Government of Newfoundland News

The Provincial Government has reached the next phase in the integration of ambulance services throughout the province as Medavie Health NL Inc. has been identified as the selected proponent to design, manage and operate a single, integrated road and air ambulance service in the province. Medavie Health NL Inc. will be partnering with PAL and Air Borealis to deliver the integrated fixed and rotary wing air ambulance service.

An integrated ambulance service was a foundational recommendation of Health Accord NL. The integration will lead to improvements in the health care system for medical staff and patients, such as ensuring shorter wait times, more training for staff, and better allocation of resources.

Contract negotiations are underway and NL Health Services anticipates negotiations to be finalized in the coming months.

As part of the new contract, Medavie Health NL Inc. will be required to:

• Provide clinical and operational management staff.
• Manage the dispatch of all emergency calls, routine medical transfers, and non-medical transfers throughout a single, integrated road and air ambulance system.
• Support existing operations through the period of establishing a fully contracted air ambulance service.
• Manage the road ambulance base infrastructure and determine the optimal positioning and deployment of road ambulances.
• Implement a 10-year plan to upskill and transition the paramedicine workforce to a minimum of primary care paramedic certification, allowing emergency medical responders to become a part of the public service, including non-medical transports.
• Work with the Provincial Government and NL Health Services to implement a long-term plan for developing a province-wide helicopter emergency medical service.

On June 1, NL Health Services became responsible for operating and managing all former ambulance services across Newfoundland and Labrador and close to 500 private sector ambulance staff. As part of the new agreement, air ambulance bases will be located in St. John’s, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Gander.

More details on this RFP and other open calls for bids issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Quotes
“We’re happy to reach this next stage of procurement. An integrated ambulance system will lead to a more efficient air and road ambulance service in our province. We look forward to seeing NL Health Services award this contract so that we will see improvements implemented over the coming months and years.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“NL Health Services is pleased to advance the next phase of the contract to design, manage and operate an integrated road and air ambulance service. The integration of provincial ambulance services provides an historic opportunity to transform the system and enhance services for people throughout the province. Thank you to our interim management team and our paramedic staff who continue to provide quality care every day in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Cassie Chisholm
Vice President – Transformation (Health Systems), NL Health Services

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, will make an announcement regarding health care infrastructure tomorrow (Friday, October 4).

The availability will take place at 12:00 noon on Humberview Drive in Deer Lake.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be available to media tomorrow (Friday, October 4) to discuss health care investments.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, and the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, and Agriculture and MHA for Corner Brook.

The availability will take place at Western Memorial Regional Hospital beginning at 10:00 a.m. Media are asked to meet in the main entrance of the hospital and will be escorted to the availability.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will attend the launch of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology (IMarEST) Atlantic Canada Branch tomorrow (Friday, October 4).

The event takes place at the Fisheries and Marine Institute, 155 Ridge Road, St. John’s, at 10:00 a.m.

IMarEST is a registered charity and the international professional body and learned society for all marine professionals. They are the largest marine organization of their kind and the first institute to bring together marine engineers, scientists and technologists into one international multi-disciplinary professional body. They promote the scientific development of marine engineering, science and technology, providing opportunities for the exchange of ideas and practices and upholding the status, standards and knowledge of marine professionals worldwide.

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will address the Professional Municipal Administrators (PMA) Fall Forum tomorrow (Friday, October 4) at 9:00 a.m. at the Greenwood Inn and Suites, 48 West Street, Corner Brook.

PMA is a professional organization of town and city managers, clerks, chief administrative officers, and department heads who are committed to preserving and advancing excellence in municipal administration in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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With continued interest in the Green Transition Fund, today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, announced $1.36 million to support green projects throughout the province.

Through the expression of interest process, six new projects have been approved for funding through the Fund. These include:

• Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority – $101,000
• Labrador Leasing Limited – $221,851
• Newfoundland Power Inc. – $101,532
• North Atlantic Refining Limited (NARL) logistics LP – $746,952
• Nunacor Development Corporation – $40,000
• Pennecon Hydraulic Systems Limited – $149,200

Information related to the projects can be found in the backgrounder below.

The Green Transition Fund aims to propel the development of the renewable energy sector and clean technologies in the province and position Newfoundland and Labrador as a leader in the global green transition. This fund supports the greening of commercial operations, research and development, manufacturing and extractive resource development, and other areas that help transition to a greener economy.

There has been significant interest shown for the Provincial Government’s Green Transition Fund with approximately $3.6 million in funding awarded. To date, throughout the province there have been 19 projects approved and seven are currently under assessment by the department. This funding has leveraged significant investment from the Federal Government and private sources.

Quotes
“Just over a year into this program, we are seeing incredible initiative and ingenuity from businesses and organizations in our province as part of the global green transition. Our province continues to be a leader in supporting a green economy. This fund represents the future and is contributing to long-term job creation and economic growth in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“It is clear, seeing the quality of projects that are being supported through the Green Transition Fund, that the program has already been a catalyst for green economic growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our province has the potential to become a clean energy leader on a global scale – and investments like these are helping to position us for success.”
Kieran Hanley
Chief Executive Officer, econext

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Learn more
Green Transition Fund Program

Significant Interest in Green Transition Fund Results in Project Approvals and Second Expression of Interest

Provincial Government Launches New Green Transition Fund

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BACKGROUNDER

Below are projects approved to receive funding from the Green Transition Fund.

Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority 
The Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority is receiving $101,000 to support the first step in its efforts to reduce emissions and provide a framework for improvements in the future. Execution of this project will support the Deer Lake Airport’s competitiveness with other airports who have initiated net-zero carbon emission upgrades and Deer Lake Airport will be in a stronger position of supporting travel to the region and bolstering economic development. Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices can significantly reduce utility bills, fuel costs, and overall operational expenses.

Labrador Leasing Limited
Labrador Leasing Limited is receiving $221,851 to implement oil recycling technology, which will reduce the environmental impact and operating costs with the implementation of a proven clean technology on seven vessels. This will reduce the company’s consumption, storage, transportation and disposal of hazardous lubricating, hydraulic gear, as well as thermal heating oils. This will directly reduce their carbon footprint (GHG emissions) while improving the efficiency, reliability and safety of vessel machinery.

Newfoundland Power Inc.
Newfoundland Power is receiving $101,532 to implement a pilot project involving adding a green alternative, synthetic oil, to their mineral based oil in electrical transformers. This project will provide data for the purpose of greening their operations. The adoption of an environmentally friendly and safe synthetic oil will be evaluated providing a range of potential benefits. Anticipated benefits include reduced environmental impacts, mitigated health risks, reduced costs and improved employee safety.

North Atlantic Refining Limited (NARL) logistics LP
North Atlantic Refining Limited (NARL) is receiving $746,952 in funding to facilitate the planning to establish a Green Energy Hub which will be an essential first step for NARL to become an active contributor to the province’s green economy. NARL intends to utilize their existing infrastructure to develop capacity for the export of low carbon intensity fuels including ammonia and other hydrogen derivatives, particularly methyl-cyclohexane.

Nunacor Development Corporation
Nunacor Development Corporation, the economic development arm of the NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC), is receiving $40,000 to better understand green technologies and how they could be incorporated for NCC communities. Nunacor’s Indigenous Power Transmission and Distribution Opportunities Assessment Project explores the potential of electricity transmission and distribution business development in NunatuKavut communities located in Southern Labrador. Nunacor’s long-term vision includes maximizing renewable energy penetration opportunities for communities that currently depend on isolated diesel powerplants for electricity. Focus on green technology developments will help increase the corporation’s energy sovereignty and security by acquiring the capacity and knowledge to develop their own clean energy generation portfolio as an Inuit-owned independent power producer.

Pennecon Hydraulic Systems Limited
Pennecon Hydraulic Systems Limited is receiving $149,200 to advance green innovation and commercial development related to the aquaculture industry. The proposed project will result in a significant positive impact on the aquaculture sector. This funding will go towards the evaluation of the operational and economic feasibility of both a fully electric and hybrid propulsion technologies and provides the opportunity to eliminate the use of diesel-powered Aquaculture barges in Atlantic Canada and elsewhere with the goal of reducing Green House Gas emissions in the sector.

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A contract valued at $5.7 million has been awarded to Trident Construction Limited for the temporary bridge project in Marystown, with work anticipated to start in the coming weeks.

A temporary, pre-fabricated, panel bridge, also known as a bailey bridge, will be installed to provide direct access for local traffic, as well as maintaining emergency vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The bridge will accommodate a single lane of traffic, with temporary traffic signals at either end to control traffic movement. A sidewalk will also be installed to accommodate pedestrian traffic.

The current bridge, which is being used for emergency vehicles and foot traffic, will remain open while the temporary bridge is under construction.

In February 2024, the Provincial Government announced that a temporary bridge would be installed in Marystown, while work continues on the replacement of the Marystown Harbour Bridge, known locally as Canning Bridge.

The work on the permanent replacement of the Canning Bridge will continue in tandem with the preparations for the temporary bridge.

Information on tenders issued and awarded by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Quote
“The awarding of this contract represents important progress on this project. Residents in the Town of Marystown, as well as neighbouring communities, will once again have that important connectivity via a temporary structure, while the permanent structure is being replaced.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Rural Economic Development

“I am very pleased that both the municipal and provincial levels of government could work cooperatively to make this project a reality. This temporary bridge will have a very meaningful impact for residents of the area from various perspectives.”
His Worship Brian Keating
Mayor of Marystown

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The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-043 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-2024-043 Report Date: October 1, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made a request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Justice and Public Safety seeking a spreadsheet containing specific details on deaths that occurred between 2000 and 2024 in the Department, Police Custody, and Correctional Services institutions across the province and examined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The Department located a responsive record, but determined that much of the spreadsheet information fell under a mandatory exception to access at section 40 – disclosure harmful to personal privacy. It therefore provided the record disclosing some of the requested information while redacting the rest. The Complainant asked the Commissioner to review the redactions. The Commissioner found the Department was for the most part correct in applying redactions to the record, however, recommended it release some additional information as well.

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

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The Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs is conducting a series of training sessions beginning today (October 2) on the new Towns and Local Service Districts Act, which comes into force on January 1, 2025.

The Towns and Local Service Districts Act is modern and enabling legislation that reflects the current and evolving nature of towns and local service districts; and will help communities better meet the needs and expectations of residents.

Municipal councillors and officials, as well as local service district committee members can avail of in-person and virtual training sessions to:

• Increase awareness of the substantive changes from the current Municipalities Act, 1999.
• Learn about new and continuing provisions in the new legislation.
• Gain a better understanding of their roles under the new legislation.

