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Road Construction to Begin in Western Newfoundland

jeu, 08/11/2022 - 13:55

Work is beginning this construction season to improve approximately eight kilometres of highway between Wiltondale and Woody Point in western Newfoundland.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has awarded a contract valued at approximately $4 million to JCL Investments Inc. for work on Bonne Bay Road (Route 431) and Woody Point Road (Route 431-11).

Work includes culvert replacements, paving, and ditch work on a section of Bonne Bay Road between Glenburnie and Cox’s Lane in Woody Point and a section of the road near its intersection with the Northern Peninsula Highway (Route 430).

While work is ongoing, motorists should travel at a reduced speed, watch for traffic control, and anticipate some traffic delays.

This work is in addition to a contract awarded in June for upgrades to approximately 10 kilometres on the Northern Peninsula on Route 430 and West Link Road (Route 430-15).

Roads selected for the provincial roads plan are based on factors such as safety; traffic volumes; input from the department’s engineers; commercial, industry, and tourism impacts; populations serviced; and the impacts of climate change.

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

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.

Quotes
“This contract and contracts near Corner Brook, Pasadena, and Bay St. George are making highways safer and ensuring they stay connected. Woody Point is one of the province’s most visited communities and a highly sought after tourist destination. Completing this work will ensure more safe and secure travel in and out of these areas.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
MHA for Humber – Gros Morne

“Roads like Bonne Bay Road, the Northern Peninsula Highway, and many areas of the Trans-Canada Highway are the main roads in and out of the area, so it’s important that we further secure these roads. Completing this work and other work on the Northern Peninsula and Trans-Canada Highway is of great importance this construction season.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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Learn more
News Release: Provincial Roads Plan Outlines Highway Construction Projects for Two Construction Seasons

News Release: Contract Awarded to Improve Roads on Northern Peninsula

News Release: Paving to Begin on Trans-Canada Highway in Southwestern Newfoundland

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Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TI_GovNL

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

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

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Tender Issued for New Emergency Department at Health Sciences Centre

jeu, 08/11/2022 - 12:30

A tender has been issued to improve and expand the emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s.

Work on the project will include the redevelopment of 2,230 square metres of the current space and the construction of a new 2,690 square metre extension.

The new emergency department will serve patients at the Health Sciences Centre and new adult mental health and addictions hospital, and include a psychiatric assessment unit, high acuity-trauma unit, care initiation area, ambulance parking garage, diagnostic imaging area, administration area, and a new entrance and registration area.

Prior to major construction, there will be a temporary ambulance entrance set up and a temporary emergency triage, public waiting, and fast track areas for use by the public.

The department anticipates the tender closing this month and the work beginning later this year.

Construction progress on the new adult mental health and addictions hospital includes ongoing framing for drywall, mechanical and electrical rough-in and installation of the exterior building cladding and windows. The department anticipates construction of this hospital to be completed in late 2024.

Budget 2022 committed $154 million to improve health care infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador, including funding for new equipment at health care facilities and to continue construction of the new adult mental health and addictions hospital in St. John’s.

Quotes
“Building and redeveloping healthcare infrastructure improves the way we provide healthcare services in Newfoundland and Labrador. This is the busiest emergency department in the province and this investment will enhance emergency services for people who require urgent care at the Health Sciences Centre and services at the new adult mental health and addictions hospital.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our focus remains the delivery of the best possible health care for the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the expansion and design improvements align with that focus. As our population changes, our health care needs change also, and we must ensure our standards for delivery of emergency department care are appropriate.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Our $567 million investment in infrastructure this year includes $154 million for healthcare initiatives, which will go towards projects like this one. This redevelopment and extension at the Health Sciences Centre will lead to better healthcare infrastructure and create jobs for tradespeople during the course of construction.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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Learn more
News Release: Update Provided on Construction of Adult Mental Health and Addictions Hospital and Parking Garage

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Follow us on Twitter @GovNL, @TI_GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

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

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

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

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Provincial Government Encourages Residents to ‘Rethink Your Drink’

jeu, 08/11/2022 - 10:10

Today, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador launched ‘Rethink Your Drink’ – an awareness campaign to encourage healthier beverage choices.

The focus of the `Rethink Your Drink’ campaign is on encouraging residents to make healthier beverage choices – without the added sugar. ‘Rethink your Drink’ is just one of several initiatives being undertaken to support the health and wellness of residents of the province. More broadly, through Health Accord NL, government is taking meaningful action to improve the social, economic and environmental factors that impact personal health.

Excess consumption of sugar sweetened beverages can contribute to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other related health issues, including poor dental health. Making healthier beverage choices can help reduce the consumption of excess sugars associated with an increased risk of developing chronic diseases.

