Government of Newfoundland News

Proposed amendments to the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act received Second Reading in the House of Assembly today. The Provincial Government is proposing various amendments, including modifications to the membership of the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel.

If approved, the amended legislation will:

• Introduce a five-year statutory review for the collective bargaining model outlined in the Act;
• Introduce changes to the composition of the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel, including:
  • Retaining the three-person Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel, with the addition of two alternate chairs;
  • The chairperson and alternate chairs will be appointed by the Provincial Government, with direction from industry; and
  • The certified bargaining agent and the processors’ organization will each nominate one member and one alternate member for appointment to the panel.
• Upon joint request of the parties to collective bargaining, the Chairperson alone can hear and consider the parties’ positions and issue a decision.

In July 2022, Minister Davis announced an independent review of the collective bargaining model contained in sections 19.1 – 19.14 of the Act. Input was received from fish harvesters, processors and their respective organizations, and other interested parties. The report, ‘Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model: Past, Present and Future’, was released on October 14 and contained 20 recommendations.

The Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act was created in 1971 and regulates collective bargaining between fish harvesters and processors. The current collective bargaining model, introduced in 2006, established the three-person Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel. The Panel’s mandate is to facilitate collective bargaining in the fishing industry and set price and conditions of sale when the parties have been unable to conclude a negotiated collective agreement.

Quotes
“As the Minister Responsible for Labour, I am committed to ensuring we have legislation that is current and responsive to the needs of the fishing industry, and to identifying opportunities to improve the province’s fish price setting process. I have had detailed conversations with both the Association of Seafood Producers and the Fish Food & Allied Workers Union, and thank them for their input into the review process.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

“The efficient and timely setting of fish prices is a common objective for all those engaged in the province’s fishing sector. These amendments are intended to lead to quicker resolutions during the negotiation process and help those working in the fishing industry achieve maximum economic benefit from our seafood resources.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

-30-

Learn more
Minister Davis Releases Independent Report on Review of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Model

Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act

Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @ECC_GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contacts
Debbie Marnell
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-2575, 699-9048
debbiemarnell@gov.nl.ca

Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government Introducing Proposed Amendments to the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL:

Speaker, November is Financial Literacy Month. This year’s theme is “Make Change that Counts: Managing Your Money in a Changing World.”

The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of money management and investment education, and encourages all residents to take proactive charge of their finances.

During this session of the House of Assembly, our government introduced legislation to regulate high-cost credit lending. This new legislation will make Newfoundland and Labrador the first Atlantic province to implement a regulatory regime for high-cost credit lenders. This province will also have the most affordable payday loans in the country, as we reduced payday loan rates from $21 to $14 per $100 loaned.

I encourage all residents to seek out forms of lower interest credit before taking out a high interest loan. Reading the fine print and understanding the fees and the total cost of borrowing can help ensure residents make informed decisions.

With rising costs affecting everyone’s budgets, consider reviewing family spending habits and card statements to ensure you are not paying for unnecessary services. Consider calling utilities and insurance companies to ensure you are availing of all available discounts, for example the mandatory winter tire discount on auto insurance.

The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada provides valuable resources on topics including managing your money, debt and investments, planning for retirement and protecting yourself from fraud. I encourage everyone to avail of these resources and to “Make Change that Counts” today.

Thank you Speaker.

The post Provincial Government Recognizes Financial Literacy Month appeared first on News Releases.

As tech and innovation companies from Newfoundland and Labrador continue to make an impact nationally and internationally, a local firm is expanding its business development opportunities in North America with support from the Provincial Government.

Today the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, announced that the Provincial Government is contributing more than $98,000 in non-repayable funding from the Business Development Support program to ClearRisk, a provider of web-based software and data solutions for medium to large-sized organizations. ClearRisk’s Risk Management Solutions platform is designed to enhance overall business performance through operational excellence.

This funding will assist the company with increased international marketing activities, including content development, social media, online ads, and participation in various North American trade shows. It will help ClearRisk to establish itself as a brand leader in Risk Management Information System solutions in the public sector/municipalities and property management space in the United States and Canada.

Founded by Craig Rowe in 2006, ClearRisk works with risk managers and senior management from over 150 organizations all across North America in retail, property management, municipalities, technology, and many other industries.

Investments in our tech and innovation sector mean more jobs and a stronger economy for our province.

