Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will speak at the Registered Nurses’ Union of Newfoundland and Labrador’s 28th Biennial Convention tomorrow (Tuesday, October 25).

The event begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s.

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

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On October 21, 2022, the House of Assembly Management Commission released the Review of the Honourable J. Derek Green of the March 2022 Report of the Citizens’ Representative on Public Interest Disclosures Regarding the Chief Electoral Officer for Newfoundland and Labrador. The Office of the Citizens’ Representative welcomes the public release of the former Chief Justice’s Review whereby seven allegations warranted further action.

The Office of the Citizens’ Representative is statutorily mandated under the House of Assembly Accountability, Integrity and Administration Act to investigate public interest disclosures. It received allegations made by whistleblowers in 2021 and thoroughly investigated them over approximately 11 months, making findings. The statutory role of the Office in this regard was completed when it provided its report to the Clerk and Speaker of the House of Assembly. As its statutory role is complete, it would not be appropriate for the Office to give media interviews on this matter.

We agree with the former Chief Justice’s comment in the Executive Summary of his Review that “whistleblower investigators must strike a difficult balance between confidentiality and fairness.” Indeed, the utmost concern of the Office of the Citizens’ Representative is to protect those who blow the whistle about disclosures of wrongdoing.

The Office of the Citizens’ Representative is committed to strengthening accountability and the integrity of the Public Service in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Newfoundland and Labrador Information and Privacy Commissioner Michael Harvey was proud to host the annual meeting of the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Information and Privacy Commissioners in St. John’s on September 19-21, 2022. This was the first face-to-face meeting of Commissioners since 2019 and the meeting involved presentations from several experts and valuable discussions on topics of mutual interest.

Commissioner Harvey is proud to announce, as an outcome of the meeting, the issuance of a Joint Resolution on Ensuring the Right to Privacy and Transparency in the Digital Identity Ecosystem in Canada, endorsed by all of Canada’s Privacy Commissioners[1].

With so many services being offered online which are increasingly interconnected, it is more important than ever that there be a means to verify identity that is reliable, secure and respects privacy. Attention to the development of such a “digital identity ecosystem” is a global trend to enable individuals, businesses and devices to securely and efficiently connect with one another, confirm the identity of individuals, and carry out transactions online and in person with a high degree of efficiency and confidence.

Commissioners therefore made a series of recommendations to governments and relevant stakeholders to ensure that rights to privacy and transparency are fully respected throughout the design, operation and ongoing evolution of a digital identity ecosystem in Canada. The joint resolution includes a non-exhaustive list of conditions and properties, including ecosystem properties, individual rights and remedies, and governance and oversight, that should be integrated with a legislative framework applicable to the creation and management of digital identities.

Commissioner Harvey states that “As many of us live more and more of our lives online, it is essential that our digital identities – our online selves – be safe and secure. We must not have to sacrifice our privacy to participate in this online world. We also must not leave behind those who prefer offline alternatives.” My Office will continue to monitor the development of digital identity initiatives and to collaborate with my colleagues across Canada to strengthen our knowledge and capacity in this area. I welcome any public body considering a digital identity initiative to reach out to my Office for a consultation to better ensure privacy protections and public trust.”

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

[1] In New Brunswick and Manitoba, the privacy oversight role is performed by the Ombudsperson. Also, the Information Commissioner of Canada, while a member of this FPT table, did not endorse this resolution as it relates to privacy matters. Another resolution on Securing Public Trust in Digital Healthcare was released during the meeting itself.

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Digital Government and Service NL today announced that Emmanuel Construction Services Ltd. of Glovertown have been charged with violations under Newfoundland and Labrador’s Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations.

The charges result from an investigation by Digital Government and Service NL Occupational Health and Safety Division into an incident, which occurred in October 2020, resulting the death of a company employee at a construction site in Terra Nova National Park.

