Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will host the 20th Annual Premier’s Athletic Awards on Wednesday, October 30, at 4:30 p.m. The event will take place at the Newfoundland and Labrador Sport Centre (PowerPlex), 90 Crosbie Road, St. John’s.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, Team Gushue members Mike Adam and Jamie Korab, and members of the Healey and Gushue families.

The Premier’s Athletic Awards recognize athletic excellence in Newfoundland and Labrador and provide financial support to help young athletes with the costs of training and competition.

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The following is being distributed at the request of Her Honour the Honourable Joan Marie Aylward, O.N.L., Lieutenant-Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Her Honour the Honourable Joan Marie Aylward, O.N.L., Lieutenant-Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador and Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be joined by the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, at the investiture ceremony for recipients of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Government House in St. John’s.

The ceremony will be streamed live on Facebook and YouTube.

Media are asked to be in place by 10:15 a.m.

10:15 a.m.      Media representatives are in place in the Cochrane Room to cover investiture and will enter through west side entrance of Government House

10:30 a.m.-     Recipients and guests arrive at Government House
10:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m.       Investiture Ceremony

The eight recipients this year are Everard (Bud) Davidge, Clifford R. George, Liam Hickey, Saqamaw Mi’sel Muinjij Joe, C.M., Andy Jones, C.M., Patrick O’Callaghan, Guy J. Poole and Dr. Andrea M. Rose.

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Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered a performance audit report to the House of Assembly on the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s ability to effectively manage the administration of Crown lands. Today’s report contains findings and recommendations regarding systematic issues, insufficient policies and procedures, as well as confusion about complaints management, enforcement, and inspection processes.

“I have serious concerns with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s ability to effectively manage Crown lands’ administration. Systemic issues identified throughout my audit may have encouraged the misuse of, or allowed for, the extended illegal occupation of Crown lands – which may have contributed to public safety risks, negative environmental impacts, strains on the province’s court system, and affected the well-being of land owners,” commented Denise Hanrahan, Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Crown lands are administered by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture for the social and economic benefit of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The department’s Crown Lands Division receives approximately 3600 applications per year, and provides a range of uses including recreation, economic development, conservation, agricultural use, and other services.

“Crown Lands are intended to be used for the benefit of the people of the province – anything that causes a deviation from that purpose creates the risk of land misuse or misappropriation,” continued Auditor General Hanrahan. “The foundation of Crown lands administration has been built on an inadequate lands registration system. Policies and procedures are significantly outdated, informal, or non-existent, and the Crown Lands Division has an incomplete inventory of lands records. When guidance policies and procedures are either outdated or functionally ineffective, and oversight and monitoring controls are weak, it becomes impossible to establish a foundation for best practice and the risk of mismanagement increases.”

The full report as well as an audit overview can be found by visiting. www.ag.gov.nl.ca.

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The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will deliver a fiscal and economic update tomorrow (Wednesday, October 30).

The announcement will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building, at 12:00 p.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 11:00 a.m.

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The Provincial Government extends best wishes to Turkish Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as they commemorate Republic Day on October 29.

This significant holiday marks the declaration of the Turkish Republic by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in 1923, celebrated with pride through parades, cultural performances, and community gatherings both in Türkiye and among Turkish communities around the world.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador acknowledges the request from the Turkish community in the province to acknowledge this day and the importance of cultural holidays and events that reflect the diversity of all residents. Such celebrations enrich our communities and strengthen the bonds between our cultures.

Newfoundland and Labrador and Türkiye are forever-fused due to events of the First World War and recent bilateral actions have fostered a spirit of shared remembrance and collaboration. In 2023, a monument to the Martyrs of Gallipoli was unveiled at the Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park beside Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John’s. Premier Dr. Andrew Furey, along with dignitaries from Türkiye, commemorated the sacrifice of those who fought for freedom during the First World War. This monument symbolizes the enduring friendship between Newfoundland and Labrador and Türkiye, completing a reciprocal agreement that highlights the shared history and respect for bravery and sacrifice.

