Government of Newfoundland News

The Provincial Government is monitoring forecasts on an approaching weather system that is anticipated to affect much of the province Friday through Sunday (January 13 to January 15).

Environment Canada is warning of heavy rain, snow, or freezing rain for the majority of the island of Newfoundland.  The highest amounts of rain are forecasted to reach more than 100 millimetres along the south coast (Connaigre-West), as well as the west coast. The Northern Peninsula and Labrador Straits regions could see a significant snowfall with up to 30 centimetres followed by freezing rain in some areas.

We encourage residents to follow guidance provided by officials, and to monitor the forecast for the most up-to-date information. Regional forecast information is available from Environment Canada.

Municipalities and local service districts should ensure infrastructure such as roads, ditches and drains are clear of debris and appropriate provisions are made for the delivery of services during anticipated weather events.

Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take measures to ensure personal safety, and if possible, clear fire hydrants of snow in case of emergency. It is important that residents have the supplies they need, including food, water and medications for at least 72 hours in the event of adverse weather conditions affecting travel. Please visit Be Prepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates freezing rain leading to potentially hazardous driving conditions on some highways.

The department recommends motorists:

• Check nl511.ca or the 511 smartphone app for highway driving conditions, highway camera images, and the Provincial Plow Tracker before travelling;
• Check the latest Environment Canada forecasts; and
• Slow down and drive to conditions.

Details on ferry schedules can be found on nl511.ca, the 511 app or by calling 1-833-NLFERRY (653-3779).

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will bring greetings on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador at the Mount Pearl Frosty Festival Launch, tomorrow (Thursday, January 12).

The event will take place at the Reid Community Centre, 126 Smallwood Drive, Mount Pearl starting at 11:30 a.m. Also attending the event will be the Frosty Festival Board of Directors, volunteers and sponsors.

The Mount Pearl Frosty Festival takes place this year February 8 to 14, with more than 60 events taking place over 7 days.

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Media contact
Jacquelyn Howard
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5539, 689-2624

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Six projects that will receive funding support of up to $100,000 under the 2022-23 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program were announced today in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

In 2022-23, the following six recipients were awarded funding through the Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program:

• The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay;
• The Town of New-Wes Valley;
• George’s Indian Band Council Inc.;
• Lions Club of Twillingate Inc.;
• Town of Harbour Breton; and
• Bay St. George South Ride for Ages.

The Community Transportation Program provides funding support to incorporated municipalities, not for profit groups and Indigenous Governments and communities to develop, implement and evaluate accessible and inclusive community-based transportation programs.

Projects under the program focus on helping to enhance and expand community transportation services for people who experience barriers to transportation, including age, ability and geography, often in combination with low income.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation announced the recipients today. Minister Abbott was joined by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs, as well as His Worship George Andrews, Mayor of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

For more information on the grant recipients, please see the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“I am happy to be here in Happy Valley-Goose Bay to announce the recipients of the Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program. The Town Council, with the purchase of an electric minibus, will allow for an accessible, affordable and environmentally-friendly transportation option that will benefit all residents of the area. All of the grant recipients this year are great examples of the innovative initiatives that this program continues to support, and its positive impact on the social and economic outcomes of the people of this province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“We are excited to have the Provincial Government become involved in our project to provide affordable transportation to the people of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. This contribution will help us immensely in bringing this project to fruition. We are very excited about this project for our community because of the benefits it will provide to seniors and other community members who do not now have access to affordable transportation options.”
George Andrews
Mayor, Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay

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Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program