Emmanuel Construction Ltd. is charged with nine violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations relating to its alleged failure to:

1. Provide a safe workplace and the necessary equipment, systems and tools that are without risk to workers;
2. Provide the information, instruction, training, supervision and facilities to ensure a safe workplace;
3. Ensure workers, and especially supervisors, are made familiar with the hazards;
4. Ensure that work procedures promote the safe interaction of workers and their work environment;
5. Ensure that a guardrail cannot move in any direction if it is struck;
6. Ensure that a guardrail has a toprail and a midrail;
7. Ensure that each machine and piece of equipment is selected, used and operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, safe work practices, and the regulations;
8. Ensure a work platform 1.22 metres above grade has guardrails on all open sides and ends that comply with the guardrail requirements in the regulations; and
9. Ensure that an elevating work platform meets the requirements of the appropriate standard.

The company’s first appearance is scheduled for November 28, 2022, at Provincial Court in Gander.

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Media contact
Krista Dalton
Media Relations Manager
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Occupational Health and Safety Charges Laid Against Emmanuel Construction appeared first on News Releases.

In partnership with Come Home 2022, Canada’s National Para Hockey Team Training Camp is coming to Paradise. The camp, which will include two-time Winter Paralympic medalist, world champion and Newfoundlander and Labradorian Liam Hickey, will take place at the Paradise Double Ice Complex from October 23 to 28.

Sports fans of all ages are invited to participate in several public events:

• Intrasquad Red vs. White Games
  • Wednesday, October 26 from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  • Thursday, October 27 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

• ‘Try It’ Session
  • Wednesday, October 26 at 1:30 p.m.

All events are free to the public.

Para hockey debuted at the Paralympics in 1994 and has become one of the most popular spectator sports at the Paralympic Winter Games.

Come Home 2022 festivals and events are taking place all throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for the remainder of 2022. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians everywhere can visit ComeHome2022.ca to sign up for the Come Home 2022 e-newsletter, which shares updates on festivals and events throughout the year. They can also follow ComeHome2022 on Facebook and Instagram to get up-to-date celebration information.

Quotes
 “To have the National Para Hockey Team Training Camp coming to Paradise is an excellent step toward promoting accessible and inclusive sport, and provides a unique para hockey development opportunity in this province. I am equally pleased to welcome our very own Liam Hickey home for this event. As a dual-sport Paralympian in both para hockey and wheelchair basketball, Liam is an inspiration to so many young athletes in Newfoundland and Labrador, and we are very proud of the success he has achieved.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Para Hockey is an accessible, inclusive and collaborative sport for athletes of all ages and abilities, and it is my pleasure to welcome the National Para Hockey Training Camp coming to Paradise. My best wishes to all participating athletes who are pushing the boundaries and paving new pathways with hard work and determination, and of course to Liam Hickey, who is an inspiration for us all and a powerful role model for all young athletes.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

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Learn more
Come Home 2022

Premier Furey Officially Launches Come Home Year 2022

Like Come Home 2022 on Facebook

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Media contacts
Adrienne Luther
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 730-2953
adrienneluther@celebratenl.ca

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

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will be joined by Rick Kelly, Executive Director, Waypoints, and other community partners to announce a targeted Basic Income Program for youth receiving residential services tomorrow (Tuesday, October 25).

The event will take place at Waypoints, 145 LeMarchant Road, St. John’s, starting at 1:00 p.m.

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Announce a Targeted Basic Income Program for Youth Receiving Residential Services appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government congratulates Newfoundland and Labrador apprentices for achieving the third highest 2021 Red Seal pass rate in Canada, nine per cent above the national average. A passing grade for Red Seal exams is a mark of 70 per cent or higher.

The 2021 Red Seal pass rate for provincial apprentices was 63 per cent for all trades. This represents an 11 per cent increase from 2020, and is the highest pass rate in the last five years. This substantial increase in the Newfoundland and Labrador pass rate occurred while the national pass rate decreased by one per cent to 54 per cent.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to bolster the performance of apprentices, by investing $150 million annually to support workers looking to upskill and retrain, and through ongoing program improvements that include:

• Launching an independent review of the provincial apprenticeship program to help ensure best outcomes for apprentices trained in Newfoundland and Labrador (proposals have been received and are currently under review);
• Developing an Apprenticeship NL e-Toolkit;
• Expansion of the Virtual Learning Strategist program to support apprentices to pass exams; and
• Planning and conducting new workshops for instructors to prepare students for Red Seal exams.

In 2021-22 there were approximately 3,700 registered apprentices in Newfoundland and Labrador in 64 designated trades, and approximately 1,200 employers.

