Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will provide an update on the Tourist Accommodation Act tomorrow (Tuesday, April 4).

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

Minister Crocker will be joined by Deborah Bourden, Chair, Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador. and Heather McKinnon, Chair, Destination St. John’s.

The announcement will be livestreamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make an announcement regarding pharmacists in the province tomorrow (Tuesday, April 4).

The availability will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building at 11:00 a.m. A technical briefing will take place for media at 10:30 a.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, Noelle Patten, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board; and Dr. Janice Audeau, Community Pharmacist and President of the Pharmacists’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The availability will be livestreamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.

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

Speaker, I rise today to recognize the amalgamation of the four former regional health authorities and the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information into one entity that came into effect on April 1.

Now known as Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, this new entity is aimed at streamlining programs and services, as well as associated corporate services such as human resources, payroll and finance. It was a recommendation of Health Accord NL and will help us ensure consistent and quality health care delivery across Newfoundland and Labrador.

While there is now one health authority, a focus on specific regional issues will be maintained through the five regional health councils. These councils will be responsible for advising the provincial health authority on the particular needs of the regions, informing health care delivery at the regional level. Work is underway to appoint these councils using a merit-based appointments process.

While transition work continues, patients, clients and residents can continue to access care in the same way they always have. There are no immediate changes to health care services, facilities or contact information as a result of this step in the transition.

I would also like to congratulate the individuals recently appointed to the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services Board of Trustees. Their effective governance will help support the new health organization moving forward.

Thank you.

 

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Effective Wednesday, April 5, forest access roads in the Point Leamington, Botwood, Lewisporte, Glenwood, Birchy Bay, Gander Bay, Gambo and Glovertown areas will be closed to vehicle traffic until further notice. Signage will be posted on roads that are closed during this period.

Temporary closures at this time of year are required to protect forest access roads from damage during the spring thawing period. Roads will remain open for snowmobile and ATV use.

Roads scheduled for temporary closure include:

• Birchy Bay Forest Access Road;
• Burnt Bay Lake Forest Access Road;
• Chapel’s Island Forest Access Road;
• Clarke’s Head Forest Access Road
• Diver Pond Forest Access Road;
• Drover’s Ridge Forest Access Road;
• Island Pond Forest Access Road;
• Kinden’s Ridge Forest Access Road;
• Kippen’s Ridge Forest Access Road;
• Mint Brook Forest Access Road;
• Neil’s Brook Forest Access Road;
• Northwest Pond Forest Access Road;
• Osmonton Arm Forest Access Road;
• Otter Pond Forest Access Road;;
• Rod and Gun Club Forest Access Road;
• Salmon Pond Forest Access Road;
• Second Pond Forest Access Road;
• Shipbuilder’s Pond Forest Access Road
• Southern Lake Forest Access Road;
• Stoneville Forest Access Road;
• Weir’s Pond Forest Forest Access Road; and
• Wings Point Forest Access Road.

For further information regarding forest access road closures, please contact the Lewisporte Forest Management Office at 709-541-0214 for areas west of the Gander River, or the Gambo Forest Management Office at 709-674-1521 for areas east of the Gander River.

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To enhance marketing and business development in the ocean technology industry, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced over $138,000 through the Business Development Support Program for two businesses operating in this sector.

Notus Electronics Limited is a privately-owned, St. John’s-based manufacturer of hydro acoustic net monitoring solutions. Incorporated in 1992, the company has developed and commercialized a unique omnidirectional sonar technology, mainly for offshore trawling and netting. Notus’ team of 12 employees has developed a Trawl Positioning System that is capable of communicating trawl net position relative to the trawler’s position and the ocean bed – the only product of its kind currently available in the market. To assist with marketing this unique product both locally and internationally, the company is receiving a non-repayable contribution of $98,169 from the Business Development Support Program.

SubC Imaging, founded by Chad Collett in 2010, designs and manufactures underwater cameras, systems, LED lighting, lasers, DVRs, and remote operations solutions. The company has nearly 30 employees and clients all over the world. Through the Business Development Support Program, the Provincial Government is providing a non-repayable contribution of $40,775 to support the purchase of an Enterprise Resource Planning system, which will enable the company to streamline current procurement functions, integrate firm-wide business functions, and provide management with critical key performance indicators to enable better-informed business growth decisions.

The Provincial Government supports small and medium-sized businesses that are committed to developing and growing their operations through initiatives towards productivity improvement, knowledge/personnel development, and/or expansion of export markets. Support for these projects demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthen the province’s economic foundation by facilitating growth and innovation in our industries and technologies.