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BACKGROUNDER

2022-23 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program Grants

Applicant Location Proposal Grant Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay Happy Valley-Goose Bay Purchase of 25-seat electric minibus to improve public transit, especially for seniors, persons with disabilities, single parents, persons in low income and youth among others. $100,000 Town of New-Wes Valley New-Wes Valley and surrounding area Support operations of Shore Ride Community Transportation Program,  providing free accessible transportation options on a flexible, on-demand schedule. $46,747 St. George’s Indian Band Council Inc. St. George’s-Humber Purchase of wheelchair accessible van to support the startup of the K’Taqmkuk Transportation and Support Service as well as the Emergency Home Program. $100,000 Lions Club of Twillingate Inc. Twillingate Expand services of the Community Wheels Project, which provides free transportation for individuals, especially seniors. $27,859 Town of Harbour Breton Fortune Bay – Cape La Hune Continue the Coastal Rides Community Transportation Program, which utilizes a wheelchair accessible bus to assist seniors with travel to medical appointments, grocery shop etc. $25,394 Bay St. George South Ride for Ages Bay St. George South Help expand weekly services of the accessible and inclusive bus service to include youth and family activities. $11,832 Total $300,000 L-R: Hayward Broomfield, Denise Rumbolt, councillors, Mayor George Andrews, Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Hon. John G. Abbott, Minister for Children, Seniors and Social Development, and Hon. Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, will announce the recipients of the 2022-23 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program on Tuesday, January 10.

The event will take place at 2:00 p.m. (AST) at the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay’s Chamber Council, located at 212 Hamilton River Road.

Minister Abbott will be joined by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs, as well as His Worship George Andrews, Mayor of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

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The Provincial Government is seeking public and stakeholder input on amendments to section 36 of the Lands Act. This section focuses on adverse possession of Crown lands – commonly referred to as “squatters’ rights.”

Three changes are being considered to clarify adverse possession and protect the land interests of the people of the province, including:

• Changing the possessory period of land from the current 20 continuous years immediately prior to January 1, 1977, to 10 continuous years immediately prior to January 1, 1977. No other period of possession would count in acquiring an interest in Crown lands;
• Setting a definitive time period within which persons making claims to Crown lands based on adverse possession have to make those claims; and
• Allowing the Crown to issue a document that declares the Crown claims no interest where the conditions of adverse possession have been met, without granting title or transferring any interest.

An online questionnaire regarding the proposed changes, as well as details on submitting written feedback and other submission alternatives can be found at engageNL.

In addition, the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is contacting stakeholder groups directly to request their input during virtual engagement sessions to be held later this month.

Quote
“The Provincial Government has a legal duty to administer Crown lands in a responsible manner. While adverse possession against the Crown was abolished on January 1, 1977, this type of land claim is common due to the nature of early settlement in Newfoundland and Labrador. The proposed amendments aim to help address challenges related to Crown title, and I encourage anyone with an interest to share their thoughts by participating in this consultation.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced a change in Government House Leader. This change was precipitated as the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation and Government House Leader, is recovering from an emergency surgery this past weekend.

The Honourable John Hogan K.C. will assume the responsibility of Government House Leader.

While Minister Crocker is recovering from his surgery, his duties will be supported by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley as the alternate Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation.

Quote
“As a friend and valued colleague, I wish Minister Crocker a speedy recovery. I would also like to thank Minister Hogan for stepping in and assuming this new role. I have every confidence that he will excel as we advance our vision for a stronger Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Provincial Government is monitoring forecast information on a weather system that is anticipated to affect the Avalon Peninsula. Heavy snowfall and high winds are forecast to begin early tomorrow morning (January 10), and will continue into tomorrow evening.

We encourage residents to follow guidance provided by officials, and to monitor the forecast for the most up-to-date information. Regional forecast information is available from Environment Canada.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates the strong winds and heavy snowfall will lead to poor visibility on some highways. Poor to near zero visibility in heavy snow and blowing snow can be expected for the eastern portion of the island.

The department recommends that motorists should:

• Check nl511.ca or the 511 smartphone app for highway driving conditions and the Provincial Plow Tracker before travelling;
• Check the latest Environment Canada forecasts; and
• Slow down and drive to conditions.

Details on ferry schedules can be found on nl511.ca, the 511 app or by calling 1-833-NLFERRY (653-3779).

Visit Be Prepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

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The Provincial Government is leading a mission to Ireland to recruit physicians and nurses who can fill vacancies in Newfoundland and Labrador. The mission complements other national and international recruitment activities targeting health care professionals.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services will lead a team that will depart for Ireland this week. The team will visit several cities, raising awareness of Newfoundland and Labrador as an ideal immigration destination. The team will include representatives from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador, College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Regional Health Authorities.

