Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make a significant announcement related to the tourism and hospitality industry tomorrow, November 18.

The event will take place at Sláinte, 115 Duckworth Street, St. John’s, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, and key stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality industry.

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The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council has concluded two days of meetings (November 13 and 14) in Stephenville. 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, that impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Discussions took place on current reconciliation initiatives throughout the province, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, and the issue of violence against Indigenous women and girls. The meetings also included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies.

One of the highlights of the two days was a visit to Ne’ata’q Place, a new shelter in Stephenville, opened by the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network, which will provide a safe and supportive environment for Indigenous women and children affected by family violence.

The formation of the Reconciliation Council was a recommendation of the Hear Our Voices: MMIWG Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador report.

This action is a further commitment from the Provincial Government to continue to work collaboratively and in partnership with Indigenous Governments and Organizations to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

The Reconciliation Council is composed of 11 members, including five Provincial Government representatives (from Executive Council, Children, Seniors and Social Development, Health and Community Service, and Justice and Public Safety), 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.

Quotes
“The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council brings together voices that have endured, wisdom that has persisted, and resilience that empowers. By honouring our Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals’ experiences and perspectives, we are making positive strides to prevent violence in our communities, while creating a path forward toward justice, healing, and reconciliation.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“The collaborative efforts of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council deserve recognition. It highlights the critical importance of addressing gender-based violence as a fundamental issue for societal progress and equality.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“As we continue our work on reconciliation, we are trying to create a future where violence in any form has no place. As we stand together, we are committed to end gender-based violence and work towards a world where respect and equality are rights of all people.”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council

“I am happy there is more emphasis being put on intimate partner violence, but I am sad that we have to deal with such tough issues. I hope the work we are doing will make a difference in the lives of women and children.”
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 Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, has announced $50,000 in funding for Them Days, a non-profit organization that documents and preserves the history of Labrador. The funding will assist in operations and special events around the organization’s 50th anniversary.

Them Days publishes a quarterly magazine and houses an archive that contains diaries, letters, reports, recording, photographs, slides, maps and a reference library. They provide an important service to the people of Labrador.

This funding is part of the Provincial Government’s commitment to investments that support the preservation of our culture and heritage.

Quotes
“Them Days has been the keeper of Labrador cultural stories, traditions and history for almost 50 years. This funding is vital to preserving and documenting our old ways and early days. The Provincial Government remains committed to elevating work that supports the preservation of the cultures and history of our province.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs

“For the past half century, Them Days has collected, stored and disseminated the folklore of all of Labrador’s populations. With today’s generous contribution, Minister Dempster has helped secure the future of Them Days and ensured the ongoing preservation of Labrador’s rich history and culture. On behalf of the Board of Directors I want to thank Minister Dempster for her commitment to Them Days and to the invaluable work that it does.”
Edward Blake-Rudkowski
Chair, Board of Directors, Them Days

“As Them Days prepares for their 50th anniversary of recording and celebrating our collective history, it is particularly exciting to be part of this special project. Documenting the past has helped us understand where we are going and to be proud of all that has been accomplished.”
Perry Trimper
Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and MHA for Lake Melville

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, welcomes residents to get into the festive spirit with the sights, sounds, tastes, and traditions of an 1830s Christmas at Commissariat House.

On November 16 and 17, residents are welcomed to enjoy two days of Festive Family Fun, including traditional seasonal greenery, music, a taste of Christmas pudding and hot chocolate along with arts and crafts.

Following this, on November 22 and 23, residents are welcomed to take part in Christmas by Candlelight, where folks of all ages can enjoy some hot chocolate by the fire and wander through Commissariat House by the glow of candlelight.

The Commissariat, located at 11 King’s Bridge Road in St. John’s, was built between 1818 and 1820 as the home and office of the Assistant Commissary General, the supply officer for British forces in Newfoundland. Today, visitors can tour the Commissariat for a glimpse of life in St. John’s during the 1830s.

While these events are free of charge, it is kindly asked that attendees bring a non-perishable food item to support the Community Food Sharing Association.

