Government of Newfoundland News

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is hosting a FireSmart awareness event to create greater awareness of FireSmart Canada services and programs, and to demonstrate safe FireSmart practices, which reduce the risk of wildfire on residential properties.

The event will take place on Monday, June 12 at 2:30 p.m. at the Paddy’s Pond Forest Management District Office, 220 Paddy’s Pond Road.

This is a media-only event. Media planning to attend are asked to pre-register via email at craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca or telephone 709-637-2923 or cell 709-640-6922.

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The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is very concerned to hear of the increase in hate-motivated attacks on the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, and on inclusive education in this province. We want to emphasize that 2SLGBTQQIA+ rights are children’s rights.

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate operates from a children’s rights framework. Children’s universal human rights are articulated in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Convention is the most universally accepted human rights framework in the world today. Children’s rights are real and meaningful. When these rights are protected and respected, they help children have a better quality of life.

Children and youth have the right to an identity, the right to have their voices heard and taken seriously, the right to information that is important to their well-being, the right to protection from mistreatment, the right to the best healthcare possible, the right to a good quality education that helps them learn to live peacefully and respect other people, and the right to know their rights.

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate affirms the statement recently made by The Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador, that educating children and youth on their gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation is not only helping them identify themselves in this world, but is also raising awareness of human rights, and importantly, children’s rights.

We applaud the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District (NLESD) for creating safe spaces for students to exercise their right to an identity. We strongly support inclusive education and encourage children and youth who feel they have been treated unfairly in a protected area, such as in school, to contact our office for support. Our office is a positive space that welcomes and supports everyone.

For more information on children’s rights, visit our website at: www.childandyouthadvocate.nl.ca/

Contact information:
Office of the Child and Youth Advocate
193 LeMarchant Road
St. John’s, NL A1C 2H5
Telephone: (709) 753-3888
Toll Free: 1-877-753-3888
Fax: (709) 753-3988
Email: office@ocya.nl.ca

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Media contact
Wilma MacInnis
wilmamacinnis@ocya.nl.ca
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with Krista Quinlan, Clerk of the Executive Council, joined members of the public service to celebrate the exceptional contributions of the 2023 recipients of the Public Service Award of Excellence. This year, 49 people are being recognized for their incredible effort to support residents, communities and citizens facing a global humanitarian crisis.

Of the public service employees being celebrated, there are two individuals and four teams. They include:

Individuals:

• Geoff Bailey, Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation; and
• Amanda Garland, Treasury Board Secretariat.

Teams:

• Colonial Building Restoration Team, Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation and Transportation and Infrastructure – Scott Andrews, Blair A. Boland, Kerri Button, John P. Cheeseman, Greg Clarke, Ralph Clemens Jr., William G. Davis, Rob Jacobs, Lynda Keefe, Kim Kieley, Chris Martin, Robert Matthews, Jean McGrath, Leon Murphy, Gerry Osmond, Darrell Pynn, Lisa Reid, Laurie Roche-Lawrence, Natasha Smith, Colleen Soulliere, Katherine Suley, John Trahey and Derrick Walsh;
• Hurricane Fiona Financial Assistance Program Leadership Team, Justice and Public Safety – Corey Greeley, Jamie Kennedy, and Kellee Martin;
• Mail and Messenger Services Team – Malcolm Anderson-White, Dave Buckingham, Danny Campbell, Pat Carbage, Curtis Cook, Meagan Doyle, Richard Gaulton, Amy Hale, Joanne Penton, Keith Power, Kyle Riggs and Sharon Whalen; and
• Ukrainian Family Support Desk Team, Executive Council, Immigration Population Growth and Skills – Allison Day, Sarah Kirby, Darek Nakonieczny, Iwona Nakonieczny, Sheldon Joseph O’Neill, Sonia Parker, Angela Bachan Sidhu, Sophia Rachel Solomon, and Sarah Thompson.

