Government of Newfoundland News

In recognition of Well-Being Week, the Provincial Government is making a combined $30,000 investment in four community organizations to help them improve their ability to support the health and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

• Food Producers Forum – $10,000 to support a strategic planning session with members and agriculture stakeholders to identify priorities and opportunities for the organization. The organization supports the expansion of local food production and distribution across the province through their Provincial Food Network. They also provide information and services to help Newfoundland and Labrador food producers move toward food security.
• The Canadian Mental Health Association – $8,400 for organizational governance training and a strategic planning workshop to explore potential social enterprise opportunities. The association provides access to resources needed to maintain and improve mental health, support community integration, build resilience, and aid recovery from mental illness. By providing mental health training and support in the workplace, the association helps reduce workplace stress, improves employee productivity, and decreases absenteeism and turnover rates.
• Thrive Community Youth Network – $1,600 to support a strategic planning workshop to explore potential social enterprise models for the organization. The organization’s mandate is to help vulnerable individuals achieve their full potential and enhance the capacity of social serving agencies. They provide support and services to resilient youth and young adults who live in poverty and have limited access to mainstream programs and services and youth service providers within the St. John’s Metro Region.
• SmartICE – $10,000 for the delivery of risk management and strategic planning modules to assist with a foundational review and renewal of their strategic directions. The organization is a community-oriented social enterprise offering a suite of climate change adaptation tools designed to incorporate sea-ice monitoring data with local Indigenous knowledge of sea ice conditions, which can contribute to more informed decisions regarding safe land, water, and sea-ice use.

Well-being isn’t just about physical activity, it’s a fundamental part of a person’s overall health and can include everything from physical, mental, social, economic and environmental factors.  The work being carried out by these groups is directly contributing to the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians by working to improve aspects such as access to good food, mental health resources, social connection and safety.

The funding is through the Community Capacity Building Program, which assists groups by enhancing skills essential to regional economic planning, development and implementation. The program offers capacity building modules, planning sessions, and industry development sessions to interested stakeholders with a clear link to economic and business development.

Since April 2023, the Provincial Government has supported 82 projects under the Community Capacity Building Program through an investment of almost $400,000.

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“This assistance from the Community Capacity Building program will support these groups in carrying out activities and workshops that will ultimately have positive impacts on their efforts to improve the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. We are pleased to collaborate with these organizations to do this important work.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Community Capacity Building Program

Food Producers Forum

The Canadian Mental Health Association NL

Thrive Community Youth Network

SmartICE

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Submissions are now being accepted for one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most prestigious arts and cultural recognition initiatives – the annual Arts and Letters Award Program.

The Arts and Letters Awards Program encourages the creation of new works of art by both professional and non-professional artists of all ages in Newfoundland and Labrador. The program provides an opportunity to submit works for adjudication and recognizes excellence through the awarding of monetary prizes and the exhibition of meritorious entries, where appropriate and feasible. Original creative work in literature, music, visual art, and media arts are eligible.

In addition to the regular awards program, this year’s Arts and Letters Awards Program includes a one-time, multidisciplinary Confederation 75 category. As the Province commemorates the 75th anniversary of Confederation, artists are invited to create and submit works that reflect the impact of Confederation and/or our relationship with Canada.

The submission deadline for this year’s competition is November 20, 2024. The deadline for the special Confederation 75 category is December 2, 2024.

Applications and further information on the program can be found here.

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“The Arts and Letters Awards Program celebrates the accomplishments of Newfoundland and Labrador’s artists – both young and old, established and emerging. This longstanding and cherished cultural program inspires creative expression and has advanced our culture immensely. It is my hope that the multidisciplinary Confederation 75 category will inspire creativity, reflection and a deeper understanding of both our national and provincial identities. Arts and heritage, in all forms, are a vital part of the province’s success stories and we are beyond proud to support this creative process and program year over year.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Arts and Letters Awards Program

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced a call for proposals for a new Community Violence Prevention Grants Program that will see $525,000 distributed to groups and organizations throughout the province in 2024-25.