Quotes
“For over 15 years, ClearRisk has been a tech leader in Newfoundland and Labrador. With support from our government, this firm will increase its global competitiveness, while minimizing market expansion risks.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“We are delighted with the continued support of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Since our inception in 2006, the Province has been an important partner. This funding helps companies like ClearRisk take even more risk. We are always investing in our product and people, but when the Province co-invests we are able to do a lot more. This means more positions created, a better product for our customers and more success in the market. I’m very proud that ClearRisk has been a significant contributor to the NL tech sector in talent development, jobs created and contributions to the economy and community. Partnerships like the one with the Province benefit everyone.”
Craig Rowe
CEO, ClearRisk

-30-

Learn more
ClearRisk

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Media contacts
Kelly-Anne Roberts
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5248, 327-7005
kelly-anneroberts@gov.nl.ca

Elyse Summers
ClearRisk
709-743-9329
esummers@clearrisk.com

The post Supporting the Continued Growth of ClearRisk appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, and the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will bring greetings at the Leadership Summit for Women and Gender Diverse Individuals in the Municipal Sector, tomorrow (Wednesday, November 2). The Leadership Summit is taking place at the Quality Inn and Suites, 100 Trans-Canada Highway, Gander starting at 5:00 p.m.

Among various topics of discussion, the summit will mark the launch of The Value We Bring project, building upon the Make Your Mark campaign to increase diversity and inclusion work in the province’s municipal sector. The Provincial Government recently announced a $10,000 investment to support The Value We Bring project.

-30-

Media contacts
Jacquelyn Howard
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5539, 689-2624
jacquelynhoward@gov.nl.ca

Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Ministers Howell and Parsons to Bring Greetings at the Leadership Summit for Women and Gender Diverse Individuals appeared first on News Releases.

This past weekend was one of incredible talent and celebration, as MusicNL recognized musical excellence in Newfoundland and Labrador through its Industry Awards and Music Awards ceremonies.

The Industry Award reception was held at the Corner Brook Civic Centre on Friday, October 28. The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, had the pleasure of presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Don and Kathy Wherry of Sound Symposium.

The Music Awards were held at the Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre on Saturday, October 29. The Honourable Gerry Byrne attended on behalf of the Provincial Government and presented the Folk/Roots Artist of the Year to the Kubasonics.

Other winners from this weekend’s awards ceremonies include:

Industry Awards:

• Event of the Year – 46th Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Festival
• Industry Professional of the Year – Mary Beth Waldram
• Media Person of the Year – Chris Batstone
• Music Educator of the Year – Rozalind MacPhail
• Outstanding Company of the Year – Atlantic Music
• Recording Engineer/Producer of the Year – Michelle LaCour
• Venue of the Year – The Ship Pub
• Volunteer of the Year – Alick Tsui
• Unsung Hero Award – John Clarke
• Denis Parker Industry Builder Award – Darren White
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Sound Symposium, Don & Kathy Wherry

Music Awards:

• Album of the Year – Nick Earle & The Reckless Hearts – No More Hiding
• Alternative Artist of the Year – Swimming
• Celtic/Traditional Artist of the Year – Rosemary Lawton
• Classical Artist of the Year – Deantha Edmunds
• Country Artist of the Year – Youngtree & The Blooms
• Electronic Artist of the Year – Alex Byrne
• Entertainer of the Year – Justin Fancy
• Folk/Roots Artist of the Year – Kubasonics
• Global Music Artist of the Year – Florian Hoefner
• Group of the Year – Quote the Raven
• Indigenous Artist of the Year – Deantha Edmunds
• Instrumental Artist of the Year – Florian Hoefner
• Loud Artist of the Year – Slowpoke
• Music Video of the Year – Rosemary Lawton – Little Fires
• Pop Artist of the Year – Rachel Cousins
• Rap/Hip-Hop Artist of the Year – King Sway
• Rising Star of the Year – Jing Xia
• Rock Artist of the Year – Nick Earle and The Reckless Hearts
• Side Musician of the Year – Dan George
• Solo Artist of the Year – Rachel Cousins
• Ron Hynes Songwriter of the Year – Kelly McMichael

The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation provides $350,000 annually to MusicNL to administer funding programs for musicians and to assist with the organization’s operations. MusicNL aims to increase awareness locally, nationally and internationally of provincially produced music as an art form, and as a viable industry with a significant impact on the economy.