Quotes
“I am honoured to wish Turkish Newfoundlanders and Labradorians a happy Republic Day. Today, we celebrate the resilience and spirit of the Turkish people, both here and abroad. Their rich cultural heritage is a vital part of our province’s identity, and we are proud to celebrate this day with them.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our province is enriched by the vibrant contributions of Turkish Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Recognizing cultural celebrations like Republic Day reinforces our commitment to an inclusive and welcoming community. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our residents, which contribute to the vibrant and dynamic province we call home.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

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The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) is seeking input on the Provincial Government’s use of digital technology to provide services to the public.

The public is invited to provide comments on the potential for legislation to govern the Provincial Government’s use of digital technology and on how the services they use could be strengthened through the use of online digital services, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.

An online questionnaire is available at engageNL.ca until November 19, where, if they haven’t already done so, residents can create a free account to take part in this, and future consultations conducted by the Provincial Government.

Written submissions may also be sent by email DigitalConsult@gov.nl.ca or by regular mail to:

Digital Technology Legislation
c/o Office of the Chief Information Officer
40 Higgins Line
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
A1B 4J6

Engagement sessions are also being held with Provincial Government agencies, boards, and commissions, as well as community stakeholders.

Quote
“We live in a rapidly changing, ever-evolving digital world where information is available right at our fingertips, when we log into our computers or scroll through our phones. We encourage everyone to participate and share their ideas on the use of digital technology.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL
Minister Responsible for the Office of the Chief Information Officer

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced that the Public Procurement Agency has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for interested fuel oil companies to submit proposals for furnace oil delivery to St. Brendan’s residential consumers.

Based on current information, there are 47 registered furnace oil tanks on St. Brendan’s. Challenges remain with heating oil distribution to St. Brendan’s including a small and decreasing customer base, fuel pricing margins, driver availability and scheduling, ferry scheduling, and servicing other regional customers.

The RFP, which was issued today and closes on Monday, November 4, at 12:00 p.m. NT, is seeking a supplier to provide furnace oil to residents of St. Brendan’s in accordance with the requirements of the RFP and the contents of its proposal. This includes the opportunity for interested suppliers to bid added delivery cost terms to be included in the price for fuel charged to customers.

The Provincial Government will not be a party to any contract resulting from the RFP. The intent of the RFP process is to identify an interested furnace oil supplier and to facilitate a relationship between the residents of St. Brendan’s and a supplier. If a supplier can be secured, residents of St. Brendan’s may choose to participate in the arrangement resulting from the RFP or may choose not to participate.

Prospective proponents must access this opportunity through a vendor account with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s electronic bidding system at www.merx.com/govnl and register as a Registered Document Taker for this procurement.

Quote
“Our government has been working to find a solution to ensure home heating oil delivery for the residents of St. Brendan’s who are currently without a supplier. We are hopeful that this RFP process is successful and that a fuel supply can be secured for the residents of St. Brendan’s.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, congratulate the Chief and Council of the Qalipu First Nation on their election.

Jenny Brake was re-elected as Chief for the 2024-28 term in an election held on October 25. She held the position of interim chief since last December.

Other members declared elected by the Qalipu First Nation include:

• Charles White, Western Vice-Chief
• Colleen Paul, Central Vice-Chief
• Shianne Squires, Exploits Ward Councillor
• Francis (Frank) Skeard, Glenwood Ward Councillor
• Lory Benoit-Jesso, Port au Port Ward Councillor

Members elected by acclamation were:

• Terri Greene, Benoit’s Cove Ward Councillor
• Ernest Green, Corner Brook Ward Councillor
• Ivan White (Sr.), Flat Bay Ward Councillor
• Calvin Francis, Gander Bay Ward Councillor
• Miranda Osmond, Stephenville Ward Councillor

A byelection to elect a ward councillor for St. George’s will be held at a later date.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador commends all members who put their names forward as candidates for the Qalipu First Nation.