Quotes
“As a government, we continue to support technological advancements and innovations in our key industries, one of which is the ocean economy. Investing in promising ocean technology companies like Notus and SubC enables them to access the right resources and tools needed to compete in an increasingly globalized market, which in turn enables economic development and creates economic opportunities in the province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“For more than 30 years, Notus has developed and supplied unique underwater acoustic solutions to the fishing, scientific and offshore industries. This support from the Provincial Government will be instrumental in introducing the Trawl Positioning System to our worldwide distribution network. The product has become an integral part of our product offering and growth strategy.”
Brad Henderson
Notus Electronics Ltd.

“We are incredibly grateful for the funding provided by the Business Development Support Program. This investment will enable us to implement a transformative new tool for our company, an ERP system that will enhance our productivity, efficiency, and innovation. This support will help us continue to push boundaries and remain at the forefront of the subsea imaging industry.”
Chad Collett
CEO, SubC Imaging

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Business Development Support Program

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Amendments have been made to the Registered Nurses Regulations to give

Registered Nurses in Newfoundland and Labrador the ability to prescribe, including referrals to specialists. These changes build upon ongoing efforts to allow health care professionals to work to their full scope of practice, as the Provincial Government continues to address recruitment and retention challenges.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, along with Lynn Power, Executive Director of the College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be available to the media today (Monday, April 3) at 10:30 a.m. to discuss the amendments. The availability will take place in front of the House of Assembly, East Block, Confederation Building, and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

In collaboration with the College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador, extensive consultations were conducted with stakeholders regarding the expansion of the scope of practice.

To guide prescribing, a framework has been developed by the College, as well as guidelines. This includes the requirement for Registered Nurses to complete additional prescribing education from a program approved by the College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador Council, along with continuing competency requirements. The College is focused on ensuring only those who are authorized, educated and competent can apply for the designation of Registered Nurse prescribing, meeting its public protection mandate.

Prior to the amendments, Registered Nurses did not have the authority to prescribe medications, order laboratory and diagnostic screening tests, or other non-pharmacological interventions, including referrals to specialists.

Additional amendments to the Regulations also provide for the implementation of a Supervised Practice Experience Partnership Program. The purpose of the program is to provide an alternative, practice-based path to licensure for Registered Nurse applicants who have not practiced enough hours to meet licensure requirements in the province. This allows for an additional pathway to supervised licensure for individuals who would currently be required to complete a Registered Nurse re-entry program, which would have cost up to $10,000 and taken up to 18 months. This additional pathway should lead to additional nursing professionals for the province.

Quotes
“Through a collaboration with the College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador, we have made changes that will have a positive impact on the delivery of health care in our province. Allowing health care professionals like Registered Nurses the ability to expand their scope of practice builds upon our numerous efforts to date to increase health care access for residents. We are also pleased to provide an additional pathway to help get more Registered Nurses into the health care system to support the dedicated professionals currently providing valuable care.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The primary mandate of the College of Registered Nurses is to ensure that RNs provide care that is ethical, safe, and competent. With the introduction of Registered Nurse Prescribing, we are confident that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will have a broader access to the health services they need and deserve. The Supervised Practice Experience Partnership program will serve as an additional pathway for nurses to become licensed in our province, and is one of many initiatives being developed by the College to increase the number of RNs in our health system. We are proud to partner with the Provincial Government to introduce these fundamental reforms which will benefit the people of our province.”
Lynn Power, Executive Director, College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Motorists on the Northern Peninsula are being asked to watch out for caribou when travelling on the roadway located between Plum Point and St. Anthony Airport.

A significant portion of the St. Anthony caribou herd has overwintered in this area. Over the coming weeks this herd will increase its daily movements as they begin their trek from wintering ranges to spring calving areas. These caribou will have to cross roadways, making them vulnerable to motorized traffic.

Motorists are encouraged to:

• Scan both sides of the highway when travelling;
• Pay attention to caribou warning signs;
• Avoid driving at dusk and dawn when caribou are more common alongside highways;
• Encourage passengers to watch for caribou; and
• Reduce speeds when driving at night when caribou are more difficult to see.

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

Junction River Bridge Removals                                                          (Reg. 2237)
Proponent:  Department of Transportation and Infrastructure

The proponent is proposing to remove two abandoned bridges at Junction River and Little Junction River located between the Trans-Canada Highway and the Exploits River on the former Route 1, approximately 1.2 and 1.5 kilometres east of Badger, respectively. The bridges have deteriorated and pose a risk of collapsing. Project activities include the demolition, removal and disposal of materials. A description of the project can be found on the Department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on March 30, 2023; the deadline for public comment is May 5, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by May 14, 2023.