Quotes
“It was an absolute pleasure to be on the west coast this weekend to participate in some of MusicNL’s networking events, showcases and the Industry Awards reception. The talent in this province is immense and MusicNL is doing a fantastic job of supporting the music community. I would like to congratulate all award winners, and also MusicNL for making such a positive impact over the past 30 years.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Music Celebration Week 2022 offered an eclectic showcase of performances from our province’s musicians. The talent was exceptional and over 35 buyers from all around the world have already invested and booked our members for 2023. Thanks again to Minister Crocker and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation for their support.”
Rhonda Tulk-Lane
Chief Executive Officer, MusicNL

-30-

Learn more
MusicNL

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Media contacts
Gina MacArthur
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-5889, 327-9574
ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

Sarah Newell
MusicNL
709-754-2574
sarah@musicnl.ca

The post Minister Crocker Congratulates 2022 MusicNL Award Winners appeared first on News Releases.

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts is advising that it will hold a further public hearing to follow up on matters contained in the report of the Auditor General on the MV Veteran and MV Legionnaire on Wednesday, November 2 at 5:30 p.m. in the House of Assembly Chamber. The Committee also conducted a public hearing on this matter in March 2022.

The MV Veteran and MV Legionnaire report is the result of a request from the Public Accounts Committee to the Auditor General in March 2018 to undertake a review of the process used to purchase the two vessels and the number of concerns related to mechanical issues since they came into service. Tomorrow’s hearing will follow up with former officials of the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure.

The public galleries of the House of Assembly will be open and a live audio feed of the proceedings will be available on the House of Assembly website.

-30-

Learn more
Report of the Auditor General on the MV Veteran and MV Legionnaire

Public Accounts Committee webpage

Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Policy & Communications Officer
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

The post House of Assembly – Standing Committee on Public Accounts to Hold Further Public Hearing on Auditor General Report on MV Veteran and MV Legionnaire appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Seniors’ Advocate has released the 2022-23 Status Report on Recommendations. This is the first report on the status of recommendations released by this Office and will be an annual feature while there are outstanding recommendations.

To date, 25 recommendations have been issued by the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate to various Provincial Government departments and agencies arising from its first report released in 2019 entitled Long May Your Big Jib Draw. Of these recommendations, 44% have been fully implemented, 44% partially implemented, and 12% have had little or no meaningful progress, as of the reporting period.

Some government departments and agencies implemented the recommendations and went even further than expected to enhance programs/services for seniors. These initiatives are highlighted in the report and include, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development’s Age-Friendly Communities Program which continues to expand; most recently collaborating with the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and the Department of Health and Community Services to develop a common community assessment tool.

For the recommendations that remain outstanding since the 2019 report, these are in varying stages of implementation from underway to no evidence of consideration. Of note, is the recommendation for a significant review of the province’s personal care homes and long term care homes. While operational standards for both systems are in draft, the implementation of a full review of both systems is critical and must be a top priority of the Department of Health and Community Services.

It is unfortunate that some of the recommendations have had no action, such as the integration of the cost of driving medicals for those age 75 years and older into the Medical Care Plan. This is a mandatory expense for older drivers and unaffordable for some. If a senior forfeits his/her license, the resulting loss of independence and other associated risks are contrary to the tenants of age-friendly living.

The Seniors’ Advocate will continue to monitor progress on the outstanding recommendations until the Office is satisfied that all are appropriately addressed.

“Meaningful change can take time; and I accept that recent global challenges may have hindered the implementation of some recommendations. This is unfortunate as some of the problems we see today may have been avoided or on the road to positive change. But the world we live in now is our “new normal” and we must get on with the work. However, progress is happening in many areas and I wish to thank those who have worked to improve the lives of seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Susan Walsh
NL Seniors Advocate

This report can be found on the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate website: www.seniorsadvocatenl.ca/pdfs/StatusReportOnRecommendations2022-23.pdf

-30-

Media contact
Sherri-Lee Owens
Office of the Seniors’ Advocate
709-729-6603, 1-833-729-6603 (toll free)
seniorsadvocate@seniorsadvocatenl.ca

The post The Office of the Seniors’ Advocate – Seniors’ Advocate Releases Status Report on Recommendations appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will tour the office space of tech firm ClearRisk tomorrow (Tuesday, November 1).

The tour takes place at 5 Hallett Crescent, St. John’s, beginning at 11:45 a.m.

ClearRisk provides web-based software and data solutions for medium to large-sized organizations across North America in retail, property management, municipalities, technology and other industries.