Quotes
“I congratulate Chief Brake and members of her council for accepting the challenge to provide leadership and direction for the Qalipu First Nation. I value the relationship we have established since her election as interim chief and look forward to working with Chief Brake to move forward on priorities that are important to the Qalipu First Nation.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The people have spoken and they have placed their trust in Chief Brake and the elected members of the Qalipu First Nation Council. I am proud to be part of a government that is working hard to build relationships based on understanding, trust and mutual respect with the Qalipu First Nation and Indigenous Governments and Organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, will deliver a performance audit report on the Administration of Crown Lands to the House of Assembly tomorrow (Tuesday, October 29, 2024).

A technical briefing for media will take place on Tuesday, (October 29, 2024), beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Office of the Auditor General’s boardroom, 43 Major’s Path, St. John’s.

Media representatives planning to participate are asked to RSVP to Chrysta Collins (chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca).

The Auditor General will be available to the media beginning at 10:30 a.m.

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Media contact
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Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

Trinity Bay Ferrish Cove ATV Trail                                              (Reg. 2331)
Proponent: David Soper

The Proponent is proposing to construct a 7-km ATV trail from Blue Hill Pond to Ferrish Cove. The proposed trail connects to an existing 4-km trail from Blue Hill Pond to the town of Little Hearts Ease. Construction of the trail would include grubbing and cutting trees, as well as installing bridges over stream crossings. The trail would operate year-round, providing access to a private cabin.

A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/

The undertaking was registered on October 24, 2024; the deadline for public comment is November 28, 2024; and the Minister’s decision is due by December 8, 2024.

Deer Lake Residential and Commercial Subdivisions                 (Reg. 2330)
Proponent: V & J Tectonic Inc.

The Proponent is proposing to develop residential and commercial subdivisions on two land parcels of approximately 150 hectares located on Glide Lake Road in the Town of Deer Lake. The development would include residential and commercial light industrial development, recreational facilities, transportation hubs and medical services.

A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on October 23, 2024; the deadline for public comment is November 29, 2024; and the Minister’s decision is due by December 7, 2024.

Aspen Brook Quarry                                                                   (Reg. 2329)
Proponent: Newcrete Investments Ltd.

The Proponent is proposing to operate a 1.7-hectare quarry located 7 kilometres southeast of Badger. Quarry operations would include the extraction of sand and gravel to be used in concrete production.

A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/

The undertaking was registered on October 25, 2024; the deadline for public comment is November 29, 2024; and the Minister’s decision is due by December 9, 2024.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT REQUIRED AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE APPOINTED:
Burin Peninsula EverWind Green Fuels Project                          (Reg. 2321)

Proponent: EverWind Fuels

The Minister has advised the Proponent that an environmental impact statement (EIS) is required for the Project. Additional information is needed to inform the Minister of the following, including, but not limited to:

• clarification on Project scope
• greenhouse gas emissions
• waste management plans
• erosion and sediment and control measures
• emissions and fogging
• effluent streams and outfall locations
• noise/vibration, shadow flicker and solar glare
• air quality risk assessment
• location of Project components, including but not limited to:
  • wind turbines
  • worker accommodations
  • offices
  • explosive storage facilities
  • access roads
  • power lines and substations and
  • proximity of the above to sensitive receptors
• flora and fauna including:
  • fish and fish habitat
  • marine environment
• occupational information, and
• potential effects on provincial roads and bridges.

An Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has been appointed to provide scientific and technical advice to the Minister and to draft guidelines for the Proponent in preparing the EIS.

The public will be invited to provide comment on the draft guidelines. For further information on this Project, please contact Eric Watton at (709) 729-0834 or email ericwatton@gov.nl.ca.

DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT GUIDELINES AND PUBLIC REVIEW:

Lewisporte Biomedical Waste Incineration                                 (Reg. 2316)
Proponent: Paul Dalley Holdings Inc.

The proposed Lewisporte Biomedical Waste Incineration Project is registered for environmental assessment, and an environmental impact statement (EIS) is required. The Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has drafted EIS Guidelines that identify information that must be included in the EIS. The public is invited to review the draft guidelines and provide written comments by December 4, 2024. Comments received will be reviewed and considered before the EIS guidelines are finalized and issued to the Proponent.

