Government of Newfoundland News

As the fall sitting of the House of Assembly concludes, the Furey Government is noting important progress on priority issues for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Guided by the Speech from the Throne, legislation was highlighted by the continued focus on the reimagining of the provincial health care system, including the recruitment and retention of health care professionals; helping ease some of the pressures that families are facing due to global increases to the cost-of-living; supporting fair and equitable pay practices; and continuing to practice responsible fiscal management.

Important legislation advanced in this sitting will support:

Health Care

• Making it easier for out-of-province doctors to practice in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Reducing and eliminating barriers to qualification recognition for international and Canadian-educated professionals to support recruitment and retention.
• Integrating four health authorities and the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information into one entity, as well as creating Regional Health Councils that will be responsible for advising on the regional health care needs of the province.

Cost of Living

• Providing a one-time cheque of up to $500 to residents of the province who have reached the age of 18 years old as of December 31, 2022 and who filed a 2021 tax return with an adjusted income of $125,000 or less.
• Extending the 8.05 cents per litre (including HST) tax reduction on gasoline and diesel until March 31, 2023.

Improving Fiscal Situation and Transforming Government

• Allowing government to improve the long-term financial position of the province, pay down expensive debt and lower the cost of borrowing.
• Facilitating the ongoing transition of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District into government and creating a new Provincial Advisory Council on Education.

Pay Equity

• Supporting fair and equitable pay practices in Newfoundland and Labrador, which builds on the Provincial Government’s ongoing efforts to support women and gender diverse people.

Safety, Security and Consumer Protection

• Improving road safety, with higher penalties for excessive speeding, racing and stunting.
• Expanding presumptive cancer and cardiac coverage for career and volunteer fire fighters.
• Regulating high-cost credit lending and significantly increasing consumer protection for high cost credit consumers in the province.

A full list of legislation debated in this session of the House of Assembly can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“The Speech from the Throne set the stage for a full legislative agenda that will have a meaningful impact on Newfoundlanders and Labradorians today, tomorrow and well into the future. The agenda put particular emphasis on improving access to health care, making important progress towards achieving gender equality, putting money in the pockets of residents who have been adversely impacted by global increases to the cost-of-living, and being responsible managers of the province’s finances.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Government House Leader

-30-

Media contact
Marc Budgell
Executive Council
709-729-0084
marcbudgell@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Legislation Introduced and Debated in the Fall 2022 Session of the House of Assembly

• Bill 1: Medical Act
• Bill 2: Supplementary Supply Act
• Bill 3: Pay Equity and Pay Transparency Act
• Bill 5: Future Fund Act
• Bill 6: Revenue Administration Act
• Bill 7: Schools Act
• Bill 8: Credit Union Act
• Bill 9: Highway Traffic Act
• Bill 10: Wild Life Act
• Bill 11: Winding Up of Judgment Recovery (NFLD) Ltd. Act
• Bill 12: Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act
• Bill 13: Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act
• Bill 14: Real Estate Trading Act
• Bill 15: Fair Registration Practices Act
• Bill 16: Revenue Administration Act
• Bill 18: Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act
• Bill 19: Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act
• Bill 20: Provincial Health Authority Act

The post Fall 2022 Sitting of House of Assembly Advances Priorities of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians appeared first on News Releases.

Scott Reid, Parliamentary Secretary for the Minister of Education, will bring greetings at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University graduation.

The ceremony will take place today (Wednesday, November 9) at the Fisheries and Marine Institute, 155 Ridge Road, St. John’s at 6:00 p.m.

-30-

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

The post Media Advisory: Parliamentary Secretary Reid to Attend Fisheries and Marine Institute Graduation appeared first on News Releases.

Please note the time for the following media availability has been changed to 12:30 p.m.

Premier Furey, along with the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, the Honourable Steve Crocker, MHA for Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, MHA for St. Barbe – L-Anse aux Meadows, and Dr. William Moores, Divisional Head of Orthopaedics, Eastern Health, will be available to the media today (Wednesday, November 9) at 12:30 p.m.

The availability will take place in the East Block Lobby, Confederation Building, and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

-30-

Media contact
Tina Coffey
Health and Community Services
709-729-6554, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca

 

The post Media Advisory: Change in Time for Today’s Media Availability appeared first on News Releases.