-30-

Media contact
Eric Humber
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5777, 725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Tour ClearRisk appeared first on News Releases.

The 2021-22 Public Accounts, the audited financial statements of the province for the fiscal year that ended March 31, 2022, have been released and tabled with the House of Assembly. The deficit for 2021-22 is confirmed at $271.9 million, which reflects a $553.6 million decrease as compared with the original estimated deficit of $825.5 million.

The decrease in deficit is primarily related to expenses of $8.9 billion being lower than the original estimate of $9.3 billion, largely due to the timing in which federal cost shared programs, such as the oil and gas industry recovery assistance fund, were anticipated to be incurred.

The Public Accounts are prepared in accordance with the standards established for governments by the Public Sector Accounting Board. The Consolidated Summary Financial Statements were independently audited by the Auditor General and were issued with an unqualified audit opinion.

The 2021-22 Public Accounts were prepared using the accrual basis of accounting, similar to statements provided at 2021-22 Budget.

Copies of the Public Accounts and the related reports for 2021-22 are available at www.gov.nl.ca/exec/tbs/publications/public-accounts/.

Quote
“The 2021-22 Public Accounts provides financial statements that received an unqualified audit opinion from the Auditor General. To achieve a stronger, more sustainable Newfoundland and Labrador, we will continue with our strategic plan that is focused on a return to balanced budgets, lower cost of borrowing and decreased debt, including the establishment of the Future Fund.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
President of Treasury Board

-30-

Learn more
2021-22 Public Accounts

Report on the Program Expenditures and Revenues of the Consolidated Revenue Fund

Budget 2021

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contact
Diana Quinton
Finance
709-729-2477, 697-1566
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government Releases 2021-22 Public Accounts appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission:

Speaker, I am pleased to welcome our first new employees through the graduate recruitment program, many of whom have joined us here today, to our public service.

These recruits are highly educated and skilled. Among this team, you will find a doctorate in sociology and a host of masters’ degrees, including public health, science management, economics, marine studies and health ethics. We have graduates with backgrounds in nursing, criminology and business to name just a few.

These new employees bring their knowledge, skill and drive to collaborate and enhance development in fiscal, social, immigration and health policies, as well as Indigenous affairs, business analysis, and human resources among others. These talented recruits are very eager to make meaningful contributions to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and through it, to the people of the province.

The graduate recruitment program provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience in one or more work assignments, expand skills and knowledge, network and connect with professionals and receive ongoing mentoring, coaching and learning opportunities. The goal is to develop a career path to management and executive roles within the public service.

I invite my colleagues to join with me in wishing our new graduate recruits well as they learn from and enhance our strong public service.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Coady Welcomes Public Service Graduate Recruits appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education, will today introduce amendments the Schools Act, 1997, for second reading in the House of Assembly. If passed, these amendments will strengthen the Act and coincide with the ongoing work on the integration of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District into the Department of Education.

Minister Haggie will be available to provide details of the proposed amendments prior to debate in the House of Assembly today (Monday, October 31) at noon in the front of the House of Assembly, East Block, Confederation Building.

The proposed changes to the Act include:

• Introducing a Provincial Advisory Council on Education.  This group will take on an advisory role to the Minister of Education on all matters relating to K-12 education.  The advisory council will ensure that school councils and parents from around the province have a coordinated voice concerning educational issues;
• Amendments to the governance structure of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District, including:
  • Removing the requirement for an elected board at the district. An integration board of Deputy Ministers was put in place in 2022, and will remain until the integration is complete;
  • Replacing references to the Director of Schools for the district with a new Superintendent position.  This is a change in title to distinguish the role as the integration continues; and
  • Removing the requirement for a board to appoint an associate director and assistant directors.
• Additional amendments to help modernize the Act, including updating the powers and duties of the board and the Francophone School District and incorporating gender neutral language.

These proposed updates support staff with the Department of Education and the school district as the integration process moves forward.

Quote
“These amendments, if passed, will allow for the full integration of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District into the Department of Education.  The creation of an advisory council will give parents a stronger voice in the delivery of education.  As always, we are focused on creating an education system that will provide the best possible outcomes for students.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

-30-

Learn more
Schools Act, 1997

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Education
709-729-1906, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

The post Government Introduces Proposed Amendments to the Schools Act appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador announced today that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will build a new hospital to replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital in St. John’s.