Labrador – L1301 Transmission Line Decommissioning               (Reg. 2236)
Proponent:  Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro

The proponent proposes to decommission the L1301 transmission line located in Labrador, (previously known as TL240), which is a de-energized wood pole transmission line that was completed in 1977. The total length of the line is approximately 269 kilometres and it connects Churchill Falls Terminal Station 1 to Muskrat Falls Terminal Station 1, near the Muskrat Falls Hydroelectric Generating Facility.  With the completion of the Muskrat Falls to Happy Valley Interconnection in 2021, the L1301 transmission line is no longer required to deliver power to communities in eastern Labrador. It is anticipated that the decommissioning activities would occur over five years and would involve the dismantling, removal and disposal of material. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on March 28, 2023; the deadline for public comment is May 5, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by May 12, 2023.

ENVIRONMENTAL PREVIEW REPORT GUIDELINES ISSUED:

Victoria River Quarry                                                                                (Reg. 2227)
Proponent: Newcrete Investments Ltd.

The minister has approved the final guidelines for the preparation of the environmental preview report (EPR) for the Victoria River Quarry. The EPR guidelines identify the information that the proponent is required to include in the EPR. The EPR guidelines document is available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2227/

CONDITION OF RELEASE MET:

Victoria Abattoir                                                                                         (Reg. 2222)
Proponent: Omiachi Farm

On March 29, 2023, the minister advised the proponent that the Waste Management Plan for the Victoria Abattoir project was reviewed and was found to be acceptable. The plan was required by a condition of release from environmental assessment and is available on the Department’s project web page at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2222/.

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Deer Lake Secondary Dairy Processing Facility                              (Reg. 2203)
Proponent: Real Dairy Company of Newfoundland Ltd.

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submissions to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all  permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Gosling Lake RV Park                                                                              (Reg. 2226)
Proponent: Abbass and McLean Holdings Inc.

The project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following:
  • For slopes less than 30 percent, the proponent must establish a minimum 30-metre undisturbed riparian buffer zone around all waterbodies and wetlands, from the high water mark, that are identified on either the 1:50,000 scale National Topographic System maps or the topographic mapping layer shown in the Provincial Land Use Atlas. Land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities must not take place in the buffer zone.
• For slopes greater than 30 percent, the proponent must calculate and maintain an undisturbed riparian buffer zone calculated using the following formula: 30 metres + 1.5 metres x slopes (percent). Land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities must not take place in this zone.
• Vegetation clearing is not to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and within 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer applies to all other raptor nests (e.g. Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest site must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
• The proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all  permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

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:

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/
www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2023.pdf

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

Public comments may be forwarded to: EAprojectcomments@gov.nl.ca

If you submit comments on a project that is under environmental assessment, please advise the Department if you DO NOT wish to share your comments with the project proponent.

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Effective Monday, April 3, 2023, fines will increase under the Highway Traffic Act as follows:

• An increase of $100 for exceeding the speed limit, and excessive speeding in construction and school zones. Fines are based on excessive speeds ranging between 11 and 20 km/h, 21 and 30 km/h, 31 and 50 km/h, and 51 km/h and over.
• An increase of $100 for racing vehicles or bicycles on highways, and performing or engaging in stunts while driving.

Demerit point penalties will also increase from two or four points, to six points, for exceeding the speed limit by 51 km/h and over. The number of days a vehicle will be impounded will also increase from three days to seven days for racing vehicles on highways, or performing or engaging in stunting.

This action to strengthen penalties for driving violations will help support efforts to deter dangerous and life-threatening behaviours. Public safety is a top priority for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and it will continue to work with law enforcement, safety partners and stakeholder groups, seeking ways to raise awareness about road safety.

The new fine amounts were set out in Bill 9, which received Royal Assent on November 9, 2022.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is congratulating Shelly Kawaja on winning the 2022 BMO Winterset Award for The Raw Light of Morning. The prestigious award, which celebrates excellence in Newfoundland and Labrador writing, was presented yesterday afternoon at a ceremony at Government House in St. John’s.

Ms. Kawaja received an award of $12,500 for her work. The other two finalists, Meghan Greeley (Hunger) and Lisa Moore (This is How We Love) received awards of $3,000 each.

This is the third year in a row that all three finalists for the BMO Winterset Award have been female. In total, there were 40 works by Newfoundland and Labrador authors (either native-born or resident) submitted by publishers from across the country. Books from any genre, published in 2022, were eligible for nomination.

Each year, the BMO Winterset Award jury consists of celebrated Newfoundlanders and Labradorians from the arts sector. This year’s judges were Carmella Gray-Cosgrove, Douglas Walbourne-Gough and Mary-Deanne Shears.

