Government of Newfoundland News

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development:

Speaker, the last phase of the Team Gushue Highway was identified as a key provincial infrastructure priority, involving the completion of a north-south arterial highway route in St. John’s and Mount Pearl. It is a project that will provide significant benefits for years to come. That is why I was delighted to join our Premier in September to announce the awarding of a contract for $30 million to Bursey Excavating and Development for its completion.

Once completed, this highway will provide an alternate and more efficient route for residents on the southern Avalon to access key provincial services and infrastructure, including the province’s largest health care and post-secondary facilities. This project will alleviate traffic congestion, improve safety and enhance access to and from the cities of St. John’s and Mount Pearl and the surrounding urban and rural communities.

Speaker, this highway represents more than just asphalt and concrete. It symbolizes our government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of the southern Avalon and improving connectivity. First envisioned in the 1970s, its impact will be felt throughout the broader community, strengthening our economic foundation and providing benefits for residents.

I am also delighted to inform this honourable House that construction on the multi-year project began a few weeks ago, with an anticipated completion date of fall 2026.

Thank you, Speaker.

The post Ministerial Statement – Completion of Team Gushue Highway Will Improve Safety and Access appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development:

Speaker, the last phase of the Team Gushue Highway was identified as a key provincial infrastructure priority, involving the completion of a north-south arterial highway route in St. John’s and Mount Pearl. It is a project that will provide significant benefits for years to come. That is why I was delighted to join our Premier in September to announce the awarding of a contract for $30 million to Bursey Excavating and Development for its completion.

Once completed, this highway will provide an alternate and more efficient route for residents on the southern Avalon to access key provincial services and infrastructure, including the province’s largest health care and post-secondary facilities. This project will alleviate traffic congestion, improve safety and enhance access to and from the cities of St. John’s and Mount Pearl and the surrounding urban and rural communities.

Speaker, this highway represents more than just asphalt and concrete. It symbolizes our government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of the southern Avalon and improving connectivity. First envisioned in the 1970s, its impact will be felt throughout the broader community, strengthening our economic foundation and providing benefits for residents.

I am also delighted to inform this Honorable House that construction on the multi-year project began a few weeks ago, with an anticipated completion date of fall 2026.

Thank you, Speaker.

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

Speaker, as we approach Remembrance Day, I rise in this honourable House to reflect on the sacrifices made by Newfoundland and Labrador veterans for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

During the First World War, 12,000 men from the then Dominion of Newfoundland valiantly volunteered to help the war efforts. Women volunteered as nurses overseas, while others rallied support efforts back here at home.

We lost a generation of young men during that war – sons, brothers, fathers and friends who never came home. The bravery and grit they demonstrated were unmatched and, as a result, the regiment was given the title of “Royal” – the only military unit to receive this title during the First World War.

In May, we brought the remains of a First World War Royal Newfoundland Regiment soldier home from the battlefields of Northern France and, on July 1, we laid him to rest at the National War Memorial in St. John’s. His tomb overlooks the St. John’s Harbour, where he and so many other young men left home with high spirits and bravery, determined to fight for king and country.

Speaker, I ask all honourable members to join me in a minute of silence to remember the sacrifices of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during armed conflicts.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

Lest We Forget.

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

Speaker, as we approach Remembrance Day, I rise in this honourable House to reflect on the sacrifices made by Newfoundland and Labrador veterans for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

During the First World War, 12,000 men from the then Dominion of Newfoundland valiantly volunteered to help the war efforts. Women volunteered as nurses overseas, while others rallied support efforts back here at home.

We lost a generation of young men during that war – sons, brothers, fathers and friends who never came home. The bravery and grit they demonstrated were unmatched and, as a result, the regiment was given the title of “Royal” – the only military unit to receive this title during the First World War.

In May, we brought the remains of a First World War Royal Newfoundland Regiment soldier home from the battlefields of Northern France and, on July 1, we laid him to rest at the National War Memorial in St. John’s. His tomb overlooks the St. John’s Harbour, where he and so many other young men left home with high spirits and bravery, determined to fight for king and country.

Speaker, I ask all honourable members to join me in a minute of silence to remember the sacrifices of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during armed conflicts.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

Lest We Forget.

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Changes to the Animal Health and Protection Act introduced in the House of Assembly this week, including increased fines and penalties, compliance measures that give a broader scope of enforcement action, and more precise and definitive language, will help ensure the legislation continues to reflect the highest possible standards for animal welfare.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will be available to media to discuss amendments to the Animal Health and Protection Act, today (Thursday, November 7) outside the House of Assembly, at noon.

