Government of Newfoundland News
Urgent Care Services Added to Dr. William H. Newhook Community Health Centre
The Provincial Government continues to take meaningful action to reimagine health care in Newfoundland and Labrador based on recommendations of Health Accord NL. Central to the approach is creating a more effective and efficient system that is reflective of the current environment and focused on improved service delivery and health outcomes.
With this in mind, Eastern Health has added urgent care to the Dr. William H. Newhook Community Health Centre in Whitbourne, in addition to its current status as a Primary Care Centre. This combined clinic will provide patients with primary health care, as well as urgent/same-day care for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses. Examples of patients who may be seen include:
- Those with sprains and strains;
- Those with new and worsening non-emergent pain, fever, infections (i.e. chest, ear and urinary tract); and
- Childhood illness and injury, cuts, wounds, or skin conditions.
Laboratory and medical imaging services will also be available on site to provide timely access to diagnosis and treatment. More information on Urgent Care Centres can be found here.
Based on current staffing levels, the hours of operation for the Urgent Care Centre will begin with three days a week, eight hours per day, and will increase incrementally, moving to Monday to Friday, 12 hours per day as additional staff are recruited for the area, and eventually to 12 hours, seven days a week. The long-term goal will be extended hours in the evenings, which is also contingent on recruitment. The utilization of the centre will continue to be evaluated, and hours of operation will be increased as demand requires and based on recruitment.
A set number of appointments will be available daily depending on the number of providers. Walk-in appointments will also be available. In addition to providing primary and urgent care, outpatient services will continue to be offered, including diabetes education and outpatient laboratory and medical imaging services Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Provincial Government continues to implement its plan, which places emphasis on addressing short and long-term needs, as well as the recruitment and retention of health care professionals. The creation of an Urgent Care Centre to serve the needs of the people of Whitbourne and surrounding areas is in keeping with this plan.
Quotes
“We continue to implement innovative solutions to help alleviate the stress on our health care system and provide our residents with access to primary care. Adding urgent care to the Dr. William H. Newhook facility for Whitbourne and surrounding areas will provide patients with enhanced primary health care, as well as urgent/same-day care for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses. This is a positive step forward that will help yield positive results by providing care to those who need access but do not need emergency care.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“Eastern Health is committed to ensuring that the people we serve receive timely access to the right service, at the right time, in the right place. Urgent Care Centres allow for care in the community, closer to where people live, work and play, and aligns with the vision set out by Health Accord NL. This team-based approach will help families and individuals access same day care in order to stay healthy, manage chronic diseases and recover from illnesses more quickly. Urgent Care Centres are an important part of our plan to transform the health care system and deliver integrated community-based care across the region.”
Ron Johnson
Vice President, Innovation and Rural Health, Eastern Health
“As the Member of the House of Assembly for the District of Placentia – St. Mary’s, I recognize how challenging the shortage of health care professionals has been for my constituents. I have heard your concerns, and the designation of the Dr. William H. Newhook Community Health Centre as an Urgent Care Centre helps address the immediate health needs of the residents in the area. Utilization of the centre will continue to be evaluated, and I will continue to work with you on this important issue.”
Sherry Gambin-Walsh
MHA for Placentia – St. Mary’s
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Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2023-011 Released
The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-011 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.
To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.
Report: A-2023-011 Report Date: March 6, 2023 Public Body: Treasury Board Secretariat Summary: Treasury Board Secretariat received an access request for records relating to a workplace investigation involving the Applicant. It provided most of the records, but redacted some information on the basis of sections 29 (advice and recommendations), 30 (solicitor client privilege), 31 (security arrangements), and 40 (personal privacy). The Applicant filed a complaint with our Office. During the informal resolution process, the section 31 and 40 issues were resolved. The Commissioner found that section 29 was properly applied. However, TBS had refused to provide our Office with the records for which section 30 were claimed. The Commissioner found that TBS had not met the burden of proof that section 30 applied, and therefore recommended that the information redacted on the basis of section 30 be disclosed to the Complainant.-30-
Media contact
Sean Murray
Director of Research & Quality Assurance
709-729-6309
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Media Advisory: Minister Crocker to Announce Funding for 2025 Canada Summer Games Infrastructure
The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will announce funding for 2025 Canada Summer Games infrastructure tomorrow (Wednesday, March 8).