Quotes
“I would like to congratulate the individuals and teams who are receiving the Public Service Award of Excellence today. This year the public service has taken on the challenges facing our province, and also our world, with determination and drive, and the this year’s awards recognize truly remarkable achievements. It is an honour to work with our exceptional public service in support of the people of our great province.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Public Service Award of Excellence is the highest honour an employee can receive from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. I congratulate and thank you for your meaningful contributions and the extraordinary efforts you make as public service employees. It is a great privilege to work with dedicated people who are passionate and focused on excellence in the delivery of services and programs. In addition, thank you to those who took the time to nominate their peers and support the award program.”
Krista Quinlan
Clerk of the Executive Council

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador strives to create a province that is safe, inclusive, and accessible for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. It recognizes that 2SLGBTQQIA+ rights are human rights.

To support these efforts it is important for institutions, including schools, workplaces and other public spaces, to welcome people with diverse backgrounds and beliefs. This is affirmed by Newfoundland and Labrador’s Human Rights Act to ensure the spaces that we live, work and play are safe and inclusive for all.

The K-12 curriculum in the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District and Le Conseil scolaire francophone provincial de Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador teaches and reinforces messages about inclusivity, mutual respect, and kindness. These educational components are vital as we continue to grow an equitable and thriving province based on the social determinants of health and well-being and rooted in a strong sense of belonging.

The Progress Pride flag is currently flying on the courtesy flag pole at Confederation Building as a visual reminder to celebrate the rights of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community and the province’s diversity.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will continue to work to uphold the rights and freedoms of all people throughout the province.

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Office of Women and Gender Equality

Department of Education

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To help further position Newfoundland and Labrador as a stable, responsible supplier of critical minerals, and ensure appropriate policy frameworks are in place to sustainably develop its mineral resources, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is seeking public input on the development of the Newfoundland and Labrador Critical Minerals Strategy. The strategy will help unlock the full potential and maximize the value of the available critical mineral resources; encourage investments in research and development, and green projects; and, establish an enhanced regulatory framework that improves the province’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.

Several options are available for individuals and organizations to participate in the consultations including virtual sessions, an online questionnaire and an opportunity to provide a written submission. For further details, see the enclosed Backgrounder.

Global trends, including the need to reduce emissions and the increasing use of digital technologies, are helping transition the province into an increasingly green and innovative economy. As an essential building block to clean technology products such as wind turbines, solar panels, permanent magnets, and more, critical minerals are vital to this energy and technological transition.

Newfoundland and Labrador has tremendous potential in the area of critical minerals with at least 23 of the 31 critical minerals identified as being essential in clean energy applications. Five of these critical minerals are currently or have recently been mined, and 18 are in advanced exploration.

With exploration expenditures estimated to be over $240 million in 2022, the mining industry continues to deliver employment, minerals, and other social and economic benefits. The Provincial Government is committed to enable and support this work through programming targeted to attract investments and support prospecting, exploration, business development and innovation in the industry.

Quotes
“The demand for critical minerals is increasingly rising across the globe amidst the transition to green economy. Newfoundland and Labrador is well-positioned to maximize this opportunity to secure economic and social benefits for the province. Our government is committed to developing a provincial Critical Minerals Strategy that is inclusive and reflective of the needs of our people and communities while establishing policy frameworks that will attract investments to develop our resource potential.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Newfoundland and Labrador is a major producer of critical minerals, with world-class exploration opportunities underway to support global energy transition. Mining Industry NL looks forward to the discussions, development and implementation of the province’s Critical Minerals Strategy, and see our industry move forward.”
Ed Moriarity
Executive Director
Mining Industry NL.

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EngageNL

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BACKGROUNDER

The Provincial Government will hold consultations with the public on the development of the Critical Minerals Strategy through the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s online engagement platform, engageNL. Consultations through engageNL will run from June to July 14, 2023 and is accessible via www.engagenl.ca.