Sponsored by BMO Financial Group and the Sandra Fraser Gwyn Foundation, the BMO Winterset Award honours the memory of Sandra Fraser Gwyn, a St. John’s-born award-winning journalist and author, as well as a passionate advocate of Newfoundland and Labrador’s arts community. Her husband, journalist and author Richard Gwyn, established the award in her memory in 2000.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador has a rich tradition of storytelling, which is evident through our highly productive and extremely talented writing community. The prestigious BMO Winterset Award celebrates this excellence in the literary arts and the way that the written word reflects on, examines and shapes our culture. I extend my warmest congratulations to Shelly Kawaja, Meghan Greeley and Lisa Moore for their achievements and contributions to this valuable sector.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Newfoundland and Labrador is known worldwide for our abundance of talented people. I congratulate Shelly Kawaja, Meghan Greeley and Lisa Moore for this well-deserved recognition. These women are helping to shape the literary landscape of our province and country.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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To limit future customer rate increases and reduce financing costs accumulating in the Supply Cost Variance Deferral Account, the Provincial Government is paying the remaining 2022 balance of approximately $190.4 million.

This is one of the initial steps to implement rate mitigation. The deferral account records the differences between the costs to supply the Island Interconnected System and the costs currently collected from customers in electricity rates. By paying the 2022 deferral balance, customers avoid having the cost recovered on their bills.

Significant work has been concluded with respect to rate mitigation. Term sheets have been signed and financing has been secured for the $1 billion federal loan guarantee; capital restructuring for Muskrat Falls and the Labrador Transmission Assets; and, the $1 billion investment by Canada in the province’s portion of the Labrador-Island Link.

Funding the deferral account balance is a further step in the Provincial Government’s commitment to mitigate customer rates. The implementation of the final components of rate mitigation cannot be finalized until full commissioning of all aspects of the Lower Churchill project, including the Labrador-Island Link.

As a result of the Muskrat Falls plant commissioning in November 2021, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (NL Hydro) was required to begin making payments under the Power Purchase Agreement for the associated costs to build, finance and operate the plant. NL Hydro is putting plans in place for Labrador-Island Link high-power testing to continue until April 6, 2023.

Quote
“This action to pay the deferral account balance demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to rate mitigation. Full implementation of rate mitigation cannot be finalized until full commissioning of the project, including the Labrador-Island Link.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Backgrounder: Supply Cost Variance Deferral Account

In December 2021, the Board of Commissioners of Public Utilities approved the creation of the Supply Cost Variance Deferral Account.

• As a result of the Muskrat Falls plant commissioning in November 2021, ahead of full project commissioning, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro was required to begin making payments under the Power Purchase Agreement for the associated costs to build, finance and operate the plant.
• The deferral account incorporates supply costs related to the Muskrat Falls Project.
• The deferral account has allowed Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro to defer the expense associated with the Muskrat Falls Power Purchase Agreement.
• The account records the differences between the costs to supply the Island Interconnected System and the costs currently collected from customers in electricity rates.
• The balance that has accumulated in the account represents an amount owing from customers that is primarily due to payments made under the Muskrat Falls Power Purchase Agreement and offset by fuel savings.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro is currently financing the deferral account through short-term borrowing facilities.

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Today the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the International Transgender Day of Visibility and celebrates the progress and achievements of people who are transgender throughout the province.

This day is marked around the world as a day to lift up transgender communities and acknowledge the discrimination that is still often felt by many transgender people.

The Provincial Government condemns hate of all kinds, and is committed to ensuring that Newfoundland and Labrador is a safe, accessible and inclusive place for people of all gender identities.

As the province continues to grow and evolve, it is more important than ever to celebrate the diversity of the individuals who help make Newfoundland and Labrador such a vibrant place to live, work and play.

Quote
“Today is an important reminder that we should continue to promote respect and inclusivity, and stand up to hate and discrimination. Our government supports the transgender community in Newfoundland and Labrador. Every person should be able to live safely and freely as their most authentic self.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Media Advisory: Minister Coady to Address Burin Peninsula Chamber of Commerce

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will highlight Budget 2023: Your Health. Our Priority. at a Burin Peninsula Chamber of Commerce luncheon today (Friday, March 31).

The event will take place at St. Gabriel’s Hall, 254 Ville Marie Drive, Marystown, beginning at 12:00 p.m.

Budget 2023 is focused on improving the province’s health and financial well-being. More information is available at gov.nl.ca/Budget2023.

The Burin Peninsula Chamber of Commerce works to foster a positive economic climate for the region as a whole.

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The Provincial Government continues to move forward with the establishment of a single Provincial Health Authority on April 1, 2023. Today, government announced 13 appointments to the Provincial Health Authority Board of Trustees.

Appointed for three-year terms, the members include:

• Robert B. Andrews, KC (chairperson);
• Michelle Baikie;
• Catherine Bradbury;
• Janet Bradshaw;
• Sharon Forsey;
• Edward Goudie;
• Colleen Hanrahan;
• Tara Laing;
• David Oxford;
• David Peddle;
• David Sutherland;
• David Thornhill; and
• Lloyd Walters.

These appointments were recommended through the merit-based Independent Appointments Commission process. Members of the public interested in opportunities to serve on provincial agencies, boards and commissions are encouraged to complete an application at www.iacnl.ca.