Funding for the program is made possible through a $13.6-million, four-year bilateral agreement with Women and Gender Equality Canada under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence.

The program’s objectives support targeted and community-driven efforts, led by community partners within Newfoundland and Labrador, to address the complex root causes of gender-based violence, violence against women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, particularly those living in rural areas, and to help reduce underlying risk factors that lead to harm and victimization.

Projects must be related to community-based violence prevention, to a maximum request of $50,000.

Consideration will be given to proposals that focus on:

• Building community support networks, especially at the regional and/or municipal levels.
• Supporting survivors, their families, and their communities.
• Engaging men and boys in gender-based violence prevention.
• Ending the normalization of violence within communities.
• Addressing stigma against gender-based violence.
• Promoting healing and mental well-being of those impacted by gender-based violence.

Program guidelines, criteria, application form and contact information can be found here. Applications must be submitted to the provincial Office of Women and Gender Equality on or before October 21, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Newfoundland Time.

Quotes
“As we launch this new Community Violence Prevention Program, we take a critical step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. This program represents our collective commitment to addressing the root causes of violence, providing support for those affected, and fostering safer, stronger communities. Together, we will create a future where every person can thrive, free from fear and harm.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Survivors of gender-based violence deserve timely support, and I am proud that the investments from the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence will support groups and organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador to do just that. This is proof that when governments work together, we can create a more inclusive, safe and equal place to live for women, girls, and all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Marci Ien
Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

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Office of Women and Gender Equality

National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence

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A new hip fracture unit is being established at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital, which will improve the way patients receive care while recovering from hip repair surgery.

The new unit will help reduce the current surgical backlog and surgical wait times in the province and aligns with the Seniors’ Health and Well-Being Plan, which focuses on improving seniors’ well-being and supporting healthy aging.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be available to media today, Tuesday, September 24, at 12:00 noon in Confederation Building, East Block, to discuss the new unit. Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors, and Social Development, Dr. Angela Bussey, Clinical Chief of Surgical Services, NL Health Services – Eastern Urban Zone, and Dr. Pat Parfrey, Deputy Minister of Health Transformation.

Hip fracture repairs are urgent, and surgeries can result in cancellation of other planned surgeries. Dedicating a unit for patients recovering from hip fracture surgeries will create capacity that will reduce length of stay. NL Health Services anticipates the unit will help decrease elective surgery cancellations by 100 per year.

Currently, patients with hip fractures can be admitted to any surgical floor in the hospital. Establishing the new 12-bed dedicated hip fracture unit at the hospital will ensure health care professionals will be able to provide best practices for patients recovering from hip surgery in one unit rather than multiple areas of the hospital.

NL Health Services anticipates approximately 530 hip fractures to occur in the province by the end of the year. This number is estimated to increase to 800 annually due to an increase in the average age of residents.

The Surgical Backlog Task Force provided 32 recommendations to reduce the surgical backlog in the province in August 2023.

Quotes
“This is another step our government is taking to improve health care for patients. Units dedicated to hip fractures have been introduced in other hospitals across Canada and have led to a reduction in length of hospital stay and improved access to hip fracture repair. With the new unit, health care professionals will be able to provide even better care for patients recovering from hip fractures. This new unit, and other initiatives such as the travelling orthopedic program and same-day fly-in/fly-out service, is helping improve access to surgery for patients in our province.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Initiatives by our government are helping to reduce wait times and leading to patients getting the surgeries they need sooner than they had anticipated. We continue to work with NL Health Services and the province’s health care professionals to implement recommendations from Health Accord NL and the Provincial Surgical Task Force, which is creating a more efficient health care system.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“A dedicated, specialized hip fracture unit at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital will allow for a multidisciplinary team approach to hip fracture management and a smoother recovery for our patients. At Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, we focus on patient-centered care that helps individuals regain function, independence, and mobility after surgery. This hip fracture unit will streamline services, improve communication across the patient’s care continuum, and support the patient and their families in a comprehensive way. It is a pivotal step forward in transforming health care delivery for our older adult population.”
Dr. Angela Bussey
Clinical Chief of Surgical Services, NL Health Services – Eastern Urban Zone