Ireland has been chosen as training standards for physicians are similar to Newfoundland and Labrador, and the team will be exploring recruitment opportunities for nurses who meet equivalent licensure requirements. The region was also chosen because it has a high concentration of high-quality medical and nursing schools.

The Provincial Government has invested an additional $30 million on recruitment and retention initiatives for health care professionals. To learn more about the wide range of bursaries and incentives available for health care workers looking to explore a career in Newfoundland and Labrador, please visit workinhealthnl.ca or email the Provincial Health Professional Recruitment and Retention Office at recruit@WorkinHealthNL.ca

Quotes
“The mission to recruit qualified physicians and nurses is yet another made in Newfoundland and Labrador approach to attracting and retaining health care professionals. Working closely with stakeholders, this type of initiative is part of our government’s plan for health care – which also includes expanding virtual care options and collaborative team clinics so Newfoundlanders and Labradorians can engage in primary care in an efficient way. We are taking the necessary action to address the staffing issues facing the health care system in our province, as we compete with other jurisdictions to attract and retain physicians and nurses at this critical time.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We continue to find new and creative ways to help bring health care professionals to our province and encourage the ones already here to stay. Our government is modernizing and reimagining the health care system, with help from Health Accord NL, to bring it out of the outdated 1960s service model into one that fits the demographics of our province today. It is our hope that physicians, resident physicians and nurses from Ireland will choose to live and build a career in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador appreciates the invitation from Minister Osborne to collaborate with the Provincial Government in its’ endeavors to recruit internationally trained physicians. The College looks forward to supporting the recruitment and licensing of applicants who have the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to provide safe and quality medical care to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Tanis Adey
CEO and Registrar, College of Physicians & Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to be a part of this mission to Ireland and to offer our regulatory perspective as it pertains to Registered Nurses. Identifying areas of regulatory alignment between Newfoundland and Labrador and Ireland will be an imperative first step in recruiting health care professionals who wish to practice in our province.”
Lynn Power
Executive Director, College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Work in Health Newfoundland and Labrador

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Steady Brook Residence                                                                         (Reg. 2231)
Proponent: Kimberly Madore

The proponent is proposing to construct a residential dwelling at 183-185 Marble Drive in the Town of Steady Brook. The proposed dwelling will be located on a lot adjacent to the Humber River, a scheduled salmon river. Development will consist of land clearing and leveling, construction of a two-story house and auxiliary building, installation of a sewer system, and landscaping of property. 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 January 5, 2023; the deadline for public comment is February 10, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by February 19, 2023.

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.

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association (NLMA) have signed a Shared Agenda to advance priorities within Family Medicine in the province. The Shared Agenda symbolizes the spirit of collaboration between both parties and a commitment to address critical issues related to the retention of the province’s family physician workforce.

The Shared Agenda outlines a set of high priority issues and projects including recruitment and retention, a health human resource forecast and plan, collaborative community care teams, and provision of emergency medicine services that will result in permanent and sustainable improvements to family medicine in Newfoundland and Labrador. It includes initiatives already started, initiatives the parties are currently collaborating on, and new solutions with target dates for completion in 2023.

These initiatives build on the improvements achieved in the Memorandum of Agreement between the Government and the NLMA that was signed in 2022, including Atlantic parity for physicians, as well as other recruitment initiatives recently announced by the Provincial Government.

More information on the Shared Agenda is available here.

Quotes
“Our government has been listening to the issues raised by physicians and we are actively working with the NLMA to make progress on multiple shared priorities. This Shared Agenda represents a commitment from government and the NLMA to focus our collective resources and energies in the same direction to improve physician recruitment and retention, and achieve better access to primary care for the people of the province.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Family medicine services are one of the foundational pillars to our health care system. However, family medicine is struggling with physician shortages, and a workforce experiencing increased demands. We are also challenged by a growing number of unattached patients. Through this Shared Agenda, the NLMA will work collaboratively with Government to implement solutions that will support and strengthen comprehensive family practice in the Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Kris Luscombe
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association

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The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General today announced the appointment of two new Provincial Court Judges.