Premier Furey was joined for the announcement by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, and the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

While the site of the new hospital has not been finalized, the site of the former Grace Hospital is being considered.

Consultants will be engaged this fall to begin the planning of the new hospital.

Recognizing the child care challenges faced by health professionals in the province, particularly with shifts during irregular hours, consideration for early learning and child care resources will be part of the planning process for the new hospital.

The replacement is in addition to the construction of the new adult mental health and addictions hospital, currently under construction at Health Sciences Centre.  Construction of the new adult mental health and addictions hospital is anticipated to be completed in late 2024.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure also issued a tender earlier this year to improve and expand the emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre on the redevelopment of 2,230 square metres of the current space and the construction of a new 2,690 square metre extension.

The department anticipates awarding a contract on the redevelopment in the near future.

The new infrastructure will help realign the delivery of acute care services on the Northeast Avalon, increase access to healthcare, and ensure the appropriate infrastructure is in place to meet future health care needs.

Quotes
“We know that modern healthcare infrastructure creates better working environments and helps attract healthcare professionals, which leads to better health care services – and that is why it is important to replace this century-old building. This is in line with the principles of Health Accord NL, with the goal of improving social, economic, and environmental conditions affecting the health of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and providing timelier access to quality care. We look forward to the next steps of building a new hospital for our province.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our government is committed to increasing access to quality health care by reimagining and improving the delivery of services throughout our province. The construction of a new hospital to replace St. Clare’s Hospital aligns with this commitment and allows for the delivery of health care in a new, modern setting.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We’re excited that the replacement of St. Clare’s will help improve healthcare service delivery for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This project will also create work for tradespeople in this province. More than 90 per cent of the tradespeople on the new adult mental health and addictions hospital and new hospital in Corner Brook are from this province and we look forward to seeing that continue.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

-30-

Learn more
Health Accord NL Blueprint

Health Accord NL Final Report

Health Accord NL Interim Report – A Call to Action to Transform Health

Health Accord NL

Provincial Government Receives Health Accord NL Blueprint

Tender Issued for New Emergency Department at Health Sciences Centre

Avalon Healthcare Partnership Selected to Design, Build, Finance and Maintain New Mental Health and Addictions Hospital

Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 727-0341
LauraThomas@gov.nl.ca

The post Provincial Government to Replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make an announcement regarding healthcare infrastructure tomorrow (Monday, October 31).

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, and the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

The event will take place at 9:30 a.m. at the St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital, 154 Lemarchant Road, St. John’s. Media are asked to meet at the main entrance at 9:20 a.m. for escort through the facility.

-30-

Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

Laura Thomas
Health and Community Service
709-729-6986, 727-0341
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca

Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Availability: Premier Furey to Make Healthcare Infrastructure Announcement appeared first on News Releases.

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.

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Victoria Abattoir                                                                                         (Reg. 2222)
Proponent: Omiachi Farm

The proponent proposes to construct an abattoir on a cattle farm in Victoria, Conception Bay. The abattoir will be for slaughtering cattle from the farm with secondary processing at the existing meat shop located at 43 Swansea Road. 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 October 28, 2022; the deadline for public comments is December 2, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by December 12, 2022.

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Crown District 19 Five-Year Forestry Operating Plan (2023-2027) (Reg. 2208)
Proponent: Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

The Project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Climate Change Branch of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires that a Greenhouse Gas Management Plan must be prepared and submitted to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change for approval. A draft of this plan must be submitted within one year of the date of the Minister’s decision letter with an update on the progress of this plan to be submitted in 6 months. The plan is expected to include:
  • Any carbon modeling that has been or will be used to inform forest management planning;
  • Projections on the level of greenhouse gas emissions that are anticipated to be captured and/or released over the five year period; and
  • A description of how forest management will be informed by carbon modelling with regard to climate change mitigation and climate change adaptation.

• The Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the following:
  • A 30-metre buffer is to be maintained around infrastructure for hydrometric monitoring stations and no Project work is to occur within 100 metres of domestic wells; and
  • Forestry operations in the Churchill River flood watershed, Otter Creek flood watershed, and other local creek flood watersheds in the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay have the potential to release sediment and turbid water into the waterbody. The vulnerable areas and preventative measures must be identified to avoid releasing sediment and turbid water into the waterbody, and this information must be submitted to the Water Resources Management Division for review and approval prior to the start of forestry operations.
• The Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the proponent to follow the 2021 Environmental Protection Guidelines.
• The Land Management Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture must be consulted as follows:
  • prior to conducting any silviculture activities next to existing agriculture properties, within agricultural development areas (ADAs) and within agricultural areas of interest (AOIs);
  • to determine if there are any land use conflicts with ADAs, AOIs and home gardening areas within the Forest Management District;
  • to determine if there are any land use conflicts with cottage planning areas and cottage development areas; and
  • prior to the decommissioning of all roads constructed within the operating plan.