These training sessions build on departmental efforts in spring 2024 to inform key stakeholders such as Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, Professional Municipal Administrators of Newfoundland and Labrador, and municipalities about the new legislation.

For more information on the training schedule, please see the backgrounder below or email MAPAtraining@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“I encourage all councillors, municipal staff, and local service districts committee members to participate in the new Towns and Local Service Districts Act training now available. The training sessions will help empower these community leaders to build stronger and more sustainable communities.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

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Minister Haggie Introduces Modern and Enabling Municipal Legislation – News Releases (gov.nl.ca)

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Backgrounder

In-person and virtual training on the new Towns and Local Service Districts Act for municipalities and local service districts.

Towns and Local Service Districts Act Training Location Date Time  

 

 

For Municipal Councillors, Chief Administrative Officers, Town Managers, Town Clerks, Department Heads, and other senior staff College of the North Atlantic Corner Brook (Lecture Theatre) October 2

  1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Operating Engineers College Holyrood (Classroom 1) October 8 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Marystown Hotel (Salon B) October 10 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Quality Inn, Gander (Salon A) October 21 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Virtual November 20 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Virtual November 30 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  

For Local Service Districts Committee Members Virtual November 13 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Virtual November 23 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Virtual December 4 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Virtual January 8 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, will bring opening remarks at the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Forum tomorrow (Wednesday, October 2).

The minister’s remarks will take place at the Delta Hotel, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s, at 9:15 a.m.

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association is the voice Canada’s residential construction industry, with 8,500 members across the country that represent home builders, renovators, land developers, manufacturers and suppliers.

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The Standing Committee on Public Accounts reconvened last week to discuss its priorities for the coming months as it continues to carry out important work ensuring accountability on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. The mandate of the Committee, in accordance with Standing Orders of the House of Assembly, is to follow-up on matters related to the Public Accounts of the Province and all reports of the Auditor General.

The Committee conducted a public hearing in June 2024, following up on matters contained in several reports of the Auditor General released in 2022 and 2023. This work will continue over the coming months, following up on matters related to the Public Accounts Consolidated Summary Financial Statements for year ended March 31, 2023; the Auditor General Report on the Province’s 2023 Financial Statement Audits; and the Oil and Gas Corporation (OilCo) audit report.

The Committee also recently returned from informative discussions with colleagues across Canada at the Canadian Council of Public Accounts Committees and Canadian Council of Legislative Auditors annual conference. The event brings together Auditors General and members of Public Accounts Committees from all Legislatures in Canada, where best practices in auditing, accountability and oversight are among the topics of discussion. Members of the Committee were pleased to join the Auditor General for this year’s deliberations in Quebec City.

Quote
“The Public Accounts Committee’s oversight and accountability role is fundamental in our system of parliamentary democracy. All members of the PAC view this work of the utmost importance, and as Chair, I commend them for their dedication and collegiality. I also wish to thank Auditor General, Denise Hanrahan, and the employees of that Office for the important work they do and invaluable support they provide to our Committee.”
Pleaman Forsey, MHA
Chair of Public Accounts Committee

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Public Accounts Committee – Work and Proceedings

 

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Following engagement with stakeholders, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced the release of the Provincial Government’s 2024-26 HealthTech and BioTech Ecosystem Action Plan. The announcement was made at techNL’s Innovation Week Conference in St. John’s.

The HealthTech/BioTech sector in Newfoundland and Labrador is in its early stages in terms of the number of commercialized companies; however, there is a growing number of companies entering the sector. Efforts by Bounce Health Innovation initiative, hosted by techNL and supported by Genesis and other early-stage ecosystem partners, have led to a significant increase of new start-up firms within the province. Supports by Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services have also helped to establish a concentrated cluster of promising companies in all levels of business development.

HealthTech is the innovative application of technology in the field of health care. It encompasses various technological tools and advancements that cut across industries, such as software, hardware and devices, artificial intelligence and data analytics, to enhance the delivery and management of health care services.

From telemedicine to wearable medical devices and in-patient hospital care, these technologies transform how health care is accessed and managed. The importance of HealthTech innovation to the province lies in its potential to revolutionize the approach to health care, improving patient outcomes, streamlining processes, and increasing access to quality care, while also expanding economic growth and trade opportunities for the province.

BioTech primarily focuses on the use of living cells and other cell materials to better understand and improve human health. The science involved includes the use of these tools for research to find more efficient ways of maintaining human health, understanding pathogens, and understanding human cell biology. Key areas of focus for BioTech in this province include genomics and precision medicine applications.

The Action Plan will provide a path forward to guide the ongoing growth of this sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. It was developed in response to a stakeholder consultation report commissioned by the Provincial Government in partnership with Bounce Health Innovation and responds to the key challenges that were identified.

The Action Plan presents a vision of a HealthTech/BioTech sector that supports innovative technologies, accelerates access, invests in research and development, enhances coordination and collaboration, and supports companies to develop locally and employ highly qualified people to grow and scale their opportunities globally. It achieves these goals through four key pillars:

• A connected innovation ecosystem.
• Access to capital, R&D and business supports.
• Data driven insights and personalization.
• Regulatory excellence, guidance, and ethical leadership.

The plan lays out six key objectives and 12 actions for the Provincial Government and its partners. By working together to address key challenges and seize emerging opportunities, these partners will work to unlock the sector’s full potential.

