the online form. Staff have also travelled throughout the province to hold meetings with individuals and groups. The interest and participation, thus far, has been exceptional and the discussions very meaningful. We hope to continue to hear from others in the coming weeks, as our information gathering will conclude by the end of March 2025. All information will be analyzed, and a final report will be prepared once the analysis has been completed.

“I am grateful to all those who have contacted our office to share their experiences with mental health services for children and youth in our province. I want to especially acknowledge those with lived experience who shared their thoughts with us. I have been humbled by the significant interest in this review and the frank and open discussion it has generated. I encourage anyone who has not yet done so, to reach out to our office in any of the ways provided to share your experiences with us.” The Child and Youth Advocate (A), Karen Gray.

At this time, the Advocate (A) would like to remind the public of the many ways individuals can share their experiences with the office.

• Email: office@ocya.nl.ca
• Telephone: 709-753-3888/Toll Free: 1-877-753-3888
• Text: 709-682-OCYA (6292)
• Visit us In-Person: 20 Crosbie Place, St. John’s
• Online form: childandyouthadvocate.nl.ca/mental-health-services-to-children-and-youth-feedback-form/ (The online form is anonymous and completely confidential. It does not ask for any identifying information).

Please note these important dates:

• The online form will be available until Monday, March 31, 2025.
• The information gathering stage through all other means will also end on Monday, March 31, 2025.

The post Child and Youth Advocate Provides Update on the Review of Mental Health Services to Children and Youth appeared first on News Releases.

VENUE CHANGE

Media Advisory: Funding Announcement to Support PerSIStence Theatre Company’s ‘Raise Her Up’ Statue Campaign

Today’s event scheduled to take place at 2:30 p.m., at the Colonial Building, 90 Military Road, St. John’s, has now been moved to the Media Centre, Confederation Building.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will be joined by Dr. Margot Duley, chair of the Armine Gosling Statue Committee with PerSIStence Theatre Company, for a funding announcement.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Funding Announcement to Support PerSIStence Theatre Company’s ‘Raise Her Up’ Statue Campaign appeared first on News Releases.

The Auditor General today released her annual report, confirming that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador received an unqualified (clean) audit opinion on the 2023-24 Public Accounts which are the audited financial statements of the province for the fiscal year that ended March 31, 2024.

In her report, the Auditor General provides a comprehensive review of areas for improvement within the Provincial Government and its entities. These recommendations are welcomed and will now be reviewed in their entirety, with the aim of making changes that are necessary for the province’s financial health.

The Provincial Government, through the Office of Comptroller General, maintains a working relationship with the Office of the Auditor General throughout the year and has modernized financial management practices based on advice given. This includes improvements to the reporting and classification of tangible capital assets and inventory management, more timely accounts payable and bank reconciliations, a review of outstanding accounts receivable to identify accounts for write-off, and reinforcement of government’s fraud management policy with related entities.

Over the past few years, the Provincial Government has substantially increased funding to the Office of the Auditor General and strengthened its legislation to provide greater oversight.

Quote
“We appreciate the recommendations of the Auditor General and her team as we deliver upon our plan for financial improvement. We are all working together on a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, sustainable province.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier
Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board

-30-

Learn more
All Reports – Office of the Auditor General

Provincial Government Releases 2023-24 Public Accounts

The post Auditor General Confirms Clean Audit Opinion on Public Accounts appeared first on News Releases.

The Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered her report on the province’s 2024 Financial Statement Audits to the House of Assembly, in accordance with the requirements of the Auditor General Act, 2021.

The report provides her audit opinion of the Consolidated Summary Financial Statements, and outlines observations and opportunities for improvement across the public sector, that were identified and communicated to government and its entities in 2024.

“As a legislative audit office, my team often identify opportunities for government to improve in areas such as accounting practices, governance, internal controls, or compliance with policies, legislation, and regulations,” commented Auditor General Hanrahan. “This report also includes my observations on the financial health of the province, select health sector retention and recruitment bonuses, salary overpayments and fraud reporting.”

2024 marked the province’s 30th unqualified audit opinion on its financial statements, meaning the province’s Consolidated Summary Financial Statements were presented fairly, in all material respects. The full report can be found by visiting the link below.

“This year’s report highlights 95 points, of which approximately 30 per cent remain unresolved from prior years, which concerns me. I encourage government to take the necessary steps to remedy the issues I have outlined and ensure the best resolutions are found in a timely manner” added Auditor General Hanrahan.