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Learn more
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Taking Action to Reduce Surgical Wait Times

Provincial Surgical Backlog Task Force Report

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The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-042 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 https://www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report:  A-2024-042 Report Date: September 23, 2024 Public Body: Department of Environment and Climate Change Summary: The Complainant made an access request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Environment and Climate Change. The Department did not respond to the request within the timeframe required by section 16 of the Act. Section 16 says that a failure to respond by the deadline is considered to be a refusal of access, so the Complainant asked the Commissioner to investigate the Department’s deemed refusal. The Commissioner found that the Department had not complied with its obligation under the Act, in particular section 16 (time limit for final response). A final response to the access request was provided to the Complainant during the informal resolution period, 80 business days after the request had been made to the Department. The Commissioner recommended that the Department maintain communication with applicants and comply with its statutory duties in the future.

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

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, and the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, are pleased to announce the Confederation 75 Teachers Institute on Parliamentary Democracy.

Complementing commemorations for the 75th anniversary of Confederation, the inaugural professional development and learning opportunity for educators focused on democracy, governance and citizenship will take place in St. John’s from November 25 to 27, 2024.

The Teachers Institute provides a unique opportunity for educators to experience first-hand the inner workings of parliament and the broader structure of government, gain insight into the role of elected officials and exchange best practices with peers in the focal point of democracy in our province.

Participating educators return to the classroom with renewed energy to share the knowledge gained with students and colleagues, helping to increase engagement with parliament for people in areas who cannot readily visit the Legislature in person, and increase awareness respecting democracy, governance and citizenship.

The Teachers Institute is open to educators in grades Kindergarten to 12 across Newfoundland and Labrador, and successful applicants will be eligible for the coverage of travel costs associated with participation in the program. Further information is available on the House of Assembly website, including the application form. The deadline to apply is October 20, 2024.

Quotes
“As Speaker of the House of Assembly, I’m pleased to join with the Ministers of Education and Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation in announcing the Confederation 75 Teachers Institute on Parliamentary Democracy, an initiative that will provide educators of our province a unique professional development opportunity. Outreach and education are key pillars of democracy, and teachers play an invaluable role in providing knowledge of governance and citizenship to the youth of our province. I encourage those educators who are interested in learning more about parliament and our Legislature to apply for this exciting opportunity.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly

“It is important that educators in the province have opportunities to engage with the Legislature and foster an understanding of governance, democracy, and citizenship. This initiative will be a positive experience for those who participate, and I am sure that each educator will return to the classroom to enhance learning for students. I thank the Speaker of the House of Assembly for implementing this initiative and encourage educators to apply.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“What better time to launch the inaugural Teachers Institute on Parliamentary Democracy than during the 75th anniversary of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Confederation with Canada. Confederation was a pinnacle moment in our province’s history and this educational program will be a fantastic resource for educators and a legacy of this year’s anniversary celebrations.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Confederation 75 Teachers Institute on Parliamentary Democracy
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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today declared Newfoundland and Labrador as Canada’s first Well-Being Province. Becoming Canada’s first Well-Being Province solidifies the targeted approach that the Provincial Government is placing on the factors that contribute to the well-being of residents and communities. As a Well-Being Province, the Provincial Government, communities, businesses, and organizations will be leaders in implementing a well-being-based approach in their policies and programs.

Premier Furey made the announcement at the Colonial Building in St. John’s where he was joined by Colin Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Sector Council.

Well-being encompasses the physical, mental, social, economic and environmental factors that contribute to a person’s health. These factors are known as the social determinants of health, and include such things as:

• Access to safe housing, good food and clean water;
• Financial and economic security;
• Quality education; and
• Equality, social connection, and safety.

To improve health outcomes, the Provincial Government has launched a Poverty Reduction Plan, a Seniors’ Health and Well-Being Plan, family care teams, disability benefits, as well as invested in such things as accessible housing, child care, and clean water.

Through a well-being-based approach to policy and decision making the Provincial Government will continue its commitment towards improving the overall well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians through the implementation of programs that target the social determinants of health.