• The Land Management Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture also directs that:
  • existing agriculture operations must not be impacted by the Project;
  • the Project must not encroach on existing land titles where proposed timber harvest areas fall within community infilling limits; and
  • the Project must not encroach on Crown Land Reserves where proposed timber harvest areas overlap these Reserves.

• In response to the commitment to address public concerns related to the alignment of a Project Boundary with a fire break, and a lack of domestic harvesting opportunities, the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the following:
  • the proponent is to adjust the boundary of the ‘No Cut’ area in Operating Area CC19515-NWRN1 to align with the current fire break within the Town of North West River, effective for the 2023-2027 plan;
  • the proponent is to undertake the necessary mapping and consultation work to explore options that may permit domestic harvest across a wider geographical area of District 19. Consultation should occur in 2023 with the goal of implementing any domestic harvesting boundary changes on January 1, 2024; and
  • the proponent is to examine past silviculture treatment data for the Johnson’s Road area to assess the available hardwood supply outside silviculturally treated areas and the ‘No Cut’ areas for potential opportunities for harvest.

• The proponent is required to advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) demonstrating that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent is required to 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 the release letter and to provide additional updates if requested.

Crown Zone 8 Five Year Forestry Operating Plan (2023-2027)     (Reg. 2210)
Proponent: Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

The Project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the Project on the environment.
• The Climate Change Branch of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires that a Greenhouse Gas Management Plan must be prepared and submitted to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change for approval. A draft of this plan must be submitted within one year of the date of the Minister’s decision letter with an update on the progress of this plan to be submitted in six months. The plan is expected to include:
  • Any carbon modeling that has been or will be used to inform forest management planning;
  • Projections on the level of greenhouse gas emissions that are anticipated to be captured and/or released over the five-year period; and
  • A description of how forest management will be informed by carbon modelling with regard to climate change mitigation and climate change adaptation.

• The Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the following:
  • A 30-metre buffer must be maintained around the hydrometric station # 02YD002 located at Northeast Brook near Roddickton and no Project work is to occur within 100-metres of domestic wells.
  • Forestry operations in the Parsons Pond River flood watershed have the potential to release sediment and turbid water into the waterbody. The vulnerable areas and preventative measures must be identified to avoid releasing sediment and turbid water into the waterbody, and this information must be submitted to the Water Resources Management Division for review and approval prior to the start of forestry operations.

• The Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires that the proponent follow the 2021 Environmental Protection Guidelines.
• The Land Management Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture must be consulted as follows:
  • prior to conducting any silviculture activities next to existing agriculture properties, within agricultural development areas (ADAs) and within agricultural areas of interest (AOIs);
  • to determine if there are any land use conflicts with ADAs, AOIs and home gardening areas within the Forest Management District;
  • to determine if there are any land use conflicts with cottage planning areas and cottage development areas; and
  • prior to the decommissioning of roads constructed within the operating plan.

• The Land Management Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture also directs that:
  • existing agriculture operations must not be impacted by the Project;
  • the Project must not encroach on existing land titles where proposed timber harvest areas fall within community infilling limits; and
  • the Project must not encroach on Crown Land Reserves where proposed timber harvest areas overlap these Reserves.

• The Provincial Archeological Office of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation requires a 50-metre buffer, where no ground disturbing activity is permitted around Ethnographic site “12P/02/03 Ethno 1.”
• The proponent is required to 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 is required to 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.

Sexton’s Road Snowmobile Trail Re-Route                                       (Reg. 2213)
Proponent: Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Association

The Project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent is required to 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:
  • Where possible, for slopes less than 30 percent, the proponent must maintain a minimum 30-metre undisturbed riparian buffer zone around all waterbodies, 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 this zone.
  • For slopes greater than 30 percent, the proponent must maintain an undisturbed riparian buffer zone calculated using the following formula: 30 metres + 1.5 metres x slope (%). Land use activities involving grubbing, ground or soil disturbance, or timber harvesting activities must not take place in this zone.
  • No vegetation clearing is to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer also 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 sites must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
  • The proposed undertaking occurs in a silviculturally treated, commercial forest area and forestry activities must not be restricted in any way. Forestry activities include but are not limited to forest access road construction, maintenance and decommissioning of forest access roads, timber harvesting, silviculture treatment, forest protection, forest management research and monitoring, conservation and other activities carried out in accordance with sustainable forest management practices. Silviculturally treated land must not be disturbed in any way during the construction or use of this trail.