The event will take place at 10:30 a.m. at the Green Belt Tennis Club, 114 Newtown Road, St. John’s. It will also be livestreamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.
Minister Crocker will be joined by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minster of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio.
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Media Advisory: Minister Osborne to Make Announcement on Health Care Delivery in the Whitbourne Region
The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will make an announcement today (Tuesday, March 7) regarding health care in the Whitbourne region.
The availability will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building at 1:00 p.m. A technical briefing will take place for media at 12:30 p.m.
Minister Osborne will be joined by Ron Johnson, Vice President, Innovation and Rural Health, Eastern Health; Dr. Gena Bugden, Vice President, Medical Services, Eastern Health; and Sherry Gambin-Walsh, MHA for Placentia – St. Mary’s.
The availability will be livestreamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.
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Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2023-010 Released
The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-010 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.
To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.
Report: A-2023-010 Report Date: March 3, 2023 Public Body: Department of Health and Community Services Summary: The Complainant made six access to information requests to the Department of Health and Community Services under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. The Department did not respond to the requests within the period set out at section 16 of the Act and was therefore deemed to have refused access to the requested information. The Complainant asked the Commissioner to investigate these refusals of access. The Commissioner recommended that the Department release the records responsive to the Complainant’s four requests within ten business days.-30-
Media contact
Sean Murray
Director of Research & Quality Assurance
709-729-6309
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Public Advisory: Motorists Warned to be Aware of Caribou on Trans-Canada Highway East of Deer Lake
Motorists are being encouraged to be vigilant when travelling on the Trans-Canada Highway approximately 20 kilometers east of Deer Lake in the vicinity of the Deer Lake airport communication beacon.
A significant number of caribou are currently active in this area, crossing the highway and making them vulnerable to vehicular traffic. The animals are expected to remain in the area for several weeks.
Motorists can reduce the risk of a caribou-vehicle collision by:
- Scanning both sides of the highway and having passengers also watch for caribou;
- Paying attention to caribou warning signs;
- Avoiding driving at dusk and dawn when caribou are more common alongside roadways; and
- Reducing speeds when driving at night when caribou are more difficult to see.
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Resumption of the House of Assembly for the Spring Sitting
The House of Assembly advises that in accordance with the 2023 parliamentary calendar, the House will reconvene on Monday, March 13 at 1:30 p.m.
Proceedings throughout the spring sitting will be broadcast live via the House of Assembly television channel and streamed via the House of Assembly website.
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Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Policy and Communications Officer
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca
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Media Advisory: Minister Bragg to Bring Greetings at Newfoundland and Labrador Horticulture Producers Council Annual Conference
The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will bring greetings at the Newfoundland and Labrador Horticulture Producers Council Annual Conference tomorrow (Tuesday, March 7).
Minister Bragg’s remarks will take place at 12:15 p.m. at the Quality Hotel & Suites, 100 Trans-Canada Highway, Gander.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Horticulture Producers Council is a non-profit industry organization representing fruit, vegetable, Christmas tree and sod producers and greenhouse operators
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Minister Crocker Applauds Come From Away Cast Announcement and Shares Progress on Arts and Culture Centre Upgrades
In only six months Come From Away comes home, as the award-winning show is set to premiere at the Joseph R. Smallwood Arts and Culture Centre in Gander this July. Today, the show took another important step toward opening night.
Earlier today, Executive Producer Michael Rubinoff, along with the Arts and Culture Centre, announced the thrilling cast, band and creative team for acclaimed director Jillian Keiley’s new production of Irene Sankoff and David Hein’s Come From Away. The production will run from July 7 to September 3, 2023.