Through implementation of the Action Plan, the Provincial Government will support growth within the ecosystem, seek to develop a critical mass of HealthTech/BioTech start-up companies, and globally promote the potential of Newfoundland and Labrador’s excellence in HealthTech and health research to spur further growth and investment.

Quotes
“The HealthTech and BioTech sector holds much promise for improving the quality of life for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The companies that make up this ecosystem are providing unique solutions to a variety of health care challenges within the province and globally. This action plan will help lead us towards providing a sustainable path to commercialization for emerging start-up companies and established companies seeking research and development opportunities.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Technological innovations in health care have tremendous potential when it comes to improving the quality and delivery of health care services in the province. This Action Plan will support our government’s ongoing efforts to transform our health care system, and also aligns with the Health Accord’s recommendations to leverage technology to improve health across the province.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“This sector has seen tremendous growth over the past five years and the Action Plan announced today shows the province’s commitment to removing barriers and building the foundations for continued success. It’s a real joy to see so many of Newfoundland and Labrador’s brightest minds build successful companies by using advanced technology to tackle health care’s biggest challenges. Health care is rapidly being transformed and companies from this province are a part of that wave.”
Andy Fisher
Director, Bounce Health Innovation

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Learn More
HealthTech and Biotech Ecosystem Action Plan

techNL

Bounce Health Innovation

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The Provincial Government recognizes today as National Seniors Day and International Day of Older Persons. To help celebrate the many contributions of seniors in communities throughout the province, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, presented the 2024 Seniors of Distinction Awards at a ceremony held in St. John’s.

The Seniors of Distinction Awards recognize the contributions, achievements and diversity of seniors and older persons throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

This initiative also aligns with the Provincial Government’s ongoing focus to improve senior’s well-being and support healthy aging.

The Seniors of Distinction Awards are presented annually to current or past residents of the province, 50 years of age or older, who have made significant personal, professional or volunteer contributions to their communities.

This year there was a total of 28 nominations. The successful recipients are as follows:

• Leo Churchill Bonnell
• Sharon Brown
• Alvin Cluett
• Harold Druken
• Carl Parsons
• Robert Charles Parsons
• Joyce Leah Rogers
• Linda Ryan
• Kaberi Sarma-Debnath

For more information on each of this year’s Seniors of Distinction, please see the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“This year we celebrate nine remarkable recipients. These individuals possess a passion and dedication to help improve the well-being of individuals and their communities. Congratulations and thank you for making Newfoundland and Labrador a more inclusive province for all generations.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the Seniors of Distinction Award. Your contributions to our province and your communities set a positive example not only for seniors, but for our future generations.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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Seniors of Distinction Awards

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BACKGROUNDER

Recipient Biographies for the 2024 Seniors of Distinction Award

Leo Churchill Bonnell – Clarenville
Leo Churchill Bonnell was born in Lamaline in 1944. Mr. Bonnell is a retired bank manager and community leader who resides in Clarenville. He has long been active in local community affairs throughout the province during his banking career and beyond. Mr. Bonnell has held leadership positions with church boards, chambers of commerce, bankers’ associations, Lions Clubs International, Rotary International, Victorian Order of Nurses, Provincial Council of the Rural Secretariat, and the Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors. Since retiring in 2004, Mr. Bonnell has taken on an informal role advocating for Newfoundland and Labrador seniors. He is currently Vice-Chair of the Random Age-Friendly Communities Board in Clarenville, Area 3 Director with the NL 50-plus Federation, an advisory member for the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Pan-Canadian Age-Friendly Communities Reference Group as well as a peer advocate volunteer with SeniorsNL. It was during Mr. Bonnell’s first term as Chair of the Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors that the Seniors of Distinction Awards were created with the council developing the framework and criteria for the awards. His work in advancing age-friendly principles, businesses, transportation, and communities; working to end the scourge of elder abuse; and promoting financial literacy at all ages has been recognized locally, nationally, and internationally.

Sharon Brown – Labrador City
Sharon Brown was born in 1957. Ms. Brown’s 32-year teaching career was punctuated by countless hours of volunteering and dedication to the betterment of her school and community, including leading the establishment of after school programs for students. After retirement, Ms. Brown became a certified fitness instructor and began teaching group fitness in the community. She soon realized that many women aged 55-plus were too intimidated to attend classes and started the Silver Sneakers fitness program focused on the physical and social well-being of seniors. Two years ago, she added kickboxing to their routine. Always one to encourage seniors to step out of their comfort zone and try something new, Ms. Brown has grown the group from an initial 10 members to a current membership of more than 50 seniors, ranging in age from 55 to 79, who meet twice each week. Silver Sneakers has become just as much a social group as an exercise group and has expanded its activities to include snowshoeing in the winter and hiking in the spring and summer. When not leading fitness activities, Ms. Brown is busy adding motivational posts on social media to inspire people in the community or writing personalized birthday messages for each member of the Silver Sneakers on their birthdays. Ms. Brown has also served on the executives of Work out Word and the Tamarack Golf Club since 2014. During the holidays, she finds ways for the group to give back to the community such as collecting items for the local women’s shelter or food bank and over the summer months she organizes golf events for women in Labrador West, and she continues to volunteer at the local curling, Nordic ski, and golf clubs.