Effective September 1, 2022, government is also introducing a tax on sugar sweetened beverages. This is aimed at reducing consumption which aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organization (2017), the Canadian Healthy Eating Strategy (2016), the updated Canada’s Food Guide (2019), and the position statement from the Canadian Paediatric Society (2020), supported by the Dietitians of Canada, the Childhood Obesity Foundation, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and Diabetes Canada. Excerpts from these papers, as well as other supporting information, is provided in the backgrounder below.

Revenues generated will help fund the pre-natal infant nutrition supplement, school breakfast and lunch programs, and the physical activity tax credit, as shown in this budget document.

Quotes
“Encouraging Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to make healthier beverage choices is the key message in our ‘Rethink Your Drink’ awareness campaign. We chose this slogan because we hope it will come to mind when you reach for a beverage. We encourage everyone to consider how you may be able to choose healthier beverages without added sugar for you and your family. This is one step towards meeting government’s ambitious goal of making Newfoundland and Labrador one of the healthiest provinces by 2031.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

“Canada’s Food Guide supports making healthier food and beverage choices and recommends water to drink. This campaign can help remind people to make healthy beverage choices for themselves and their families whenever possible. Our department is committed to creating more supportive environments for healthy eating in community, recreation and sport settings, in school and childcare, as well as at home. This is an important part of achieving better health outcomes in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“I’m delighted that the ‘Rethink Your Drink’ awareness campaign is being officially launched today in the District of Mount Scio. We all need to make healthier decisions. I hope that this program causes residents to think about what they are consuming and choose lower calorie options or drink water when possible.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, and MHA for Mount Scio

“Sugary drinks are the single largest contributor of sugar in the average Canadian diet. Eating a healthy diet, with lots of vegetables, fruit and fibre and low in added sugar, helps reduce the risk of cancer. Excise taxes are an effective way to reduce consumption of sugary drinks. We applaud the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for taking action to encourage healthier drink choices and being the first to introduce a tax on sugar sweetened beverages, and we hope to see other governments follow suit. Actions like these will help prevent more cancers and reduce the number of people diagnosed with the disease.”
Kelly Wilson Cull, Director, Advocacy
Canadian Cancer Society

“The Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association supports healthy choices for your oral health and overall health. Choosing healthy drink choices is as important as choosing healthy food choices. We recommend that you make water your drink of choice and reduce your intake of sugary drinks and sweets which could contribute to tooth decay.”
Amanda Squires, Executive Director
Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association

“For over 30 years, the School Lunch Association has been providing children with a hot nutritious lunch. This initiative speaks volumes to government’s continued support of our program and to the overall health and well-being of children in our schools.”
John Finn, Executive Director
School Lunch Association

“Health literacy is crucial for us to make the right wellness choices. Awareness programs like Rethink Your Drink empower people to take positive action towards better health.”
Mike Wahl, Ph.D.
Host, ‘The Wellness and Healthy Lifestyle Show’

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Learn more
Rethink Your Drink

News Release: Legislation on Making Better Beverage Choices Being Introduced in the House of Assembly

Budget 2021 – Healthier Choices

Canada’s Food Guide

Media contacts
Victoria Barbour
Finance
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

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

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

Jessica Abdilla
Canadian Cancer Society
437-266-8972
Jessica.adbilla@cancer.ca

Amanda Squires
Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association
709-579-2362
amanda.nlda@nflda.net

John Finn
School Lunch Association
709-754-5323, 709-649-5558
jfinn@schoollunch.ca

Mike Wahl
The Wellness and Healthy Lifestyle Show
709-746-3355
info@wahlshow.com

BACKGROUNDER

Encouraging Healthier Beverage Choices

Canada’s Food Guide
Make water your drink of choice Canada’s Food Guide

World Health Organization
“Consumption of free sugars, including products like sugary drinks, is a major factor in the global increase of people suffering from obesity and diabetes,” says Dr. Douglas Bettcher, Director of WHO’s Department for the Prevention of NCDs. “If governments tax products like sugary drinks, they can reduce suffering and save lives. They can also cut healthcare costs and increase revenues to invest in health services.”

“Taxation of certain foods and drinks, particularly those high in saturated fats, trans fat, free sugars and/or salt appears promising, with existing evidence clearly showing that increases in the prices of such products reduces their consumption. Excise taxes, such as those used on tobacco products, that apply a set (specific) amount of tax on a given quantity or volume of the product, or particular ingredient, are likely to be more effective than sales or other taxes based on a percentage of the retail price”.

Garwood, P. (2016, October 16). WHO urges global action to curtail consumption and health impacts of sugary drinks. World Health Organization. WHO urges global action to curtail consumption and health impacts of sugary drinks

Heart and Stoke Foundation
“Sugary drinks are the number one source of added sugar in the Canadian diet, and too much added sugar is not good for heart health. Studies show that drinking sugary drinks twice daily increases the risk of developing heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, and raises the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by more than 30%.”