More information on the Project is available on the Department’s website at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2316/

Written comments must be submitted by December 4, 2024, to EAProjectcomments@gov.nl.ca.

UPdates to Environmental Preveiw Report (EPR) Submitted:

Botwood Flower’s Hill Quarry                                                     (Reg. 2287)
Proponent: C&H Construction

The Proponent has submitted updated maps for the EPR and the Water Resources Management Plan.  Map 1, Access Road and Boundaries, replaces the map on page 14 of the EPR.  Map 2, Large Scale Map, replaces the map on page 15 of the EPR.  Map 3, Ditching Design, replaces the map on the Water Resources Management Plan.  The corrections are available on the Department’s webpage at https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2287/

Public comments regarding the EPR are welcome and may be emailed to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca or they may be mailed to the address below:

Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL   A1B 4J6

Public comments must be received by November 29, 2024; and the Minister’s decision on the EPR is due by December 9, 2024.

 

PLANS ACCEPTED:

Springdale Glove Manufacturing Facility                                    (Reg. 2218)
Proponent: Superior Glove Works Limited

On October 23, 2024, the Minister advised the Proponent that the Waste Management Plan and Water Resources Management Plan for the Project are acceptable. These plans were required as conditions of release from environmental assessment and are available on the Department’s Project web page at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2218/.

 
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Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL   A1B 4J6

Environmental assessment information is available at:
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/

https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2024.pdf

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Project comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

Anyone submitting comments on a Project under environmental assessment is asked to please advise the Department if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the Project Proponent.

 

 

 

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Funding of $220,225 has been provided through a new five-year Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on French Language Services between Canadian Heritage and the Department of Digital Government and Service NL.

The funding supports 12 projects that will advance the planning and delivery of services in French throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and will be matched by contributions that come from a mix of community, municipal and other Government of Newfoundland and Labrador sources.

Ten recipients have received funding through the agreement:

• City of St. John’s
• Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Memorial University
• MusicNL
• Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (three projects)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries
• The Rooms
• Town of Cape St. George
• Town of Fortune
• Town of Stephenville

For more information on the recipients and their projects, please see the backgrounder below.

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on French Language Services supports programming for the local Francophone community. Nearly 26,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians speak both English and French, and more than 5,500 identify French as their first language.

The Office of French Services is responsible for building the capacity of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to deliver services in French. Staff work closely with community partners to support the development and vitality of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Francophone community. Additional funding through the agreement will be made available in the coming months. Interested organizations are encouraged to contact the Office of French Services for more information at frenchservices@gov.nl.ca.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s Francophone community is an integral part of our cultural fabric, and our government is pleased to provide access to many programs and services in French. This agreement will help advance several initiatives that will contribute to the continued growth of our vibrant Francophone community. Congratulations to the recipients and all the best as you move ahead with your projects.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs

“The promotion and expansion of services in French is essential in supporting the vitality of Francophones in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are reaffirming our support for linguistic diversity in Canada by promoting the development of the French language and Francophone culture.”
The Honourable Randy Boissonault
Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages

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BACKGROUNDER

Applicant Project Description Funding from Agreement City of St. John’s Translation of tourism map for self-guided walking tours. $2,140 Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador Translation of program brochures. $1,250 Memorial University First phase of the French language maintenance and improvement program. $38,394 MusicNL External branding and export readiness for the Francophone and Acadian music industry. $43,750 NL Health Services Translation of patient information pamphlets for the Janeway.

 

Launch of the Café de Paris pilot project.

 

Start of the French language training pilot project.

  $46,500 NL Public Libraries Ready to go French Storytime including audio and digital books.