A gold coin that was recently discovered on Newfoundland’s south coast may be the oldest-known English coin found in an archaeological context in Canada.

The coin was found during the summer of 2022 by Edward Hynes, who reported it to the Provincial Government as required under the Historic Resources Act.

Consultation with Paul Berry, former curator of the Bank of Canada’s Currency Museum, indicates the coin is a Henry VI quarter noble, minted in London between 1422 and 1427. The coin would have been a sizeable amount of money in the 1400s, valued at 1 shilling 8 pence.

In 2021, a silver coin minted in the 1490s, was found at Cupids Cove Plantation Provincial Historic Site. At that time, it was considered the oldest English coin ever found in Canada.

Exactly how the gold quarter noble coin made its way to Newfoundland and Labrador is a mystery; however, Mr. Berry says the coin was probably not in circulation when it was lost.

Research on the coin is continuing and further work on the site where it was found may be conducted in the future.

To report an archaeological discovery such as this in Newfoundland and Labrador, please contact the Provincial Archaeology Office at 709-729-2462.

Quote
“I commend Mr. Hynes for recognizing the importance of protecting Newfoundland and Labrador’s heritage resources by reporting his discovery of this very rare artifact, and I encourage others to follow his example. These types of artifacts help us understand and appreciate the history of our province, and provide context for those who visit Newfoundland and Labrador from around the world.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

-30-

A Henry VI quarter noble, minted in London between 1422 and 1427. Both sides of the coin. A Henry VI quarter noble, minted in London between 1422 and 1427.

Learn more
Rare English Coin Discovered at Cupids Cove Plantation Provincial Historic Site

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

The post Gold Coin Found on Island of Newfoundland’s South Coast May be Oldest Ever Found in Canada appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced two new initiatives to increase orthopaedic surgery capacity in Carbonear and St. Anthony. This builds on ongoing measures to help improve access to health care and reduce wait times for hip and knee joint replacement surgeries in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premier Furey, along with the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, the Honourable Steve Crocker, MHA for Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, MHA for St. Barbe – L-Anse aux Meadows, and Dr. William Moores, Divisional Head of Orthopaedics, Eastern Health, will be available to the media today (Wednesday, November 9) at 12:00 p.m. to discuss these measures. The availability will take place in the East Block lobby, Confederation Building, and will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Work is now underway to utilize operating room capacity at Carbonear General Hospital for inpatient joint replacement surgeries. Traditionally, orthopaedic services at this site were limited to same day surgeries only. To accommodate the addition of joint replacement surgeries, four beds will be opened to admit patients following their surgery. It is anticipated that approximately 160 joint replacement surgeries could be performed at this location annually. Recruitment and training of the required staff will begin in the near future, and the timeline to get surgeries up and running will depend on these factors.

A travelling orthopaedic team will also begin visits to the Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital in St. Anthony one week each month to perform joint replacement surgeries. Approximately 140 surgeries can be performed at this site annually by the travelling team. It is anticipated that the orthopaedic team could begin surgeries later this month.

There continues to be significant demand for hip and knee replacement surgery in the province, resulting in growing wait times. Reducing waitlists is a priority for all health care stakeholders.

An overview of many of the actions that the Provincial Government has taken to improve access to health care, as well as support the recruitment and retention of health care professionals are outlined in the enclosed backgrounder.

Quotes
“We remain concerned with surgical delays in the province, which is why we established a task force earlier this year. The members continue to identify opportunities where we can improve access to surgeries, as we want to action improvements that will help residents receive quality care in a timely manner. I know first-hand the impacts that are felt by individuals waiting for orthopaedic procedures, and am delighted with these innovative approaches which increase much-needed surgical capacity.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We recognize we have to continue to think differently regarding solutions to address issues affecting our health care system such as the backlog of patients waiting for joint replacements. Utilizing these two sites will certainly have a positive impact on these wait times. Our focus remains the provision of quality health care to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and these initiatives certainly align with that focus.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The opening of additional beds at Carbonear General Hospital is an important step toward reducing wait times for orthopaedic surgeries throughout the province. This is an excellent example of how we can use the resources we have more efficiently to meet the health-care needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
MHA for Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde

“I am very pleased to see this innovative approach to increase access to joint replacement surgeries assigned to the Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital in St. Anthony. While Curtis Memorial is historically known for providing an excellent orthopaedic service, the travelling team resource is a welcome addition and will have a positive impact on wait times, benefitting residents across the District of St. Barbe – L’Anse aux Meadows.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
MHA for St. Barbe – L-Anse aux Meadows

“Orthopaedic demand has seen a continued increase, as the population of Newfoundland and Labrador ages. This needs to be met with increased resources throughout the province. The two initiatives announced today are both positive steps to increase the provincial capacity to deliver orthopaedic care in a more timely manner and are welcomed by our division and Eastern Health.”
Dr. William Moores
Divisional Head of Orthopaedics
Eastern Health

-30-

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

Tina Coffey
Health and Community Services
709-729-6554, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca

Tracey Boland
Media Relations Manager
Eastern Health
709-777-1412
traceyl.boland@easternhealth.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Recent Measures to Address the Shortage of Health Care Professionals

• A one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce.
• Committed to a suite of measures to expand the supply of health care professionals:
• • Creation of new collaborative community team clinics;
• • Increase in virtual care services to assist with the provision of urgent care; and
• • Commitment to further increase the number of graduates from Licensed Practical Nursing Programs by 40 per cent and Personal Care Attendant Programs by 20 per cent.
• Two new programs launched to support family doctors in the province and help improve access to primary health care:
• • The New Family Physician Income Guarantee initiative guarantees a minimum income equivalent to that of a salaried family physician to new family doctors who bill on a fee for service basis and open a family practice clinic – or join an established clinic – for the first two years of their practice. This will ease some of the uncertainty associated with the business aspects of opening a clinic by increasing financial certainty. Funding recipients will be required to enter into a two-year return-in-service agreement with government.
• • The Family Practice Start-Up Program will provide $150,000 to new family practice physicians who open a family practice clinic, or join an existing family practice in the community, and stay in the practice for five years. Recipients who are approved for both programs must sign a five-year return-in-service agreement with government. Additionally, both programs will be linked to establishing a patient roster in the community, as well as the provision of after-hours care.  This is the highest incentive offered to family physicians at this time in Atlantic Canada.
• Initiatives announced in March 2022 to address the challenges facing nurses in the province, including the nursing think tank; Requests for proposals for core staffing review, health human resource plan and workforce research; and an Internationally Educated Nurses Bursary.
• A new Assistant Deputy Minister for the recruitment and retention office has been hired and the office has been established within the Department of Health and Community Services.
• An additional five undergraduate seats have been added to the Memorial University’s Medical School for Newfoundland and Labrador students.
• Launched Extraordinary Every Day, a health care campaign aimed at recruiting and retaining health care professionals.
• Staffing in the regional health authorities has been enhanced to further support recruitment and retention efforts.
• A number of financial incentives and employee supports have been implemented to help address the immediate nursing workforce challenges and help stabilize the workforce.
• Compensation rates for covering emergency rooms in smaller rural health centres (category B facilities) have been increased as a temporary measure until October 31, 2022 to help retain existing physicians at these sites, as well as to attract other locum physicians during periods of vacancy. As well, in Labrador, Category A rates were increased in the last Memorandum of Understanding.
• $30,000 provided to Eastern Health to support students in the Radiation Therapy Program for each of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years. This will double Eastern Health’s capacity to support students in the program.
• Come Home 2022 incentive aimed at physicians, nurses and paramedics from Newfoundland and Labrador who have been living outside the province for at least six months and would like to return home to live and work.
• Short-term initiatives for certain frontline health care workers who are members of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE) which target areas of the workforce that face significant recruitment challenges.

The post Initiatives Aim to Increase Capacity for Orthopaedic Surgery in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2023 Research Inspired Student Enrichment (RISE) Awards program. Award recipients will be given the opportunity to attend research-related enrichment programs in Canada and the United States.

The application deadline is Friday, December 9, 2022. Further details on the research-related enrichment programs, awards structure, and eligibility criteria are available online.