(2020, July 11). What should I drink. Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. What should I drink | Heart and Stroke Foundation
News release: Will a sugary drinks levy benefit Canadians? | Heart and Stroke Foundation

Canadian Dental Association
“Choosing healthy drink choices is as important as your food choices. Get in the good habit of comparing the nutrition facts table on drinks to choose products that are lower in sodium, sugars or saturated fat. Make water your drink of choice and reduce your intake of sugary drinks and sweets which could contribute to tooth decay.”

(2022). Nutrition. Canadian Dental Association. Canadian Dental Association (cda-adc.ca)

University of Waterloo

“By reducing obesity and overweight, a 20% tax on SSBs is estimated to prevent 12,053 cancer cases, 36,996 cases of ischemic heart disease, 4,833 strokes, and 138,635 cases of type 2 diabetes. Prevented incident and prevalent disease cases. For a 20% sugary drink tax, prevented diseases would include 21,777 cancer cases, 61,230 cases of ischemic heart disease, 8,151 strokes, and 215,846 cases of type 2 diabetes.”

Jones, A. C., Veerman, J. L., & Hammond, D. (2017). The Health and Economic Impact of a Tax on Sugary Drinks in Canada. University of Waterloo, Page 31. The-Health-and-Economic-Impact-of-a-Sugary-Drink-Tax-in-Canada-FULL-REPORT.pdf (childhoodobesityfoundation.ca)

Canadian Healthy Eating Strategy
“Evidence shows that many factors in our food environment influence our ability to make healthy food choices and to follow a healthy eating pattern. The food we have in our homes, schools, grocery stores, restaurants, as well as social influences and food marketing, have a major impact on our choices and make healthy eating a challenge for many of us. An increasing number of foods high in calories, fat, sodium and sugars are readily offered in multiple settings, thereby challenging our ability to make healthy choices.”

(2016, October 24). Healthy Eating Strategy. Health Canada. Healthy Eating Strategy – Canada.ca

Canadian Paediatric Society
“The excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) has been strongly associated with weight gain, chronic disease development, and dental caries. Recent research has correlated the raising of taxes on SSBs with decreased consumption in some jurisdictions. This policy could have significant positive impacts for public health.”

Pound, C. M., Critch, J. N., Thiessen, P., & Blair, B. (2020, January 30). A proposal to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages in Canada: Canadian Paediatric Society. A proposal to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages in Canada | Canadian Paediatric Society (cps.ca)

Dieticians of Canada
“Based on available evidence, policy efforts that decrease the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages have the potential to positively impact the health of Canadians. Taxation has emerged as one viable policy option to reduce the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages. An excise tax of at least 10-20% is expected to have a considerable impact on the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages.”

(2016, February). Taxation and sugar-sweetened beverages. Dieticians of Canada, Page 6. Dietitians of Canada

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Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360)

jeu, 08/11/2022 - 09:15

The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. This decision will be reassessed tomorrow morning (Friday, August 12). Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.

Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.

The state of emergency remains in place.

Forest fires are ongoing and fire situations can be unpredictable. Residents are encouraged to stay safe and keep up-to-date on current conditions.

For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.

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

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

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

 

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Media Advisory: Minister Coady to Launch Awareness Campaign for Healthy Beverages

jeu, 08/11/2022 - 07:55

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will launch an awareness campaign focused on choosing healthy beverages today, (Thursday, August 11) at 11:30 a.m. The event is being held at the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Centre, 90 Crosbie Road in St. John’s (enter the building on the left, behind the Powerplex main gymnasium, to ‘Benvon’s Room’).

Minister Coady will be joined by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL and MHA for Mount Scio, community partners including Kids Eat Smart Foundation and the School Lunch Association, and Mike Wahl, host of “The Wellness and Healthy Living Show.”

The event will be livestreamed on Facebook.

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Media contacts
Victoria Barbour
Finance
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

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

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Team NL Swimmers Chris Weeks and Thomas Pelley Secure Their Second Medal Wins at the 2022 Canada Summer Games

mer, 08/10/2022 - 15:15

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is once again congratulating Team NL swimmers Chris Weeks of St. John’s and Thomas Pelley of Paradise, on their second medal wins at the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ontario.

At the finals last evening, Chris Weeks won a Gold medal in the Men’s 50 metre Butterfly, and clocked a time of 24.53. This Gold medal win is his first Gold at the Games and it is also Team NL’s first Gold medal in swimming at the Games since 1993. In addition to his Gold medal win, Chris has set two new provincial records, for swimming in the 15 – 17 age range and in the category of open swimming.