  $11,700 The Rooms Translation of The Rooms Edukit. $25,565 Town of Cape St. George Launch of Cape St. George connects. $27,176 Town of Fortune Heritage interpretive signage to be translated and installed. $15,000 Town of Stephenville Launch of a French language program. $8,750 TOTAL $220,225

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Today, the Provincial Government is releasing the public safety review for Happy Valley-Goose Bay developed by the Policing Transformation Working Group and providing an update on measures to support public safety and address challenges with mental health, addictions and homelessness in the community.

The Policing Transformation Working Group submitted its report to the Provincial Government. The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, accepts all the recommendations and will work closely with community and government partners on their implementation.

Minister Davis will be available to media to discuss this report, as well as the Provincial Government’s efforts to address its recommendations, today (Friday, October 25) at 1:30 p.m. outside of the House of Assembly. Minister Davis will be joined by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville.

The working group undertook extensive, targeted consultations in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay area and engaged with more than 85 key stakeholders and community members. A public call for written submissions was included, as well. The review included a comprehensive examination of existing policing public safety measures; analysis of crime data; community safety perceptions; and the effectiveness of current policing levels.

The report outlines six recommendations on ways to improve public safety and well-being for Happy Valley-Goose Bay residents:

• Increase RCMP complement in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
• Enhance collaboration between the RCMP and the Mobile Crisis Response Team.
• Support the development of a Community Safety Plan for the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
• Prioritize rollout of body-worn cameras for RCMP.
• Establish formalized communication protocols with key community partners.
• Develop a pilot project for Happy Valley-Goose Bay to establish a safe community “situation table.”

The report also endorses continued work on the Integrated Health, Housing and Supportive Services Hub as a key response to homelessness in the region. Current shelter options are over-capacity, and this new facility will address current gaps while bringing housing options, along with health and other wrap-around services, under one roof.

The Hub will include on-site mental health and addictions counselling services, clinic spaces that will host primary care team members on a regular schedule, culturally appropriate Indigenous-led programming and initiatives, navigational supports to services, life skills supports and will incorporate programming of other community partners.

In November 2023, the Provincial Government appointed Woodford Architecture as the prime consultant to oversee the design and construction of the Hub. Numerous consultations were held in the community regarding the project, most recently in May 2024 to get local feedback on the proposed design of the facility. The prime consultant is now finalizing the detailed design and intends to issue a tender for construction in the new year, with construction planned to begin by fall 2025.

In addition, planning is underway for a new addictions treatment centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay to further address the need for recovery and rehabilitation support for individuals living with addictions in the area.

Quotes
“Over the past number of weeks, the Policing Transformation Working Group engaged the Happy Valley-Goose Bay community on a more proactive approach to public safety in the area. I thank them for their dedicated efforts and will be accepting all the recommendations. I look forward to working closely with the RCMP, the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay and all community partners, to take the necessary steps towards implementation. I thank all those that contributed to this process and look forward to the important work ahead.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“This latest report into public safety once again reaffirms the need for the Happy Valley-Goose Bay Hub as a direct response to homelessness in the community, and it shows a distinct need for increased mental health and addictions supports in the area. We remain focused on our collaborative efforts to increase access to programs and supports as needed for the improved overall health and well-being of individuals and families in the region.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

“The Provincial Government is moving on three coordinated initiatives to address the well-being of all residents in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, namely, to provide a low-barrier shelter with support services for those living at risk, addictions and mental health treatment and recovery in Labrador, and this plan to transform policing and community safety. I would like to thank the team from Justice and Public Safety for diverting resources to develop these recommendations and look forward to continued collaboration with their implementation. “
Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville

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The Department of Health and Community Services and NL Health Services are adding beds at health care facilities in Western Newfoundland to accommodate alternate level of care patients in the region.

The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, and Teara Freake, Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Western Zone, NL Health Services, will be available to media today (October 25), at 1:00 p.m. outside of the House of Assembly to discuss the additional services.

Currently, there are patients at the new Western Memorial Regional Hospital who occupy a bed at the hospital and require care such as long-term care, but do not require the services provided at the hospital.