The amendments update and modernize the legislation, clarify some of the language and specific definitions used throughout the Act, enable designated enforcement officials to issue compliance orders, and increase fines and penalties for animal cruelty offences.

Details on the amendments are included in the Backgrounder below.

Public engagement on the Animal Health and Protection Act provided thoughtful and insightful presentations from individuals and groups who all expressed deep care and concern about animal welfare, including animal health professionals, animal welfare organizations, organizations representing livestock producers, and the public.

Quote
“The Animal Health and Protection Act is a living piece of legislation that is amended when required, and we appreciate the input of all who contributed to these important amendments. With the support of all Members of the House of Assembly, the amended Act now includes more precise and definitive language, compliance measures to aid in enforcement, increased fines and penalties, and other important changes that strengthen our ability to protect animals.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Review of the Animal Health and Protection Act – What we Heard

Feedback Available from Animal Health and Protection Act Review

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BACKGROUNDER

Summary of Amendments to the Animal Health and Protection Act

Define “abandonment” to mean the at an animal:

• • Appears ownerless after reasonable steps have been taken to contact its owner.

• • Is found on rented premises after the expiration or termination of the tenancy agreement.
  • Has been left in the care of another person, establishment of facility and has not been retrieved for more than four days after the agreed-upon retrieval time, or
  • Has been left for more than 24 hours without adequate food, water or shelter.

Amend the definition of “distress” to state that an animal is:

• • In need of proper care, water, food or shelter.

• • In need of reasonable protection from heat or cold, appropriate to the animal.
  • Sick, injured, abused or in pain, or suffering undue or unnecessary hardship, privation or neglect.
  • Confined to an area that is unfit or has insufficient space, lighting or ventilation.
  • Suffering undue or unnecessary anxiety or distress.
  • Deprived of veterinary care or medical treatment.
  • Kept in conditions that contravene the standards of care prescribed in the regulations.
  • Confined in unsanitary conditions,
  • Deprived of the opportunity for adequate exercise.
  • Kept on premises with another animal that may have an adverse impact on the animal.
  • Has been abandoned by the owner in a manner likely to cause distress.

Amend the definition of “owner” to include: 

• • A person who has possession, custody, care, management or control of the animal or who is the owner of the property, house, premises, or part of a premises where an animal is kept or permitted to live or remain.
  • A person who had possession, custody, care, management or control of the animal before the animal was seized, taken into custody, or abandoned.
  • A parent of a minor who is an owner of an animal.
  • Any other person who has responsibility for the animal.

Prohibit the declawing of cats unless explicitly permitted in the regulations.

• • The current Act specifies a fine of up to $50,000, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to six months, or both a fine and imprisonment.
  • The amendment adds the penalty of a fine of up to $75,000 for a second or subsequent offence, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to 12 months of both a fine and imprisonment.
  • The by-laws of the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Veterinarians prohibits veterinarians from performing elective and non-therapeutic declawing of any felid, including domestic cats.
  • Amendments to prohibit the declawing of cats unless explicitly permitted in the regulations aligns with the by-laws and regulations for other prohibited activities, such as docking of tails and cosmetic surgery.

Modernize the language respecting safe containment of dogs and prohibit owners from allowing livestock to run at large.

• • Amendments related to safe containment of dogs and prohibitions from allowing livestock to run at large modernize the legislation and align with language and practices in other jurisdictions.
  • The Act will state “an owner of a dog shall keep it safely contained at all times” and “an owner shall not permit livestock to run at large.”

Permit an inspector to issue an order requiring that a person comply with the Act and regulations.

• • An inspector who finds a person in non-compliance with provisions of the Act or Regulations may order compliance, including setting out the action required to remedy the non-compliance, and specify the time period required to comply with the order.

Increase the penalties and offences under the Act.

• • The current Act specifies a fine of up to $50,000, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to six months, or both a fine and imprisonment.
  • The amendment adds the penalty of a fine of up to $75,000 for a second or subsequent offence, or in default of payment, imprisonment up to 12 months of both a fine and imprisonment.

Incorporate gender-neutral language to modernize the Act and Regulations.

 

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will make a highway naming announcement today (Thursday, November 7).

The event will take place in East Block Lobby, Confederation Building, at 12:30 p.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development.

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission:

Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 50th anniversary of the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Service Commission.

I’m pleased to recognize its significant contribution to the protection of merit in our province, through recruitment practices that are fair, equitable and transparent.