In support of Come From Away’s homecoming, the Arts and Culture Centre in Gander is undergoing theatre upgrades, including new air conditioning, curtains and light fixtures, as well as enhancements to the art gallery space.
Partnerships to support the production are ongoing with local stakeholders, including the Town of Gander, Gander International Airport Authority and Adventure Central Destination Management Organization.
Tickets for Come From Away are on sale now via the Arts and Culture Centre website.
COME FROM AWAY is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
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“The cast for this summer’s Come from Away is incredible – it simply doesn’t get any better. These artists are among the best in the theatre world, performing everywhere from the Broadway stage in New York City to the West End theatre district in London, England. With seven actors from this province and an all-Newfoundland and Labrador Come From Away band, I think this cast ticks all the boxes for Come From Away fans, and I can’t wait to see it all come together. Thanks again to Michael Rubinoff and Jillian Keiley for their creative vision.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Minister Pam Parsons Attending United Nations Commission on the Status of Women
The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, is part of the Canadian delegation attending the United Nations’ 67th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67) in New York City.
CSW67 brings together feminist leaders, experts and advocates from around the globe to discuss best practices and policies that promote gender equity. The theme of CSW67 is “innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.”
The Commission on the Status of Women was established in 1946. It is the main global intergovernmental body focused on the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. The commission has played a lead role in documenting the reality of women’s lives throughout the world and shaping global standards on gender equality.
The Provincial Government is committed to supporting and promoting gender equality throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2021, the former Office of the Status of Women was renamed the Office of Women and Gender Equality. This included an expanded mandate to advance the social, economic, cultural and legal status of women in our province, and to work toward equality among people of all genders.
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“It is an honour to be invited by the Honourable Marci Ien, federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, to attend CSW67 as a part of the Canadian delegation. This event helps to inform and shape global policy, and will allow knowledge exchange with some of the world’s top gender equity experts. I look forward to listening, sharing, and bringing information back to our government to help us continue to advance this important work, particularly as it relates to technology and innovation.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
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United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67)
Office of Women and Gender Equality
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Newfoundland and Labrador Launches European Borrowing Program at London Stock Exchange
The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, was at London Stock Exchange this morning to ring the opening bell to officially launch the province’s European borrowing program. Premier Furey was joined at this ceremony by the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance.
By establishing the European borrowing program and listing with London Stock Exchange, Newfoundland and Labrador has the option to issue bonds in the European capital market, in addition to its existing domestic Canadian market, to meet its borrowing requirements.
Diversifying the province’s investor base and broadening the reach to international markets provides an opportunity to continue to lower borrowing costs. This is part of government’s commitment to improve treasury management. Monies borrowed are used to pay for government programs and services and to service the existing debt.
Like all Canadian provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador funds its borrowing requirements by issuing bonds in the capital markets. These bonds are publicly traded and primarily held by a broad base of institutional investors. More information on the province’s borrowing program is available here.
Government’s strategic plan to return to balanced budgets, lower the cost of borrowing, and decrease debt includes:
- Fixing the financing of the Muskrat Falls Project through the $5.2 billion rate mitigation agreement with the federal government;
- Prudent fiscal governance, including transformation and modernization of government, strengthening the role of the Auditor General and balanced budget legislation; and,
- Responsible debt management, including effective treasury management, optimizing investment performance and establishing a Future Fund.