The competitive process includes an assessment of academic achievement and written essays in which applicants must highlight their future study, career and research interests, and how those interests are relevant to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Level II high school students in the province who demonstrate academic excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and who will be completing Level II by June 2023, are eligible to apply.

Awards will be granted to a maximum of 15 students, and recipients will attend one of three research-related enrichment programs: the Research Science Institute located at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; the Boston Leadership Institute located in Wellesley, Massachusetts; or the Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program located at the University of Toronto.

Quotes
“This is an awesome opportunity for students to further their knowledge and explore innovative research-related programs at some of the best learning institutions in North America. As we work to develop the talent required to advance Research and Development, innovation and economic growth, I encourage students with a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics to apply for this amazing experience.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Our students are our biggest asset in Newfoundland and Labrador. I encourage everyone to apply and seize this opportunity to study abroad, fulfill academic goals and expand and broaden their knowledge in many areas. Our province is evolving in exciting ways and we need our students to bring their skills and potential to make it stronger.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

-30-

Le gouvernement provincial accepte maintenant les demandes du programme de prix RISE de 2023

Learn more
Information on the RISE Awards Program

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

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

 

The post Provincial Government Now Accepting Applications for the 2023 RISE Awards appeared first on News Releases.

The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims is an annual global event to remember those who have been killed or seriously injured in traffic incidents, and to acknowledge those affected by their loss.

This year’s ceremony in Newfoundland and Labrador will take place on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. in the East Block lobby of Confederation Building, St. John’s. There will be a wreath laying ceremony where family, friends, loved ones and co-workers are invited to bring flowers, wreaths or photos. Representatives from law enforcement agencies and other organizations are welcome to bring wreaths and banners.

Parking will be available in front of East Block, and guests are asked to enter using the main entrance facing Prince Philip Drive. Guests who require an accessible entrance can use the blue zone parking behind East Block and enter through the “Public Gallery Entrance.”

-30-

Media contact
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

 

The post Public Advisory: Ceremony of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims to be Held Next Week appeared first on News Releases.

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts is advising that it is rescheduling the public hearing to follow up on matters contained in the report of the Auditor General on the MV Veteran and MV Legionnaire to today (Wednesday, November 9) at 2 p.m. in the House of Assembly Chamber.

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

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

-30-

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

Public Accounts Committee webpage

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

The post Standing Committee on Public Accounts Reschedules Public Hearing on Auditor General Report on MV Veteran and MV Legionnaire appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government is encouraging residents to be extra cautious around coastlines in the coming days.

Environment Canada is advising that high waves, pounding surf and higher than normal water levels are expected on the east coast of the province tonight (Tuesday, November 8) into tomorrow (Wednesday, November 9). North facing coastal communities along the Avalon Peninsula and in the St. John’s vicinity may be at risk of minor flooding and damage to coastal infrastructure due to pounding surf.

Regional forecast information is available from Environment Canada.

Municipalities and local service districts are advised to review their emergency management plans and monitor coastal infrastructure. Efforts should be made to protect vulnerable coastal locations given the potential of damage to infrastructure.

Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take steps to ensure personal and public safety. Waves of any size can be unpredictable and dangerous, so residents are asked to please stay away from the coastline during this time.

Visit gov.nl.ca/beprepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

-30-

Media contact

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

The post Public Advisory: Adverse Conditions Anticipated in Coastal Areas appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will participate in the Atlantic Basic Income Summit tomorrow (Wednesday, November 9) at 11:45 a.m.

The virtual event will be hosted by Basic Income NOW, Atlantic Canada; the Sisters of St. Martha of Antigonish; and the Tamarack Institute.

To register for the event, visit Virtual Gathering | Atlantic Canada Summit on Basic Income.

-30-

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 Participate in the Atlantic Basic Income Summit appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs:

Speaker, I rise today to recognize World Town Planning Day, celebrated on November 8 each year to mark the contributions of planners to their communities and commemorate the important role planning plays in the creation and development of our towns.

Town planning is one of the most important elements of building organized, livable communities. The work of planners is critical in creating areas where everyone can feel welcome, whether that be in housing, recreation, or simply pride of place.