Additional beds are being added to help move these patients to more appropriate settings. This includes:

• Adding 15 beds at Corner Brook Long-Term Care by modifying 15 rooms to double occupancy.
• Issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for an interim Alternate Level of Care Centre in the Western Zone, which will lead to more beds.

Quotes
“We have increased capacity Western Newfoundland with the new Western Memorial Regional Hospital and Western Long-Term Care Centre. Approximately 100 new beds have been added to the existing number of beds in the city. These new steps we are taking will increase that further and help ensure patients in the region receive the care they need at the right facility.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Our team has been working with all programs and services across the zone and with provincial programs to identify opportunities to strengthen the capacity of our system and to increase access and this involves a series of short, medium, and long-term plans. The foundation of this work is based on appropriateness of care.  Ensuring people are receiving the right care, from the right provider, and in the right location.   Our zone has an active Appropriateness of Care committee with representatives from across the zone.  What we are doing is truly systems transformation and we are pleased to see some of these shorter-term actions taking shape which will alleviate some of the current pressures in the system.”
Teara Freake
Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Western Zone, NL Health Services

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The Provincial Government is monitoring forecast information on an approaching weather system anticipated to bring significant rain to parts of eastern and southern Newfoundland in the coming days (October 25-26).

Environment Canada is forecasting upwards of 125 mm of rain between early Friday morning and Saturday morning, with the highest accumulations occurring on the Burin Peninsula and Placentia Bay area. Residents are encouraged to monitor the forecast from Environment Canada for the most up-to-date information.

Due to the rainfall rates and large amounts of rain anticipated, municipalities and local service districts should review emergency management plans and ensure infrastructure such as roads, ditches and drains are clear of debris and leaves. The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is currently at Level 1 – Enhanced Monitoring. No action is required from emergency management partners at this time, however, be advised to monitor updates and forecast information.

Residents are asked to take steps to ensure their own personal safety. Homeowners should secure loose items around their properties, ensure sump pumps are in working order, and safeguard important documents.Motorists are reminded to check driving condition reports via the NL511 mobile app, nl511.ca or call 511. Always drive according to the conditions in your area, and never cross floodwaters on foot or in a vehicle as the water may be deeper than it looks. Visit Be Prepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

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Perry Trimper, Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans and Military Relations, will participate in the annual Fly the Flag of Remembrance Ceremony tomorrow (Friday, October 25).

The event takes place in the East Block Lobby of Confederation Building and is being hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion – Newfoundland and Labrador Command. The ceremony begins at 12:00 p.m.

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is providing details of new actions to help residents clarify title to large areas of land in historically settled communities. This includes issuing a “dispossession certificate” declaring the Crown claims no interest in certain pieces of land on a community level.

As announced October 15, 2024, the Provincial Government is enacting measures to remove barriers for people when applying for, or securing property title to, Crown lands, including better support for title seekers trying to acquire legal ownership of Crown lands based on adverse possession – commonly referred to as “squatter’s rights.”

Adverse possession against the Crown was abolished on January 1, 1977, outside of a 20-year exemption period of 1957 to 1977. Prior to that, the exemption was for a 60-year period. Recently announced measures will make it easier for applicants to prove adverse possession against the Crown by changing the required land possessory period from the current 20 continuous years immediately prior to January 1, 1977, to a period of 10 continuous years immediately prior to January 1, 1977. No other province or territory has created such applicant-friendly laws.

Another new policy will enable the Provincial Government to relinquish its right to Crown lands by issuing a quitclaim deed for a primary residence to title seekers who have occupied lands long-term, thus enabling them to privately resolve challenges associated with securing title.

For situations where conditions of adverse possession have been met on a community level, another legislative change will allow the Provincial Government to issue a dispossession certificate declaring the Crown claims no interest in land. This would generally apply to areas containing multiple homes and properties in communities where historical occupation of land knowingly preceded the time period applied to adverse possession. Issuing a dispossession certificate would relinquish the Crown’s claim to property without granting title or transferring interest, which would formally release a Provincial Government claim to Crown lands.