Potential focus areas for consultations may be around expanding and promoting geoscience, enhancing prospecting and exploration opportunities, supply chain opportunities, ensuring access to a skilled workforce, enhancing strategic infrastructure, to highlight a few.

How to Provide Input

Virtual Sessions (Pre-Registration Required):

• June 19, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.
• June 21, 2023 at 9:30 a.m.
• July 5, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.

Interested participants and/or observers must register at least two days prior to the session date through the Eventbrite link on the EngageNL website.

Online Questionnaire
Public input can also be provided through the online questionnaire available on the Department’s website until July 14, 2023. The questionnaire is estimated to take approximately 30 minutes and can be accessed through the EngageNL website.

Written Submissions

Written contributions can be submitted as a document by July 14, 2023, via:

• Email at EngageCriticalMinerals@gov.nl.ca
• Or mail to the attention of:

Tammy Walters
Mineral Development Division
Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
50 Elizabeth Avenue
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6

All feedback collected through this public consultation process will be considered as part of the development of the Newfoundland and Labrador Critical Minerals Strategy. Further targeted consultations will be held with industry stakeholders and Indigenous Governments and Organizations.

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Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King, Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, is pleased to host a meeting of the Council at Mill River, Prince Edward Island on June 12. Premier King will be joined by his colleagues, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs, and Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dr. Andrew Furey.

Information for Media
A news conference with the Atlantic Premiers will be held at 1:00 p.m. on June 12 in Winston’s Lounge at the Mill River Resort. Media have the option to attend the news conference in-person or virtually.

Please note that:

• All media representatives, including journalists, photographers, camera operators, and technicians, are required to register by submitting their name, affiliation, and contact information by 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 11 to Morgan Martin mxmartin@gov.pe.ca
• Please indicate whether you plan to attend in-person or virtually. If you plan to attend virtually, please indicate whether you would like to be called upon to ask a question. Please note that we will attempt to call upon as many journalists as possible, depending on time constraints.
• Only registered media will receive updates to the meeting schedule and media opportunities via email or text message.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will participate in the 34th annual Baie Verte Mining Conference this evening (Friday, June 9).

The formal supper event takes place at the Tommy Ricketts Arena, Laura Lewis Avenue, Baie Verte, with Minister Parsons scheduled to speak at 7:00 p.m.

The Baie Verte Peninsula Chamber of Commerce promotes the economic development of the Baie Verte Peninsula by encouraging entrepreneurs to pursue potential business opportunities.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will recognize this year’s recipients of the Public Service Award of Excellence at a ceremony tomorrow (Friday, June 9). Premier Furey will be joined by Krista Quinlan, Clerk of the Executive Council.

The ceremony will take place at the Arts and Culture Centre, St. John’s at 2:00 p.m.

Media who wish to attend are required to RSVP by contacting Jillian Hood at jillianhood@gov.nl.ca by 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 9.

The event will be livestreamed on YouTube.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-027 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-2023-027 Report Date: June 6, 2023 Public Body: Eastern Health Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to Eastern Health for records related to an ambulance call on November 13, 2022. In response, Eastern Health provided email records, audio recordings, and call summaries responsive to the request. As the Complainant believed there was missing correspondence and that a reasonable search was not conducted, they filed a complaint with this Office. After review of submissions, the Commissioner concluded Eastern Health conducted a reasonable search and met its duty to assist as required by section 13 of ATIPPA, 2015.

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

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-026 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-2023-026 Report Date: June 6, 2023 Public Body: Town of Holyrood Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Town of Holyrood. After receiving limited records in response, the Complainant filed a complaint with OIPC alleging that the Town of Holyrood had not responded adequately. Upon being notified by this Office of the complaint, the Town, on its own initiative, conducted a new and more thorough search and discovered additional responsive records. The Town’s initial search did not meet the duty to assist as required by ATIPPA, 2015; however, its subsequent search did. The Commissioner recommended that the Town develop directions to provide for more organized and complete searches, to review its policies for communicating with Complainants, and to attend and participate in access to information and privacy training.