The Public Service Commission is responsible for many crucial programs and initiatives that help our government operate every day – from training and development to employee safety and wellness initiatives and hiring of staff for core government departments.

So far this year, more than 15,000 courses have been completed through our learning and development programs. Our ergonomics team has performed more than 150 ergonomic assessments, which contributes to the health and safety of our employees.

Today, the Public Service Commission has a head start on recruiting the next generation of public service employees. They’ve invited employees with children in Grade Nine to visit the House of Assembly as part of National Take Our Kids to Work Day. We welcome these employees and students here today.

Thank you to the Public Service Commission and its dedicated employees for their service to the province over the past 50 years. I’m proud to be part of their journey as they continue to build a strong and professional workforce, while supporting the well-being of every member of the public service.

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I rise in this honourable house to highlight the resources available and initiatives underway to commemorate Confederation 75 within the K-12 education system.

Our government has a cultural strategy for K-12 education in Newfoundland and Labrador titled Cultural Connections. This initiative aims to increase the presence of cultural content in the school curriculum and foster links between the arts and school communities. To enhance this strategy, and in support of Confederation 75, additional resources are available to educators through the K-12 Professional Learning platform. Lessons are available in English and French and cover a range of topics and titles such as:

• Canada A-Z;
• More Alike than Different;
• The Province in Confederation; and,
• Historical Exploration of Confederation.

Speaker, to complement the 75th anniversary of Confederation, this House of Assembly is offering a professional development opportunity for educators on democracy, governance and citizenship.

Furthermore, in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, Confederation 75 educational resource packages are being offered to schools, and scholarships will be presented to 75 Grade 12 students in the province.

Speaker, all K-12 students will enhance their understanding of Newfoundland and Labrador’s vibrant history and its path before, during and since Confederation. I encourage all K-12 educators to take advantage of these insightful resources and opportunities.

Thank you.

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To ensure that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians receive the most effective policing service, and to meet the evolving needs of our diverse communities, the Provincial Government is enhancing the delivery of policing in the province.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, today announced a $20-million investment in public safety over the next two years.

Part of the $20-million investment will include the establishment of a provincial, 10-member Joint Task Force Unit. The unit will be comprised of RNC and RCMP officers to conduct targeted weapon, drug and contraband enforcement activities. The preliminary focus will be on the Avalon region and the unit will decide the medium and long-term plans, based on crime trends.

This investment also includes:

• Five new RCMP officers for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, as recommended in the public safety review for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, completed by the Policing Transformation Working Group.
• 19 additional officers, starting in 2026-27. These officers will be allocated based on a review of resource requirements, led by the Policing Transformation Working Group.
• An RNC leadership position for the intimate partner violence unit.
• Support for ongoing police training, equipment, fleet, and operational requirements, as required for these initiatives.

In the last five years, the Provincial Government has invested nearly $40 million in additional funding to support RCMP and RNC policing. Budget 2024 allocated 10 new frontline police officers for the RNC, as well as continued funding to address gun and gang activity. It also provided an additional $3 million to support RCMP policing. This builds on the additional $17 million that provided to the RCMP in 2022.

Quotes
“Public safety is paramount to this government. Today’s announcement is a significant step forward to enhancing the delivery of policing in Newfoundland and Labrador. I am pleased to see continued collaboration between the RNC and the RCMP as we work collectively to support the increasing complexity of crime in Newfoundland and Labrador. I look forward to the implementation of the task force and I thank Chief Roche and Assistant Commissioner Cahill for their dedication to public safety and policing across the province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“Any investment in public safety is a positive thing for the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. More officers will help us to meet the expectations of those we serve and increase public confidence in policing. I look forward to working with our friends at the RCMP on the creation of this new unit that will focus on tackling some of the most serious threats in our communities. I believe today’s announcement sends a strong message to drug trafficking networks – as a province we will not tolerate harms caused by illegal drugs and firearms.”
Chief Patrick Roche
Chief of Police, Royal Newfoundland and Labrador Constabulary

“We are extremely pleased with today’s announcement by the Department of Justice and Public Safety to commit additional funding to Public Safety in Newfoundland and Labrador. The creation of an RNC/RCMP joint weapon and drug enforcement team for the province will undoubtedly serve this area well in our efforts to combat weapon and drug related crimes. The two provincial police forces working together sharing intelligence and resources will bring positive results. The addition of five new frontline RCMP positions in Happy Valley-Goose Bay will certainly be an asset and well received by the citizens of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, as well as our officers who are currently posted and working there. Additional funding in support of further resources and day-to-day operations is also very encouraging and will assist our abilities to further combat crime throughout the province and keep our communities safe.”
Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill
Commanding Officer, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labour, proposed amendments to the Labour Standards Act in the House of Assembly today. These include additional unpaid job-protected leave for long-term illness, long-term injury and organ donation; and updated leave provisions for reservists.