Over the course of Well-Being Week, residents are encouraged to participate in the wide-ranging engaging, social, and educational events that are scheduled to take place across the province and learn more about how the social determinants of health contribute to their health and well-being. The list of events can be found here.

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“Becoming Canada’s first Well-Being Province is a significant moment for Newfoundland and Labrador. By placing well-being at the forefront of policy and decision-making we will improve health outcomes for all residents. Today’s declaration strengthens our resolve to achieving our goal of becoming one of Canada’s healthiest provinces by 2031 and reducing our reliance on the provincial health care system.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Why is Well-being Important?

What does Well-being Mean to You?

Why is Well-being important for your health?

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Backgrounder
Well–Being Week is an initiative to create further awareness of the importance of well-being, how it affects an individual’s daily life, and how it can bring positive change to the social factors that contribute to a person’s overall health outcomes and quality of life. As health outcomes are influenced by more than health care, the province has made record investments with significant work underway to support the social determinants of health and highlight the importance of well-being.

This includes the following actions:

• A New Public Health Framework
• Seniors’ Health and Well-Being Plan
• Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit
• Improving Access to Early Learning and Child Care
• Education Accord NL
• Inclusive and Accessible Communities
• Housing
• Poverty Reduction
• Health Care Action

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The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-041 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 https://www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/reports/.

Report:         A-2024-041
Report Date: September 20, 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. The Department did not respond to the request in the timeframe required by section 16 of the Act and was deemed to have refused access. The Complainant made a complaint to this Office. The Commissioner found the Department had not complied with its obligations under the Act, in particular sections 13 (duty to assist) and 16 (time limit for final response). The Commissioner recommended the Department respond to the Complainant’s request without further delay, comply with its statutory duties in the future, apply for extensions when necessary, provide updates to applicants if deadlines are missed, provide periodic partial disclosure with appropriate, and provide a final response to the request within 10 business days of receipt of this Report.

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Media Contact:

Sean Murray
Director of Research & Quality Assurance
(709) 729-6309

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The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, and the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, are pleased to recognize September 23-September 29, 2024, as Environmental Public Health Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s theme – Create resilient communities through disaster risk reduction and climate change mitigation and adaptation – highlights the vital role that environmental public health professionals play in protecting residents and strengthening communities by ensuring safe and healthy environments.

Environmental public health professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador have been on the front lines of disaster response and recovery, helping to ensure safe drinking water and waste disposal, and sharing information about food safety, and indoor and outdoor air quality.

They are engaged across diverse areas of practice and have a wide range of responsibilities including food safety inspections; monitoring the quality of drinking water; and carrying out health-related inspections of child care facilities, schools, personal care homes and long-term care facilities, as well as recreational facilities.

They are certified to enforce public health legislation, ensuring that water, air, food, land and facilities in this province are safe.

Environmental Public Health Week is a national campaign by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI), a national professional association of public health inspectors that works to protect the health of all Canadians by providing certification, education and ongoing professional competencies to environmental public health professionals.

Quotes
“Environmental Public Health Week is an excellent opportunity to recognize and appreciate environmental health officers whose work is vital to protecting the health and well-being of individuals and communities. I would like to thank all environmental public health professionals for their dedicated efforts across a diverse range of fields to protect the health and safety of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”

Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The commitment and professionalism of Newfoundland and Labrador’s environmental health officers contributes to the safety and well-being of families and communities all throughout the province. Officers can now complete inspections electronically while they are in the field. This is a time-saving tool that means efficient delivery of services to residents and workload support for staff. Environmental Public Health Week 2024 is an opportunity to reflect on the valuable work staff do every day, to hold our public water systems, childcare facilities, restaurants, workplaces and more to high safety standards. Thank you for all you do for the people of the province.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

“Environmental public health professionals are a vital part of our public health system. They work diligently to help keep our communities safe. I would like to take this opportunity to thank environmental health officers for their continued dedication to public health in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald
Chief Medical Officer of Health

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Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors

Public Health Framework

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make an announcement related to well-being today (Monday, September 23) at the Colonial Building, 90 Military Road, St. John’s, at 3:00 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by Colin Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Three of Atlantic Canada’s access to information oversight offices are coming together during this year’s Right to Know Week for a live virtual panel discussion. Joining them will be a representative from one of the world’s leading access to information organizations, the Centre for Law and Democracy. The discussion will take place on September 25, 2024 from 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. (Newfoundland Time) and we are inviting everyone to attend.