Quotes
“As Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation I am pleased to invite one and all to this lovely event at one of our Provincial Historic Sites. Christmas at Commissariat is popular annual tradition that can be enjoyed by the whole family. We hope to see you there!”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Vision 2026

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will deliver remarks at the Fish, Food, and Allied Workers (FFAW) Triannual Convention on Monday, November 18, beginning at 11:15 a.m. The convention is being held at the Quality Hotel, 100 Trans-Canada Highway, Gander.

Minister Byrne will address issues of corporate concentration, pathways for increasing processing capacity, and the union’s request to return to the collective bargaining process with a right to strike or lock-out.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Government of Canada and the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay today announced the official opening of 16 new affordable homes in the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. These homes, built through a federal investment of $5 million through the third phase of the Rapid Housing Initiative, are owned and operated as part of NL Housing’s rental housing portfolio, welcoming tenants in November and December 2024.

The announcement was made by Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, alongside the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and His Worship George Andrews, Mayor of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

The 16 homes are located in four fourplex-style buildings on Brett Street and Lethbridge Street. Four of the homes are two-bedroom units while the other 12 are one-bedroom units, the areas of greatest demand.

Two of the ground level-units are fully wheelchair accessible, while the other six ground level units are visitable, with wider doors and no step entry. All 16 homes were built with universal design features, including widened exterior and interior doors and hallways and lever-type door handles and faucets. Energy efficiency is also a key element in the design and construction of the buildings.

Tenants will come from NL Housing’s existing prioritized waitlist, and rents will be geared-to-income at 25 per cent of the household’s net income. Tenants will also receive a heating subsidy.

Quotes
“We are pleased to officially open these new homes in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, which will support 16 individuals or families in need of affordable housing. Our government remains an open and willing partner with both the Federal Government and municipal governments looking to expand affordable housing throughout our province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Housing
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

“Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. This investment, through the Rapid Housing Initiative, will provide stability and safety to those who need it the most. I’m proud that this major investment will help meet affordable housing needs here in Newfoundland and Labrador for decades to come. This is our government’s National Housing Strategy at work.”
Yvonne Jones
Member of Parliament for Labrador

“Everyone deserves a safe place to call home to live, raise a family, and build a future – including here in Lake Melville. This Rapid Housing Initiative, in combination with the National Strategy, will provide funding to help build new affordable homes – quickly. The attention on accessibility and inclusivity within the universal design of these 16 units will help towards ensuring no one gets left behind.”
Perry Trimper
Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier
Member of House of Legislative Assembly for Lake Melville

“With such a demand for affordable housing in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, it is great to see the completion of these 16 homes. This is a major investment in our community and provides a safe and stable place for individuals and families to grow and succeed. The 13th Council is thankful to have partnered with all parties involved and looks forward to continuing to work together on future initiatives.”
His Worship George Andrews
Mayor of Happy Valley Goose Bay

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Quick Facts

• The National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10+ year, $115+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives is updated quarterly at www.placetocallhome.ca. The Housing Funding Initiatives Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed.
  • As of September 2024, the federal government has committed $57.57 billion to support the creation of over 156,000 units and the repair of over 297,000 units. These measures prioritize those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence.
• The Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) is delivered through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) under the NHS. It provides funding to facilitate the rapid construction of new housing and the acquisition of existing buildings for the purpose of rehabilitation or conversion to permanent affordable housing units. With its third phase, launched in 2022, the Rapid Housing Initiative once again exceeded targets. It is expected that with this phase over 5,200 new homes will be created, of which almost half will be for women and one third will be for Indigenous Peoples. The total number of units created with the support of Rapid Housing Initiative is expected to be over 16,000 units. The program is now closed.
• • The RHI takes a human rights-based approach to housing, serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and other vulnerable people, 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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As part of a continued effort to create an inclusive and accessible province, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, today announced a call for applications for the 2024-25 Accessible Taxi Grant.