The Provincial Government will be reviewing areas where such situations occur, such as downtown St. John’s and historic towns such as Bonavista or Twillingate. Only areas with legacy possession will be included in this process, with emphasis on areas where long-term possession can be determined using various tools within municipal planning boundaries. Discussions will take place with municipal authorities and departmental planners to coordinate boundaries of dispossession certificates.

Other recently announced measures to help streamline and clarify the process of securing property title include:

• Allowing the Minister the option to approve additional structures under Section 7 of the Lands Act related to shoreline reservations.
• Providing more flexibility for applicants by allowing the removal of timeframes currently required under the Act for such things as completion of surveys.
• Continuing policy review that will improve and modernize Crown lands management, service delivery, application processing times, and enforcement.
• Preparing to launch the modernized, mobile-friendly Online Crown Lands Application Portal to improve the Crown lands application process.

The department has been working with the Office of the Chief Information Officer to complete the Online Crown Lands Application Portal, which will be launched together with the Primary Residence Property Title Program. This program will create better housing security and secure peace of mind for those who have a primary residence situated on land that has not met any of the new pathways to achieve marketable title.

Quote
“There are areas within the boundaries of some of the province’s historic legacy communities, such as the Town of Bonavista, where the Crown has obviously been dispossessed of its claim to land title for many years. This bold change means the Crown can issue a dispossession certificate for areas where clearly, the Crown has been dispossessed. This is where common sense meets common law and common practicality – this is about Crown lands for the future.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Provincial Government Announcing Upcoming Legislation and New Measures to Transform Crown Lands Approvals, Access and Wait Times

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Early childhood educators and other staff working in regulated child care services in the province can now participate in a medical benefits program that is cost shared by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Early Learning and Child Care Medical Benefits Program will be supported by the Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador, with coverage provided by Blue Cross via Dougan Insurance Group. Medical benefits are optional and available to individuals who work a minimum of 20 hours per week, and have worked a minimum of three months at a regulated child care service participating in the Operating Grant Program, including:

• Early childhood educators
• Trainee early childhood educators
• Other staff working in child care services
• Regulated Family Child Care providers

Minister Haggie will be available to media today (Wednesday, October 23) at 1:00 p.m. to discuss the new medical benefits for early childhood educators The availability will take place virtually and media can register by contacting lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca by 12:00 p.m.

Funding will be provided to regulated child care services on the Operating Grant Program to cover 60 per cent of the premium cost to access benefits. The employee will be responsible for the remaining 40 per cent of the cost. Coverage provides medical benefits, including employee assistance programming, and options for dental coverage and family benefits. Regulated child care services that do not participate in the Operating Grant Program can access the medical benefits program but will not receive Provincial Government funding to cover any portion of the costs.

The new medical benefits program for early childhood educators will support recruitment and retention of early childhood educators as the Provincial Government continues to increase the number of early learning and child care spaces throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. In May of this year, the Provincial Government committed to implementing a medical benefits program by the fall.

This new benefit program is funded through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. Through this agreement, the Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador are working together to improve access to high-quality, affordable, flexible, and inclusive early learning and child care programs and services.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing high quality, affordable child care that is accessible throughout the province. There are over 10,100 early learning and child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or less in the province, with a further 1,700 spaces in development.

Quotes
“Our government is continuing to support the early learning workforce and enhance the working conditions of this important sector. A high-quality early learning and child care system requires a strong and sustainable workforce. This medical benefits program will provide coverage, insurance, and peace of mind to those individuals who opt in.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education (Alternate)

“To make $10-a-day child care a reality for families in Newfoundland and Labrador, we need to retain and recruit more early childhood educators. This new program is delivering benefits educators have been asking for and ensures they have access to the support they need and deserve. This is a positive step forward that will have a real impact on our incredible workforce.”
Honourable Jenna Sudds
Minister of Families, Children and Social Development

“The professionalization of the early learning sector and support for this important workforce is integral to increasing quality early learning and child care in the province. The association is pleased to play a part in ensuring that early childhood educators have access to medical benefits to support their health and well-being.”
Skye Taylor
Association of Early Childhood Educators in Newfoundland and Labrador