We were very pleased to have our province represented at the Atlantic Planners Institute 2022 Conference last month in Charlottetown, PEI. It was an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and information with planners across Atlantic Canada.

Speaker, I remind municipalities throughout the province that planners are an excellent resource, and are there to provide guidance on the land use planning process. Such professional resources are important, especially in light of the growing need for municipal leaders to consider ways to mitigate the impacts of climate change in planning for the future development of their communities.

I ask all Honourable members to join me in recognizing World Town Planning Day 2022.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Howell Recognizes World Town Planning Day 2022 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, advises that the Speaker of the House of Assembly referred a Report on the Public Interest Disclosures Regarding the Citizens’ Representative to the Office of the Executive Council yesterday (November 7).

This report was initiated pursuant to a public interest disclosure filed with the Speaker of the House of Assembly against the Citizens’ Representative respecting an allegation of gross mismanagement regarding the confidentiality and disclosure of information.

This report has also been referred to the House Management Commission, which consists of members representing all parties in the House of Assembly, for consideration and recommendations, if required.

Statutory offices operate independently from government. Given the need to operate independently from the Provincial Government they report to the House of Assembly and include the Chief Electoral Officer, Commissioner for Legislative Standards, the Citizens’ Representative, Seniors’ Advocate, Child and Youth Advocate, the Information and Privacy Commissioner and the Auditor General.

-30-

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

The post Public Advisory: Government Receives a Report on the Public Interest Disclosures Regarding the Citizens’ Representative appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, and the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, each announced an investment of up to $200,000 for a total of $400,000 for a pre-feasibility study for the construction of a road connecting the existing Trans-Labrador Highway to communities in northern Labrador, under the National Trade Corridors Fund.

The roadway would connect communities, facilitate travel, reduce travel and shipping costs, increase food security, facilitate access to essential goods and services and create economic development opportunities.

A road into northern Labrador would be expected to start in the vicinity of the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay or the Lake Melville area and extend as far north as the Inuit communities of Rigolet, Postville, Makkovik, Hopedale, and Nain, and the Innu community of Natuashish.

The knowledge gained from the research funded by this investment is expected to have important economic and environmental benefits for the region.

The National Trade Corridors Fund provides funding for projects, such as research, in the Arctic and the North to support northern transportation infrastructure like ports, airports, all-season roads, and bridges. These projects enhance the safety, security, economic, and social development in the northern area of Labrador containing the Nunatsiavut region, Canada’s three territories, the Nunavik region in Quebec, and the Town and Port of Churchill in Manitoba.

Quotes
“Our government has made significant investments in the transportation network in Labrador, including ferry services for the Strait of Belle Isle and northern Labrador, and the Trans-Labrador Highway, which was completed earlier this year. We look forward to reviewing the information from the pre-feasibility study once it has been completed.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Many isolated communities in the Nunatsiavut region are not connected to the Trans-Labrador Highway presently, relying instead on air and marine services for travel and goods. A new roadway connection between northern Labrador and the Trans-Labrador Highway would provide an all-season link to the south, and with it social and economic benefits including access to employment and economic development sites. This pre-feasibility study is a first step in the evaluation process.”
Honourable Omar Alghabra
Federal Minister of Transport

“Transportation is key to economic and social development. This study is a positive first step that will provide us with information to determine the technical, financial, environmental and social viability of a road connection to Northern Labrador. I look forward to working with the Nunatsiavut Government and the Innu Nation as we work towards bridging the transportation infrastructure gap in this region.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“Ensuring safe transport in and out of Labrador’s north has remained a top priority for our government. In partnership with the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and the strong leadership of the Nunatsiavut Government, I am pleased to see this important investment move forward. By investing in this pre-feasibility study, we are one step closer to making this valuable infrastructure a reality.”
Yvonne Jones
Parliamentary Secretary to the Federal Minister of Natural Resources and to the Federal Minister of Northern Affairs

“Having been professionally involved in this important project for many years, I am pleased to now be associated with this exciting next step for strengthening transportation networks in Labrador. The Provincial and Federal partnership for the pre-feasibility study reflects the shared priority to further connect all of Labrador’s communities. Stronger and more reliable transportation networks will have social and economic benefits for everyone.”
Perry Trimper
MHA for Lake Melville