The application process is now open for individuals, companies and agencies that can deliver accessible taxi services within Newfoundland and Labrador to apply for grants of up to $25,000. Successful applicants for this program make a positive impact on the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

This grant assists with costs of retrofitting a passenger vehicle to meet accessibility standards or assist with the purchase of a new vehicle, which can accommodate passengers with mobility devices, such as wheelchairs and scooters.

The Accessible Taxi Grant delivers on the Provincial Government’s continued commitment to help create a more accessible and inclusive province.

In 2023-24, the department awarded Accessible Taxi Grant funding in the amount of $25,000 each to Birch Hills Taxi in Bay Roberts and Lewisporte Taxi in Lewisporte.

To obtain a copy of the guidelines and application form, please visit the department’s website, email CSSDGrantPrograms@gov.nl.ca, call toll-free 1-888-729-6279 or text 709-725-4463. Video Relay Service calls are also welcome and applications are available in alternate formats. The deadline to apply is January 5, 2025.

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Quotes
“Accessible Taxi Grants are opening up opportunities throughout the province as we continue to work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible province. Accessible transportation plays a vital role in removing barriers for persons with disabilities to participate meaningfully in their communities. I encourage interested parties to visit our website and submit an application before the deadline.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

“Thanks to the Accessible Taxi Grant we have been able to expand our fleet to provide safe and reliable accessible transportation to include anyone experiencing mobility challenges. Birch Hills Taxi is proud to provide this essential service to the members of our community and surrounding area. ”
Andrew Bishop
Birch Hills Taxi

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Accessible Taxi Grant

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Following the conclusion of WestJet’s London-Gatwick flight for the 2024 season, the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is providing an update on the route, as well as the province’s efforts towards improving air access for non-resident visitors and intraprovincial travel.

Announced in November 2023, WestJet’s direct flight from St. John’s to London’s Gatwick Airport has been an incredible success. Preliminary estimates indicate that each flight operated at greater than 80 per cent capacity. Due to the success of the route, it is anticipated that no government support will be required in 2024.

Work to improve intraprovincial travel between the island and Labrador is a critical issue. The Provincial Government maintains more than 10,000 kilometres of paved road to connect all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and continues to subsidize provincial ferry services more than 90 per cent.

The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is focusing on intraprovincial air travel and continues to work with airport partners and local stakeholders to explore options for improvement. The Provincial Government is also engaged with other jurisdictional partners on how they deal with similar issues across Canada.

The Provincial Government continues our advocacy to the Federal Government regarding the burden of federal fees, charges and other taxes that place a strain on passengers, airlines and airports. By easing these financial pressures, we encourage greater competition, ultimately benefitting travellers with more affordable travel options.

In December 2022, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation launched Vision 2026, with air access as a top priority for tourism recovery.

Quotes
“The success of the London-Gatwick route, and all air travel, is incumbent on collaboration from all levels of government and stakeholders. Air access for non-residents and intraprovincial travel remain priorities for our government and we are making great strides toward improving access for residents and visitors. We appreciate our working relationship with WestJet and are pleased that the route’s inaugural year has been a tremendous success.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has signed agreements with the Government of Canada that will contribute to increased wages for home support workers, and improved access to and affordability of drugs for rare diseases.

Canadians deserve a health care system that provides timely access to quality health services and medications, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay. The Government of Canada recognizes that concerted and collaborative efforts by federal, provincial and territorial governments are needed to improve health care for Canadians, including through better supporting health workers and ensuring access to medications for all.

Today, the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, the Honourable Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health, and the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced over $47 million in federal investments as part of two bilateral agreements to support the health of people in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The first bilateral agreement supports drugs for rare diseases. The Government of Canada will provide $22 million to improve access to drugs for rare diseases, early diagnosis and screening, starting with the funding to support the province in providing access to two drugs under the National Strategy for Rare Diseases. These drugs, namely Poteligeo, for the treatment of mycosis fungoides or Sézary syndrome, and Oxlumo, for the treatment of hyperoxaluria type 1, will be made available to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.