Quotes
“We appreciate the support we have received from the team at London Stock Exchange who understand our potential and value for European investors. Newfoundland and Labrador offers an opportunity to invest in a Canadian province with a resilient economy, limitless potential, stable government and commitment to environmental, social and prudent fiscal governance principles.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“The program we are offering with London Stock Exchange is important to our fiscal governance strategy which includes managing debt responsibly, modernizing government processes, contributing to a future fund and introducing balanced budget legislation. We are seeing results such as stable credit ratings and net debt to GDP ratio of 37.8 per cent in 2022-23. We are continuing on a path to achieve a strong, smart, self-sufficient, sustainable Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance
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Premier Andrew Furey is joined by Finance Minister Siobhan Coady and team, as well as representatives of the London Stock Exchange and banking syndicate, to open the market. (March 6, 2023) Premier Andrew Furey and Finance Minister Siobhan Coady sign the guest book at the London Stock Exchange. (March 6, 2023)
Learn more
Video: Premier Furey Opens the London Stock Exchange
Improved Outlook for Province’s Credit Rating
Future Fund Act to Receive Second Reading in House of Assembly
Reduced Debt and Borrowing, Contribution to Future Fund in Strong Fiscal and Economic Update
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Public Advisory: Celebrating Newfoundland and Labrador’s Increasing Diversity with Enhanced Multiculturalism Grant Program
The Provincial Government is celebrating March as Multiculturalism Month in Newfoundland and Labrador by opening applications for the enhanced Newfoundland and Labrador Multiculturalism Grant Program.
Grants of up to $1,500 are available, and for the first time culturally-connected food will be an eligible expense. Special consideration will be given to initiatives focused on anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Multiculturalism Grant Program offers the opportunity for community groups, municipalities and schools to host events that celebrate cultural diversity in Newfoundland and Labrador.
For full information about the program, please visit the website. Interested organizations must complete an application form and return it to diversity@gov.nl.ca by Thursday, March 16 at 4:30 p.m. All funds received by applicants must be spent by March 31, 2024.
Continuing to support the growing multiculturalism in the province helps to foster welcoming and inclusive communities for newcomers, as the Provincial Government works toward the goal of welcoming 5,100 newcomers annually by 2026.
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Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Bring Greetings at Kids Eat Smart 30th Anniversary Gala
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring greetings at the 30th Anniversary Gala of Kids Eat Smart Foundation Newfoundland and Labrador tomorrow (Saturday, March 4) at 7:20 p.m.
The Gala takes place at the Delta Hotel, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s.
Kids Eat Smart Foundation Newfoundland and Labrador supports the education, health and well-being of school-aged children in the province through nutrition programs run by volunteers at schools and community centres.
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Cain’s Quest Participants are Off to the Races with Support and Well Wishes from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Snowmobile teams from throughout Canada and Europe are making a return to Labrador for the first Cain’s Quest race since 2020. Beginning tomorrow (Saturday, March 4), 31 teams will embark on the challenging adventure through 3,000 kilometres of Labrador’s rugged terrain.
The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and MHA for Cartwright – L’Anse au Clair, will bring greetings at the official race start tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. at Tanya Lake, Labrador City.
Cain’s Quest is the longest snowmobile race in the world, and is one of the most celebrated events in Labrador. It holds an important place in Labrador’s tourism landscape, assisting with rebuilding and revitalizing the industry by attracting teams and viewers from outside the province and country.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has been supporting Cain’s Quest since 2006, and has invested a total of $129,391 this year:
- $80,891 through the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology’s Regional Development Fund;
- $25,000 through the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation’s Tourism Season Extension Program; and
- $23,500 through the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.
Quotes
“It is wonderful to see Cain’s Quest making its triumphant return. This event is a true celebration of Labrador. I am certain participants will enjoy the unique and challenging conditions and the magnificent vistas. Good luck and safe travels!”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Cain’s Quest is a grueling endurance race that showcases the world-class snowmobiling opportunities in Labrador. We proudly support this event, which provides an economic boost to local suppliers and host communities, helping to create community economic development and growth throughout Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“As one of the biggest winter tourism attractions in Labrador, Cain’s Quest is critical to bringing national and international attention to everything Labrador has to offer visitors. Its pristine, natural beauty is the perfect backdrop for winter adventures. I would like to congratulate the event organizers and volunteers and wish the participants a safe and successful race.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“Welcome back, Cain’s Quest, you have been dearly missed! This pre-eminent showcase and celebration of Labrador lifestyle and culture is once again showing the world all of the adventure, excitement and natural wonder that comes with living in Newfoundland and Labrador, and why there really is no place like this place. Best wishes to all competitors for a safe and exciting race.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
“Cain’s Quest demands commitment, resourcefulness and fearlessness from competitors who will be navigating their snow machines to every area of this big, beautiful, snow-covered land. As we approach the race start, excitement is building in every Labrador community, and of course beyond our borders as well. Labradorians and many more are preparing to follow the racers and their Big Land adventure day and night.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
MHA for Cartwright – L’Anse au Clair
“I can tell you from personal experience, there is nothing quite like participating in Cain’s Quest. This race is a thrill like no other, for both the racers, support teams, and fans. As we launch this year’s race we’d like to wish everyone a safe, but thrilling ride through the backcountry.”