-30-

Learn more
Trans-Labrador Highway Paving Completed Marking Historic Day in the Big Land

National Trade Corridors Fund Backgrounder

Trade and Transportation Corridors Initiative

Investing in Canada Plan

Transportation 2030

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

Allan Bock
Labrador Affairs Secretariat
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-7935, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca

Nadine Ramadan
Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
Office of the Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport
Nadine.Ramadan@tc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
media@tc.gc.ca

The post The Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador Invest in a Pre-Feasibility Study for a Road into Northern Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

A powerful new musical event entitled ‘The 18’ will take place at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist on Remembrance Day (Friday, November 11). Featuring both musical and theatrical elements, the concert will bring to life the remarkable story of the children at London’s Beatrix Potter School, who discovered and began a tradition of paying tribute to the graves of 18 Newfoundland First World War soldiers.

The show will take place at 2:00 p.m., and as a special Come Home 2022 event, admission is free for all ages. Event organizers are accepting donations at the door for the Poppy Campaign, which supports veterans and their families.

‘The 18’ will feature an original script written by composer and founder/co-artistic director of Best Kind Productions, Kyle McDavid. The moving narrative will be highlighted by performances from The Ennis Sisters, Petrina Bromley, Mason Dicker and Annabelle Ramsay, the Lakecrest Chamber Choir, Lady Cove Women’s Choir, La Rose des Vents, Newman Sound Men’s Choir, the NL Deaf Choir, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment Band, Silvern Voices from Corner Brook and the Singing Legionnaires.

‘The 18’ will also premiere a brand new song created especially for this event, ‘Forever Far From Home’, by Maureen Ennis and Perry Chafe and arranged by Leslee Heys.

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 on Facebook and Instagram to get up-to-date celebration information.

Quotes
“Remembrance Day is a solemn day for people throughout the Commonwealth, as we remember and honour both the anniversary of the end of the First World War and all lives lost during warfare. With its connection to ‘home’, ‘The 18’ will no doubt resonate with audiences. I extend my best wishes to the creative team and performers.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“It is a huge privilege for Lady Cove Choir, Newman Sound, and the Singing Network to partner with our Government and the many artists involved to bring together this unique and powerful act of Remembrance for all members of our community to share in. I’d like to thank the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation for their support and belief in this special project.”
Kellie Walsh
Artistic Director

-30-

Learn more
Come Home 2022

Premier Furey Officially Launches Come Home Year 2022

Like Come Home 2022 on Facebook

Follow Come Home 2022 on Instagram

Media contact
Adrienne Luther
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 730-2953
adrienneluther@gov.nl.ca

The post ‘The 18’, a Come Home Year Concert of Remembrance, Free to the Public on November 11 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, will address participants at the annual conference of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association tomorrow (Wednesday, November 9) at 8:30 a.m.

The conference will take place at the Emera Innovation Exchange, 100 Signal Hill Road, St. John’s.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association is an industry-driven, not-for-profit association that takes a leadership role in lowering risk and preventing injury within the construction industry. This year’s conference theme is “SAFETY – Built by Industry,” in recognition of the organization’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

-30-

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

 

The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Attend Health and Safety Conference appeared first on News Releases.

Proposed amendments to the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act received second reading in the House of Assembly today.

The proposed legislation will address housekeeping items, incorporate gender-neutral language, modernize terminology, reduce red tape and achieve internal and cross-legislative consistency.

If approved, the amended Act will come into force on September 1, 2023. This will allow WorkplaceNL ample time to make the necessary internal adjustments these amendments will require. None of the proposed changes will affect benefits to injured workers or increase costs to employers, nor do they modify current obligations, authority levels, or rights.

The need for amendments to the Act were identified in the 2013 Statutory Review, the 2019 Statutory Review and on-going analysis of the current Act by WorkplaceNL and the Workplace, Health, Safety and Compensation Review Division.