Announced as part of Budget 2022, the Provincial Government began the process of integrating the existing four health authorities and the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information into one entity, with a view to streamlining programs and services, as well as associated corporate services such as human resources, payroll and finance.

The creation of a single health authority will maintain a focus on specific regional issues through the creation of Regional Health Councils. The councils will be responsible for advising the Provincial Health Authority on the particular needs of various areas of the province to deliver health care at the regional level. Once established, a representative from each Regional Health Council will be appointed to the Provincial Health Authority Board of Trustees. The number and locations of Regional Health Councils will be determined in the coming months.

Quotes
“The establishment of the Provincial Health Authority Board of Trustees will allow for greater consistency and efficiency in the health care system in Newfoundland and Labrador. I welcome the 13 members to the Board, and congratulate Mr. Andrews on his appointment as chairperson. The combined members will help provide strong governance as we strive to improve health care for individuals throughout the province.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“I welcome these appointments to the new Provincial Health Authority Board of Trustees. Each of these individuals brings expertise, experience and a valuable perspective that will be important to providing strong governance as we move this new health organization forward. I congratulate them on their appointments and commend them for their commitment to health care. I also Iook forward to their contributions on identifying new strategic priorities for the organization and working together within the new provincial health authority to transform and enhance health care for residents across the province.”
David Diamond
Chief Executive Officer, Provincial Health Authority Board

“At this pivotal point in health care delivery across Canada, it is an honor to be asked to be further involved in this province. The composition of the Executive Team and the Board is very reassuring as to what lies ahead, as is the quality of our health care workers throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Robert Andrews
Chairperson, Provincial Health Authority Board of Trustees

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Residents are reminded that following a decision of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), effective April 1, 2023, local 10-digit dialing will be in effect in Newfoundland and Labrador.

People looking to call Provincial Government offices or Government Service Centres, as well as any other local numbers, should now dial the 709 area code, in addition to the standard local seven-digit number. It is suggested to program the 709 area code into saved contacts in any device with a telephone function in advance of the change.

Between April 1 and May 31, local calls originating within Newfoundland and Labrador that are dialed using seven digits will hear a recorded announcement reminding callers to dial 10 digits.

The public is advised to continue to call 911 for any threat to health, life, safety or property, where an immediate response is needed from emergency services.

911 is available province-wide in Newfoundland and Labrador. 911 Call Takers located right here in the province are available 24/7 to connect you to the local emergency response agencies in your area.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will speak at the Baie Verte Peninsula Chamber of Commerce today (Thursday, March 30).

The event takes place at the Baie Vista Inn and Suites, 292 – Highway 410, Baie Verte at 7:30 p.m.

The Baie Verte Peninsula Chamber of Commerce brings together the business community in the region to promote and foster a healthy business environment.

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The Provincial Government has launched the three-year Dementia Care Action Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador. The plan aims to increase awareness, improve supports and services for those living with dementia and their care partners, and improve the capacity of the workforce to better support individuals living with the disease.

The three-year plan has 36 actions within four focus areas:

• Increase awareness, reduce risk of dementia, and address stigma;
• Diagnosis and coordination of care;
• Supports and services for individuals living with dementia, their care partners and families; and,
• Professional learning and development.

Budget 2023 provides an annual investment of $3.5 million to implement and support the Dementia Care Action Plan.

According to the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, there are more than 10,000 people living with dementia in the province, and this number is expected to grow to 14,000 by 2035, as our population ages.

To support the development and implementation of the plan, a Dementia Action Council was established last summer, and is comprised of representatives from various government departments, regional health authorities, the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as individuals with lived experience.

A comprehensive public engagement process took place to inform the Dementia Care Action Plan, including in-person public consultations, focus groups for physicians and regional health authority staff, and questionnaires. Consultations also occurred with the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate and family caregivers. In total, feedback was received from approximately 480 individuals.

Actions identified in the Dementia Care Action Plan also support Health Accord NL recommendations by building capacity within the community to better support individuals with complex needs, including those with dementia, delaying institutional care and reducing unnecessary acute care visits.

Quotes
“A diagnosis of dementia should not define a person; rather, dementia becomes part of their story. We must continue to focus on opportunities to support individuals to live well in their homes and communities, resulting in better outcomes for individuals, their families and caregivers, as well as health care system sustainability. Our Dementia Care Action Plan will go far in helping us achieve these objectives.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“People living with dementia matter, and we are pleased with the Department of Health and Community Services commitment to the Dementia Care Action Plan. This plan is reflective of the diverse needs of those living with dementia and will be instrumental in improving dementia care within our province. We welcome the engagement of key stakeholders, care partners and the community to improve the support and services to enhance quality of life for those living with dementia.”
Shirley Lucas
Chief Executive Office, Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Dementia Care Action Plan

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Applications for the 2023-24 Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative are now open for 50+ clubs and other eligible organizations throughout the province. Through Budget 2023, the Provincial Government allocated $200,000 for the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative.