Quote
“Congratulations to Newfoundland and Labrador tradespeople for once again showing they are national leaders in technical and practical skills. Full credit to our tradespeople for these great results and to the instructors and local employers who train them. Our government will build on this success by continuing to deliver program improvements for apprentices, such as better access to online training and exam preparatory services, in every region of the province.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

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Media contact
Jeremy Reynolds
Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
709-729-2377, 709-691-2298
jeremyreynolds@gov.nl.ca

The post Newfoundland and Labrador Apprentices Score High in Canadian Red Seal Exams appeared first on News Releases.

The west wing of Confederation Building, East Block, from the basement to the fifth floor will remain closed Monday, October 24, due to a power outage.

Repairs to restore power are continuing. Government business will not be impacted as departments have developed plans to ensure operations continue. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates repairs to be completed later this week.

Confederation Building, West Block, and all other areas of East Block remain open.

More information on repairs and the west wing of East Block reopening will be provided as repairs continue.

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

The post Public Advisory: Portion of Confederation Building, East Block, to Remain Closed due to Power Outage appeared first on News Releases.

The west wing of Confederation Building, East Block, from the basement to the fifth floor is currently closed due to a power outage.

Repairs to restore power are currently underway. Government business will not be impacted as departments are developing a plan to ensure operations continue.

Confederation Building, West Block, and all other areas of East Block remain open.

More information on repairs and the west wing of East Block reopening will be provided as repairs continue.

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

 

The post Public Advisory: Portion of Confederation Building, East Block, Closed due to Power Outage appeared first on News Releases.

 The Provincial Government continues to support residents as we progress through this difficult situation following the impacts of Hurricane Fiona.

For residents who have been displaced and whose homes have been destroyed, are no longer safe to live in and/or cannot be reasonably repaired, a process has been established to apply for funding. The Provincial Government, with the help of municipal governments and other community organizations, will be reaching out to residents regarding the application process and officials will be on the ground in the coming days to assist residents with completing applications.

As we advance this phase, other properties that sustained varying degrees of damage will require further assessment. Residents are encouraged to fill out the Disaster Financial Assistance Agreement application and an official will be in contact to discuss next steps.

On Monday, October 3, the Canadian Red Cross started distributing funding on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to those who have been displaced or evacuated and have either returned home or are not yet able to return home. To date, over $1.5 million has been dispersed to people who need it, and more is going out every day.

As part of our government’s overall financial support related to Hurricane Fiona, $500,000 is being provided directly to communities through the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs. The Department has been in contact with communities to outline all eligible costs. Just over $147,000 has been approved to date to assist with costs for such items as cleanup of debris, hiring of staff to assist with hurricane relief and overtime pay for town staff. Expenses are 100 per cent covered and there is no requirement for communities to cost-share.

A Housing Committee made up of representatives from Transportation and Infrastructure, Children, Seniors and Social Development and the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is working to match impacted residents to available temporary housing. $1.5 million has been allocated to assist impacted residents with temporary accommodations, and it is anticipated that impacted residents will begin moving into temporary housing over the next several weeks. We ask for continued patience as the process of matching the needs with available temporary accommodations continues in the interim.

The Provincial Government is asking individuals who have been impacted by Hurricane Fiona and who have not already registered with the Canadian Red Cross, to please do so by either:

• Calling the toll free number 1-800-863-6582, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. NDT; or
• Visiting in-person at St. Christopher’s Hotel, 146 Caribou Rd, Channel-Port Aux Basques, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. NDT from Tuesday to Sunday weekly. Please note the registration centre will not be open on Mondays.

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

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

The post Public Advisory: Update on Assistance for Residents and Communities Affected by Hurricane Fiona appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will speak at the 49th SportNL Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony tomorrow (Saturday, October 22).

The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s.

SportNL is a volunteer-led organization that promotes amateur sport throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

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

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Chair of the House of Assembly Management Commission, advises that the Management Commission, after considering the submission of the Honourable J. Derek Green and meeting with the former Chief Justice of Newfoundland and Labrador, has accepted the findings of his review entitled, ‘Fairness, Reliability and Justification: Accountability Based on Public Interest Disclosures’ and is releasing it publicly.