Chris Lacey
Board Chair, Cain’s Quest
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Public Advisory: 2023-24 Hunting and Trapping Guide Available Online
The 2023-24 Hunting and Trapping Guide is now available online. The guide provides important information to hunters and trappers about big and small game hunting and trapping in Newfoundland and Labrador, including:
- Message from the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture;
- Hunting and trapping season zones, dates and licence fees;
- 2022 big game draw results and changes/regulations for 2023-24;
- Quota details for individual Moose and Caribou Management Areas, annual big game survey results, and big game density maps;
- Programs including Hunters/Anglers with a Disability; Moose, Caribou and Black Bear Jawbone/Tooth Collection; Hunter and Trapper Education; and youth outreach;
- Safety tips; and
- Contacts to report poaching or other wildlife complaints.
Applications for the 2023-24 big game licence draw are open on the Wildlife Information Management System website until April 28, 2023. For more information, contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025 or 709-729-2630, or email wildlifelicence@gov.nl.ca.
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New Members Appointed to Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel
The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister Responsible for Labour, today announced the appointment of the new members to the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel.
Members of the Panel are:
- Sheilagh Murphy, KC (Chairperson)
- Ronald McCabe (alternate Chairperson)
- John Whelan (alternate Chairperson)
- Earle McCurdy (member)
- Brian Vallis, B.Comm., CPA, CA (member)
- Art Dodd, MBA, CPA, CMA (alternate member)
- Will Reid (alternate member)
The Chairperson and the alternate Chairpersons are appointed for a two-year term and the members and alternate members are each appointed for a one-year term. The members of this panel were recommended through a new selection process, outlined in section 19.1 of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act.
Biographies of the appointees can be found in the backgrounder below.
Established in 2006, the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel is responsible for annually identifying, in consultation with stakeholders, particular fish species for collective bargaining; collecting and disseminating market information; establishing parameters for negotiations; facilitating collective bargaining; setting hearings; and, where necessary, acting as an arbitration panel in setting fish prices when the parties have been unable to agree.
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“I welcome the newly appointed members of the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel. These new members have strong and varied backgrounds in arbitration practices, finance and the fishing industry. Collectively, they will bring diverse skills and extensive experience to the panel.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour
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BACKGROUNDER
Biographical Information for the Members of the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel
Sheilagh Murphy, KC (Chairperson)
Sheilagh Murphy has been a practicing barrister and solicitor in Newfoundland and Labrador since the late 1990s, and has focused her expertise and practice on the provision of neutral labor and employment dispute services as an arbitrator, mediator, and independent workplace investigator.
Ms. Murphy has served as an external adjudicator for the Canada Industrial Relations Board since 2020 and as a Vice-Chair and Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board from 2007 to 2017. She has adjudicated more than 700 labour relations and employment disputes under various provincial and federal legislation, including the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act, the Canada Labour Code, the Labour Relations Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
As a volunteer for her profession, Ms. Murphy served on the provincial executive of the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the Canadian Bar Association, and was elected President in 2006. She concurrently served as a member of the association’s national Board of Directors. Ms. Murphy spent fourteen years on the board of the Canadian Bar Insurance Association (now Lawyers Financial), completing her tenure as Chair from 2017 to 2019 and past chair through 2021. She is currently volunteering as a bencher with the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Ms. Murphy holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick. She was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2014.