-30-

Learn more
www.ag.gov.nl.ca/reports/all-reports

Follow us on BlueSky: @OAGnl.bsky.social

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on LinkedIn

Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

The post Auditor General Delivers Report on the Province’s 2024 Financial Statement Audits appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-007 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/reports/.

Report: A-2025-007 Report Date: February 25, 2025 Public Body: Memorial University Summary: The Complainant made an access request to Memorial University for records related to the proposed joint development of the University of Prince Edward Island Faculty of Medicine. Memorial provided a large number of records, with redactions based on sections 29 (policy advice or recommendations), 30 (legal advice), 31 (disclosure harmful to law enforcement), 32 (confidential evaluations), 35 (harm to the financial and economic interests of a public body), 38 (disclosure harmful to labour relations), 39 (disclosure harmful to third party business interests), and 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy) of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. The Commissioner found that the exceptions had been properly applied and that it had not been clearly demonstrated, pursuant to section 9 of the Act, that the public interest in disclosure outweighed the reasons for the exceptions. The Commissioner recommended Memorial continue to withhold the redacted information.

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2025-007 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-006 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/reports/.

Report: A-2025-006 Report Date: February 25, 2025 Public Body: Department of Education Summary: The Complainant made two access to information requests to the Department of Education. The first access request sought records related to the resignation of the former Chair of Memorial’s Board of Regents, as well as the appointment of their successor. The second request sought records of consultations by the Department of Education with any other public body in processing the first access request. The Department provided some records for both access requests but withheld most of the records as cabinet confidences (section 27). The Complainant disagreed and filed a complaint with this Office for both access requests. The Complainant also alleged the Department failed in its duty to assist as required by section 13. After review of submissions from both parties and considering the burden of proof borne by the Department, the Commissioner agreed with the application of section 27 to the records. The Commissioner also found the Department met its duty to assist.

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2025-006 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will make a funding announcement tomorrow (Thursday, February 27.)

The event will take place at 2:30 p.m. in the Colonial Building’s Legislative Chamber, 90 Military Road, St. John’s.

Minister Parsons will be joined by Dr. Margot Duley, chair of the PerSIStence Theatre Company’s Armine Gosling Statue Committee.

Those attending must enter the building via the Bannerman Street entrance.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Funding Announcement to Support PerSIStence Theatre Company’s ‘Raise Her Up’ Statue Campaign appeared first on News Releases.

Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, will deliver a report on the province’s 2024 Financial Statements to the House of Assembly tomorrow (Thursday, February 27).

Embargoed access to the report will be provided to the media on Thursday, (February 27), beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the Office of the Auditor General’s boardroom, 43 Major’s Path, St. John’s.

Media representatives planning to participate are asked to RSVP to Chrysta Collins (chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca).

The Auditor General will be available to the media beginning at 9:30 a.m.

-30-

Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Auditor General to Deliver Report on the Province’s 2024 Financial Statements appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, are recognizing Pink Shirt Day activities in schools and communities throughout the province.

Each year, Pink Shirt Day recognizes and reinforces the importance of reducing bullying, embracing kindness and encouraging belonging, while respecting and celebrating diversity in all corners of Newfoundland and Labrador. Schools, workplaces and communities are encouraged to take action to be safe, supportive, welcoming and inclusive of all people and free from bullying and intimidation.

The Department of Education is committed to building an educational community in Newfoundland and Labrador that fosters safe, caring, and healthy learning environments for all students and staff in the K-12 public education system.

In January, the Provincial Government announced it is providing $11,000 for the Safe, Caring and Inclusive School Special Initiatives Grants, shared among 11 public schools selected this year. The grants support specific initiatives in schools that are student focused. Schools are recognized for their efforts in achieving safe, caring, and inclusive learning environments, promoting positive school climates, and sustaining safe and inclusive communities that celebrate equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility.