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

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Today is World Oceans Day, a special day dedicated to celebrating our oceans and the many benefits they provide while raising awareness about actions that we can all take to help protect the world’s marine environments.

The Newfoundland and Labrador World Oceans Day Planning Committee have several in-person and virtual fun-filled, educational ocean-themed events scheduled during Oceans Week. Officials from the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture are members of the Newfoundland and Labrador World Oceans Day Planning Committee, along with representatives from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Parks Canada, World Wildlife Fund Canada, Canadian Parks Wilderness Society – NL Chapter, and the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University.

This year, the committee welcomes the return to in-person events, including the World Oceans Day Celebration at Marine Institute, 155 Ridge Road, St. John’s, on Saturday, June 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This fun-filled all ages event includes games, contests, activities, demonstrations, music and is free for the whole family. A list of more in-person and virtual events and activities is available on the World Oceans Day NL Facebook page.

The World Oceans Day NL Facebook page will also showcase the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture 2023 World Oceans Day Art Contest entries. This year, 671 submissions were received from pre-K to grade 12 students throughout the province. Category winners are listed in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“Congratulations to all the 2023 World Oceans Day Art Contest Winners! I’d like to extend a big thank you to the staff members of our department and the entire World Oceans Day Committee for their hard work creating greater awareness about our ocean ecosystems. I am confident the exciting events will encourage residents, particularly our youth, to help to protect and sustain our vulnerable marine environments now and in the future.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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World Oceans Day NL Facebook Page

World Oceans Day

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BACKGROUNDER

2023 World Oceans Day Art Contest Winners

• Noseworthy – Kindergarten – MSB Regional Academy in Middle Arm
• Young – Grade 1 – École des Grands-Vents in St. John’s
• Li -Grade 2 – Larkhall Academy in St. John’s
• Brake – Grade 3 – Jakeman All Grade in Trout River
• Beaulieu – Grade 4  – Gross Morne Academy in Rocky Harbour
• Ali – Grade 5 – Riverside Elementary in Clareville
• Manuel – Grade 6 – Bay d’Espoir Academy in St. Albans
• Annanack – Grade 7 – William Gillett Academy in Charlottetown
• Durnford – Grade 8 – Burgeo Academy in Burgeo
• Bowles – Grade 9 – Burgeo Academy in Burgeo
• Fudge – Grade 10 – Bay d’Espoir Academy in St. Albans
• Lushman – Grade 11 – Burgeo Academy in Burgeo

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The Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Local Government held their annual meeting in Ottawa this week and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting local governments, collaborating on shared priorities, and building strong and vibrant communities.

The Ministers discussed key policy changes and innovations occurring in their respective jurisdictions to advance their shared priorities, including local governance, planning for climate change adaptation and associated local infrastructure, and increasing housing supply as well as local services to support growth.

“It was a pleasure to welcome my fellow Ministers responsible for Local Government to Ottawa,” said Steve Clark, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and 2022-23 Chair of the Provincial-Territorial Table of Ministers Responsible for Local Government. “This was an excellent opportunity for us to learn from each other, reflect on our experiences, and discuss best practices which will allow provinces and territories to advance key shared priorities, including increased housing supply.”

The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Federal Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, attended part of the meeting at the invitation of PT ministers. The Provincial and Territorial Ministers reaffirmed their shared Principles Underlying Federal Government Initiatives Regarding Municipalities. These Principles include reinforcing the importance of predictable federal infrastructure funding. Ministers took the opportunity to remind their federal counterpart of the need for formal consultation and engagement with PTs on federal initiatives and programs that impact local governments.

“Provincial and territorial governments will continue to advocate on behalf of our local partners and work with the federal government to ensure we have the necessary resources and tools required to overcome any challenges,” said Minister Clark.

The Provincial and Territorial Ministers also identified common priorities for the year ahead. These include climate change adaptation, addressing growth and sustainability and infrastructure funding.