Alvin Cluett – Garnish
Alvin Cluett was born in 1957 and lived in Frenchman’s Cove until he moved to Labrador West to train as a millwright. After a 38-year career that spanned Newfoundland and Labrador and Ontario, Mr. Cluett returned home 10 years ago and now resides in Garnish where he has become a major contributor with the Garnish Lions Club. He has held and continues to hold leadership positions with the Lions at the club and zone levels. He is the recipient of numerous local, national, and international Lions awards and was bestowed life membership in the Lions Foundation of Canada. Mr. Cluett was instrumental in raising more than $210,000 to upgrade the Garnish Lions Club building and to make it a warming center for community members in the event of power failure. He is currently the coordinator of a knitting project that sees participants donate knitted products to people in need in partnership with the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network, Grace Sparkes House, Salvation Army, The Gathering Place, displaced refugees of Ukraine, the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation, and the Housing Hub of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. This knitting project has earned two Lions Outstanding District Project Awards, and a Lions International Kindness Matters Award only awarded to 30 participants in the world each year.

Harold Druken – St. John’s (Posthumous)
Harold Druken, born in 1952, was affectionately known as the unofficial mayor of his Shea Heights neighbourhood of St. John’s. Well-respected as a community leader who always recognized a need and took action, he was the driving force behind numerous initiatives great and small. Mr. Druken led fundraising efforts for anything from sending an athlete to an out-of-province event to building a home for a family in need. In fact, he often assumed personal financial risk to help people in need build or renovate properties and ensure community members had equal opportunities to succeed regardless of their socioeconomic circumstances. He organized Christmas parades, helped found and organize the Shea Heights Folk Festival and volunteered at the community centre. Mr. Druken also led the charge to construct the Shea Heights War Memorial to commemorate the contributions and sacrifice of community residents. The community board he founded continues to flourish and support the community he so dearly loved.

Carl Parsons – Dover
Carl Parsons of Dover was born in 1947 and was an educator throughout his working career. He has spent more than 55 years working with community organizations locally, provincially, and nationally to better the lives of others and served two terms as Mayor of Dover. In 2002 Mr. Parsons was a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal, which is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding and exemplary contributions to their communities. He is the longest serving member of the local recreation committee and has served as president and a board member of the Alzheimer Societies of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada. As a board member of the provincial Alzheimer Society, Mr. Parsons helped to develop regional representation on the board of directors and ensure the society’s programs and services were available province wide. During his time as president, he was involved in the development of a Provincial Strategy for Alzheimer Disease and Other Dementias. His time and commitment to the society’s cause has been described as outstanding. His work as President of the Alzheimer Society of Canada helped to shape the organization at the national level and helped to change people’s perceptions of dementia in Canada.

Robert Charles Parsons – Grand Bank
Robert Charles Parsons of Grand Bank, was born in 1944 and has spent decades researching, writing, and publishing the marine history and heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly the rise and fall of the wooden schooner era. His extensive research has included interviews with hundreds of people connected to the schooner era and has resulted in an impressive collection of tales of the sea from all over the province. Beginning with his first published book in 1991, Mr. Parsons went on to publish 34 books covering stories from Newfoundland and Labrador, Atlantic Canada, and the Atlantic Ocean more generally. Mr. Parson’s remarkable body of research including ship files, crew lists and interview documentation have been donated to Memorial University’s library and marine history archives where they live on as a valuable resource to other researchers and marine historians. In addition to research and writing, Mr. Parsons has volunteered countless hours to municipal and provincial historical societies and boards and has held leadership positions with the Fidelity Masonic Lodge, Royal Canadian Legion, Grand Bank Development Corporation and Burin Peninsula Community Business Development Corporation. In 2009, he was presented with the Polaris Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the preservation and public awareness of the marine heritage and history in the province. In 2016, he received the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association Special Recognition Award “for outstanding personal contribution and achievement in community service and social and cultural endeavours.”

Joyce Leah Rogers – Grand Bank
Joyce Leah Rogers was born in Lamaline in 1930. After losing her mother at age 12, Joyce helped her father take care of her siblings. During her teenage years, she worked as a nurses’ aid at the Grand Bank Hospital. She married Graham Rogers at the age of 18 and together they raised five children until Graham became one of 13 men lost at sea when the Blue Mist II sank off the shores of Grand Bank in a winter storm in 1966. Following this tragic event, Ms. Rogers took it upon herself to ensure that those lost at sea would be forever remembered and was the driving force behind the establishment of a permanent Mariners’ Memorial in Grand Bank. The memorial, which features a life-size bronze statue of a woman overlooking a pool in which the names of hundreds of people lost at sea are displayed underwater, symbolizes and commemorates loved ones lost. In addition to this tremendous contribution, she was also instrumental, in her role as an executive member of the local historical society, in the restoration and preservation of the George C. Harris House historic site in Grand Bank. Built in 1908, this house was occupied by the Harris family who were prominent fish merchants in the community for many years. Today, George C. Harris House and the Mariners’ Memorial are two of the most visited tourism sites by Grand Bank locals and visitors alike and, at the age of 94, Ms. Rogers is still active in the operation and maintenance of both sites.