The independent review was undertaken by the former Chief Justice of the March 2022 report of the Citizens’ Representative entitled ‘A Report on Public Interest Disclosures Regarding the Chief Electoral Officer for Newfoundland and Labrador.’

The Management Commission has recommended to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council that Bruce Chaulk be reinstated to the positions of Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner for Legislative Standards. The Commission also recommended that Ann Chafe, acting Commissioner for Legislative Standards, continue until her outstanding reports have been submitted to the Speaker. Other matters raised in the report will be dealt with by the Management Commission as appropriate.

The Lieutenant-Governor in Council has issued the Orders in Council to revoke the suspension of Mr. Chaulk effective immediately.

Quote
“The Management Commission extends its sincere appreciation to the Honourable J. Derek Green for undertaking this assignment and his thorough, considered review. The Commission has full confidence in former Chief Justice Green’s review, has based its recommendations to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council on his analysis and is pleased to release his review.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly
Chair of the Management Commission

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Learn more
Fairness, Reliability, and Justification: Accountability Based on Public Interest Disclosures

Executive Summary

Full Review

Media contact
Mark Jerrett
Policy, Planning and Research Analyst
House of Assembly
709-729-6943
markjerrett@gov.nl.ca

The post House of Assembly – Management Commission Addresses Reinstatement of Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner for Legislative Standards Following Independent Review appeared first on News Releases.

Today, 40 young women and gender diverse individuals visited the Confederation Building and House of Assembly to take part in Future of the Vote. The event, formerly known as Daughters of the Vote, was recently rebranded to encourage broader participation from women and gender diverse people.

The event is an experiential learning opportunity for delegates to spend time in government institutions and the legislature to gain a better understanding of government and politics.

Delegates participated in a full schedule of events focused on inclusion and diversity including an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion workshop with Ravensong Consulting; a sharing insights circle with local leaders Ophelia Ravencroft, Anne Malone, Grace Okwera and Susan Onalik; and a mock debate in the House of Assembly.

Future of the Vote allows future leaders a chance to network with others, build relationships and foster mentorship roles that will assist them in exploring their paths to boardroom tables, municipal councils and provincial and federal governments.

The Office of Women and Gender Equality allocated $30,000 in project funding to Equal Voice NL to support the execution of the Future of the Vote event.

Quotes
“The delegates who participated in today’s event have demonstrated that the future of our province is bright. I am confident that their experience with Future of the Vote has helped them gain a better understanding of government and politics in our province. Thanks to Equal Voice NL for their efforts to create a positive learning experience for all participants.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Today, 40 youth delegates were able to see themselves in leadership positions and envision the future they can help shape for Newfoundland and Labrador. They are each change makers in their own right, and the experiences and insights they brought to the event were valuable and enriching for all involved.”
Courtney Clarke
Co-Chair, Equal Voice NL

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Learn more
Future of the Vote

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, and @WGE_GovNL

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

Courtney Clarke
Equal Voice NL
709-765-7091
nl@equalvoice.ca

 

 

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, today announced $10,000 to help fund the Make Your Mark campaign, a collaborative public education, advocacy, and awareness initiative with Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador and Equal Voice NL. This funding will support ongoing diversity and inclusion work in the province’s municipal sector.

The project will feature a digital storytelling series called The Value We Bring, and builds upon Make Your Mark, which was launched in advance of the 2021 municipal elections to encourage more diversity on municipal councils. The campaign was a success, with the number of women elected in the 2021 municipal elections increasing by 10 per cent compared to 2017.

The funding announced today will support the production of a new series of videos featuring women and gender diverse individuals who have experienced systemic barriers along their leadership journey. The goal is to highlight these experiences and create pathways for change to support women and gender diverse individuals as they seek leadership roles in the municipal sector.

The Value We Bring project will launch at Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador’s Leadership Summit for Women and Gender Diverse Individuals in the Municipal Sector, scheduled for November 2 in Gander.