Quotes
“Pink Shirt Day provides us with an opportunity to emphasize the importance of kindness, respect and inclusion, as bullying is not acceptable and cannot be tolerated anywhere including our schools or workplaces. Together, let’s celebrate our diverse communities across Newfoundland and Labrador and treat everyone with compassion and equality.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“I am always thankful for the dedication of school communities to look out for each other and express kindness to one another. Schools strive to provide safe, inclusive, and caring environments for students and promote positive learning spaces for them. A small act of kindness can go a long way in demonstrating that you value and respect them. I urge everyone to wear pink and show kindness today and every day.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

-30-

Le premier ministre Furey et la ministre Howell soulignent la Journée du chandail rose à Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador

Learn more
Minister Howell Announces Recipients of Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Special Initiatives Grants

La ministre Howell annonce les bénéficiaires des bourses pour les initiatives spéciales favorisant les écoles sécuritaires, accueillantes et inclusives

Follow us on X @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL 

Like us on Facebook

 

The post Premier Furey and Minister Howell Recognize Pink Shirt Day in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced an investment of $52,500 in MetaCrust Services Ltd. for a proof-of-concept product to deliver secure health data transmission to remote patient monitoring devices.

MetaCrust launched in 2022 as a student-led startup from Memorial University, and has received support from Genesis. Founder and doctorial student Sidra Anwar was investigating privacy and security issues in medical devices when she realized the commercial value of her research.

The company is developing a secure data transmission channel for wearable health-monitoring devices such as the Masimo W1 Medical Watch and the Onera Sleep Test System. It ensures streamlined, uninterrupted and resource-efficient data flow from the user’s home to telehealth companies.

The Provincial Government’s contribution to this project will support the development of capital equipment including testing devices, computers, specialized machinery for prototyping and other technology-related hardware. MetaCrust is investing a further $75,100 in the project.

The Business Growth Program provides non-repayable contributions for projects or initiatives to assist businesses start, innovate, scale and improve sales locally, nationally or internationally. This investment aligns with Newfoundland and Labrador’s vision for a thriving health technology sector. The Provincial Government recognizes the potential of this sector to address local health challenges while also contributing to global health solutions.

In addition to this investment from the Provincial Government, MetaCrust is receiving advisory services and up to $260,000 in research and development funding from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP).

Quotes
“Following the pandemic, we have seen a worldwide shift to remote healthcare which has created a vast and expanding market for wearable devices and remote patient monitoring. Strengthening and supporting remote healthcare capabilities can also help to alleviate some of the province’s current health care challenges. MetaCrust’s expertise in microcontroller-based systems aligns strongly with the technical demands of wearable devices. MetaCrust has the potential to establish itself as a leader in secure, energy-efficient solutions for healthcare devices.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Our commitment is to provide quality care to the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. That includes improving health data transmission to improve home health care throughout the province. We are committed to investments that focus on the social determinants of health and improving the well-being of our people.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We are grateful for the provincial government’s support, which empowers MetaCrust to develop secure, energy-efficient health data transmission solutions for low-powered remote patient monitoring devices. This investment enables us to address critical healthcare challenges locally while expanding globally. Together, we are advancing innovation in healthcare technology.”
Sidra Anwar
MetaCrust Co-Founder and CEO

-30-

Learn more
Business Growth Program

MetaCrust

Follow us on X @IET_GovNL

Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Announces Support for MetaCrust appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will participate in the 2025 East Coast Music Awards press conference tomorrow, Wednesday, February 26.

The event will take place at 11:00 a.m. at The Rock House, 8 George Street, St. John’s.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Participate in East Coast Music Awards Press Conference  appeared first on News Releases.

Due to anticipated adverse weather conditions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has rescheduled the open house for high school students at all 19 Employment Centres to Thursday, February 27, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Students will have the opportunity to explore the services available to support their career goals, including:

• Summer job opportunities
• Youth entrepreneurship support
• Resume writing assistance
• Interview preparation
• Career planning and development
• Information on skilled trades and apprenticeships

The event will feature a guided tour, interactive activities, a presentation on available services and complimentary food and drink.

High school students are encouraged to attend and learn how the Employment Centres can help them plan for their future. Youth are always welcome to visit their local Employment Centre anytime for guidance and resources.

To find an employment centre near you contact 1-800-563-6600 or view this listing.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Open House at Provincial Employment Centres for High School Students Moved to Thursday Due to Forecasted Weather appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be available to the media this afternoon (Tuesday, February 25) at 2:00 p.m. The media availability will take place in the lobby of the East Block, Confederation Building.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey Available to the Media appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador invites high school students to an open house at all 19 Employment Centres on Wednesday, February 26, from 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Students will have the opportunity to explore the services available to support their career goals, including:

• Summer job opportunities
• Youth entrepreneurship support
• Resume writing assistance
• Interview preparation
• Career planning and development
• Information on skilled trades and apprenticeships

The event will feature a guided tour, interactive activities, a presentation on available services and complimentary food and drink.