Linda Ryan – Mount Pearl
Linda Ryan was born in 1959. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, Ms. Ryan steeled her resolve to fight back and has dedicated her time and energy to helping others facing various types of cancer. She has undertaken many initiatives to raise cancer awareness and has helped to raise more than a quarter of a million dollars for Daffodil Place and other cancer-related organizations. While recovering from treatments, Ms. Ryan established Pink Days in Bloom which is described as a high-spirited awareness and fundraising initiative. It brings together breast cancer survivors, newly diagnosed individuals and supports to celebrate resilience and raise money for cancer-fighting causes through the healing power of gardening and connections to nature and others. She has also spearheaded other fundraising and awareness activities such as Socks in the City etc., Teacups for Hope and the Comfort and Joy Auction all in support of Daffodil Place. Ms. Ryan has also had great success at recruiting and motivating others to join in fundraising and awareness initiatives. Her contributions have been recognized locally, nationally, and internationally, with accolades including Canada’s Volunteer Award for Community Leaders (Atlantic Region), the Sovereign Medal for Volunteers, the YWCA Women of Distinction Award, the Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Paul Harris Fellowship Award from Rotary International which recognizes individuals who give of themselves for the benefit of humanity.

Kaberi Sarma-Debnath – St. John’s
Kaberi Sarma-Debnath is a Bengali Canadian born in 1959. After residing for a period in Germany and England, she moved to St. John’s in 1994 where she raised two children with the support of her brother, sister, and her husband who has been her strongest supporter in her life and career. Ms. Sarma-Debnath began volunteering with the Multicultural Women’s Organization of Newfoundland and Labrador (MWONL), which provides gender-based, culturally competent services to meet the needs of immigrant women and their families, in 1998. In 2009, Ms. Sarma-Debnath was hired as the organization’s executive director after nearly 11 years as a volunteer and project coordinator. Prior to joining MWONL, she was a university professor in Bangladesh and worked as a social worker with the provincial Department of Health and Community Services. She has also written several articles and published two books. She has served as a board/committee member of the St. John’s Status of Women Council, Newfoundland and Labrador Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, Newfoundland and Labrador College of Social Workers, and the RCMP Commissioner’s Diversity Advisory Committee as the provincial representative. In 2017, Ms. Sarma-Debnath was a nominee for the YWCA Women of Distinction Award. She currently serves on the City of St. John’s Building Safer Communities Steering Committee. Her leadership has helped to grow the impact of MWONL and to increase awareness of the challenges faced by newcomer and racialized women throughout the province. Ms. Sarma-Debnath is also a registered social worker and provides culturally competent counselling support to help and empower multicultural women experiencing gender-based and/or spousal violence. She is credited with spearheading programs and advocating for policy changes which enhance the social and economic well-being, and retention of newcomer women and their families. Ms. Sarma-Debnath credits her mother for her drive and dedication in advancing women’s empowerment and strives to act as a role model for her granddaughter while creating a better world for women everywhere.

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, was pleased to sign a proclamation today recognizing October as National Foster Families Month. Minister Pike joined Kelli Hodder, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, the association’s staff and board members, as well as foster parents and departmental staff.

This year’s theme is Together We Thrive: Celebrating Foster Families. This month is an opportunity to honour and recognize foster families for their dedication and commitment to children and youth in care. While foster parents should be celebrated every day, this month is especially important to acknowledge them, encourage them and appreciate them.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, there are approximately 560 foster families dedicated to helping children and youth through complex situations by providing safe and nurturing homes.

The Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development recognizes the positive work of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association and continues to work collaboratively with them to help recruit, retain and support foster parents in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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

Quotes
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude and respect for foster families throughout the province. You go above and beyond to provide support and guidance in a caring and safe environment. During Foster Families month we celebrate the contribution you make to children and youth in our province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“Foster parents play a crucial role in providing stability, love, and support to children and youth in need of temporary care. Their selfless contributions make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable young people, shaping a brighter future for our communities and province.”
Kelli Hodder
Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association

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This October, Newfoundland and Labrador joins communities across Canada in celebrating Circular Economy Month, a nationwide initiative aimed at educating and engaging residents about the importance of shifting toward a circular economy.

A circular economy focuses on using products and materials in more sustainable ways, like repairing, reusing, remanufacturing, and recycling, to make them last longer and reduce waste.

Circular Economy Month is supported by environmental organizations and governments across the country, including Newfoundland and Labrador through the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB). Throughout the month, MMSB will lead an online campaign offering practical resources and tips to help residents incorporate circular practices into their daily lives. Follow MMSB on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.

As part of Circular Economy Month, October 21-27, 2024, is Waste Reduction Week, which focuses on specific waste types like textiles, electronics, plastics, and organics. Waste Reduction Week complements the broader focus of Circular Economy Month by encouraging residents to adopt habits that help reduce waste going to landfills.

Thinking green during Circular Economy Month and throughout the year contributes to a more sustainable future and creates lasting environmental change for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quote
“One of the ways we can build sustainable practices into our daily lives is through a conscious commitment to reuse materials around our home and work. This Circular Economy Month, let’s challenge ourselves to send less waste to the landfill. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is proud to support the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board and their efforts to provide us with the knowledge and tools we need to reduce our environmental footprint.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“MMSB is excited to partner once again for Circular Economy Month and Waste Reduction Week in Canada. By motivating individuals, organizations, and businesses to rethink their waste management strategies and adopt circular economy practices, we can significantly decrease the amount of waste going to landfills in our province and foster a more sustainable and vibrant community for future generations.”
Derm Flynn
Chair, Multi-Materials Stewardship Board

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On October 1 of each year, we recognize two important events: International Day of the Older Persons and National Seniors Day.