Join us for this engaging live virtual panel discussion that will explore why access rights are foundational to democratic governance as well as some of the current and pressing challenges to the right of access to information. The panelists are:

• Tricia Ralph, Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nova Scotia
• Maria MacDonald, Deputy Information and Privacy Commissioner, Prince Edward Island
• Sean Murray, Director of Research and Quality Assurance, OIPC Newfoundland and Labrador
• Raphael Vagliano, Legal Officer, Centre for Law and Democracy

Don’t miss this opportunity to join in!

OIPC NL is hosting this Atlantic virtual event through Zoom Webinar. Register to attend.

Background

Right to Know Day (September 28) is an internationally recognized day dedicated to creating awareness about the importance of people’s right to access government information, while promoting freedom of information as essential to both democracy and good governance. In Canada, Right to Know Day extends to a week of celebrations known as Right to Know Week, which takes place this year from September 23 to 29, 2024.

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Media contacts
OIPC NL
Sean Murray
Director of Research and Quality Assurance
709-729-6309
commissioner@oipc.nl.c

OIPC PEI
Maria MacDonald
Deputy Information and Privacy Commissioner
902-368-4099
InfoPrivacy@assembly.pe.ca

Centre for Law and Democracy
Raphael Vagliano
Legal Officer
514-506-0948
raphael@law-democracy.org

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Today, The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is visiting Gallipoli, Turkey, to attend commemorative events associated with the 109th anniversary of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment’s landing in Gallipoli on September 20, 1915, during the First World War.

Minister Crocker will be joined by the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, Perry Trimper, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans and Military Relations, along with Members of the House of Assembly Jim Dinn, and Lin Paddock. Additionally, he will be accompanied by H.E. Ambassador Kevin Hamilton from the Canadian Embassy to Türkiye and representatives from the Royal Canadian Legion – NL Command.

During the almost four months the Royal Newfoundland Regiment fought at Gallipoli, approximately 30 men died in action and 10 more died of disease. These men are buried in four cemeteries on the Gallipoli Peninsula. The delegation visited these cemeteries prior to the commemoration event at the Gallipoli Newfoundland Monument.

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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.

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

Brown’s Arm ATV Trail                                                                            (Reg. 2323)
Proponent: Brown’s Arm Recreation Committee

The Proponent is proposing to develop a two-kilometre ATV/snowmobile trail that would connect an existing access road to the town of Brown’s Arm. Trail development would be limited to vegetation clearing using a mini excavator, chainsaws and brush saws. A description of the Project can be found on the department’s webpage at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.
The undertaking was registered on September 19, 2024; the deadline for public comment is October 25, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by November 3, 2024.

Blaketown to Riverhead 94L Transmission Line Rebuild              (Reg. 2322)
Proponent: Newfoundland Power

The Proponent is proposing a revision to its project (Registration #2184) that was released from further environmental assessment in January 2022. The revised work would involve the rerouting of a section of their 94L Transmission Line between the communities of Blaketown and Riverhead to avoid sensitive wetlands. 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 17, 2024; the deadline for public comment is October 25, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by November 1, 2024.

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT REQUIRED AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE APPOINTED:

Argentia Renewables Project
Proponent: Argentia Renewables Wind LP                                        (Reg. 2318)

The Minister has advised the Proponent that an environmental preview report (EPR) is required for the Project. Additional information is needed to inform the Minister of the following, including, but not limited to:

• Water source for hydrogen and ammonia production, and alternative source;
• Flora and fauna, including species at risk in/near the Project area;
• Potential effects of blasting on dams in protected public watershed;
• Viewscape assessment, Visitor Information Centre integration, and consultation with local tourism operators;
• Effluent characteristics, treatment process and outfall location from hydrogen and ammonia production facility;
• Supply and demand for quarry materials and potential access restrictions to existing quarry operators;
• Waste management.

An Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the Minister and to draft guidelines for the Proponent in preparing the EPR. The EAC includes representatives from the following provincial and federal government agencies:

• Department of Environment and Climate Change
  • Environmental Assessment Division – Chair
  • Pollution Prevention Division
  • Water Resources Management Division
• Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
• Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Learn more
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

Project comments may be forwarded 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 Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, will join Jen Crowe, Executive Director, Choices for Youth, and Darla King, Vice-President, Health Transformation, NL Health Services, to make an announcement on an Integrated Youth Services Hub on Monday, September 23, 2024.

The announcement will take place at Choices for Youth Outreach and Youth Engagement Centre at 12-16 Carters Hill Place, St. John’s, at 10:30 a.m.

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The Resource Enforcement Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is seeking information related to a moose poaching incident in the Black Duck Siding area in Western Newfoundland.

Officers responded to a complaint from the public about a dead bull moose approximately six kilometres in the Black Duck Siding Resource Road. The moose had been shot and left, and likely killed during the period from September 14-16, 2024.

Anyone who may have additional information about this incident or witnessed suspicious activity in the area is encouraged to contact the Resource Enforcement Division, Stephenville Detachment, at 709-643-3143.

The public can also report anonymously by calling 1-877-820-0999 or contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

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The Bonavista Peninsula is one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s premier tourism destinations with its rugged coastlines, rich history, vibrant cultural experiences and opportunities for nature viewing. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, together with the Government of Canada, is investing to help communities build on the region’s tourism potential and improve experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, announced a contribution of almost $700,000 on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for five tourism-related projects within the Bonavista Peninsula region. The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, also announced federal investments of over $2.4 million for seven projects.

Tourism is an important industry for communities and a key part to building a robust and diverse economy. These investments will help upgrade equipment and infrastructure, improve energy efficiencies, and support the development and production of art exhibitions, culinary festivals and vibrant theatre experiences in Trinity and the Bonavista Peninsula region.

For the full list of projects, please see the backgrounder.

Quotes 
“Our government continues to champion our province as an incredible destination for tourism and business investment. This funding supports economic development initiatives, innovation and capacity building in the Bonavista Peninsula region of the province. The projects are an essential part of building a successful and sustainable tourism industry in the area, and we are pleased to partner with these organizations and appreciate the important work they continue to do.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Newfoundland and Labrador’s tourism industry is a strong contributor to our provincial economy, bringing in over $1.2 billion annually. The Bonavista Peninsula encapsulates everything that visitors are looking for – geographical beauty, unique cultural offerings, outdoor adventure opportunities and authentic experiences. Investing in tourism operators in the region will help grow the economy and create even more compelling reasons to visit.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Newfoundland and Labrador has what the tourism visitor is looking for – especially the rugged and magical Bonavista Peninsula. The investments your federal government is making today will boost the local economy and make the communities that support these visitors even stronger.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“With its diverse attractions, experiences and amenities, the Bonavista Peninsula region has a lot to be proud of. Projects like those announced today are creating more opportunities for tourism, building momentum in the region and moving us forward toward a stronger, brighter future.”
Churence Rogers
Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity

“Tourism Elliston is so very appreciative of the funding received today from ACOA and the Province to grow Roots, Rants and Roars to a broader regional level. Already recognized as one of Canada’s top culinary festivals, these funds will help enhance and expand the annual Roots Rants and Roars festival to include activities throughout the Bonavista region resulting in significant economic benefits for the entire area.”
Marilyn Coles-Hayley, Chairperson
Tourism Elliston

“We would like to thank ACOA and the province for the funding received today by the Home from the Sea Foundation which will help ensure the sustainability of the Sealers Interpretation Centre and Sealers Memorial in Elliston. This funding will provide increased marketing activities including interactive visitor and multimedia experiences resulting in increased visitation, broader programming and an enriched visitor experience.”
Chris Collingwood, Chairperson
Home from the Sea Foundation