In Canada, one in 12 people live with a rare disease. While there are thousands of rare diseases, unfortunately treatments are only available for a small percentage of these conditions. And, for most people suffering, the cost of these treatments puts them out of reach.

The names of other drugs on the common list will be published online on a drug-by-drug basis following the conclusion of the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance price negotiations for each drug. In addition, Newfoundland and Labrador is committing through this agreement to work with Canada and other provinces and territories on developing and implementing a plan for improving screening and diagnostics for rare diseases.

In addition, through an amendment to the Aging with Dignity Agreement, announced in May 2024, the Government of Canada will provide more than $25 million in new funding over the next five years that will contribute to the support of home support workers. Funding from this agreement will contribute to an increase in wages for 6,000 agency-based home support workers, who assist clients with daily living, providing personal, behavioural, and household support to help them maintain independence and age safely at home.

Newfoundland and Labrador is the first province or territory to announce increases to wages for these workers through the amendments.

The Government of Canada remains committed to working with provinces and territories to improve health care for all Canadians. This includes improving the recruitment and retention of home support workers, and access to affordable prescription medications. These efforts will strengthen our health care workforce and safeguard the quality of care for vulnerable populations, promoting a more resilient and equitable health care system for all Canadians.

Quotes
“Our government is improving access to health care for all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador in keeping with the recommendations from Health Accord NL. We are happy to work with the Government of Canada to make drugs for rare diseases more accessible to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and to recognize the vital services that home support workers provide.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“This agreement is an important step towards improving health care services across Newfoundland and Labrador and supporting individuals to maintain their independence and quality of life. Home support workers provide compassionate, dignified care and deserve fair compensation for their essential role in our communities. Additionally, this agreement to support drugs for rare diseases will improve access to medications, early diagnosis, and screening, so that people in Newfoundland and Labrador with rare diseases have the best health outcome possible.”
Honourable Mark Holland
Canada’s Minister of Health

“Our government committed to investing in health care services in our rural communities. Through these bilateral agreements, we are making expensive medications more accessible for people living with a rare disease. Supporting them means supporting the strength and resilience of our communities.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

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Provincial Government Signs $78 million Bilateral Agreement with Federal Government to Help Residents Age with Dignity

Health Accord NL

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The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, will make a funding announcement tomorrow (Friday, November 15) at 12:45 p.m. Labrador time.

The event will take place at 3 Courte Manche St, Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

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The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, the Honourable Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health, and the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, will make a health care announcement tomorrow (Friday, November 15), beginning at 9:15 a.m. They will be joined by Joanne Thompson, Member of Parliament for St. John’s East.

Members of the media are asked to meet at the main entrance of the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, St. John’s, at 9:00 a.m. to be escorted to the unit.

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Safety, today introduced proposed legislation for the management of law enforcement articles, uniforms, vehicle markings and vehicle equipment. The Law Enforcement Identity Management Act received second reading in the House of Assembly earlier today.

The Act is intended to increase public safety by restricting public access to law enforcement items and paraphernalia, thereby decreasing the likelihood of usage in unlawful activities.

The Act includes:

• Restrictions on the use, possession, sale and fabrication of law enforcement articles, uniforms, markings and vehicle equipment.
• Requirements for law enforcement agencies subject to the Act to have asset management and disposal policies.
• Enforcement procedures and penalties.

Consultations will occur in the comings months to inform regulations of the Act including the process to use enforcement items in dramatic works, as well as possible restrictions on the use of items from other law enforcement agencies (not just police).

This proposed legislation stems from a recommendation of the Mass Casualty Commission report that investigated the April 2020 mass shooting in Nova Scotia where the shooter impersonated an RCMP officer. This was the deadliest mass shooting in Canadian history. Newfoundland and Labrador will be the second province in Canada to introduce this legislation, after Nova Scotia.