The next Provincial and Territorial Ministers meeting will be held in June 2024 and chaired by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs. “I look forward to welcoming colleagues to our province in June 2024 to discuss current and emerging priorities and our shared work to build strong, sustainable communities,” said Minister Howell.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the City of St. John’s are providing funding of $180,000 to the Downtown Safety Coalition, which is working to increase safety and improve visitors’ experience in the downtown St. John’s core.

The safety and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians is extremely important and the Provincial Government continues to work with its partners to ensure this province is a safe one to live, work and raise a family.

With $100,000 from the Department of Justice and Public Safety and $80,000 from the City of St. John’s, this funding will be used in part on a public education campaign to increase reporting of crime. This will build on the work already being done to provide staff and patrons of the area with a safe environment, as well as, address and deter violence and criminal activity.

The Downtown Safety Coalition is a working group formed to tackle the complex issue of safety in downtown St. John’s. The Coalition, which includes representatives of the RNC, Downtown St. John’s, the George Street Association, the City of St. John’s, Destination St. John’s, Hospitality NL, Music NL and the Provincial Government, have come together to share experiences, feedback, and align to address the matter of safety.

Quotes
“We appreciate the work of the Downtown Safety Coalition and are committed to continuing to work with the community and our partners as we all work towards a safer St. John’s for all residents and visitors. We believe the right people are engaged to address the concerns of residents of the community and continue to encourage residents to contact police if they notice any suspicious activity.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“The City of St. John’s has been pleased to participate in the Downtown Safety Coalition. We feel this is an excellent start on tackling this complex issue. We have committed $80,000 to ensure that the ‘See it, Say it’ marketing campaign designed to promote the reporting of suspected crimes or safety concerns can be implemented.”
Mayor Danny Breen
City of St. John’s

“To stand shoulder-to-shoulder with many hard-working entities who are aligned and committed to improving safety, via shared investment in various long term and pilot initiatives, is a historic moment of its own. Some projects will come together fast while others will need more time. For now, this announcement marks a new day for our downtown, where the time and attention of many have come together in a significant way to address a matter of improving safety for all.”
Board of the George Street Association
Project Leader of the Downtown Safety Coalition

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The Department of Education is holding public consultation sessions throughout the province to seek input and recommendations on the development of an Early Learning Action Plan, including a legislative review of the Child Care Act and regulations.

The province has been strengthening its efforts to create an affordable, accessible, and quality early learning system in Newfoundland and Labrador. Additional information can be found in backgrounder below.

Public consultations on the Early Learning Action Plan offers an opportunity for those in the early learning and child care sector, stakeholders and the public, to provide input and feedback on programs and legislation, and how they can be improved to meet the needs of children and families in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In-person consultation sessions are scheduled to take place across the province, starting June 12 until June 27. A full schedule is available in the backgrounder below.

To reserve a seat at any of the in-person sessions, or if there are accommodations required please email ELCCLegreview@gov.nl.ca. All feedback received will be evaluated and considered by the department during the review.

Written submissions are accepted during that time frame and may be sent to either of the following:

Mail:   Department of Education
3rd Floor, West Block
Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL   A1B 4J6

Email: ELCCLegreview@gov.nl.ca

Fax:    709-729-1400

As part of the consultation process, a survey on early learning is also being conducted. It can be found here.

Quote
“It is important that those closest to the early learning sector have their thoughts and ideas known as we build the child care landscape in the province. Parents and members of the public also have valid concerns and ideas that are welcome during this time of review. I encourage everyone to attend an in-person session and share what improvements you would like to see to help children and families.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

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BACKGROUNDER

Early Learning Action Plan Consultation Schedule

Date: Location: Venue: Time: June 12 Gander College of the North Atlantic 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 13 Marystown Keyin College 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 14 Bay Roberts Keyin College 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 15 St. John’s College of the North Atlantic 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 19 Corner Brook Academy Canada 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 20 Stephenville Keyin College 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 21 Grand Falls-Windsor College of the North Atlantic 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. July 4