High school students are encouraged to attend and learn how the Employment Centres can help them plan for their future. Youth are always welcome to visit their local Employment Centre anytime for guidance and resources.

To find an employment centre near you contact 1-800-563-6600 or view this listing.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Open House at Provincial Employment Centres for High School Students appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government, led by the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, has taken decisive action to assemble leaders of industry, community and labour to develop strategies for securing new trading partners that reduce reliance on the U.S. market for Newfoundland and Labrador businesses.

This collaborative approach aims to leverage the expertise and insights of various sectors to build a robust and diversified Team NL trade network.

As part of the Provincial Government’s action to identify new export markets for Newfoundland and Labrador products, it will be leading a series of market development and expansion initiatives in the coming weeks.

The market development and expansion initiatives are designed to support new global markets, adaptation and expansion, supply chain resilience and business development activities for Newfoundland and Labrador’s exporters across a number of sectors.

This is part of the broader work of the Buy From Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada campaign, which Premier Furey launched earlier this month. A diverse multimedia awareness campaign designed to support industries, workers and those working in the support and service sectors, the campaign aims to help businesses highlight their products and services and help consumers to easily identify Newfoundland and Labrador and Canadian products.

Upcoming market development and expansion initiatives include:

• Premier Furey will be in Toronto for the next meeting of the Committee on Internal Trade hosted by the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade. They will discuss transformative actions to eliminate regulatory barriers to internal trade, encourage free movement of labour and further standardize regulations across Canada.
• Premier Furey will lead a delegation at the Prospectors and Developments Association of Canada conference in Toronto. This event is the world’s premier mineral and exploration convention and brings together 27,000 attendees from over 135 countries and 1,100 exhibitors for its educational programming, networking events, and business opportunities.
• The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will travel to the United Kingdom to meet with senior government officials and business leaders to advance the Newfoundland and Labrador business and investment trade relationship.
• The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will travel to Boston to attend the largest seafood trade show in North America and meet with key customers of Newfoundland and Labrador seafood exports.
• Premier Furey will travel to Japan with a focus on enhancing government-to-government relations, building on and promoting new opportunities in the energy and critical minerals sectors, and working to expand fisheries opportunities in the Asian market, hand in hand with NL producers and harvesters.

These actions reflect the Provincial Government’s commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and Canadians, who are negatively impacted by the United States’ decision to invoke protectionist trade policies. Presently, the United States is Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest trading partner. In 2023, approximately $4.5 billion of goods was exported to the United States, which represented 37 per cent of the province’s total exports. United States tariffs could put roughly 10,000-20,000 jobs in the province at risk.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador has products the world needs. We are actively engaged in a Buy From Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada campaign, which includes market development initiatives. The time for action is now given the increasingly unpredictable nature of the United States. With our Team NL and Team Canada approach, we have an opportunity in front of us to embrace new potential and reach that can help shape a future where industries thrive, and every Newfoundlander and Labradorian benefits from a connected, growing economy.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The United Kingdom is one of our oldest trading partners. We’ve recently strengthened our relationship with the launch of our European borrowing program at the London Stock Exchange. This trade mission allows us to further our connections as we look to do more business with like-minded communities, governments and investors. We need to be thinking globally in our approach to open markets and opportunities, to forge new relationships and strengthen existing ones abroad, and to better support our interests and businesses here at home.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

“We are taking swift action to diversify markets across our fisheries, forestry, and agriculture sectors. The Provincial Government is investing nearly $6 million in market diversification initiatives and trade missions to Europe and Asia for the fisheries sector and we are dedicated to growing and maintaining strong markets for our forestry and agriculture products. We’ve seen unparalleled unity and resolve at recent industry roundtables and I’m confident that together we will secure a more prosperous and sustainable future for our world-class renewable resources.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

The post Buy From Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada Campaign Targets New Export Markets appeared first on News Releases.

The Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada are providing combined funding of more than $44 million to help build over 280 new homes in Newfoundland and Labrador. These homes are part of a broader federal initiative, adding to the 965 new homes already announced in Newfoundland and Labrador since 2021.

The announcement was made by Ken McDonald, Member of Parliament for Avalon, alongside the Honourable Pam Parsons, provincial Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality and Member of the House of Assembly for Harbour Grace-Port de Grave. Minister Parsons made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The announcement took place at 17-23 Dawe’s Avenue in Clarke’s Beach which received nearly $300,000 from the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) to build six affordable rental units. The project will be operated by LID Homes and incorporates accessibility and universal design features in a rural setting near local trails and parks.