Quote
“The 2020 mass shooting in Nova Scotia made clear the danger to the public when someone with unlawful intent impersonates a police officer. While it is already illegal to impersonate a police officer, we know more can be done to stop this behavior. The Law Enforcement Identity Management Act aims to keep law enforcement items out of the hands of people who would use these items to harass or harm others. This proposed legislation would give the RNC and RCMP additional tools to ensure individuals cannot use law enforcement items for the wrong reasons.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

Speaker, our government is bringing in a series of sweeping, positive changes to the administration of Crown lands that will quicken regular applications while supporting long-term possession of the land your home is built on – even when that possession doesn’t meet the previous legal tests that blocked this.

For the last five decades, ever since 1976 when government decided to abolish, to terminate, Adverse Possession of Crown lands, government after government has endorsed the 1976 decision and made it their own.

Speaker, we are not every other government.

The Primary Residence Property Title Program is a game changer. Any qualifying applicant who built, bought or inherited a house and land and is now living full-time in that home will be issued a quitclaim deed, forever eliminating the Crown’s right to that property. The applicant will show that they paid taxes to their municipality and establish reasonable proof of primary residence as of October 15, 2024 – and it is theirs.

Once approved, if the applicant is a senior in receipt of the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), they pay nothing for this deed except standard processing fees.

No applicant will pay full market value and, to support housing security, the deed will be based on a percentage of income starting at just five per cent of the normal price.

For 50 years, this legislature said don’t do this – take the land away and take these families to court with no other recourse.

Speaker, we are not listening to that advice.

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The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Speaker, I rise today in this honourable House to recognize November 10 to 16 as Nurse Practitioner Week.

Nurse practitioners are essential contributors within our health care system. Whether employed in emergency departments, program areas such as cardiology, long-term care, mental health and addictions, or in primary health care, nurse practitioners provide a high quality of care for patients in our province.

Our government recognizes the tremendous service of nurse practitioners who are critical to the operations of our family care teams. These teams are expanding access to primary care by connecting over 60,000 residents.

We are proud to support nurse practitioners with initiatives and incentives such as new collective agreement provisions; signing bonuses to work in family care teams; incentives for retired nurses to return to the workforce; and grants for nurse practitioner students.

During Nurse Practitioner Week, we reaffirm our commitment to expanding opportunities for nurse practitioners and building a stronger health care system that works for everyone.

Speaker, I ask all honourable members to join me in thanking nurse practitioners for all they do to support the health and well-being of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you, Speaker.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, will join Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, to unveil 16 new affordable homes in Happy Valley-Goose Bay tomorrow (Friday, November 15).

The event will take place at Hotel North Two, located at 382 Hamilton River Road, at 10 a.m. (AST).

Minister Abbott and MP Jones will be joined by His Worship George Andrews, Mayor of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville. The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, will also be in attendance.

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Following the successful launch of the Killick-1 satellite from the International Space Station in May of this year, engineering students at Memorial University are developing a second earth observation satellite with a mission to study the ocean as part of the Canadian Space Agency CUBICS program.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced in investment of $350,000 from the Research Innovation Fund to help get the project off the ground.

Spearheaded by C-CORE and Memorial University’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, MUNStar-1 will be a CubeSat that contains a GNSS Reflectometry payload. The satellite will collect GPS signals reflected from the earth’s surface as a passive radar to measure waves, winds, sea ice, oil spills and other ocean parameters from space.

In addition to providing valuable scientific data, construction of MUNStar-1 will educate aspiring young engineers in space systems and earth observation. The team includes a large group of undergraduate and graduate electrical, mechanical and mechatronics engineering students. The satellite will be deployed to a sun synchronous orbit or an orbit similar to the International Space Station.

This investment adds to a $350,000 grant from the Canadian Space Agency and $100,000 from C-CORE.