The United Nations 34th commemoration of International Day of the Older Persons focuses on the theme of Aging with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide.

In Canada, National Seniors Day is an occasion for Canadians to celebrate and pay tribute to seniors who have been a vital part of our communities and have helped shape our country.

The Office of the Seniors’ Advocate strongly supports the right of seniors to age with dignity. To achieve this, issues of poverty and food insecurity, barriers to primary healthcare, unavailable and unaffordable home support, and unsafe and unaffordable housing must be eradicated.

The Office of the Seniors’ Advocate will continue to advocate and make recommendations to positively improve seniors’ services and supports in Newfoundland and Labrador, so that all older adults in the province can age with dignity.

In addition, we can all play a role in supporting seniors to age with dignity by being part of the support system for a senior in our community. Offering assistance could include a drive to get groceries, providing a meal, and visiting to prevent social isolation and loneliness. Seniors have been the backbone of Newfoundland and Labrador, let’s use National Seniors’ Day as an impetus to give back to them through our efforts.

Quote
“I certainly support the United Nations theme of Aging with Dignity. It is what we all want and deserve. Research by the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate has clearly defined the systemic barriers seniors in Newfoundland Labrador are facing to age well and we are laser-focused on addressing these through our advocacy. There are many people in this province whose simple acts of kindness are helping seniors to age well. I thank you and encourage everyone to consider how you might help strengthen the support system of a senior in your community. Offer a drive to pick up groceries, share a meal, provide help with chores, visit or call. We can all play a role to help seniors Age with Dignity.
Susan Walsh
Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

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Residents of Belgium who choose to make Newfoundland and Labrador their new home will now have their Class 5 and Class 6 driver’s licences recognized without needing to complete additional testing. The same applies to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who move abroad to Belgium.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and His Excellency, Patrick Guido M. Van Gheel, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium, entered into a driver’s licence reciprocity agreement during the Ambassador’s first official visit to Newfoundland and Labrador.

For the purposes of facilitating the licensing of drivers who change their place of residence, Section 16 of the Highway Traffic Driver Regulations, 1999 authorizes the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to enter into reciprocal agreements granting mutual recognition of valid driver’s licences issued by the signatory jurisdictions.

This means that the Registrar of Motor Vehicles may waive examination requirements for Class 5 (passenger vehicles) and Class 6 (motorcycles) driver’s licences, provided a reciprocal agreement is in effect between the province and the other jurisdiction.

Newfoundland and Labrador currently has driver’s licence reciprocity agreements with Austria, France, Ireland, Isle of Man, Japan, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Under the Regulations, the Registrar of Motor Vehicles can also waive testing requirements for people with a driver’s licence from elsewhere in Canada, the United States, Germany, and Ukraine.

Adjusting to life in Newfoundland and Labrador is about settling into the routine of everyday life. Learning the language and taking care of day-to-day necessities like education, health care, accommodations, transportation, and banking are all an essential part of the settlement process. With the signing of a driver’s licence reciprocity agreement, newcomers to both Newfoundland and Labrador and Belgium are better supported to settle into their new home quickly and easily.

Quotes
“It is an honour to welcome His Excellency to Newfoundland and Labrador. Thank you for the engaging discussions on partnership opportunities between our province and Belgium, including this reciprocity agreement between our respective jurisdictions. Reciprocity agreements are beneficial for our province’s newcomer recruitment and retention strategy and supports a seamless transition for those who choose to make Newfoundland and Labrador their home.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The people of Belgium and of Newfoundland and Labrador share a rich past of mutual support and cooperation. Signing this Agreement marks another step into our growing ties and will help our citizens make their visits to and stays in the province and my country even more enjoyable.”
His Excellency, Patrick Guido M. Van Gheel
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium

“This agreement makes it easier, not only for residents of Belgium, but also Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, to maintain their driver’s licence when taking up residence abroad. Moving to a new country or province is a challenging experience, in and of itself. We hope this agreement helps make things a little easier and simpler for people as they get settled into their new home.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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The following is being distributed at the request of Her Honour, The Honourable Joan Marie Aylward, ONL, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador:

An investiture ceremony on October 30, 2024, at Government House will see eight people named to the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. This will be the 17th investiture ceremony since the first appointments were made in 2004, bringing the total number of recipients to 151.

This year’s recipients and the categories in which they are being honoured are:

• Everard (Bud) Davidge – Cultural
• Clifford R. George – Arts/Literature/Cultural
• Liam Hickey – Sport/Recreation/Fitness
• Sagmaw Mi’sel Joe – Cultural
• Andy Jones – Art, Literature, Mental Health Advocacy
• Patrick O’Callaghan – Humanitarian Activities
• Guy Poole – Volunteerism
• Andrea Rose – Education

The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is the province’s highest honour and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an exemplary manner the province and its residents. More information about the award can be found in the backgrounder below.

Appointments to the Order are made by the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador as Chancellor of the Order on the recommendation of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Advisory Council. For more information about the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, or to nominate someone, visit www.gov.nl.ca/onl.

“As Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, I look forward to investing these eight deserving recipients on October 30. Those recipients announced today have excelled in their fields and through their actions have made our province a better place. We will be very pleased to welcome them to Government House for this 17th investiture of the Order, and to celebrate their remarkable achievements.”
The Honourable Joan Marie J. Aylward, O.N.L.
Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Congratulations to the eight outstanding Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who will be invested into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. This province is a better place to live, work and raise a family in part because of the contributions of these people. It is a great honour to help celebrate their achievements. I look forward to formally honouring them at a ceremony in October.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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BACKGROUNDER

About the Award
The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is the highest honour of the province. The object of the Order is to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an outstanding manner Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents. The first investiture took place in 2004.