• The proponent is required to 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 is required to 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

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_May-2022.pdf

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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.

Media contact
Debbie Marnell
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-2575; 699-9048
DebbieMarnell@gov.nl.ca

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

Power has been restored to the west wing of Confederation Building, East Block, from the basement to the fifth floor following a power outage Saturday, October 22.

Public service employees who have been working from home while repairs were being completed can return to their workspaces in coordination with their supervisors.

-30-

Media contact
Brian Scott
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Power Restored at Confederation Building, East Block appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to support residents impacted by Hurricane Fiona. As part of the $30 million allocated to the Hurricane Fiona Financial Assistance Program, additional steps are being taken to support residents with reimbursements for necessities, as well as support with temporary housing for impacted residents.

Health and Safety Reimbursements
On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, $250,000 has been provided to the Canadian Red Cross to administer for the reimbursement of immediate needs and necessary items related to the health and safety of residents, purchased within the first month after Hurricane Fiona. For information about the eligible items, please see the backgrounder below.

The deadline to apply for the program is Friday, November 18, 2022. Receipts must be provided and reimbursement is up to a maximum of $2,500 per household.

To access this funding, residents need to contact the Canadian Red Cross. Starting Saturday, October 29, residents can call the toll free number 1-800-863-6582, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. NST to make an appointment.

Temporary Housing Supports
The Provincial Government is offering financial assistance and accommodation supports to help transition eligible households from emergency accommodations into temporary longer-term housing as the region continues to recover from Hurricane Fiona.

There is no application required, however impacted residents must be registered with the Canadian Red Cross and have completed a housing intake assessment with the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development. A representative from Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will be in contact with these residents regarding the available supports.

Supports include:

• $1,000 per household per month for those who continue to live in private accommodations with family, friends or other community members.
• Up to $1,000 per household per month to assist in covering the cost of a rental accommodation.
• Assistance in identifying a rental accommodation from a list of available rental properties in the region.
• In the event a household cannot find private or rental accommodation, a leased accommodation may be arranged by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation from a licensed establishment in the hospitality industry.

Guidance will also be provided to assist impacted households establish tenant/landlord lease agreements as applicable.

These assistance programs are in addition to the funding that has been distributed to those who have been displaced or evacuated, and have either returned home or are not yet able to return home. To date, almost $1.8 million has been dispersed to people from that fund.

For additional information on Hurricane Fiona relief efforts, please visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/jps/hurricanefionarelief/.

-30-

Media contact
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Health and Safety Reimbursements

To be eligible for funding, households must:

• Register with the Canadian Red Cross;
• Ensure the reimbursements pertain to their primary residence that was impacted by Hurricane Fiona; and
• Provide receipts/invoices dated between September 24, 2022 and October 31, 2022.

Support for health and safety needs of impacted residents

Health

• Medical devices and aids (i.e., CPAP, canes, walkers, wheelchairs, etc.)
• Health care supplies (i.e., eyeglasses, dentures, etc.)

Safety

• Personal Protective Equipment (i.e., work uniform, boots, gloves)
• Car Seat
• Stroller

Support for homeowners with minor damage for repairs, remediation, clean-up and replacement

Household Appliances – Must be for primary use of household

• Washer/Dryer
• Refrigerator/Freezer

Clean-up, remediation, minor repairs

• Debris Removal
  • Contractor costs, gas, equipment rental or purchase
• Tree removal
  • Contractor costs, gas, equipment rental or purchase
• Interior cleaning: Water/mold remediation
  • Contractor cost, home inspection cost, professional cleaning, supplies
• Minor repairs to essential home structures such as shingles, siding, windows, and doors

Please note, a household’s own labour is not eligible for reimbursement.

The post Public Advisory: Funding and Supports Available for Residents Affected by Hurricane Fiona appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, today announced that a fund of $3 million will be available for tourism and hospitality operators to enhance their products and experiences. This funding will further support the recovery and growth of the province’s tourism industry following the global COVID-19 pandemic.