Quotes
“The municipal sector is seeing an increase in diversity on various levels, and this is very encouraging. Still, there is more work to be done. I am pleased to support The Value We Bring project to continue this growth in diversity and inclusion. Targeted, focused actions are needed to ensure women, people with disabilities, Black, Indigenous and people of colour can take a seat at the table in an inclusive, welcoming environment.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“There is no doubt that increased diversity at all levels of politics can lead to better decision making and better outcomes for our province. The Value We Bring project, along with additional initiatives such as the Make Your Mark Campaign and the Future of the Vote event, are helping to showcase representation and give new opportunities to women, gender-diverse people and people with intersecting identities. It is initiatives like these that will help create a more inclusive province for all people.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“The municipal sector in Newfoundland and Labrador is on the precipice of something extraordinary.  We want to support the great people leading and working in our municipalities in ways that provide equitable opportunities and experiences, and we want to send a clear message that municipal leadership can be a place for everyone. We want you at the table. We are ensuring that we have all the best tools to make that happen. The Make Your Mark Campaign and The Value we Bring project are part of those tools. We are so pleased to partner once again with the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs on this work, to be supported by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, and to be working with Equal Voice NL.”
Amy Coady
President, Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador

“One year ago, we were thrilled to see a 10 per cent increase in women elected to municipal councils across Newfoundland and Labrador. It is important to keep building on that momentum, to take a wider lens on gender diversity, and to combat the compounding oppressions faced by those who identify with other intersecting demographics. Programs like The Value We Bring, Future of the Vote and our upcoming Campaign College do just that! Although the next set of elections is still another two or three years away, it is imperative that we do the work to plant seeds now, so when the next set of elections are announced, more individuals are ready to step up and put their name on the ballot.”
Courtney Clarke
Co-Chair Equal Voice NL

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Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @MPA_GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

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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

Tobias Romaniuk
Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador
709-725-1440
tromaniuk@municipalnl.ca

Courtney Clarke
Equal Voice NL
709-765-7091
nl@equalvoice.ca

The post Minister Howell Provides Financial Support for Inclusion and Diversity Work in Municipal Government appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, along with the Honourable Seamus O’Regan Jr., Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament for St. John’s South-Mount Pearl, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada, today announced cost-shared funding of over $147,000 for an efficiency and fuel switching project for Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc. The project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions up to 150 tonnes annually.

The funding was used to replace three oil furnaces with air to water heat pumps at the Sea-Force Hyperbaric Reception Facility.

Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc. received $36,910 from the Federal Government and $36,910 from the Provincial Government, with the company contributing $73,820, in support of the energy efficiency project.

The Sea-Force Hyperbaric Reception Facility was built to treat divers working in the offshore industry, as required by the Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Area Diving Operations Safety Transitional Regulations. It is the only shore-based Hyperbaric Reception Facility in North America.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Climate Change Challenge Fund is a competitive grant-based program to fund greenhouse gas reduction projects. The fund supports projects that lower greenhouse gas emissions and is available to organizations across commercial, municipal, not-for-profit sectors and Indigenous governments and organizations. The Department of Environment and Climate Change is responsible for programs totaling about $44 million of the $89.4 million Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund agreement.

Quotes
“The more we reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, the closer we get to achieving our target of net-zero by 2050. Our government is pleased to support Sea-Force Hyperbaric with their fuel-switching project as they work to improve the facility’s energy efficiency and energy consumption.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“The transition to a clean, sustainable economy is an enormous opportunity that requires investment, adaptation and new ways of doing business. It means reducing carbon wherever and whenever we have the opportunity. Working with organizations like Sea-Force Hyperbaric to replace oil furnaces with air to water heat pumps lowers carbon, reduces costs and makes them more competitive.”
The Honourable Seamus O’Regan Jr.
Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament for St. John’s South – Mount Pearl

“Through the support provided by both the Provincial and Federal Governments, Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc. were able to make a notable contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Replacing the three oil furnaces, which consumed approx. 55,000 Litres of fuel per year, with air to water heat pumps was an important energy efficiency upgrade and a significant reduction in energy consumption. Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc. are pleased to have made this positive impact towards climate change.”
Jim Hynes
Director, Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc.

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Learn more
Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund

Low Carbon Economy Fund

Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy

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

Kaitlin Power
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-230-1557
kaitlin.power@ec.gc.ca

Jim Hynes
Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc.
709-753-2021

The post Provincial and Federal Governments Support Energy Efficiency Project for Sea-Force Hyperbaric Inc. appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, earlier this week proclaimed October 16 to October 22, 2022 as Co-op Week in Newfoundland and Labrador. Co-op Week recognizes and celebrates the numerous vibrant co-operative enterprises making significant contributions to the province’s economy each year.