The AHF provides funding through low-interest and/or forgivable loans or contributions to partner organizations for new affordable housing and the renovation and repair of existing, affordable and community housing. This is a $14.6 billion program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) that gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults.

The 26 projects receiving funding through the federal AHF are also proponents of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s $80 million Affordable Rental Housing Program (ARHP), first announced in November 2023. These projects account for $17.9 million of the total ARHP funding, which supports private and community sector construction projects with a one-time forgivable loan. Successful proponents will own and manage their projects and rent to lower income households at or below rates established by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, based on annual market reports published by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Overall the ARHP is expected to result in the construction of more than 800 affordable rental homes throughout the province.

A detailed list of all the projects that received funding through the federal Affordable Housing Fund is provided in a backgrounder to this release.

Quotes
“We are pleased that the Government of Canada has made additional funding available to many of the projects our government is supporting through the provincial Affordable Rental Housing Program. Well-being starts at home, and by working together we can drastically expand affordable rental availability for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
Member of the House of Assembly for Harbour Grace-Port de Grave

“Everyone deserves a place to call their own, and the Affordable Housing Fund is one way we’re helping make that a reality for Canadians. We will keep investing in housing projects like the ones announced today in Bay Roberts, and working with partners across the country, to end the housing crisis.”
Honourable Nathanial Erskine-Smith
Federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

“The Government of Canada is committed to working with communities to meet the challenge of building more housing across Newfoundland and Labrador. Through Affordable Housing Fund, our government is increasing the supply of new housing by investing more than $25 million in the construction of 286 units, benefiting those who need it most.”
Ken McDonald
Member of Parliament for Avalon

-30-

Learn more
Provincial Government Announces Results of RFP for Affordable Rental Housing Program

Government of Canada – Housing

Government of Canada – Housing and Infrastructure Project Map

BACKGROUNDER

Projects Receiving Federal Funding Through the Affordable Housing Fund

Project Name  Town Funding  New Construction or Repairs Units  AYC Apartments Springdale $235,221 New Construction 5 Hoskins Terrace Baie Verte $574,056 New Construction 10 Klondyke Affordable Living

  Bay Roberts $855,233 New Construction 10 Wight’s Road Project Deer Lake $954,940 New Construction 8 IDAM – SAWDUST ROAD

  Bay Roberts $1,425,460 New Construction 14 Klondyke Court Bay Roberts $2,030,331 New Construction 20 NLHC Affordable Housing Caledonia Road, Botwood, NL

  Botwood $627,205 New Construction 10 St. Lawrence Affordable Housing Complex

  St Lawrence $406,235 New Construction 8 Morey’s Apartments Port Anson $352,355 New Construction 5 ARHP NL Clarke’s Beach $287,689 New Construction 6 Christopher Street Project

  Paradise $1,959,125 New Construction 12 Ashlen Crescent and St. Thomas Line

  Paradise $1,059,040 New Construction 6 Grandview Ave and Paradise Road

  Paradise $1,022,543 New Construction 6 Seniors Apartment Rentals Twilingate Twillingate $718,000 New Construction 10 My Project – 92971 NL Corp Fortune $633,286 New Construction 10 Affordable Rental Housing-Glovertown Glovertown $548,675 New Construction 10 Airport Avenue Deer Lake $397,165 New Construction 6 Rose’s Cottages Burin $696,383 New Construction 10 85862 NL Corp – Pouch Cove Development Pouch Cove $4,054,696 New Construction 36 Affordable Rental Housing Program – EJB Contracting Ltd. Robert’s Arm $845,000 New Construction 10 NL Affordable Housing Program (85577 NL Inc.) Botwood $1,113,141 New Construction 16 Affordable Housing 2023-2024 (Robert’s Arm Interfaith Senior Citizens Home Inc) Robert’s Arm $753,000 New Construction 12 34 Spruce Avenue, Glenwood, NL A0G 2K0 (“The Morgan on Spruce”) Glenwood $2,843,686 New Construction 20 132 Main Street, Burin Burin $828,592 New Construction 10 North River North River $832,943 New Construction 10 Rockview Estates North River $371,174 New Construction 6 Total:   $26,425,174.00 286

 

The post Governments Investing in New Homes in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.