Quotes
“Through this project, engineering students at Memorial University will have a world-class opportunity as they get hands-on experience building a device that is literally bound for outer space. MUNStar-1 will take Newfoundland and Labrador’s long and storied connection to the ocean to new heights. This project will help train the next generation highly qualified professionals for our province’s growing tech sector and inspire a new generation to consider a career in technology.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“We’re committed to supporting the remarkable creativity and ambition of our country’s next generation of scientists and innovators. The MUNStar-1 project not only positions Memorial University as an innovative space research institution, but also gives students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in developing cutting-edge technology that will contribute to the advancement of Earth observation science.”
Honourable François-Philippe Champagne
Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“It is an honour to work on a project that serves the dual purpose of training young engineers in space systems and launching a satellite that enables adaptation to climate change impacts. This project will allow companies like C-CORE to hire young engineers from the province who already have the skills necessary to work on industry problems.”
Desmond Power
Vice-President, Remote Sensing, C-CORE

“Funding from the Province’s Research Innovation Fund is essential to advancing the research conducted at Memorial University. Our Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science has significant expertise in radar systems, and these additional funds will help build our research portfolio to world class levels. This will position us to effectively tackle climate change issues of importance to the province.”
Weimin Huang
Full Professor, Memorial University

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will be available to discuss proposed legislation regarding the Law Enforcement Identity Management Act today (Thursday, November 14).

The availability will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 1:00 p.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 12:30 p.m.

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is providing additional details on an upcoming program that will offer an option for people seeking to clarify and secure property and title of their primary residence.

The upcoming Primary Residence Property Title Program is a quick and affordable option for people who can prove possession and occupation of their primary residential property but do not meet the requirements of adverse possession (commonly known as squatters’ rights). People can apply for a quitclaim deed that eliminates the Crown’s claim to a property. The fee will be based on income. For example, seniors on the federal Guaranteed Income Supplement will pay nothing except for processing fees.

Information on a combined income banding and sliding scale based on net household income is included in the attached backgrounder.

Under the new program:

• Possession and Occupation refer to possession of an existing residential property where occupation started prior to October 15, 2024, and continues to present day.
• Primary Residence means a residential dwelling within a municipality or local service district that is maintained all year, where one lives for most of the year, and is considered their permanent address. “Primary residence” does not include seasonal residences/cottages, houseboats, boat houses, trailers or other habitable structures that are not intended for year-round residential use.

If an applicant can demonstrate possession prior to October 15, 2024, they can apply for a quitclaim deed. Upon approval, the applicant will:

• Pay a percentage of market value of the land, with the cost determined by a new fee structure that uses a combined income banding and sliding scale based on net household income. Applicants in receipt of the Government of Canada Guaranteed Income Supplement will pay nothing for the land.
• Pay a document preparation fee.
• Provide an acceptable land survey.

Maximum lot size to be considered will be 1,860 square metres, except in cases where the applicant can demonstrate a strong and satisfactory claim to a larger area. Once enacted, the program will remain in place for a period of five years to allow residents to come forward to secure their interest. More details will become available on the department’s website once applications can be made.

Quote
“We deeply understand that the challenges associated with clarifying title can be unexpected and expensive, and people should not have to worry about securing title to a family home at critical points in their lives. The Primary Residence Property Title Program is a uniquely innovative game changer. It will lower the cost of securing property and ensure people on modest incomes will pay less. The program will allow for adjustments that reflect fair market value of land and is designed to favour, rather than punish, applicants.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Learn more

Upcoming Legislation to Allow for Swift Provincial Government Dispossession of Crown Lands

Provincial Government Announcing Upcoming Legislation and New Measures to Transform Crown Lands Approvals, Access and Wait Times

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BACKGROUNDER

Combined Income Banding and Sliding Scale Based on Net Household Income

• Selected annual household income bands are:

1) $25,000 or less

2) $25,001-$100,000

3) $100,001 – $200,000

4) Greater than $200,000

• Within the second income band a sliding scale will be applied that would adjust the cost proportionate to the increase in household income. Household income would be determined through the provision of prior year income tax return(s) and based on line 23600 (Net Income). If applicant is not legally required to file taxes, the applicant will have to provide a sworn affidavit of net income.
• Approved applicants who can demonstrate current enrollment in the Government of Canada Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) Program will not be required to pay a percentage of the determined market value and will instead be subject to a consideration of $1 plus any administrative fees.
• Approved applicants who can demonstrate their annual net household income to be $25,000 or less will pay five per cent of the determined market value.
• The percentage paid by applicants whose annual net household incomes range between $25,001 and $100,000 would be adjusted with a 0.5 per cent increase being applied for every $1,000 income over $25,000.
• An applicant whose net household income is $100,000 would pay 42 per cent of market value.
• Applicants whose household income is between $100,001 and $200,000 would pay 75 per cent of market value and those with net household incomes of greater than $200,000 would pay 85 per cent.