“We are grateful to ACOA and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador for its ongoing support of the Bonavista Biennale. Funding has allowed us to provide an important platform for contemporary art while also encouraging significant tourist spending and job creation throughout the Bonavista Peninsula.”
Sue Balint, Executive Director
Bonavista Biennale

“As a not-for-profit interpretive tourist attraction with charitable status, the Cape Random Trust Inc. has been operating on the Bonavista Peninsula for over 20 years. ACOA and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador have been with us every step of the way, offering advice and financial support as we strive to develop a high-quality visitor experience. As we move into an era of new challenges and opportunities, we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with ACOA, the province and the other tourism operators in our region.”
Dawne Marlow, Chairperson
Cape Random Trust Inc.

“Rising Tide Theatre is proud to contribute to the economic and cultural life of this magnificent place we call home. Great achievements come with dedicated and passionate teams and with strong and supportive partners. ACOA and the provincial government have always been there for us, without their faith and commitment such growth and impact simply would not be possible. Communities thrive when we work hard, and we build together as we have had the honour to do in Trinity since 1993.”
Donna Butt, Founder/Senior Producer
Rising Tide Theatre

“ACOA and the Provincial Government’s support for our hydroponic farm project is a game-changer for the Bonavista Peninsula, driving local economic growth while tackling food insecurity head-on. This investment will empower our communities to access fresh, nutritious produce and create sustainable employment opportunities.”
Laura Bishop, Chairperson
SaltWater Community Association Inc.

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BACKGROUNDER

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), is investing more than $3.1 million in the Bonavista Peninsula to help stimulate the local economy, upgrade equipment and infrastructure, increase tourism experiences and improve the quality of life for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and Canadians.

CLIENT NAME PROJECT GOVERNMENT OF NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR TOTAL GOVERNMENT OF CANADA TOTAL Rising Tide Association Improve audience experience by upgrading front and rear facility extensions, expansions, upgrade insulation in windows and doors to improve energy efficiency, enhance office space to secure more diversified employment, and upgrade flooring to allow for better use of the facility. $500,000
non-repayable $1,430,321

non-repayable

 

  Tourism Elliston Assistance to support culinary tourism development on the Bonavista Peninsula, including support to expand and enhance the annual Roots, Rants and Roars culinary festival in Elliston. $25,000
non-repayable $490,000

non-repayable Home from the Sea Enrich visitor experience through the implementation of interactive and multimedia elements, including the construction of a small welcome kiosk and various website, e-commerce and marketing enhancements, including the promotion of Home from the Sea’s 10th anniversary celebration. $ 56,784
non-repayable $ 162,403
non-repayable Bonavista Biennale Assistance to support and execute a visual arts program, including a contemporary visual arts exhibition that showcases works from provincial, national and Indigenous artists. $80,000
non-repayable $110,000

non-repayable

 

  Cape Random Trust Assist with development of three-year strategic plan for the Random Passage site, while exploring opportunities for existing assets and potential visitor experiences. $ 13,438

non-repayable $34,938

non-repayable Rising Tide Association Produce and stage an anchor attraction in Trinity and the Bonavista Peninsula region. N/A $100,000

non-repayable Saltwater Community Association Establish a hydroponic farm to increase the availability of locally grown nutrient-rich leafy green produce, which is paramount in supporting culinary tourism in the region. N/A $120,332

non-repayable Total $675,222 $ 2,447,994

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The following is being distributed at the request of the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Dr. Smita Joshi has been appointed as Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission, effective April 19, 2024. The Honourable John Hogan, K.C., former Minister of Justice and Public Safety, acknowledged the appointment on June 3, 2024.

Established in 1971, the Human Rights Commission is responsible for investigating written complaints of alleged violations of the Human Rights Act, promoting the Act, conducting education and research designed to eliminate discriminatory conduct. The Commission also provides information and assists individuals, groups, organizations and governments, on matters related to human rights.

To learn more about the Human Rights Commission, visit: www.thinkhumanrights.ca.