Co-operatives are an innovative business model used to support a variety of opportunities in sectors such as child care. With an increase in demand for child care spaces across the province, a unique opportunity for the co-op sector has been presented to proactively promote and support the development of parent/worker-owned child care co-ops to meet parental and community needs. To assist with the development and distribution of a resource tool kit to facilitate increased public awareness of the benefits of the child care co-operative model, the Provincial Government recently announced a $4,000 funding contribution to the Co-operative Solutions Group.

Minister Parsons was joined by Shannon Fraser, Vice-President of the Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives (NLFC) to sign a proclamation at the Confederation Building Daycare Centre Co-op this week.

The department, through the Community Capacity Building (CCB) Program, is also supporting co-op development sessions for women immigrants and for real estate professionals, as well as a strategic planning session by the NLFC.

The CCB program was established in 2009 to assist community-based economic development organizations through enhancing skills essential to regional economic planning, development and implementation. Groups interested in learning more about the co-operative business model should contact their local IET office.

Co-op Week is celebrated during the same week as International Credit Union Day, which is the third Thursday in October each year.

Quotes
“I congratulate the many co-operatives and social enterprises who are leading the way in co-op and community economic development across the province. We are pleased to partner with the NLFC to promote the co-operative business model while supporting the growth and development of the overall sector.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Co-op Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the impacts of co-operatives in our province. Co-operatives create stability in our communities by providing needed services, creating employment, and investing profits in their communities. The NLFC are proud to represent the passion and dedication of our member organizations. Happy Co-op Week to all!”
Dave Walsh
Managing Director, Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

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Learn more
Community Capacity Building

Social Enterprise Action Plan

Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

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

Amanda Organ
Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives
709-726-9434
amanda@nlfc.coop

Minister Parsons with Shannon Fraser, Vice-President of the Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

The post Provincial Government Celebrates Co-op Week appeared first on News Releases.

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, Chief Medical Officer of Health, will hold a media availability today (Friday, October 21) to discuss changes to COVID-19 case and contact management and the Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 vaccine.

The availability will take place in Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building at 11:00 a.m.

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

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

 

The post Media Advisory: Dr. Fitzgerald Available to Media 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:

Blaketown to Clarkes Pond 55L Transmission Line Rebuild      (Reg. 2221)
Proponent: Newfoundland Power Inc.

The proponent is proposing to rebuild transmission line 55L which extends 54.3 kilometres between Blaketown and Clarkes Pond on the Avalon Peninsula. The proposed work would include the reconstruction of several sections of the line where continued maintenance is no longer feasible.  The work would be completed in two phases between 2022 and 2024. A description of the project can be found on the Department’s web page at www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on October 20, 2022; the deadline for public comments is November 25, 2022; and the minister’s decision is due by December 04, 2022.

Environmental Preview Report Guidelines Issued:

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

The minister has approved the final guidelines for the preparation of the environmental preview report (EPR) for the Deer Lake Secondary Dairy Processing Facility. The EPR guidelines identify the information that the proponent will be required to include in the EPR. The EPR guidelines document is available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2203/.

UndertakingS Released:
Appleton Mineral Exploration – Seismic Survey and Trenching (Reg. 2214)
Proponent: New Found Gold Corp.

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 Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the following;
  • Total area cut for the development of the cut lines cannot exceed 5% of the sub-watershed area within the Protected Public Water Supply Area (PPWSA).
  • Access created in the PPWSA as a part of this project that can be travelled by motor vehicles (excluding ATVs and snowmobiles) must be decommissioned following the completion of the project.
• 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.

Springdale Junction Agriculture Development                                 (Reg. 2215)
Proponent: Michael Warren

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 Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following:
  • The proponent must maintain a minimum 50-metre undisturbed riparian buffer zone from the high water mark of all wetlands and waterbodies 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, and are either within or adjacent to the proposed land.
  • 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 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.

Legislative amendments to the Real Estate Trading Act, 2019 received second reading today, supporting the Provincial Government’s continued commitment to improving services and increasing consumer protection for the people of the province.