Andrew Wadden, KC, is appointed to the Provincial Court in Grand Falls-Windsor and Lloyd Strickland, KC, is appointed to the Provincial Court in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Biographies of both appointees can be found in the backgrounder below.

After consultation between the Chief Judge of the Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador and Minister Hogan, both Judge Wadden and Judge Strickland will participate in training during their first year as judges, which will include sessions on appropriately dealing with sexual assault matters before the Courts.

Quote
“On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I would like to congratulate Judge Andrew Wadden and Judge Lloyd Strickland on their new roles. Both bring with them decades of experience working in the justice system. The Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador will benefit tremendously from their commitment and dedication to the practice of law.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographies

Andrew Wadden
Judge Andrew Wadden is a graduate of Dalhousie Law School and was valedictorian of the class of 2002. He was also awarded the H.G. Puddester Prize for demonstrated academic and leadership ability.

He joined the firm of Patterson Palmer (now Cox & Palmer) and was called to the Bar in 2003. In 2014, he worked in private practice at Wadden Peddigrew Law. He was appointed King’s Counsel in 2020 and in 2022 he joined the office of Browne Fitzgerald Morgan & Avis. He practiced mainly civil litigation, representing clients in matters before tribunals, the Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal of Newfoundland and Labrador. He often acted for members of the Law Society in relation to insurance claims, and recently had been appointed as counsel to the Lawyers’ Insurance Programme. He has acted for registered nurses in relation to disciplinary proceedings and has been counsel to the Consumer Advocate.

In the community, Andrew spent 9 years with the Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee and rowed for many years. He has served on the Holy Heart of Mary Theatre Advisory Board, Clean St. John’s Board, and as a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters. In 2014 he was presented with the Rotary St. John’s Northwest Aidan Maloney Award for his work in the community and potential to further impact his vocation and community in the future.

In 2020, Andrew was Chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade. He has sat on both the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador Education Committee, Disciplinary Committee and Insurance Committee. He served as President of the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the Canadian Bar Association (CBA) from 2021-2022 and was appointed to the national CBA Board in the fall of 2022. He has taught each of the Business Law courses at Memorial University’s Faculty of Business. In addition, he has been an Adjudicator with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Public Complaints Commission.

Andrew and his wife Amy are proud parents to their daughter, Amelia.

Lloyd Strickland
Lloyd Strickland most recently served as the Director of Public Prosecutions. Before his appointment to that position in 2020, he served the public for 20 years as a Crown Attorney in Happy Valley–Goose Bay, Clarenville and St. John’s. He was the Senior Crown Attorney for Labrador from 2002 to 2005. Mr. Strickland was appointed to Kings Counsel in January 2022.

Mr. Strickland was born and raised in Port aux Basques. He obtained an undergraduate degree from the University of New Brunswick and then attended Dalhousie Law School, where he graduated in 1996. He passed the bar in 1997.

From 2006 to 2009, Mr. Strickland was a Prosecutor at the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, which is based in Arusha, Tanzania. There, he participated in the successful prosecution of former government and military leaders for genocide and crimes against humanity.

Over the years, Mr. Strickland has prosecuted several homicides and other high-profile criminal cases. He has appeared numerous times before the Newfoundland and Labrador Court of Appeal and, on several occasions, at the Supreme Court of Canada. He is a member of the Heads of Prosecutions Committee on the Prevention of Wrongful Convictions and the National Wiretap Experts Committee.

Lloyd Strickland lives in St. John’s with his wife Wendy and their daughter Ellie.

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is extending congratulations to Kevin Blackmore of Glovertown, Wayne Chaulk of Charlottetown (Bonavista Bay) and Ray Johnson of Carbonear on their appointments as Members of the Order of Canada.

Blackmore, Chaulk and Johnson were recognized for their contributions to Canadian music and comedy as ambassadors of Newfoundland and Labrador’s culture and heritage, and were among 99 recipients named to the Order of Canada by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, on December 29, 2022.

The musical comedy trio, known as Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers, was formed in 1983 after an impromptu first performance at a high school assembly in Glovertown.

They went on to entertain audiences throughout Canada with their unique brand of sketch comedy, combined with traditional and original music for nearly 40 years. Their body of work includes iconic originals like “Saltwater Joys,” which pays homage to the quiet comforts of rural life, as well as their popular interpretations of traditional favourites like “Sarah” and “By The Glow of the Kerosene Light”.