(TBC) Happy Valley-Goose Bay College of the North Atlantic 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Early Learning Capacity Building Initiatives

• $10-a-day child care was introduced on January 1. More than 8,000 child are currently availing of $10 a day child care in the province.
• A new wage grid for early childhood educators was introduced with an increase for all levels based on $25 per hour for Level II ECEs.
• Early childhood educators received a recognition bonus and a wage grid delay payment.
• Funding was provided to the College of the North Atlantic, Keyin College and Academy Canada to expand the number of seats they can offer in early learning programs. These agreements will see an increase of over 700 seats at the end of this year.
• Bursaries are available to early childhood education students at post-secondary institutions in the province.
• The Department of Education is working on the development of a recruitment and retention plan for early childhood educators.
• A pre-Kindergarten pilot program that will see 35 sites open up by the end of this year has been introduced.
• The Department has provided funding to the Family and Child Care Connections Agency to expand their family home operations into Labrador and Central Newfoundland.
• Funding under the Child Care Capacity Grant has be increased to $7,000 per created space for not-for-profit groups and municipalities.
• Funding under the Family Child Care Capacity Grant has increased to up to $15,000 with an escalating service commitment.

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will attend the opening of the Trades NL Office for Indigenous and Northern Skilled Trades in Corner Brook with two events to be held the morning of Thursday, June 8.

A ribbon cutting will take place at Suite 202, Commerce Court, 50 Main Street, beginning at 10:00 a.m. This will be followed by a reception at the Grenfell Centre for Research and Innovation, 1 Mill Road, at 11:00 a.m. Minister Byrne will be joined by Trades NL Executive Director Darin King, Indigenous and community leaders, and other invited guests.

This grand opening follows the February 16, 2023 announcement of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador providing $910,649 to fund the expansion of the Office for Indigenous and Northern Skilled Trades to Corner Brook and St. John’s and maintain the existing office in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. This expansion enables the office to serve more status and non-status Indigenous peoples interested in seeking employment opportunities in skilled trades.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has approved $89,000 in one-time funding to support the Roots of Empathy Program for 2023-24.

The Roots of Empathy Program’s mission is to build caring, peaceful and civil societies through the development of empathy in children and adults. In doing so, Roots of Empathy addresses the root causes of challenging behaviours in children by fostering the development of social and emotional competence and self-regulation.

This evidence-based program is delivered to elementary school children in Newfoundland and Labrador who are coached to recognize and connect with the vulnerability and humanity of a baby who visits their classroom throughout the school year with their parent(s), along with a trained Roots of Empathy instructor.

In alignment with government’s commitment in Health Accord NL and Our Path of Resilience to invest in children and youth, this funding will help support the continued success of the Roots of Empathy Program, which has benefited more than 30,600 children in over 155 schools in Newfoundland and Labrador since its launch in this province in 2001.

Quotes
“Our government is happy to support this long-running program and its goal of fostering social and emotional health and well-being in children and youth. This support, which aligns with recommendations from Health Accord NL and Our Path of Resilience, furthers our commitment to improving the health of residents across the province.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Thank you to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for your continued support to bringing Roots of Empathy to children equitably across the province. Your grant will allow us to continue training volunteer instructors to deliver the program and will provide them with the curriculum, learning materials and valuable mentoring support. Almost 31,000 children have received the program since 2001 and more than 1220 babies have been ‘Tiny Teachers’ helping children to develop empathy. The children in the classroom of today are the leaders and the parents of tomorrow. Supporting the development of empathy in young people is one of the wisest decisions a society can make.”
Mary Gordon
Founder/President, Roots of Empathy

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Roots of Empathy

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The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety will announce funding for the Downtown Safety Coalition tomorrow (Thursday, June 8).

The event will take place at Loose Tie, 14 George Street, St. John’s at 9:30 a.m.