Ronald McCabe (Alternate Chairperson)
Ronald W. McCabe is a lawyer with over 40 years practicing in corporate, commercial, securities and regulatory law, throughout Canada, the U.S. and the Caribbean. He has extensive corporate and commercial experience as Vice President and General Counsel with Fortis Inc., Newfoundland Capital Corporation and Air Atlantic. In his current practice, Ronald is counsel with Dawe & Burke.
Mr. McCabe is also a member of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Ministerial Roster of Arbitrators, serves as an Appeal Commissioner for the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Service Pension Plan and is an arbitrator representative on the Labour Management Arbitration Committee.
Additionally, he was nominated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to serve as a Member Roster Panelist to the Canadian Free Trade Agreement.
John Whelan (Alternate Chairperson)
John Whelan was called to the Newfoundland and Labrador Bar in 2009. John has significant experience as General Counsel for a large group of companies within the province, including unionized operations with over 900 employees. John oversaw all labour relations and was the lead negotiator for multiple collective agreements covering a diverse range of operations in the health care sector.
A graduate of the Memorial University School of Business (B.Comm, Finance, Honours.), University of New Brunswick Law, and Queen’s University (Advanced Executive Certificate). Prior to going in-house, Mr. Whelan articled and was an associate at Stewart McKelvey’s St. John’s office.
In addition to his in-house role, Mr. Whelan is a member of the Provincial Court Judges’ Salary and Benefits Tribunal, a former member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board, and a former director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council.
Earle McCurdy (member)
A graduate of Memorial University, Earle McCurdy worked as a reporter for the Evening Telegram from 1973-77 before joining what was then known as Newfoundland Fisherman, Food and Allied Workers (now FFAW) as Editor of the union publication Union Forum. He went on to serve as Secretary-Treasurer of the union from 1980 until 1993, and President from 1993-2014. In 2015, he was elected provincial Leader of the Newfoundland and Labrador New Democratic Party, a position he held until his retirement in 2017.
He also served as President of the Canadian Council of Professional Fish Harvesters, an umbrella organization representing fish harvester groups from across Canada, and from 1993 to 2014 as a member of the National Executive Board of the Canadian Auto Workers (now Unifor).
Mr. McCurdy was also active in a variety of industry, labour and community organizations, including the governing bodies of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour, St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital, Memorial University, Workers Compensation Commission, and the Coalition for Equality. Mr. McCurdy has served one year as a member of the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel.
Brian Vallis, B.Comm., CPA, CA (member)
Mr. Vallis is an experienced entrepreneur, corporate finance professional and Chartered Accountant, with over 30 years of national and international business and corporate financial experience.
Art Dodd, MBA, CPA, CMA (alternate member)
Mr. Dodd is a corporate finance professional with an extensive background in corporate tax, risk management, insurance, financial reporting, cash management, performance management, and merger and acquisitions. Mr. Dodd has extensive experience in the fishery sector in Newfoundland and Labrador, and is well respected across the industry.
Will Reid (alternate member)
Will Reid built his life around the fishery. As a Bonavista native, Mr. Reid spent 20 years working in a fish processing plant. He was elected to the FFAW Executive Board, where he served three terms representing industrial workers prior to assuming the position of Staff Representative. As Staff Representative, he provided servicing to both fish harvesters and fish processing workers across the province. He negotiated collective agreements, represented members at Workers’ Compensation hearings, arbitration hearings, Employment Insurance appeals and Tax Court. He retired from the FFAW in 2017.
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Media Advisory: Premier Furey and Minister Coady Available to Media
The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will be available to media on Monday, March 6 at 9:30 a.m. (NST) to discuss the launch of a European borrowing program.
The virtual availability will take place via Zoom.