This $3 million investment will fund non-repayable contributions of up to 50 per cent of eligible costs for approved projects, up to a maximum of $25,000.

The objectives of the program are to support commercial tourism and hospitality operators who aspire to:

• Enhance products and experiences;
• Improve the quality and market readiness of existing tourism products and experiences;
• Facilitate extending experiences into the “shoulder seasons”;
• Enhance efficiency of operations; and/or
• Increase accessibility to tourism products and experiences.

Funding from the Tourism Experience Enhancement Fund is available to Newfoundland and Labrador owned and operated tourism and hospitality operators, including licensed accommodations, tours, attractions, food and beverage purveyors, outfitters, transportation services, retail businesses and for-profit events.

More information, including eligibility criteria and the application form, is available on the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation website so that operators can review and prepare their proposals.

Proposals will be accepted from November 4 to November 25, 2022. Funded projects must be completed by December 31, 2023.

Quote
“Tourism and hospitality operators are critical to our provincial economy, and are eager to share authentic Newfoundland and Labrador experiences with residents and visitors alike. The Tourism Experience Enhancement Fund is an investment that will help them make their products and experiences even more attractive and further enhance our reputation as a world-class travel destination.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

-30-

Learn more
Tourism Experience Enhancement Fund Guidelines and Application

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contact
Gina MacArthur
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-327-9574
ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

The post Minister Crocker Launches New Tourism Experience Enhancement Fund for Tourism and Hospitality Operators appeared first on News Releases.

Today the amended Adoption Act, 2013, which governs the adoption process in Newfoundland and Labrador, is now in effect. The approved amendments will further strengthen the province’s adoption legislation and recognize the unique needs of Indigenous children and their families in the adoption process.

The adoption legislation will now:

• Recognize the rights and needs of Indigenous children in the adoption process;
• Expand the factors considered when determining the best interests of the child for the purposes of adoption to include the importance of preserving an Indigenous child’s cultural identity and the importance of sibling relationships;
• Clarify when and under what conditions court ordered contact continues after an adoption is finalized through new openness order provisions;
• Address a legislative gap for adoption of youth leaving care between their 18th and 19th birthdays; and
• Clarify confidentiality provisions to ensure appropriate transparency while protecting the confidential information of those involved in adoption processes.

These amendments followed engagement with key partners to inform policy development, clinical practice procedures and regulations, as well as the implementation of training for staff and stakeholders. The Act, which received Royal Assent on November 4, 2021, can be found on the House of Assembly website.

For more information on the adoption process, please visit the department’s website.

Quote
“It is paramount that children who are eligible for adoption are matched with loving and supportive families in a timely manner, and that the unique needs of Indigenous children are recognized. I am pleased that the amended Adoption Act, 2013, is now law. The amendments are certainly reflective of best practices and input gathered from birth families, adoptive families, foster parents, the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association, the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate, Indigenous governments and organizations, and the public.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

-30-

Learn more

Provincial Government Proposes Amendments to the Adoption Act, 2013

Adoption Act, 2013

Information on the Adoption Process

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @CSSD_GovNL

Media contact
Khadija Rehma
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-3768, 730-2977
khadijarehma@gov.nl.ca

The post Amended Adoption Legislation Now In Effect appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will make a funding announcement related to tourism operators tomorrow (Friday, October 28) at 11:00 a.m.

The announcement will take place at the Marble Mountain Resort, 2 Marble Drive, Steady Brook.

Media planning to attend are asked to please RSVP with Adrienne Luther (adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca).

-30-

Media contact
Gina MacArthur
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-5889, 327-9574
ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

The post Media Advisory: Minister Crocker to Announce Funding for Tourism Operators appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2022-025 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report:         A-2022-025

Report Date: October 25, 2022

Public Body:  Independent Appointments Commission

Summary:     The Complainant made an access to information request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Independent Appointments Commission for records relating to the review of applicants for a Vice-Chairperson position on the Labour Relations Board. The Complainant was seeking information as to why a second Vice-Chairperson was not appointed. The Independent Appointments Commission responded to the Complainant, providing records but withholding some information pursuant to sections 27 (cabinet confidences), 32 (confidential evaluation) and 40 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). This Report finds that the Independent Appointments Commission had conducted a reasonable search for records and that the exceptions were applied appropriately.

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-025 Released appeared first on News Releases.