Quote
“Modernizing the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act is long overdue. The Act has not had a substantive consolidation since 1983. While there have been some changes made to the Act since 2013, these amendments will make this legislation more user friendly and improve overall readability. As Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL, I look forward to the successful implementation of these amendments.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL

-30-

Learn more
Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act

WorkplaceNL

Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, @ECC_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

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

The post Provincial Government Proposes Amendments to Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act appeared first on News Releases.

Recent amendments to the Wild Life Act reflect the Provincial Government’s commitment to improving access to outdoor experiences and resources, while continuing to manage the province’s big game resources sustainably for the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Amendments include streamlining the documentation process for big game hunters who donate meat to registered food banks, as well as providing ministerial authority to define the residency requirement criteria.

Based on the success of the recent pilot program allowing registered food banks to collect and distribute big game meat, amendments address issues related to possessing and distributing donated moose and caribou meat. This includes documentation required for licensed butchers, registered food banks, food bank clients, and hunters who donate moose and caribou meat to third parties.

Another amendment provides the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture with the authority to define the residency requirement criteria for members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian Armed Forces.

These amendments are part of a responsible management approach that maintains healthy wildlife populations while continuing to provide hunters throughout the province with meaningful harvesting opportunities.

Quote
“The annual big game hunt is a cherished cultural and recreational activity enjoyed by thousands of hunters who benefit from the physical activity of hunting, the healthy food it provides and the shared culture of the hunt. Amendments to the Wild Life Act will ensure even more Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are able to reap these benefits.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

-30-

Learn more
Hunters to Donate Moose and Caribou at Participating Food Banks

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

Like FFA on Facebook

Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca

The post Wild Life Act Amendments Improve Access to Outdoor Experiences and Resources appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture will bring greetings at the Fisheries and Oceans Canada Seal Summit reception tomorrow evening (Tuesday, November 8).

The reception will take place at the Emera Innovation Exchange, 100 Signal Hill Road, St. John’s, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The Seal Summit is intended to facilitate discussion and collaboration between Indigenous partners, the commercial fishing industry, environmental non-governmental organizations, academia and provincial and territorial representatives on seal product development and market innovation in Atlantic Canada.

-30-

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

The post Media Advisory: Minister Bragg to Bring Greetings at Seal Summit appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education, will present awards tomorrow (Tuesday, November 8) to recipients of the Premier’s Awards for Teaching Innovation and the Minister of Education’s Awards for Compassion in Teaching.

The event will take place in the lobby of the East Block, Confederation Building at 3:30 p.m.

The event will also be live streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Facebook page.

-30-

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

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

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey and Minister Haggie to Present Teacher Awards appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Speaker, I rise today to recognize an event that honours the past, has great significance in the present and reminds us of the sacrifices that were made for our future.

As we look forward to Remembrance Day later this week, I invite all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to reflect on the freedoms they enjoy and consider how they will honour the fallen and all those who have served to protect those freedoms.

This past September, more than a century after Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Nangle set out to create an enduring memorial to the valour and sacrifice of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, his vision to establish The Trail of the Caribou was completed.

With the dedication of the final monument at the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, six life-size bronze caribou monuments now stand as a permanent tribute to the bravery of the Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who fought for freedom, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, in critical battles in Türkiye, France and Belgium.

Today, I am pleased to welcome to the gallery His Excellency Kerim Uras, the Turkish Ambassador to Canada, whose country welcomed us in September for this historic event.

It meant so much to stand on that sacred ground – where once they stood, experiencing the horrors of war – to honour the brave members of the Regiment in such a meaningful way.

Speaker, I extend my sincere thanks to Ambassador Uras and the Gallipoli Peninsula Historic Directorate for their generosity and support in commemorating this important chapter of our history.

I also thank the Royal Canadian Legion and Veterans Affairs Canada, for their commitment to preserving and presenting Newfoundland and Labrador’s proud military history, and for their unwavering support as we worked together to fulfill Padre Nangle’s vision.

And of course, to the Royal Newfoundland Regiment and the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Advisory Council – thank you for your tireless dedication to ensuring that this memorial would be constructed.

Through your efforts and perseverance, the stories of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment will be remembered for future generations around the world.

Thank you.

The post Ministerial Statement – Provincial Government Recognizes the Completion of the Trail of the Caribou appeared first on News Releases.