Minister Hogan will be joined by Minister of Health and Community Services, Tom Osborne, Minister of Children, Seniors, and Social Development, John G. Abbott, and Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Bernard Davis and His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of St. John’s.

The Downtown Safety Coalition includes representatives of the RNC, Downtown St. John’s, the George Street Association, City of St. John’s, Destination St. John’s, Hospitality NL, Music NL and Provincial Government.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, today announced that a request for proposals has been issued for the creation of new affordable homes in the province’s rental market. This request for proposals builds on the more than 1,000 housing options that have been created over the last two years and further highlights the ongoing commitment to increase access to safe and affordable housing, and ultimately improving health and social outcomes for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

A technical briefing for media will be held at 2:30 p.m. today (Wednesday, June 7), in the 3rd Floor Boardroom, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation Head Office, 2 Canada Drive, St. John’s, to discuss the request for proposals for the new Affordable Rental Housing Program. Minister Abbott will be available to speak with the media immediately following the briefing.

Media planning to participate are asked to confirm their attendance with Jenny Bowring at jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca.

Budget 2023 included a $70 million investment for a new, three-year, Affordable Rental Housing Program. The program will provide one-time capital funding in the form of a forgivable loan to support the development of more than 850 new affordable rental homes throughout the province. These new homes will be developed through partnerships with the private and community housing sectors. The program will focus on supporting seniors, as well as other vulnerable populations, including young adults, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, newcomers, women and children fleeing violence and people experiencing homelessness.

The proposal call and guidelines for both the Private Sector stream and a Community Housing Sector stream are available here. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will also be hosting live webinars over the next two weeks to review program details and to be available to answer questions. A recorded webinar will also be made available on the Corporation’s website. Interested proponents may contact: Jennifer Knight at jlknight@nlhc.nl.ca to register for a webinar session.

Quotes
“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes the opportunity to partner with our private and community housing sectors to develop affordable rental housing and support increased economic activity throughout the province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“The Canadian Home Builders’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is thrilled with the announcement of the new Affordable Housing Program. This initiative is vital and we are thankful for the opportunity to provide feedback on the program. CHBA-NL looks forward to continuing to work with our government and its stakeholders to achieve the program’s goals.”
Alexis Foster
Chief Executive Officer
Canadian Home Builders Association-Newfoundland and Labrador

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BACKGROUNDER

Fact Sheet: Investment in Affordable Housing

Program Overview
The Affordable Rental Housing Program provides one-time capital funding in the form of a forgivable loan to assist in the creation of affordable rental housing units throughout the province. The program is funded by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation.

There are two distinct application streams – the Private Sector Stream and the Community Housing Sector Stream. Successful proponents will own and manage their project and rent to lower income households at or below rates established by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. These rates will be based on annual rental market reports published by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Program Criteria Private Sector Stream Community Housing Sector Stream Eligible Proponents Private Owners/Operators Non-Profit Organizations

Housing Co-operatives

Indigenous Organizations Funding Per Unit $55,000-$95,000 $125,000-$180,000 Affordability Period 15-20 years 25-30 years Max. Household Incomes $42,000 $38,000 Application Window Round 1: June-Aug. 31, 2023 Open-ended (subject to change)

What determines the funding level?
The funding amount is derived from a combination of project location and incentive criteria designed to encourage viable projects and target desired program outcomes. An online self-assessment tool is available here to help determine the level of available financial assistance.

• Geographical Location: Location impacts the capital cost of an affordable housing project as the value and availability of land, labour and materials vary throughout the province. Project regions are assigned for Labrador, St. John’s CMA and Island Communities.
• Duration of Affordability: Projects that commit to a longer period of affordable rents will receive additional financial incentives.

• Energy Efficiency: Projects that exceed minimum energy efficiency requirements will further reduce heating costs for tenants and will receive additional financial incentives.