Quote
“My goal over the next five years is to establish partnerships at federal, provincial and local levels; ensure timely responses to human rights complaints; and ensure the office has adequate resources to do their important work.”
Dr. Smita Joshi
Chairperson
Human Rights Commission

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BACKGROUNDER

Biography of Dr. Smita Joshi
Dr. Smita Joshi, a Newfoundlander by choice, arrived from Kenya with her family in 1968 and continues to call Newfoundland and Labrador her home. She is proud of her educational roots as a graduate of Holy Heart High School, and receiving her BA, B.Ed., and M. Ed degrees from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Dr. Joshi also holds a Doctorate of Education from the University of Toronto.

A dedicated civil servant with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Dr. Joshi has worked for over 38 years and has held various leadership positions with the Department of Education and the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism. She was instrumental in drafting the current policy on multiculturalism for the province. Nationally, and provincially, Dr. Joshi is known for her work as a curriculum developer and her contributions to human rights, enterprise and multicultural education in our K-12 school system.

Dr. Joshi is the founding member and was first President of the Multicultural Women’s Organization of Newfoundland & Labrador, an organization where women from diverse immigrant backgrounds are empowered to achieve their goals of advancing towards equality and becoming contributing members of Canadian society. Dr. Joshi believes in partnerships and volunteerism and currently serves on various federal, provincial, and City of St. John’s committees.

Her passion is to promote literacy, empowerment, and cross-cultural understanding while balancing human rights with responsibilities, has been exemplary.  She has been actively involved as a commissioner with the Human Rights Commission since 2012 and continues to patiently work to promote its mandate.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make an announcement related to well-being at the launch of Newfoundland and Labrador’s second annual Well-Being Week on Sunday, September 22.

The announcement will take place at the Well-Being Community Fair at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s, at 12:30 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by Colin Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will participate in a flag-raising ceremony, hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of the Deaf on Monday, September 23.

The event will take place in the East Block Lobby of the Confederation Building at 1:00 p.m.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Pike to Attend Flag Raising to Recognize International Day of Sign Languages and International Week of Deaf People appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) joins with other information and privacy commissioners from across the country and around the world in promoting Right to Know (RTK) Week from September 23 to 29, 2024.

To mark the week, OIPC has organized a RTK 2024 Atlantic Event – a Virtual Panel Discussion on Access Rights and Democracy featuring three of Atlantic Canada’s access to information oversight offices and a representative from the Centre for Law and Democracy. The discussion will take place on September 25, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. (Newfoundland Time) and interested individuals can find more information about the event and a registration link on the OIPC website.

OIPC has also released guidance titled How to Make an Access Request in both English and French, which will be posted in the Guidance section on the OIPC website.

RTK Week in Canada evolved from International Right to Know Day, September 28, which has been marked around the world since 2002. RTK Week recognizes the importance of the right of access to information held by government and other public bodies. Access to information is essential to both democracy and good governance, and it provides individuals with the knowledge to address public issues, hold government accountable, and become active participants in the democratic process.

RTK Week also provides an opportunity to recognize the hard work of the officials in government departments, agencies, boards and commissions, educational and health care bodies and municipalities, who help process the increasing number of requests.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (ATIPPA, 2015) provides a right of access to information. Since 2015, when citizens demanded that the province’s access to information system be reformed, there has been an overall increase in the number of access to information requests filed each year. While the media, businesses, and political parties use the access to information system regularly, individual Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are filing more and more access to information requests. This is extremely positive, reflecting an engaged population and a well-functioning access to information system.

OIPC is a statutory Office of the House of Assembly. OIPC has a broad range of responsibilities and powers under both ATIPPA, 2015 and PHIA. Oversight of these Acts includes investigating and attempting to resolve complaints about access to information and protection of privacy involving public bodies under ATIPPA, 2015 and custodians of personal health information under PHIA. The Commissioner may also make recommendations in order to uphold the Acts and support better compliance.

Learn more
Visit our LinkedIn page: www.linkedin.com/company/oipc-nl.

More information about Right to Know Week in Canada is also available on the Information Commissioner of Canada’s Right to Know Week website page.

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