The application-based initiative provides eligible and successful applicants funding of:

• Up to $2,000 to organize and promote activities and programs that support healthy aging, mental wellness, social inclusion, and overall well-being; or
• Up to $3,000 for intergenerational projects and activities focusing on fostering respect and understanding across generations; as well as increasing interaction and sharing of experiences, knowledge and skills.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, was joined by The Very Reverend Roger Whalen, Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Brenda Halley, outreach social worker with Eastern Health, to make the announcement.

The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist received funding through the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative in 2022-23 to expand the Wellness Collective’s Holistic Health Program offered to individuals living in recovery from addiction and/or mental health issues. This program includes greenhouse gardening, with visits from a horticulture therapist, and exploring various artistic mediums such as photography, painting, sketching, sculpting and upcycling of furniture with instruction from artists in the community.

A total of 112 organizations received funding through the initiative in 2022-23. Further details on all of the recipients can be found in the backgrounder below.

For more information on the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative, guidelines and application form can be found on the department’s website, or by emailing CSSDGrantPrograms@gov.nl.ca, or calling toll-free 1-888-494-2266. The deadline to submit an application is May 19, 2023.

Quotes
“As a government, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote healthy aging, social inclusion and intergenerational activities. Budget 2023 invests $200,000 for the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative, which provides funding to 50+ clubs and seniors’ serving organizations to bring together older persons and seniors to participate in learning and social activities in their communities. I encourage these groups to apply today to help build a healthier and more inclusive province for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“I encounter many people who are struggling in our community. In order to try to meet some of their needs, we are engaging in partnerships with the wider community, to help deepen relationships with and among the people of our community. The Wellness Collective is one such partnership. We are grateful to the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development for their support of this partnership, through the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative. It is through this kind of support that we are able to provide programs which cross generational lines and social classes, and bring many different people together to build healthy and meaningful relationships and a healthier community.”
The Very Reverend Roger Whalen
Dean and Rector, Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador)

“The Wellness Collective is grateful to be a recipient of funding through the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative, which has helped support our commitment to mental wellness and recovery through social connection and holistic therapeutic activities, and aligns with Eastern Health’s vision of healthy people, healthy communities. Recognizing that there are many pathways to health and healing, the collective combines traditional talk therapy with activities such as gardening, hiking, yoga, meditation, cooking and food sharing. We create a safe, therapeutic, accessible and peer-supported space for people to try new skills, share wisdom and talents, and journey together towards mental, physical, social and spiritual wellness.”
Brenda Halley
Outreach Social Worker, Primary Health Care, Eastern Health

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Learn more
Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative

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BACKGROUNDER

2022-2023 Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative Recipients

Applicant Project Amount Funded Active Living for Older Adults Intergenerational breakfast and seniors quilting project $2,000 Alexander Bay 50 + Association Inc. Seniors information sessions $2,000 Anglican Homes Inc. TimeSlips improvisational story-telling $1,200 Barachois 50+ Club Intergenerational baking, knitting/crochet and crafts $1,500 Bauline to Bay Bulls 50+ Club Inc. Social activities $2,000 Bay D’Espoir Seniors’ Care Association Social activities $2,000 Benoit First Nation Inc. Social activities $2,000 Beothuk 50+ Club Christmas hampers/social activities $1,500 Bishop Meaden Manor Social Club Bowling/social activities $1,000 Botwood 50+ Club Christmas/St. Patrick’s Day Dinner $1,500 Boys and Girls Club Bell Island Intergenerational social activities $3,000 Burnside 50+ Club Valentine’s Dinner/intergenerational activities $2,000 Cavendish 50+ Club Social activities $1,500 Clarenville and Area Age-Friendly 50+ Club Social and intergenerational activities. $2,000 Curling Seniors 50+ Club Social activities $1,000 Dermott Lee Memorial Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 62 Intergenerational activities and knowledge sharing $3,000 Eric and MacKay Neighbourhood Centre Healthy meals and snacks/intergenerational baking $1,000 Evening Breeze 50+ Club Social events $2,000 Federation des francophones de Terre-Neuve et du Labrador Intergenerational activities $2,000 Fortune Seniors 50+ Club Healthy Together intergenerational physical activity and healthy eating program $3,000 Fox Harbour Shamrock 50+ Club Social events and craft nights $1,400 Froud Ave. Community Centre Intergenerational programming $3,000 Gambo Community Youth Centre Cold plate dinner $2,000 Gander Seniors 50+ Club Inc. Social activities $900 Gaultois 50+ Christmas celebration $1,000 Gladgreeters 50+ Club Club meal and outing $1,000 GNL Community Place Intergenerational meals and social activities $3,000 Golden Meadows 50+ Club Christmas social and hampers $1,000 Golden Seabreeze 50+ Club Christmas dinner and intergenerational activities $1,500 Goodwil Seniors Club Intergenerational Christmas party and social activities $2,500 Grand Bank 50+ Club Meal and social $2,000 Grand Falls – Windsor Communty Kitchen Inc. Afternoon tea party $1,500 Hampden Junction Seniors Club Purchase equipment for dart nights, crafts and social activities $2,000 Hare Bay – Dover Lions Club Christmas celebration $1,000 Hare Bay Recreation Committee Intergenerational activities $2,500 Howley 60+ Christmas celebration $1,000 Humber Valley Senior Citizens Club 40th anniversary celebrations $2,000 International Friendship League Avalon Group Intergenerational Christmas Banquet $1,500 Irishtown-Mountain View 50+ Club Inc. Social activities $2,000 Island Harbour 50+ Club Christmas dinner $1,500 Jolly 50+ Club Social activities $1,250 Lewisporte Area 50+ Club Inc. Healthy eating and entertainment $2,000 Live Sustainably NL Intergenerational activities for residents of Katherine House $3,000 Lord’s Cove Recreation Committee Christmas celebration $1,800 MacMorran Community Centre Healthy meals program $1,000 Makinsons 50+ Go Getters Club Social activities $2,000 Marina Golden Age 50+ Club Intergenerational knowledge sharing and socials $2,500 Marystown Lions Golden Age 50+ Club Inc. Christmas celebration $2,000 Musgrave Harbour 50+ Fun Club Inc. Bowling outing and Christmas celebration $1,500 New Horizons 50+ Club Intergenerational Christmas social $1,500 New Tripple Seniors Healthy lunches/snacks and learning events $2,000 New World Island 50+ Club Technology and equipment to support social inclusion and Christmas dinner $1,000 No Surrender LOL #15 Christmas Dinner $1,000 NorPen Status of Women Council Technology to support digital literacy $2,000 North Harbour (Placentia Bay) 50+ Club Technology to support digital literacy and social inclusion $2,000 North River 50+ Friendship Club Inc. Technology to support learning opportunities $500 Pasadena Ski and Nature Park Snowshoeing and social activities $1,000 Pilley’s Island Recreation Committee Healthy eating/cooking and social activities $1,500 Point Au Gaul Recreation Committee Inc. Holiday social and dinner $1,500 Point Lance Seniors Sewing Club Intergenerational sewing and crafts $1,000 Point May Recreation Intergenerational social and skill sharing activities $1,500 Pondview Seniors 50+ Club Christmas banquet $1,750 Random East Seniors 50+ Club Christmas celebration and social activities $2,000 Royal Canadian Legion Branch 50, Conception Bay South Seniors’ dances $1,500 Royal Pandora 50+ Club Inc. Healthy active living and social
activities $1,500 Sandy Cove 50+ Club Education events $1,000 Silver Threads 50+ Club Christmas dinner and outings $1,000 Smith’s Harbour Recreation Committee Inc. Seniors celebration dinner $2,000 Southern Avalon Senior Citizens Housing Association Inc. Healthy snacks and social activities $800 Southern Labrador Development Association Lunch n’ learn sessions to support healthy meal preparation and healthy aging $3,000 Southern Shore Kindred Spirits Group Intergenerational skill sharing $1,500 Southwest Arm 50+ Club Christmas celebration and social activities $1,500 St. John’s Masters Softball Association Intergenerational barbecue and social $1,000 St. Lawrence 50+ Golden Age Club Christmas dinner and supplies/equipment for social activities $1,500 St. Lawrence Retirement Living Intergenerational activities $2,000 St. Patrick’s Parish Valentine’s Day dinner $2,000 St. Peter’s Seniors Club Christmas celebration and weekly/monthly social activities $1,000 St. Shotts Recreation Committee Inc. Intergenerational Christmas social $3,000 Summerford and Area Age-Friendly Social outings $1,500 Summerside Seniors Club Outings and community outreach $1,000 The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Holistic health program $2,000 The Caribou 50+ Club Christmas dinner and dance $1,800 The Singing Legionnaires Intergenerational performances/education $2,200 Time in the Hall Square Dancers Christmas Dinner and intergenerational skill sharing $1,500 Torbay History House and Museum Life-Long Learning Program for seniors $1,500 Town of Conception Bay South Seniors socials $1,000 Town of Englee Social activities $2,000 Town of Glenburnie-Birchy Head-Shoal Brook Intergenerational community quilting class $2,000 Town of Hare Bay Intergenerational programming $2,500 Town of Humber Arm South 50+ Club Intergenerational skill sharing $2,900 Town of Indian Bay Intergenerational knowledge sharing $2,000 Town of Little Burnt Bay Intergenerational skill sharing $3,000 Town of Old Perlican Christmas celebration $2,000 Town of Pasadena Intergenerational activities $1,000 Town of Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s Intergenerational knitting program $2,000 Tri Town Sewers and Quilters Intergenerational sewing activities $1,000 Trinity Historical Society Inc. Seniors lunch and learn events and intergenerational activities $3,000 Twilight 50+ Seniors Club Physical and social activities $2,000 Twillingate Young at Heart 50+ Club Meal, entertainment and fruit baskets $2,000 United Church Bay Roberts Indoor curling equipment $3,000 Victoria Lions Club Thanksgiving meal $2,000 Violence Prevention Avalon East Intergenerational activities/care packages for seniors $3,000 Watts Cove Quilting Bees Luncheon and quilting materials $500 West St. Modeste Recreation Committee Weekly social and educational activities $1,500 Western Environment Centre Intergenerational food skills workshops $1,500 Westport 50+ Inc. Intergenerational and Indigenous skill sharing $1,500 Whiteway 50+ Club Inc. Intergenerational activities $3,000 Whiteway Community Council Christmas dinner $2,000 Wigmore Manor Seniors Association Holiday celebration and dance and intergenerational holiday breakfast $1,000 Worsley Park 50 plus Club Inc. Meals and social activities $1,500 Yesterday’s Youth 50+ Seniors and intergenerational meals and social activities $2,000 YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador All-inclusive memberships for 40 seniors for one month $2,000