On the lighter side, offerings such as “Gotta Get Me Moose, B’y” and “Salt Beef Junkie” provide a comedic take on Newfoundland and Labrador culture that endears them to locals and fans across Canada.

Blackmore, Chaulk and Johnson will receive their Order of Canada insignia at an investiture ceremony in Ottawa later this year.

Quote
“Kevin Blackmore and Wayne Chaulk, along with Ray Johnson who hails from my district of Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde, capture the very essence of Newfoundland and Labrador culture every time they take to the stage as Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers. They are an integral part of our province’s arts and cultural community, and I am proud to congratulate them on this incredibly well-deserved honour.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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If your plans this New Year’s Eve include fireworks, the Department of Justice and Public Safety has some tips to protect you and your family.

Using fireworks is an exciting way to ring in the new year, but keep in mind that fireworks are explosive devices and must be used correctly and safely. Please:

• Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area. If applicable, only use in an approved location designated by a community, city or fire department;
• Monitor wind strength and direction to ensure fireworks do not impact buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions or dry brush/grass;
• Respect your neighbours and their properties. Be aware of the impact fireworks can have on family pets. It is a good idea to advise neighbours with pets that you intend to use fireworks;
• Ensure all spectators are at least 20 metres away from the fireworks at all times;
• Never allow children to handle, play with, or light fireworks. Only adults (18 years or older) should handle fireworks, and no one that is impaired by alcohol or drugs should ever handle fireworks;
• Wear eye protection and non-flammable clothing when lighting fireworks;
• Always bury aerial fireworks to half their length either in the ground or in a large bucket filled with soil or sand;
• Always have water ready to soak fireworks after they have fired;
• Wait 30 minutes before attempting to pick up misfired fireworks and never attempt to re-light them. After retrieving them, soak them in water along with used fireworks;
• Dispose of soaked fireworks in an outdoor, fire-resistant garbage can, away from buildings and flammable materials.

This is the final public advisory of the ‘Tis the Season to Practice Fire Safety campaign that has been ongoing through the month of December. This campaign is meant to ensure residents keep fire safety top-of-mind as they celebrate the holidays. The Department of Justice and Public Safety wishes all residents a safe and happy new year.

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The Department of Justice and Public Safety continues its ‘Tis the Season to Practice Fire Safety campaign, providing tips on how to protect yourself and your family this holiday season.

The holidays are known as ‘The Most Wonderful Time of the Year’ and sharing in cooking and baking makes it that much better.

Safe practices while cooking this holiday season include:

• Keep anything flammable at a safe distance from sources of heat;
• Do not leave your stovetop or oven unattended when in use;
• Use a timer to help you keep track of your cooking or baking;
• Do not cook if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs;
• If using a deep fryer, only use a thermostat-controlled fryer to ensure the fat doesn’t get too hot;
• Always use a fire extinguisher on a grease fire. Never use water;
• When choosing a fire extinguisher, look for the label of an independent testing laboratory such as ULC or UL. A multi-purpose extinguisher for class A-B-C- fires is a great choice;
• If food catches fire in your oven, turn off the heat and ensure the oven door remains closed;
• Keep a lid nearby when cooking in case it is needed to smother a very small grease fire. Cover the pan, turn off the stovetop, don’t move it and leave it alone until it cools; and
• If you have any doubt, get out, stay out and call 911.

Follow @JPS_GovNL on Twitter for more holiday safety tips.

The Department of Justice and Public Safety wishes all residents a safe and happy holiday season.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-032 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-2022-032 Report Date: December 21, 2022 Public Body: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Agriculture Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Agriculture for records related to Nine Island Pond, near the Town of Colliers. The Department responded to the request and provided responsive records. The Complainant alleged that the Department had failed to conduct a reasonable search for records and had not met its duty to assist pursuant to section 13. The Commissioner found that the Department had conducted a reasonable search for records and that no further action be taken.