The Provincial Government regularly reviews legislation to ensure it reflects changes in industry operations. Through continued review and feedback from the industry, the proposed amendments to the Real Estate Trading Act include:

• Clarifying that a licence remains in effect unless cancelled by the Superintendent;
• Requiring an inspector to prepare a report when directed by the Superintendent; and
• Allowing for criminal record checks to be provided for licencees by recognized organizations like the Commissionaires.

These amendments strengthen the province’s real estate industry and streamline licensing processes for licencees, demonstrating government’s commitment to modernizing legislation.

Quotes
“A purchase or sale of a home is likely the largest transaction a person will ever make. It’s imperative that we have the legislation and regulations to protect homebuyers and sellers in these transactions. It is also important that legislation meets the needs of real estate brokers and real estate salespersons, ensuring an efficient regulatory process.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

“These changes are a positive step for brokers, salespeople and consumers, strengthening the regulation of the real estate industry and enhancing consumer protection. The NL Association of REALTORS® appreciates being engaged during the process and looks forward to providing input in future discussions to further enhance the legislation.”
Bill Stirling
CEO, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of REALTORS®

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Learn more
Bill 14: An Act to Amend the Real Estate Trading Act, 2019

New Regulations Will Enhance Real Estate Environment in Newfoundland and Labrador

Real Estate Trading Act Amendments Aim to Improve Province’s Real Estate Environment

Real Estate Trading Act, 2019

Amendments Aim to Improve Province’s Real Estate Environment

Results of Real Estate Trading Act Consultation Available Online

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @DGS_GovNL

Media contacts
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

Edward Hollett
Newfoundland and Labrador Association of REALTORS®
709-726-5110, ext. 108
ehollett@nlar.ca

The post Changes to Real Estate Trading Act Improve Consumer Protection appeared first on News Releases.

On Thursday October 20, 2022 Newfoundland and Labrador’s Seniors’ Advocate, Susan Walsh, wrote the Minister of Health and Community Services to request immediate implementation of the 2019 recommendation in the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate report titled Long May Your Big Jib Draw: Setting Sail, which states that “a significant review of the province’s Personal Care Homes and Long Term Care Homes” be completed.

Issues related to the care of seniors in both of these Systems were noted in 2018/19 which resulted in the recommendation for a review of both of these Systems. As the Advocate currently conducts Engagement Sessions in the province issues related to the care of seniors in the Personal Care Home and Long Term Care System continue to be raised. Further, similar concerns related to the care and treatment of seniors in the hospital system are also prevalent.

“The details shared by family members of the care and treatment of their loved ones in the health continuum including hospitals, Personal Care Homes and Long Term Care facilities are heart wrenching and fundamentally wrong. We can and must do better.”
Susan Walsh, NL Seniors Advocate

Further, in her October 20, 2022 letter to the Minister of Health and Community Service, the Seniors’ Advocate has noted that the need to review the Personal Care Home and Long Term Care Systems is even more critical today, and has therefore recommended that:

The Department contract an external expert in residential care for seniors to review both the Personal Care Home and Long Term Care homes/facilities and systems. This review should include an evaluation of each home/facility, from a quality of care, structure and oversight perspective. Further this review should then consider the draft standards the Department of Health and Community Services has developed for both of these Systems to determine: a) if they are adequate to meet the needs of seniors in both Systems, b) the required staffing ratios, and c) can these ratios be achieved within the current staff complement. Speaking to residents and their families should be part of this review.

“I wish to be clear that there are many intersecting issues, in addition to staffing, that are creating the current significant concerns I am hearing exist in the hospital, Personal Care Home and Long Term Care Systems. There are staff that are delivering quality care in very demanding environments in some circumstances without adequate training requirements and with what appears to be significant staffing shortages that place additional pressure on the existing staff. Seniors deserve an external review completed by experts in the area of residential care and the requirements of care for seniors with complex needs.  I will ensure that any review is comprehensive, with recommendations for real change that get implemented.”
Susan Walsh, NL Seniors Advocate

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

The post Seniors’ Advocate Seeks Review of the Personal Care Home and Long Term Care Systems appeared first on News Releases.