Also at the finals last evening, Thomas Pelley won a Bronze medal in the Men’s 100 metre Backstroke LC SOC, and clocked a time of 1:18.36.

This is the first week of competition at the 2022 Canada Summer Games, and to date, Team NL has won five medals. During week one, athletes will compete in baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, cycling, rugby sevens, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, triathlon, and wrestling.

Approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers and mission staff will participate in the 2022 Canada Summer Games. Team NL is represented by 22 teams, participating in 17 sports. For more information, the latest updates and results for Team NL during the 2022 Canada Summer Games, please visit www.teamnl.ca.

Quote
“It’s only the first week of competition and Team NL is making its mark this week at the 2022 Canada Summer Games. We’re so proud of you, Chris and Thomas. It’s amazing what you are accomplishing and I have no doubt that this is only the beginning of your swimming careers. I cannot wait to see where the future takes you.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more

Team NL

2022 Canada Summer Games

News Release: Team NL Heading to 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara in August

News Release: Team NL Swimmer Nathan Luscombe Wins Bronze Medal at the 2022 Canada Summer Games

News Release: Team NL Swimmers Chris Weeks and Thomas Pelley Win Silver Medals at the 2022 Canada Summer Games

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contact
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca

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Public Advisory: Update on Air Quality due to Forest Fires

mer, 08/10/2022 - 15:09

Forest fires are causing smoke and deteriorated air quality in areas of the central region of the island. The forecast is projecting a change in wind direction which is anticipated to result in an increased presence of smoke in Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls, and Botwood this evening (Wednesday, August 10) and overnight.

At this time, it is anticipated that the presence of smoke will increase in Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls and Botwood between approximately 2:00 a.m. (Thursday, August 11) and approximately 7:00 p.m. (Friday, August 12). Current projections do not indicate the smoke will be as intense as it has been previously. Ambient Air Quality Data for Grand Falls-Windsor is available through the Department of Environment and Climate Change.

While there is no required evacuation at this time, for the health and safety of residents, it is recommended that people stay inside during this period. Individuals at a higher risk of health problems or those with concerns can leave the area either on their own or by using the transportation being provided to the congregate shelter in Deer Lake.

Air quality
Forest fires can increase air pollution levels. Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health.

To protect yourself, you should keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable and turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home. For more information on what health impacts it can have and how to protect yourself, please see the backgrounder below.

Transportation
Any individuals impacted by the state of the emergency and deteriorating air quality can avail of the buses to travel to the congregate shelter in the Hodder Memorial Centre, 8-10 Crescent Street, Deer Lake.

Four of the buses transporting individuals to the congregate shelter in Deer Lake are accessible for mobility devices.

Transportation to the congregate shelter in Deer Lake from Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor and Botwood is running on a daily basis at approximately 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The muster point/pick-up site in Bishop’s Falls is the Salvation Army Church and in Grand Falls-Windsor is the Joe Byrne Arena and Windsor Stadium, and in Botwood at the Salvation Army Citadel. This daily transportation service will be available however, times may change as the need continues.

Residents can take your pet on the bus departing from Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor or Botwood however, the pet must be in a proper carrier when you arrive and during transport.

Upon arrival in Deer Lake, a volunteer will help you transport your pet to the pet shelter at the Deer Lake Fire Hall.

The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.

Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.

Comfort stations are available to residents and are located at all provincial park locations. All comfort stations have showers, toilets, sinks and coin-operated laundry. There are Wi-Fi hotspots for use at the parks and water taps are available throughout. Please note, we are advising residents not to visit comfort stations that are in direct proximity to the Central Newfoundland fire, such as Notre Dame Provincial Park at the Lewisporte Junction. To find a provincial park location nearest you, please visit www.parksnl.ca/.

Important Contacts for Assistance
For those who have health conditions or sensitivities to poor air quality or other negative effects from the nearby smoke from the forest fires, more information from the Health Authority is provided in the Central Health operations update. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811 or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke.

Two toll-free phone numbers have been established to help field inquiries pertaining to the Central Newfoundland forest fire emergency. The phone lines will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A messaging service is available to assist with incoming calls outside the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. These include:

  • 1-833-845-0775: Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) Phone Line for inquiries regarding supplies, transportation and general questions.
  • 1-833-960-4571: Central Health Phone Line for all health inquires.

To help residents and tourists make informed decisions before they travel, please visit the NL511 website at www.nl511.ca. NL511 provides up-to-date information on driving conditions, highway cameras, major incidents, current ferry status updates, and weather. An NL511 app is also available for smartphones.

Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation. For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.

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

BACKGROUNDER

Air Quality during a Forest Fire

Milder and more common symptoms of smoke exposure include:

  • Headaches
  • A mild cough
  • A runny nose
  • Production of phlegm
  • Eye, nose and throat irritation

These symptoms can typically be managed without medical intervention.