With these amendments, workers will now have access of up to 27 weeks per year of job protected leave for long-term illness, long-term injury, or organ donation; or 104 weeks if an illness or injury is the result of a criminal offence.

If passed, the amendments will also update the province’s reservist leave provision to align with protections offered in other jurisdictions, providing reservists with greater access to training and development opportunities, and employers with increased certainty of the duration of the leave. These changes move towards a harmonized national standard for military leave in the country.

The Provincial Government is committed to ensuring labour standards legislation in Newfoundland and Labrador balances the needs of both employers and employees.

The amended Labour Standards Act lays the foundation for enhanced job protection for employees, while supporting business entities with better continuity planning.

Quotes
“This proposed update to the Labour Standards Act ensures those workers who have to be off work for extended periods of time can do so without the added burden of worry related to job security. Whether a worker needs unpaid time off to recover from illness, injury, or organ donation, or if they’re preparing to serve their country, it is important we recognize the need for job protection during that time.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour

“Diabetes Canada supports the proposed amendments to the Labour Standards Act in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. For the nearly 75,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians living with diabetes, these amendments would provide the critical time to take care of one’s health and ensure that the financial impacts of living with a complex condition are minimized through job protection.”
Maria Campbell
Director of Government Affairs and Advocacy at Diabetes Canada

“Nearly 40 per cent of people diagnosed with cancer are in their working years, ages 20 to 64. That means cancer often comes at a time when expenses are high, and others are depending on you. There are already enough worries that come with a cancer diagnosis; wondering if you have a job to come back to shouldn’t be one of them. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is demonstrating strong leadership for expanding job protection for those with serious illnesses to 27 weeks. We know that cancer doesn’t wait – but your job should.”
Andrea Seale
CEO of Canadian Cancer Society

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Issues Addressed by the Labour Standards Act – Environment and Climate Change

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, will be available to media to discuss new public safety initiatives, as well as other public safety commitments, today (Wednesday, November 6) at 1:00 p.m. outside of the House of Assembly.

Minister Davis will be joined by Pat Roche, Chief of Police, Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill, Commanding Officer of RCMP B-Division.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced the issuing of a Request for Proposals to award the mineral rights for the Glover Island Exempt Mineral Land.

Glover Island is located within Grand Lake in Western Newfoundland, roughly 30 kilometres southeast of the City of Corner Brook. The Exempt Mineral Land consists of the Lunch Pond gold deposit with an NI 43-101 resource estimate as well as 19 mineral prospects and showings, the majority of which are for gold, but there are also separate prospects for base metals like copper and/or zinc.

The property is currently designated an exempt mineral land, meaning that the mineral rights are reserved for the Crown and may be disposed of by the minister by public tender as per section 30(1) of the Mineral Act.

The successful proponent will be granted exclusive mineral rights under the Mineral Act. The proponent’s commitments will be incorporated as terms and conditions upon issuance of the licence. The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology does not bind itself to accept any proposal or to proceed with disposal of the exempt mineral land.

Closing date for receipt of proposals is January 22, 2025. Further information can be found on the department’s website.

Quote
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s geology provides diverse opportunities for the exploration of mineral resources. We recognize the impact the mining industry has on our economy and are committed to looking at exempt mineral lands with known mineral resources and high potential for development.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Motorists on the Northern Peninsula are advised to be cautious when travelling between Plum Point and the St. Anthony Airport, and on the roadway between St. Anthony Airport and the Town of Main Brook.

Caribou are currently active in these areas and the likelihood of caribou-vehicle collisions may increase. These animals are expected to remain in the region throughout the fall and winter.

Help reduce the risk of a caribou-vehicle collision by:

• Scanning both sides of the highway.
• Paying attention to caribou warning signs on roads and highways.
• Avoiding driving at dusk and dawn when caribou are more active near roads.
• Encouraging passengers to watch for caribou.
• Reducing speeds when driving at night when caribou are more difficult to see.

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The Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, is sharing his condolences following the passing of Murray Sinclair.

“Mr. Sinclair was a true champion of Indigenous rights in Canada, and I am saddened to hear of his passing.