 

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Today Susan Walsh, Seniors’ Advocate for Newfoundland and Labrador, released a report titled What We Heard: Engagement with Seniors, Family Members and/or Caregivers, and Service Providers. The report is the summary of an extensive engagement process led by the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate NL, with support from MQO Research, to identify the concerns and needs of seniors and give the seniors of this province a voice.

The process involved two components: 15 in-person and two online consultations; and a public survey available online and on paper. The response from seniors was overwhelming and unpreceded, with 1,300 seniors and almost 200 family members and service providers having their say. Given the large sample size, which provides a 95 per cent confidence interval, the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate has established a very clear picture of the needs and concerns of seniors throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Key findings include:

1. Seniors are equally concerned about access to health care and the cost of living.
2. When asked to rank their priorities, the number one priority was supports to age well in their own home, followed closely by addressing the cost of living and then access to health care.
3. 32 per cent of seniors do not have enough income to meet their needs.
4. 16 per cent of those noting they did not have enough income to meet their needs were receiving greater income than the lowest income seniors in NL (those in receipt of GIS).
5. Seniors who do not have enough income to meet their needs (32 per cent) report being unable to afford food (40 per cent) and going without food (60 per cent).
6. Seniors who do not have enough income to meet their needs do not purchase needed medical supplies and devices (57 per cent), personal items (51 per cent), special dietary requirements (34 per cent) nor attend social events (60 per cent).
7. Seniors noted inability to access primary health care providers and wait times as their most frequent unmet health care needs, which was significantly higher in Labrador.
8. Family members noted home support as the highest need for those living with dementia, followed by training and education for caregivers and family members.
9. 40 per cent of seniors identified home repairs and maintenance around the home as needed to stay in their homes, while 46 per cent of family members/caregivers reported home support as required.
10. 23 per cent of seniors said they were looking for an apartment or condo, and 21 per cent said a senior or retirement community complex. All noted that these were not available in their community or not affordable and had long waitlists.

The findings in this report should help inform policy development, program delivery and spending at all levels of government. Further, the findings may better inform service providers and businesses in their services to seniors.

The Office of the Seniors’ Advocate will use this rich data to guide its strategic direction toward improved services for seniors in the province.

Quote
“I wish to thank the many, many seniors that met with me, called our office, completed a survey and shared their real life experiences, their worries, their needs and their knowledge and wisdom; and our community partners that supported the engagement process. Today, I share the voices of the seniors of Newfoundland and Labrador such that governments at all levels, community organizations, service providers and businesses can hear what nearly half of this province is saying and so we can work together to make positive change.”
Susan Walsh
Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contact
Sherri-Lee Owens
709-729-6603, 1-833-729-6603 (toll free)
seniorsadvocate@seniorsadvocatenl.ca

The post Seniors’ Advocate Releases What We Heard: Engagement with Seniors, Family Members and/or Caregivers, and Service Providers appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer advises that the NL Alliance have voluntarily deregistered as a political party in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador in accordance with Section 280(1)(a) of the Elections Act, 1991.

Deregistration of the NL Alliance is effective immediately.

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Media contact
Rexanne Eddy
Communications Officer
709-729-1474
rexanneeddy@electionsnl.ca

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