More serious symptoms include:

  • Dizziness
  • Chest pains
  • Severe cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing (including asthma attacks)
  • Heart palpitations (irregular heart beat)

If you have any of these symptoms, talk to a health care provider, call 811, or seek medical attention. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 and seek immediate medical assistance.

Some people are at a higher risk of health problems when exposed to wildfire smoke including:

  • Seniors
  • Pregnant people
  • Infants and young children
  • People who work outdoors
  • People involved in strenuous outdoor exercise
  • People with an existing illness or chronic health conditions, such as:
    • cancer
    • diabetes
    • mental illness
    • lung or heart conditions

The best way to protect your health is to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke.

General:

  • Pay attention to special air quality statements or other indicators of smoke levels in your community. If necessary, limit outdoor activity and strenuous physical activities.
  • If you need to work outdoors, check with your provincial or territorial occupational health and safety organization or your local health authority. They can provide guidance on how to work safely outdoors during wildfire smoke events.

Indoors and at home:

  • Keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable.
  • Turn off or use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home.
  • Use a clean, good quality air filter (for example, HEPA) in your ventilation system.
  • Use an air purifier that uses HEPA filtration to remove smoke from your home. For more information on selecting an air purifier that is appropriate for your needs, refer to the “Using an air purifier to filter wildfire smoke” factsheet.
  • Visit community centres, libraries, and shopping malls. These places often have cleaner filtered air and can provide a break from the smoke.
  • Keep vehicle windows closed and set the ventilation system to recirculate.

Other recommendations to protect your health:

  • Drink plenty of water to help your body cope with the smoke. Check on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more vulnerable to smoke.
  • Avoid vacuuming and burning candles, incense or other materials.

If smoke is present for more than a few days:

  • Stay active when you can. Try finding a place with clean air to exercise indoors, for instance at the gym, the community centre or at home. Consult the AQHI to look for breaks in the smoke to find opportunities to go outdoors.
  • Don’t forget to take care of your mental health. It’s not unusual to feel anxious, stressed out, sad or isolated during a smoke event. Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising and staying in contact with friends can help. Anyone who is having trouble coping with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression should seek help from a health care provider.

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Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360)

mer, 08/10/2022 - 12:29

The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. This decision will be reassessed tomorrow morning (August 11). Please note that visibility may be reduced and motorists should drive carefully and not stop.

Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.

The areas of Botwood, Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor, Bay d’Espoir, the Coast of Bays and the Connaigre Peninsula region remain in a state of emergency.

Forest fires are ongoing and fire situations can be unpredictable. Residents are encouraged to stay safe above all and keep up-to-date on current conditions.

For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.

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

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

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

The post Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) appeared first on News Releases.

Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-015 Released

mer, 08/10/2022 - 12:17

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2022-015 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-2022-015 Report Date: August 5, 2022 Public Body: City of St. John’s Summary: The Complainant made an access request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the City of St. John’s for records regarding the review and approval of a City Project. The City provided records to the Complainant, but withheld some information claiming 28(1)(c) (Local public body confidences), 29(1)(a) (Policy advice or recommendations), 30(1)(a) (Legal advice), 35(1)(d) (Disclosure harmful to the financial or economic interests of a third party), and 40(1) (Disclosure harmful to personal privacy). During the complaint investigation, the City agreed to and released some additional information. The Commissioner recommended the City continue to withhold the remaining redacted information.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2022-015 Released appeared first on News Releases.

Provincial Government and Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador Sign Collective Agreement

mer, 08/10/2022 - 10:45

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has signed a collective agreement with the Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, which represents the province’s postgraduate medical trainees. The collective agreement has a five-year duration, retroactive from 2019 to 2024.

This agreement provides wage parity with maritime resident doctors and includes increases to other rates and allowances. It also provides flexibility for residents to substitute a statutory holiday such that they can observe a non-Christian faith based holiday.

This is the fifth set of agreements the provincial government has negotiated this year, beginning with the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, followed by the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association, the Labrador West Collective Agreement with the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees.