• Accessibility of Units: Projects that exceed minimum accessibility requirements will receive additional financial incentives.
• Proximity to Healthcare: Locating affordable housing units in close proximity to healthcare amenities will receive additional financial incentives.

Housing projects that support the development of age-friendly communities enable Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, including older adults with disabilities, to age in place with dignity and autonomy. For example, housing projects that include social or well-being multipurpose areas, inside and/or outdoors, contribute to age friendly design. Please contact the Affordable Housing Manager at arhp@nlhc.nl.ca or 709-724-3059 to discuss potential options for incorporating these elements, including related costs, within your project.

Additional Program Details

• Projects may be developed through new construction, conversion of a non‐residential building or an addition to an existing residential structure.
• Projects must have a minimum of four units.
• Funding is available for up to a maximum of 20 units for the Community Housing Sector Stream. To incentivize mixed-income models, the Private Sector Stream may receive per unit funding for the first 10 units of a project and 50 per cent of the units thereafter, up to the maximum of 20 funded units. For example, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will provide per unit funding on the first 15 units in a 20-unit project, 18 units in a 26-unit project, or 20 units in a 30-unit project. Units not funded by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation would not be considered part of the Affordable Rental Housing Program and may be rented at market rates.
• The maximum monthly rental rates are established by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, based upon the rental market reports developed annually by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The following rates are applicable as of June 2023:

Rate Type Private Sector Rates Community Housing Sector Rates Bedroom Bachelor 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR Bachelor 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR St. John’s CMA $665 $730 $880 $840 $585 $645 $775 $740 Island Communities $650 $700 $795 $820 $575 $620 $705 $725 Labrador $665 $730 $880 $840 $585 $645 $775 $740

 

• Projects must adhere to the technical requirements outlined in the request for proposals document, including visitable, universal design and accessibility requirements, in addition to all applicable building codes. Units must be of modest criteria and be self-contained residential units with a private kitchen and bathroom facilities. Institutional premises and personal care homes are not eligible.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will secure the forgivable loan with a registered mortgage, amortized over the life of the affordability period and operating agreement with the proponent.
• Proponent submissions will be evaluated for demonstrated housing need and amenities available in their selected community to support the project, the capacity to deliver and manage the project, and the financial viability and sustainability of the project.
• Full program guidelines are available for both the Private Sector and Community Housing Sector proposal calls.

How to Apply

• Both Private and Community Housing Sector Stream applications will be available on the Programs sections of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s website with directions on how to complete and submit your proposal.
• Interested proponents may contact the Manager of Affordable Housing at arhp@nlhc.nl.ca or 709-724-3059 for more information or assistance in responding to the proposal call.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, and Minister Responsible for the Community Sector, will bring remarks at the 2023 Fundraising Day, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter tomorrow (Wednesday, June 7) at 12:45 p.m.

The event will take place at the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network, 77 Charter Avenue, St. John’s.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals is an international association of fundraising professionals which promotes philanthropy and high ethical standards in fundraising and non-profit management through advocacy, research, education, and professional development certification programs.

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The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has issued an open call for bids for the demolition of the nurses’ residence at the site of the former Grace Hospital on LeMarchant Road in St. John’s.

The scope of work includes hazardous material abatement and disposal, pest control, building demolition, site security, and removal of building service lines. Professional services associated with abatement and safe removal of materials and structures will also be part of the contract.

The tender is scheduled to close on June 21, 2023. The department anticipates awarding a contract early in July.

Budget 2023 includes $7.8 million for the planning of a new hospital to replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital and a new Cardiovascular and Stroke Institute, as well as the demolition of the nurses’ residence at the former Grace Hospital site which is being further assessed as a possible location for the new health infrastructure.

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

Quote
“The demolition of the nurses’ residence at the former Grace Hospital site has been a priority for our government, and we are now moving forward with a public tender to bring this commitment to fruition. We recognize the dilapidated state of the building and are pleased the structure will be removed and the site will be brought to a state where it can be considered for future use.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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