A technical briefing for media will take place via Zoom, beginning at 8:30 a.m. (NST). Media are asked to confirm their attendance for both events with Victoria Barbour by 4:00 p.m. this afternoon (Friday, March 3) at victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca.
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Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to attend Prospectors and Developers Association 2023 Conference and Trade Show
The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, is attending the Prospectors and Developers Association Conference 2023 in Toronto, Ontario from Sunday, March 5 to Tuesday, March 7.
More than 30 companies with a Newfoundland and Labrador presence are attending this year. The province has participated in the Prospectors and Developers Association Conference for over 40 years.
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Minister Loveless Announces Unprecedented Investment in Multi-Year Roads Program
Today, the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure announced an unprecedented $225 million will be invested in highway construction in 2023-24 as part of the Provincial Government’s Multi-Year Provincial Roads Plan.
The impacts of climate change and highway safety continue to be significant factors in determining the list of highway construction projects selected for the plan.
In addition, projects are based on criteria such as input from the department’s engineers; commercial, industry, and tourism impacts; traffic volumes; populations serviced; and input from motorists. A public consultation on the multi-year roads plan earlier this winter received 362 suggestions.
The plan outlines a list of highway construction projects planned for the 2023-24 highway construction season and a partial list of projects planned for the 2024-25 season, which will be updated in early 2024.
The plan also includes roads with lower traffic volumes with significant deterioration. More details on these projects can be found in the backgrounder below.
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has begun issuing tenders for road construction work to begin this construction season. Tenders have been issued for projects including:
- A culvert replacement on the Trans-Canada Highway near Port aux Basques;
- Paving on the Trans-Canada Highway between Birchy Narrows and Main Brook Bridge;
- Bridge inspection and design services for bridges on Pitts Memorial Drive (Route 2) and Mount Carmel Road (Route 93);
- Paving of the Trans-Canada Highway between Springdale and Baie Verte;
- Paving sections of Northwest River Road (Route 520) and the approaches to Munik Pone Memorial Bridge on Route 500 in Labrador; and
- Culvert replacements on the Trans-Canada Highway between Pinchgut Lake and Blue Pond.
The department continues to work with the Federal Government on other cost-shared highway transportation projects.
Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.
Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.
Quotes
“An unprecedented $225 million investment in transportation infrastructure and early tenders will result in a productive highway construction season. By working with the engineers in the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, we’ve put together a solid, balanced plan for road construction projects throughout the province. In collaboration with the Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, we’re excited about the improvements we’re planning for this year.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
“Timely, early tenders, a multi-year infrastructure plan along with industry consultation provides the foundation for efficient business planning. It enables contractors to ensure work crews and equipment are ready to begin work at the start of our short construction season and it ensures the efficient utilization of resources and government funding. Early tenders support needed infrastructure being completed on time to the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Jim Organ
Executive Director, Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador
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Learn more
Provincial Roads Plan Outlines Highway Construction Projects for Two Construction Seasons
Provincial Government Seeking Submissions for Updates to Multi-Year Roads Plan
BACKGROUNDER
The multi-year roads plan outlines a full list of road construction projects for the 2023-24 highway construction season and a partial list of projects for 2024-25. Roads included in the plan are based on factors such as climate change, safety; input from the department’s engineers; commercial, industry, and tourism impacts; traffic volumes; populations serviced; and input from motorists.
Route Route Name Description 2023-24 2024-25 1 Trans-Canada Highway Construct new Galway Interchange on TCH
Paving Various Locations Bay St. George South Area
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Media Advisory: Minister Loveless to Provide Update on Multi-Year Roads Plan
Please note: this event will now begin at 1:30 p.m. today (Thursday, March 2).
The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will provide an update on the Provincial Government’s Multi-Year Roads Plan today (Thursday, March 2), beginning at 1:30 p.m.
The media availability will take place at the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Building, 278 LeMarchant Road, St. John’s. Parking at the building is accessible via Bennett Avenue.
Minister Loveless will be joined by Jim Organ, Executive Director, Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.
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