Any Canadian citizen who is a present or former long-term resident of Newfoundland and Labrador is eligible for nomination to the Order. According to the legislation governing the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, the exceptions are public officials such as; judges, members of the Senate, House of Commons, House of Assembly or legislative assembly of a province, members of municipal, town, regional councils or local service district committees who may not be nominated while they are in office.

Posthumous nominations are not accepted. Organizations, groups, or couples may not be nominated; the Order is for individuals only. Additionally, an individual who is not a Canadian citizen or current or former long-term resident of the province, but who has demonstrated excellence in their field of endeavour, and who has benefited the province and its residents in an outstanding manner, may be nominated as an honorary member.

If you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents, you are encouraged to nominate them for the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

At a formal ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, as Chancellor of the Order, will present each recipient with a medal bearing the shield of Newfoundland and Labrador surmounted by the Crown. A member will receive a certificate signed by the Chancellor and sealed with the seal of the Order, as well as a miniature medal and a lapel pin. The medal is worn with a blue, green, white and gold ribbon. Members of the Order are entitled to use the initials ONL after their names.

The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Advisory Council selects members to be invested into the Order each year after considering all nominations received.

Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Insignia
The insignia of the Order is in the shape of a stylized pitcher plant (sarracenia purpurea Linnaeus), which was declared Newfoundland and Labrador’s floral emblem in 1954. The petals are crafted with the provincial mineral, Labradorite. The pitcher plant is found primarily in bogs and marshland throughout the province. It has a large wine-red flower with a red and gold centre, and hollow pitcher-shaped leaves are attached to the base of the stem.

The insignia of the Order has at its centre the Arms of the Province, granted by King Charles I, in January 1638. The Arms incorporate some of the most ancient heraldic symbols, the unicorn representing Scotland and the lion representing England.

The gold elements of the medal represent the excellence of achievement that the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes. The Crown is taken from the official standard of the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. It symbolizes honour and merit, and recalls Newfoundland and Labrador’s place as a province of Canada, a constitutional monarchy, and as part of the Commonwealth. The insignia of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador was approved by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II on June 3, 2003.

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:
Atlantic Lake to Gulp Pond Exploration Access Road                   (Reg. 2326)
Proponent: First Atlantic Nickel Corp.

The Proponent is proposing to construct 14.4 kilometres of gravel access road for mineral exploration from Atlantic Lake to Gulp Pond located approximately 53.2 kilometres south of Grand Falls-Windsor in Central Newfoundland. The proposed road will be designed to support mineral exploration activities and baseline data collection for the Atlantic Nickel Awaruite Property. A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/ projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on September 27, 2024, the deadline for public comment is November 1, 2024; and the Minister’s decision is due by November 11, 2024.

Main Brook Sawmill Production                                                            (Reg. 2325)
Proponent: Countryside Lumber Products Inc.

The Proponent is proposing to increase the production of lumber and wood products at its existing sawmill operation from 500,000 foot board measure (fbm) to three million fbm. The sawmill is located on Camp 18 forest access road, two kilometres southwest of the town of Main Brook. A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on September 27, 2024, the deadline for public comment is November 1, 2024; and the Minister’s decision is due by November 11, 2024.

North River Watercraft Launch                                                              (Reg. 2324)
Proponent: Town of North River

The Proponent is proposing to develop a watercraft launch on North River Road in the Town of North River. The undertaking would require the removal of vegetation, addition of clean fill, paving to the high-water mark and the construction of a wooden launch measuring 12 metres wide and six metres long. A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/ projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on September 27, 2024, the deadline for public comment is November 1, 2024; and the Minister’s decision is due by November 11, 2024.

PLAN ACCEPTED:
Burgeo Rifle Range Site Remediation                                                 (Reg. 2283)
Proponent: Department of National Defence

On September 24, 2024, the Minister advised the Proponent that the Water Resources Management Plan for the Burgeo Rifle Range Site Remediation Project was acceptable. The plan was required by a condition of release from environmental assessment. Information is available on the department’s web page at:

https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2283/.

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Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6
Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2024.pdf

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Project comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

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

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has been recognized for its efforts to achieve and maintain environmentally responsible forest management standards. For the 10th consecutive year, forestry operations administered by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture have maintained International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification, keeping Newfoundland and Labrador on the leading edge of responsible forest management.

In a recent audit performed by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP under the ISO14001:2015 environmental management system standard, the province’s Crown forest operations have been recertified until 2027, subject to annual surveillance audits.

ISO14001:2015 certification is an environmental management standard used in all industry sectors to demonstrate commitment to environmental protection and to assure public confidence in management activities. In order to maintain registration, the department must demonstrate continuous improvement in implementing its Environmental Management System and ensure that all Crown forest land operators continue to operate within system guidelines.

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“Our professional team of foresters, forest technicians and conservation officers are marking a decade of excellence in managing Newfoundland and Labrador’s forests to international standards. The achievement of this internationally recognized standard demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to ensuring that the forestry industry in Newfoundland and Labrador remains vibrant for years to come.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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