Quotes
“Government’s negotiating teams are working tirelessly to reach agreements that work for unions and professional associations, and that also fit within our fiscal realities. I thank the Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador for working with us to reach this collective agreement which will benefit our resident doctors.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board

“I am very pleased that we have reached an agreement with the Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. As this organization represents approximately 270 postgraduate medical trainees in our province, it is particularly significant as we continue our efforts to recruit and retain health care professionals.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“The Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador executive has worked extensively with the provincial government to ensure that a new collective agreement was put in place that demonstrated a commitment to resident physician retention and well-being. We believe that we have made some steps to assisting in the recruitment and retention of new doctors for Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Trish Penton
Executive Director, Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn More

Provincial Government Reaches Tentative Agreements with NAPE

Provincial Government and Labrador West Teachers Ratify Tentative Agreement 

Provincial Government and Dentists Sign Agreements

Provincial Government and Physicians Sign Memorandum of Agreement

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Media Contacts
Victoria Barbour
Treasury Board Secretariat
709-729-4087, 327-6152
victoriabarbour@gov.nl.ca

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

Dr. Shane Arsenault
Incoming President, Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador
709-746-7965
arsenaus@tcd.ie

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Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association Collaborate on Initiative Aimed at Physician Shortage

mer, 08/10/2022 - 09:13

The Provincial Government, along with the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association (NLMA), today announced a one-year pilot program to help entice retired family physicians to come back to the workforce.

Through this program, the Provincial Government will cover the cost of licensing fees and liability protection for eligible retired family physicians, as well as provide a pro-rated rural retention bonus for physicians in eligible communities for every month of service they provide under this program. Additionally, the NLMA will waive membership fees for currently retired physicians who opt to return to practice under the program.

To be eligible, a retired physician must have practiced a minimum of 120 days within the last three years and meet other applicable requirements of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador. Under the program, the physician will be required to provide a minimum of 30 days of service.

An application and contact information for the program can be found here.

This is the latest collaborative initiative between the Provincial Government and the NLMA in their collective effort to address the family physician shortage in Newfoundland and Labrador. Other recent measures can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“We continue to work with our health care stakeholders to find creative solutions to the family doctor issue in the province, and thank them for their partnership. This is one more item among the suite of measures we have been implementing over the past while to address this crucial shortage. Every additional family physician we can add to the collective for the province is a win for residents. This is the latest step as we work toward our longer-term health care recruitment and retention goals.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our most recent initiative aligns with a number of others we have put in place to help deal with the health care professional recruitment and retention challenge before us. It is important that we continue to work collaboratively with the NLMA and all of our stakeholders to develop these solutions. It is our hope that eligible retired family physicians will answer the call.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“This new program is part of an ‘all-hands-on-deck’ approach to help stabilize medical services in the province. We need multiple tools in our recruitment toolbox, and this is one additional measure to help add capacity to the health care system. The NLMA looks forward to ongoing discussions with the provincial government to develop additional measures to address shortages in family medicine.”
Dr. Kris Luscombe
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association

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

Laura Thomas
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986
laurathomas@gov.nl.ca

Jon Carpenter
Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association
709-691-0928
jcarpenter@nlma.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER

 Recent Measures to Address the Shortage of Health Care Professionals

  •  Committed to a suite of measures to expand the supply of health care professionals: creation of new Collaborative Team Clinics; increase in virtual care services to assist with the provision of urgent care; 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 (RIS) agreement with government.
    • The Family Practice Start-Up Program will provide $100,000 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 RIS 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.
  • Initiatives announced in March 2022 to address the challenges facing nurses in the province, including the nursing think tank; RFPs for core staffing review, health HR plan, 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 MUN 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 ERs 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 attract other locum physicians during periods of vacancy. As well, in Labrador, Category A rates were increased in the last MOA agreement.

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Public Advisory: Update on Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360)

mar, 08/09/2022 - 17:42

The Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) will remain open. Please note that overnight visibility may be reduced and residents should drive carefully. This decision will be reassessed in the morning as weather and visibility conditions could change.

Forest resource roads along Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) remain closed and cabin owners should refrain from entering the area. If you are currently in the area, please vacate immediately as you are endangering yourselves and first responders.

The areas of Botwood, Bishop’s Falls, Grand Falls-Windsor and the Coast of Bays region remain in a state of emergency.

Forest fires are ongoing and fire situations can be unpredictable. Residents are encouraged to stay safe above all and keep up-to-date on current conditions.

For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.

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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

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

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

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Team NL Swimmers Chris Weeks and Thomas Pelley Win Silver Medals at the 2022 Canada Summer Games

mar, 08/09/2022 - 12:56

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is congratulating Team NL swimmers Chris Weeks of St. John’s and Thomas Pelley of Paradise, on their Silver medal wins at the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ontario.

During the finals held at the Eleanor Misener Aquatics Centre yesterday evening, Chris participated in the Men’s 17 and Under 100 LC metre Freestyle, and clocked a time of 52.75. Thomas Pelley participated in the Men’s 14 – 26 100 LC metre Freestyle SOC and clocked a time of 1:02.88.

A member of the Mount Pearl Marlins swim team, Chris started competitive swimming in 2019. His coach is Christopher Roberts. Some of his swimming accomplishments include winning multiple medals in the 2022 Swimming NL Provincial Championships, multiple medal performances at the 2022 Hicken International, and a first place finish at the 2021 Ontario Junior International Championships.