He was a skilled litigator and judge, a passionate advocate, and an experienced senator who offered a wise and measured approach to the most challenging issues.

A former chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Mr. Sinclair’s efforts led the way for transformational change in this country.

As a leader in the justice system, Mr. Sinclair was well known as a diligent helper to young law students and dedicated his life to providing good guidance to those focused on the journey towards Reconciliation.

On behalf of our province, I extend my deepest condolences to Murray Sinclair’s family, his many friends and valued colleagues.”

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills:

 Speaker, I am pleased to share an update on our government’s Working Opportunities Program, a new skills-development initiative empowering residents to overcome barriers to employment and obtain education and skills for better jobs, better pay, and improved well-being.

Working Opportunities is a $3.5-million program that supports the Provincial Government’s Poverty Reduction Plan. It enables eligible unemployed or precariously employed individuals to attend a post-secondary program with the benefit of receiving funding for training costs, a living allowance, and childcare.

This September, the inaugural Working Opportunities class of 44 participants began their journey.

These 44 individuals are attending full-time post-secondary programs ranging from 12 weeks to three years in duration, including practical nursing, paramedicine, pharmacy technician, carpentry, and early childhood education. These individuals are learning new skills that will benefit all of us.

Speaker, I ask all members to join me in wishing the inaugural class of Working Opportunities success in their endeavors, and I encourage members to suggest this program to their constituents.

Thank you.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will address the Mineral Resource Review Conference tomorrow (Wednesday, November 6).

The event takes place at the Delta Hotel, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The Mineral Resources Review Conference and Trade Show takes place from November 5-8 and is a joint venture of the Newfoundland and Labrador Branch of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM NL) and the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology. The three-day program focuses on activities of the Mining and Mineral Development Branch of the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, recent and pending developments, emerging projects, and the potential for future investment and discovery.

Speakers from Newfoundland and Labrador’s mining, exploration and service and supply sectors, as well as representatives from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology will provide updates on industry developments.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, are today congratulating the volunteers, staff and donors of The Gathering Place on the milestone of completing construction of the Mercy House supportive and transitional living space and the O’Callaghan’s Haven emergency shelter.

Mercy House, located in the former Mercy Convent, will feature 52 supportive and transitional living spaces. These spaces provide not only a safe place to stay for those experiencing homelessness, but also provide access to individualized wrap-around supports, which is intended to help them break the cycle of homelessness and move forward with securing more stable housing.

O’Callaghan’s Haven, named after key donor and recent Order of Newfoundland and Labrador recipient Patrick O’Callaghan, will include a 40-bed emergency shelter that will replace the current 30-bed temporary shelter in The Gathering Place.

The Provincial Government provided $2 million to The Gathering Place for the expansion. This funding, in addition to $5.9 million in Rapid Housing Funding from the Federal Government and resources from other key donors including Mr. O’Callaghan, supported the renovations that will allow The Gathering Place to serve more people in St. John’s and the surrounding area.

The Provincial Government is currently providing approximately $3.5 million in operating funding to The Gathering Place. This includes an increase of $1.5 million announced in Budget 2024 to ensure it can continue to provide critical services to a vulnerable population.

Quotes
“The Gathering Place, born out of a partnership 30 years ago between the Sisters of Mercy and the Presentation Sisters, has once again expanded through critical partnerships. Our government is a proud partner to the important work of The Gathering Place, and I extend my sincere thanks to the staff and volunteers who support our most vulnerable on this momentous day.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“With this expansion, The Gathering Place will not only support those who find themselves in the emergency situation of homelessness but will also help individuals who have experienced long-term homelessness in breaking the cycle and securing more permanent housing. This change will be transformative, and I look forward to hearing success stories from Mercy House in the years to come.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is hosting an international economic mission, including 27 Heads of Mission from around the world. The economic mission, which provides the province with the opportunity to showcase its economic potential and vast resources to the international delegation, started yesterday (November 4, 2024) and will run until November 7.

Delegates will attend a number of sessions with presentations from leaders in industry, academia and government, as well as site visits to the Marine Institute’s The Launch, Genesis, C-Core, Newfoundland National War Memorial, The Rooms, Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studio, Port of Argentia, and Vale Long Harbour Processing Plant.

The purpose of this economic mission is to provide participants with an opportunity to experience Newfoundland and Labrador’s unique culture, gain an in-depth understanding of the province’s contributions to the Canadian economy, and explore opportunities for international collaboration and partnership. Discussions will focus on energy and natural resources, ocean technology and research ecosystem, climate change, internationalization and academic partnerships, as well as business and innovation.