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

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

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

The proponent is proposing to develop a 5.5 hectare quarry adjacent to Victoria River, located approximately 50 kilometres southwest of the Town of Buchans, and approximately 7 kilometres northeast of Victoria Lake. Sand and gravel would be sourced from the quarry for the purpose of aggregate production in Central Newfoundland. 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 December 20, 2022; the deadline for public comments is January 26, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by February 3, 2023.

Torbay Powder Coating Facility                                                             (Reg. 2228)
Proponent: APC Industrial Ltd.

The proponent is proposing to develop and operate powder coating facility in an existing building located near Torbay Road, Torbay. The facility would require the installation and operation of a powder coating booth, sandblast cabinet and a curing oven to produce finished powder coated products for market. 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 December 20, 2022; the deadline for public comment is January 26, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by February 3, 2023.

Crown Zone 3 Five-Year Operating Plan Amendment (2022-2026)   (Reg. 2229)
Proponent:  Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture 

The proponent is proposing an amendment to the Crown Zone 3 Five-Year Operating Plan (2022-2026) that would allow commercial harvesting in District 4, near the Mint Brook Resource Road and the Town of Gambo. The amendment would include harvesting 4000 cubic metres of hardwood and 800 cubic metres of Jack Pine by a commercial logging contractor, which would be used to manufacture cabinets, flooring and other value-added products. 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 December 21, 2022; the deadline for public comment is January 26, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by February 4, 2023.

Humber Valley Hiking Trail                                                                     (Reg. 2230)
Proponent: International Appalachian Trail Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter Inc. 

The proponent proposes to develop 5.5 kilometres of hiking / walking trails in Lower Humber Valley, near Corner Brook. The two- metre wide trail will provide a trail extension and link to the Man in the Mountain Lookout. 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 December 22, 2022; the deadline for public comments is January 26, 2023; and the minister’s decision is due by February 5, 2023.

PLAN APPROVED

Fermeuse Offshore Marine Base                                                          (Reg. 1773)
Proponent: Fermeuse Enterprises Limited

The Environmental Protection Plan (EPP) is approved, subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submissions to mitigate the effects of the Project on the environment.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agricuiture requires the proponent to maintain a 30-metre undisturbed buffer area around active passerine/land-bird nests (species not of management concern) during their nesting season (April 15 to July 31).
• The proponent must submit an EPP for the operations phase of the Project for approval by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change prior to commencement of Project operations.
• The proponent must submit an EPP for the decommissioning phase for approval by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change prior to commencement of Project decommissioning activities.

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Crown District 23 Five-Year Forestry Operating Plan (2023-2027) (Reg. 2209)
Proponents: Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture and Nunatsiavut Government

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.
• 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 modeling with regard to climate change mitigation and climate change adaptation.
• The Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires you to follow the 2021 Environmental Protection Guidelines.
• The Land Management Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and

Agriculture advises that existing agriculture operations must not be impacted by

the Project, and you must consult with the Land Management Division as follows:

• to determine if there are any land use conflicts with agricultural development areas within the forest management district; and
• to determine if there are any land use conflicts with cottage planning areas and cottage development areas.
• 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.

Victoria Abattoir                                                                                 (Reg. 2222)
Proponent: Omiachi Farm

The Project is released subject to the following conditions:

• The proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the Project on the environment.
• The Pollution Prevention Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires that a detailed Waste Management Plan (WMP) that addresses all waste streams produced by the Project, including liquid and solid waste, be submitted for approval prior to the commencement of operations. The WMP must incorporate composting management and should be developed in conjunction with the Department of Fisheries Forestry and Agriculture and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and describe how to safely and effectively compost waste offal, including the separate composting of specified risk material. The plan should also include details pertaining to vector and odour control and contingencies for any spills of waste or hazardous materials.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires that any vegetation clearing is to occur outside 800 metres of bald eagle or osprey nests 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 raptor nest sites must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
• The proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the Project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the Project, within one year from the date of the release letter and to provide additional updates if requested.

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.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The public are reminded that snow clearing and vehicular access within the T’Railway Provincial Park are prohibited without a permit.

The T’Railway Provincial Park forms a large portion of the Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation groomed trail. Unauthorized snow clearing by members of the public negatively affects the groomed trail network.