Also a member of the Mount Pearl Marlins swim team, Thomas started competitive swimming in 2016. His coach is Duffy Earle. Some of his swimming accomplishments include participating in the Newfoundland and Labrador 2016 Summer Games in Conception Bay South, the 2017 Canada Summer Games in Winnipeg, and the Special Olympics Canada 2018 Summer Games in Nova Scotia.

Approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers and mission staff will participate in the 2022 Canada Summer Games. Team NL will be represented by 22 teams, participating in 17 sports. During week one, athletes will compete in baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, cycling, rugby sevens, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, triathlon, and wrestling. For more information, the latest updates and results for Team NL during the 2022 Canada Summer Games, please visit www.teamnl.ca.

Quote
“Congratulations, Chris and Thomas! Silver medal wins are quite the accomplishment at the 2022 Canada Summer Games. It must be exciting for you and your hometowns, and the Mount Pearl Marlins to see two of its athletes on the podium. Newfoundland and Labrador is having such a great first week at the 2022 Canada Summer Games. I can’t wait to see what else is in store for Team NL and our athletes during the Games.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more

Team NL

2022 Canada Summer Games

News Release: Team NL Heading to 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara in August

News Release: Team NL Swimmer Nathan Luscombe Wins Bronze Medal at the 2022 Canada Summer Games

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

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Media contact
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca

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Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Provide Update on Central Newfoundland Fires

mar, 08/09/2022 - 09:30

The Honourable Andrew Furey will be available to media today (Tuesday, August 9) at 2:00 p.m. to provide an update on the fires burning in Central Newfoundland. He will be joined by the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

The availability will be held in St. John’s at the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre, 45 Major’s Path.

The availability will be streamed live on Facebook.

Media planning to participate must register by contacting Victoria Battcock (victoriabattcock@gov.nl.ca).

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

Emily Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

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

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Public Advisory: Phone Lines Established for Central Newfoundland Forest Fire Emergency

mar, 08/09/2022 - 06:35

Two toll-free phone numbers have been established to help field inquiries pertaining to the Central Newfoundland forest fire emergency.

These include:

  • Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) Phone Line; 1-833-845-0775 for inquiries regarding supplies, transportation and general questions. The PEOC phone line will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Central Health Phone Line; 1-833-960-4571 for all health inquires. The Central Health phone line will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A messaging service is available to assist with incoming calls outside the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For the most up to date information, please follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and Twitter.

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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

Melony O’Neill
Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 689-0928
melonyoneill@gov.nl.ca

Gayle St. Croix
Central Health
709-572-1165
gayle.stcroix@centralhealth.nl.ca

The post Public Advisory: Phone Lines Established for Central Newfoundland Forest Fire Emergency appeared first on News Releases.

Public Advisory: Delivery of Essential Goods to the Coast of Bays Region Underway

lun, 08/08/2022 - 19:35

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Provincial Emergency Operation Centre have begun transporting essential goods by helicopter service to the Coast of Bays region today (Monday, August 8) due to the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360).

Two helicopters began transporting essential goods between central Newfoundland and Harbour Breton and flights have been arranged to continue tomorrow (Tuesday, August 9) and for the remainder of the emergency, as needed.

The Sound of Islay, which departed Lewisporte for Fortune on Sunday, August 7, has been delayed by mechanical difficulties and is in St. John’s for repairs. An update will be provided when repairs are completed.

Inquiries regarding transporting essential supplies via helicopter can be arranged by contacting the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre at 1-833-845-0775.

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

Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

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Team NL Swimmer Nathan Luscombe Wins Bronze Medal at the 2022 Canada Summer Games

lun, 08/08/2022 - 13:45

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is congratulating Team NL swimmer Nathan Luscombe of Grand Falls-Windsor on his bronze medal win at the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ontario. Nathan’s bronze medal win is also the first medal for Team NL at the Games. On Sunday, August 7, Nathan participated in the 400 metre Freestyle LC Multi-Class Para and clocked a time of 4:59.86.

In 2015, Nathan first started competitive swimming with the Grand Falls Gators Summer Swim Club. He swam there until 2018, and in 2019, he started swimming with the Gander Lakers Swim Club, which is where he swims and trains today. In 2022, Nathan participated in the 100 metre Freestyle LC Para at the Speedo Eastern Canadian Championships in Pointe Claire, Quebec and won a silver medal. Nathan’s coach is Graham Tweedie.

Approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers and mission staff will participate in the 2022 Canada Summer Games. Team NL will be represented by 22 teams, participating in 17 sports. During week one, athletes will compete in baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, cycling, rugby sevens, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, triathlon, and wrestling. For more information, the latest updates and results for Team NL during the 2022 Canada Summer Games, please visit www.teamnl.ca.