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Provincial Government Commits to Introducing Medical Benefits for Early Childhood Educators

Operating Grant Program

Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement

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BACKGROUNDER

Operating Grant Program
The Operating Grant Program helps address affordability of child care services for families with young children. Effective January 1, 2023, regulated child care services participating in the Operating Grant Program were supported to lower their rates to $10 per day for infant, toddler, and preschool participants; $4 for afterschool care; and, $5 for before and after school care. The Operating Grant Program is a key component of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. As part of the agreement, the Newfoundland and Labrador government committed to exploring potential enhancements to the program to ensure that regulated operations remain financially viable, and to retain and attract new early childhood educators.

In January 2024 the Provincial Government released a report outlining a review of the Operating Grant Program for child care services in Newfoundland and Labrador. The report includes six opportunity areas for improving the Operating Grant Program, including governance; funding and rates; program policies, processes and requirements; accountability; workforce; and, system enablers.

Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement 

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is increasing access to regulated child care through the creation of approximately 6,000 spaces by 2025-2026, as well as improving affordability, inclusivity, and quality of early learning and child care programming in Newfoundland and Labrador. This Action Plan is made possible by federal investments in the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system. These include $306 million for the 2021-2022 to 2025-2026 Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, a one-time investment of nearly $6.5 million in 2021-2022 to support the early childhood workforce, as well as over $34 million for the 2021-2022 to 2024-2025 Early Learning and Child Care Extension Agreement.

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Residents and cabin owners near the South Side Resource Road area are advised that the Moccasin Lake Brook Bridge is closed due to damage until further notice. The bridge is located approximately 10 kilometres from the Old Mill Bridge in Grand Falls-Windsor and 3.3 kilometres from Route 360, Bay d’Espoir Highway.

Moccasin Lake Brook Bridge will remain closed until it can be assessed, and repairs made to the top decking. Signs and ribbons are in place to warn travelers of the closure. Questions or concerns can be directed to the Bishop’s Falls Forestry Office, (709) 258-5334.

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Provincial Government online payment services are undergoing required maintenance on Wednesday, October 23, between 9:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. (8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. in parts of Labrador).

Payments for all Provincial Government online services will be unavailable during this timeframe, except Arts and Culture Centre Ticketing and Personal Property Registry.

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Today, the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, met with provincial tourism leaders for the biannual Tourism Leadership Summit. The group of tourism leaders meets in the fall and spring each year to collaborate on the industry’s progress and ways to address industry challenges.

At the meeting, Minister Crocker provided an update on the 2024 tourism season.

The tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador officially reached recovery in 2023, reaching tourism visitation numbers from pre-pandemic 2019.

In 2024, notably, air services have increased significantly with a 21 per cent capacity boost compared to 2023. Inbound non-stop air capacity numbers have consistently surpassed 2019 levels for several months.

Overall, the tourism and hospitality industry is making significant strides toward achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2026. To date, enhancements in air access capacity, the launch of a comprehensive tourism research plan, and a revised marketing strategy in collaboration with industry partners have been implemented.

Additionally, sustainable tourism practices are being promoted, targeted training for hospitality staff is underway, and local business partnerships are being strengthened to enhance visitor experiences, all while engaging with stakeholders to refine strategies for future success.

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Quotes
“2024 has been a pivotal year for tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador and we have officially reached recovery in terms of surpassing the pre-pandemic visitation numbers. We remain optimistic about our growth and potential and, together with our stakeholders, will continue to showcase the unique beauty and culture of our province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Vision 2026 is tourism’s plan to rebuild and regrow our industry so we can continue to be a major contributor to the provincial economy. Despite facing a number of challenges this season, Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador and its members are encouraged by the return to 2019 pre-pandemic numbers. We continue to work toward and advocate for tourism growth and achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2026.”
Deborah Burden
Chair, Hospitality NL

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Vision 2026

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