The public is encouraged to report such offenses to the Parks Division at trailway@gov.nl.ca or by telephone at 709-637-2040.

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The Provincial Government has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a consultant to develop a master plan and program for the replacement of St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital.

The approach to expanding access to health care, and ensuring that appropriate infrastructure is in place to meet future health care needs, requires detailed and innovative planning. The consultant will be required to determine the scope of services required at the new hospital on the Northeast Avalon, including appropriate space and location requirements.

The consultant will also assess acute care service delivery in the Northeast Avalon region, including the integration of new health care infrastructure, expanded access to inpatient care and other aspects of health care service delivery in the region. As part of this work, the consultant will be expected to engage with the newly formed Northeast Avalon Health Care Infrastructure Advisory Committee. This work is integral to meeting the needs of residents in the province’s most populous area, with the Northeast Avalon experiencing nearly 25 per cent population growth over the last two decades.

The RFP closes on January 23, 2022. Submissions will be evaluated based on compliance with requirements of the RFP, including experience, schedule and pricing. The department anticipates awarding a contract this winter.

The replacement of St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital is one of several initiatives that support the ongoing realignment and optimization of the delivery of health care services in Newfoundland and Labrador. The project is in addition to the expansion and construction of other health care infrastructure across the province, including the new acute care hospital in Corner Brook, new mental health unit in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, new long term care homes in Central, the expanded emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre and the new adult mental health and addictions facility on the Northeast Avalon.

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

Quotes
“This RFP is an important next step in our plan to replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital and realign and optimize healthcare on the Northeast Avalon. The new hospital, along with our expanded emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre and the new adult mental health and addictions hospital will create better working environments for health care professionals and improve access to care for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Planning is an integral part of ensuring the delivery of appropriate health care in our province. Both the newly announced Northeast Avalon Health Care Infrastructure Advisory Committee and the issuance of the RFP signal our commitment to ensuring we have the infrastructure in place to meet the ongoing health care needs of our residents.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“This RFP will help guide our next steps to replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital and ensure the new hospital meets the needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The new hospital will lead to better healthcare in the region and create employment for local tradespeople along the way.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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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 to Replace St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital

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

The post Requests for Proposals Issued for Consultant on St Clare’s Mercy Hospital Replacement appeared first on News Releases.

An investigation into salmon poaching by Resource Enforcement Division officers with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has resulted in convictions, fines and prohibitions from fishing inland waters for two individuals.

Jordan Hodder and Brady Hill, both of Stoneville, were convicted and fined in Provincial Court at Gander on December 13, 2022, for unlawfully netting fish in inland waters contrary to Section 10 (2) of the Newfoundland and Labrador Fishery Regulations.

Both received a $2,500 fine, a prohibition from participating in recreational fisheries for a period of three years, and prohibition from being on or within 20 meters of inland waters for a period of three years.

The individuals were apprehended in Stoneville on August 5, 2022 by Resource Enforcement Officers acting on information obtained from surveillance activities and information gathered from Fisheries and Oceans Canada River Guardians. Items seized during the investigation have been forfeited to the Crown and include one canoe, two gill nets, one Atlantic salmon, one fish tray and a face mask used during commission of the offence.

The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing and hunting activity as information provided by the public plays a significant role in assisting investigations being conducted by Resource Enforcement Officers.

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

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

The post Public Advisory: Salmon Poaching Investigation Results in Convictions, Fines and Prohibitions appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-031 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-2022-031 Report Date: December 19, 2022 Public Body: Eastern Health Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to Eastern Health for information related to a contract between Eastern Health and a third party. Eastern Health withheld some information from the contract, relying on section 39 (Disclosure harmful to business interests of a third party) and section 35 (Disclosure harmful to the financial or economic interests of a public body). The Complainant did not agree with the decision to withhold information and filed a complaint with this Office. The Commissioner found that Eastern Health had not met the standard to withhold information under section 39(1) but that the exceptions under section 35(1)(b) were properly applied. The Commissioner recommended that Eastern Health release information previously withheld under section 39(1) of ATIPPA, 2015 and continue to withhold any information to which section 35(1)(b) applied.

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

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