The post Primary Residence Property Title Program to Provide Affordable Path to Ownership appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced it will proclaim into force the Health Professions Act for medical radiation technologists on May 1, 2025.

Medical radiation technologists include individuals who practice in one or more of the following disciplines:

• Radiological technology
• Radiation therapy
• Nuclear medicine technology
• Magnetic resonance technology

Proclaiming the Act into force will provide oversight of the profession by a regulatory body in the public interest and prevents unqualified individuals from practicing. Medical radiation technologists will be regulated by the Newfoundland and Labrador Council of Health Professionals. A separate college, the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Medical Radiation Technologists, will be established to provide professional expertise and guidance to the council.

The proclamation brings Newfoundland and Labrador in line with the majority of provinces which regulate medical radiation technologists.

There are almost 400 medical radiation technologists employed by NL Health Services and an additional 30 x-ray health professionals who serve in combined laboratory and x-ray roles in rural parts of the province.

To increase access to medical imaging and therapy, and radiation treatment, the Provincial Government has provided funding for innovative radiology technology in Central Zone and recently approved NL Health Services to hire additional medical radiation technologists and provided recruitment incentives including:

• Bursaries of up to $10,000 for two-year return in service commitments and signing bonuses of up to $16,000 (based on geographic location) for two-year return in service.
• Come Home Incentive for radiation therapists and medical radiation technologists working in MRI.
• Additional funding for students and a pensionable market adjustment for radiation therapists.

More information on opportunities for medical radiation technologists can be found at: https://workinhealthnl.ca/.

Quotes
“We respect and value the work of medical radiation technologists and recognize the value of their work in our province’s health care system. It’s one of the reasons why we have created incentives to recruit more medical radiation technologists to the province. The amendment was requested by the association and we are more than pleased to accommodate this request.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists Atlantic (CAMRT-ATL) want to thank the government of Newfoundland and Labrador for this announcement. Medical radiation technologists have been advocating for regulation of the profession for a long time and we are so excited that it is being recognized in this way. We also want to thank the volunteers of the previous provincial association for all the work that came before now.”
Jennifer Carey
Manager of Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists Atlantic

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Learn more
Provincial Government Provides Funding for Innovative Radiology Technology

WorkInHealthNL.ca

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The post Provincial Government Recognizes Medical Radiation Technologists as a Regulated Profession appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs:

Speaker, I stand today to congratulate two of the province’s municipal associations on successful annual fall events.

In October, the Professional Municipal Administrators had their Fall Training Forum in Corner Brook and last week, Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador held their Conference, Trade Show and Annual General Meeting, in my beautiful home district of Gander.

Each event allowed for municipal councillors, administrators, and partners, including departmental staff, to discuss the challenges municipalities face and the opportunities to help municipalities build vibrant, sustainable communities.

Our government will continue to ensure municipal leaders have the supports needed to help their communities and residents thrive.

I was pleased to participate in each event and to present municipal leaders with long service awards for service spanning 12 to 62 years.

I was honoured to meet many of these award recipients, including 92-year-old Mayor John Hamlyn, who has been serving as the mayor of Crow Head for an impressive 62 years.

Speaker, I ask my honourable colleagues to join me in congratulating the recipients of this year’s long service awards and recognizing Professional Municipal Administrators and Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador for their considerable efforts which made this year’s annual fall events a great success.

Thank you.

The post Highlighting Discussions at Recent Municipal Sessions   appeared first on News Releases.