A list of jurisdictions represented can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“Newfoundland and Labrador has been gaining a reputation around the world as a leader in areas such as innovation, technology, research, energy and culture. By bringing world leaders here, they can see first-hand all that we have to offer and make the necessary connections to start relationships that will yield economic growth for the province.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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BACKGROUNDER

Heads of Mission

Ambassador of the Argentine Republic Her Excellency Maria Josefina Martínez Gramuglia High Commissioner for the Republic of Cameroon His Excellency Ngole Philip Ngwese Ambassador of the Republic of Chad His Excellency Bouroumdou Naloum Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia His Excellency Vice Skračić High Commissioner for the Republic of Cyprus His Excellency Stavros Hatziyiannis Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark His Excellency Jarl Kaare Frijs-Madsen Counsellor of the Embassy of the Dominican Republic Mr. Roberto J. Quezada Thormann Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union Her Excellency Geneviève Tuts Chargé d’Affaires for Ghana Mr. Simon Atieku Ambassador of Hungary Her Excellency Mária Éva Vass-Salazar Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Her Excellency Sabah Nizar
Rashid Al Rafie Deputy Head of Mission and Acting High Commissioner for Kenya Mr. James Moni Manyange Counsellor & Acting High Commissioner for the Kingdom of
Lesotho Mr. Lereko Felix Maine Counsellor of Trade for Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania Ms. Ingrida Darasaite Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Her Excellency Souriya Otmani Ambassador of Nepal His Excellency Bharat Raj Paudyal Minister and Acting High Commissioner for the Federal Republic of Nigeria His Excellency Abba Zanna High Commissioner for the Republic of Rwanda His Excellency Prosper Higiro High Commissioner for the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka His Excellency Uthman Lebbe Mohammed Jauhar Ambassador of Switzerland His Excellency Olaf Andreas Kjelsen High Commissioner for the United Republic of Tanzania His Excellency Joseph Edward Sokoine First Counsellor and Acting High Commissioner for Togo Mr. Tchilabalo Abaki High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago His Excellency Dennis Daniel Moses Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia His Excellency Lassaad Boutara Deputy Head of Mission and Acting High Commissioner for the
Republic of Uganda Mr. Allan Kajik Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam His Excellency Vinh Quang Pham Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen and Dean of the Arab Group His Excellency Jamal A. Y. Al-Sallal

 

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The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, today announced funding to support the establishment of a sustainable redfish fishery for Newfoundland and Labrador harvesters.

An investment of $47,000 to the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union from the Fisheries Research Grant Program will support experimental fishing work of Unit 1 redfish in Western Newfoundland. The funding will aid in the development of a redfish fishery that is economically and environmentally sustainable.

The Fisheries Research Grant Program supports the increased understanding of fish stocks adjacent to Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the province’s role in contributing to sustainable fisheries management. The program provides grants towards collaborative research on valuable species such as cod, snow crab and Atlantic halibut. Proponents include fishing industry groups, academia and non-government organizations.

Quote
“I am pleased today to provide this funding as a recognition of the history and importance of Unit 1 redfish to harvesters in Newfoundland and Labrador. This support is an acknowledgement of the need to advance gear technology, to enable the necessary data collection that will allow us to better understand our redfish stocks and support responsible management decisions.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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The Provincial Government is reminding residents to ensure bonfires are conducted in a safe and legal manner on Guy Fawkes Night (Tuesday, November 5).

While residents are encouraged to attend a community-sponsored event, those having private bonfires need to ensure compliance with municipal and provincial laws. Contact your municipality, local service district, Inuit Community Government or local fire department for more information.

It is illegal to openly burn plastics, tires, asphalt products, paint products, used oil, household garbage and treated wood.

In areas where bonfires are permissible, residents are advised to have ready access to fire extinguishing tools and supplies, and are cautioned to take the following steps:

• Fires should be on a gravel base eight to 10 metres from trees or structures.
• Flammable liquids should not be used to start or accelerate a fire, and aerosol cans and pressurized gas cylinders, such as propane cylinders, should not be added to a fire.
• Only adults should add material to a fire, and children should be kept at a safe distance at all times.
• Property owners in the area of a fire should ensure all combustible materials are properly secured.
• Ensure the fire is fully extinguished using water and/or gravel, and the bonfire area should be cleared and returned to its previous condition.

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The post Public Advisory: Keep Guy Fawkes Night Bonfires Safe and Legal appeared first on News Releases.