Quote
“Congratulations, Nathan! What an incredible achievement to win bronze and the first medal for Newfoundland and Labrador at the 2022 Canada Summer Games. It was especially exciting for me to be here in Niagara to cheer you on and to witness your performance. You’ve set the bar high for the rest of Team NL. Good luck to all our athletes -I know you’re up to the challenge.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more

Team NL

2022 Canada Summer Games

News Release: Team NL Heading to 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara in August

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

Media contact
Tina Newhook
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4570, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca

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Provincial Government Launches Engagement Process for Social and Economic Well-Being Plan

lun, 08/08/2022 - 12:09

Today, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, launched the engagement process for a Social and Economic Well-Being Plan.

He was joined at the launch by the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Windsor Lake, Kim White, Executive Director, Froude Avenue Community Centre, representatives from the community sector and individuals with lived experience of poverty.

With a focus on poverty reduction, prevention and early intervention, and the social determinants of health, the holistic and integrated Social and Economic Well-Being Plan will be a key component to supporting the vision of Health Accord NL.

Building on the findings from the extensive engagement carried out by Health Accord NL, this process will focus on how to implement recommendations to address the social and economic well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The engagement process will also inform a review of the provincial Income Support Program.

The Provincial Government will engage with community organizations, governments and experts, including and most importantly, people with lived experience, to help inform the development of the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan. This engagement will focus on six key components that impact social and economic well-being: early years; education; income and benefits; food security; housing; and community.

The engagement process will consist of a variety of methods, including virtual and in-person consultations, online questionnaires through engageNL and stakeholder roundtables for both individual and community organizations, to give all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the opportunity to participate.

For more information and to participate in the engagement process starting this week, please visit engageNL.ca or email wellbeing@gov.nl.ca. The online component of the engagement process will close on October 3, 2022.

Quotes
“Our government recognizes these are challenging times that have and continue to deeply impact individuals and families, especially those living in poverty. We remain committed to developing a renewed approach to addressing poverty, as well as a coordinated focus on prevention and early intervention to improve social and economic well-being outcomes for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Today, I am pleased to launch the engagement process that will help inform the development of the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan. This plan will follow Health Accord NL’s recommendations for a holistic and integrated approach. I encourage everyone to become engaged and share their valuable perspectives and input, which will be vital to developing this long-term plan for our province.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“I am pleased to be involved in the launch of such an important initiative. The Social and Economic Well-Being Plan will utilize the work of Health Accord NL and is a vital part of ensuring that there is a sustainable long-term plan for Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
MHA for Windsor Lake

“We are excited to see a strong focus on having the voices of individuals and families with lived experience being heard in the consultation process. It will be through listening to their stories that will ensure the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan is responsive and effective. We look forward to supporting people with lived experience to fully participate in this process.”
Kim White
Executive Director
Froude Avenue Community Centre

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Learn More

engageNL

Health Accord NL

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

Matthew Babb
Constituency Assistant to the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Windsor Lake
709-699-9913
mbabb@gov.nl.ca

Kim White
Froude Avenue Community Centre
709-579-0763
froudeavecc@gmail.com

 

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Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Launch Engagement Process for Social and Economic Well-Being Plan

lun, 08/08/2022 - 08:00

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, along with the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Windsor Lake, and Kim White, Executive Director, Froude Avenue Community Centre, will launch the engagement process for the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan today (Monday, August 8). Representatives from the community sector and individuals with lived experience of poverty will attend the event.

The launch will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the MacMorran Community Centre, 10 Brother McSheffrey Lane, St. John’s.

The announcement will be livestreamed on Facebook.

Informed by the work of Health Accord NL and in collaboration with community, the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan will focus on poverty reduction and prevention and early intervention to help address the social and economic well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

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

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Statement from the Honourable Derrick Bragg on the Passing of Reg Anstey

dim, 08/07/2022 - 19:40

The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, today offered condolences on the passing of Reg Anstey:

“I wish to extend condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Reg Anstey on news of his passing today. His death leaves a huge void that will be felt by the province’s fishing sector, particularly the many fishers and plant workers who admired his lifelong dedication and tireless advocacy for those who earn a living from the sea.

I had the pleasure of having many discussions with Mr. Anstey and experiencing his enthusiasm for improving the well-being of the thousands of individuals engaged in the province’s fishing sector. He could always be relied upon as trustworthy source of information which he was always willing to share.

During his career he served in many instrumental roles that have helped shape and modernize the Newfoundland and Labrador fishing sector. Most recently he served as Chair of the Fish Processing Licensing Board where he shared his extensive knowledge to help skillfully navigate the province’s fishing industry through an unprecedented period of global uncertainty.

His passing is a significant loss to the fishing industry and the province as a whole. He will be missed indeed.”

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

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