Government of Newfoundland News

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

 Speaker, I am tremendously proud to tell you about a special milestone that took place on March 31 – the 50th anniversary of the Labrador flag.

The Labrador flag was conceived by a group of people and designed by Labrador’s first native-born MHA, Mike Martin of Cartwright, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Province’s union with Canada in 1974.

Sixty-four flags were hand-sewn by Mike and his wife Patricia – one each for the 59 towns and villages in Labrador, one each for the three Labrador members of the House of Assembly, and one each for Martin and his wife.

The colours represent Labrador’s elements – white for the snow, blue for the waters and green for the lands. The branches represent the people of Labrador, including Inuit, Innu and non-Indigenous settler.

The flag is a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions and landscapes and reflects the uniqueness of Labrador and the resilience of its people.

Over the past five decades, the flag witnessed the triumphs and challenges faced by our communities. From Nain to L’Anse au Clair to Labrador West, the Labrador flag is an iconic symbol which aligns with our beautiful land and the strong, resourceful and warm-hearted people who call this place home.

Planning is under way to celebrate this special anniversary. In recognition of this milestone, let us raise our spirits in celebration of the flag’s values – solidarity, resilience and a deep-rooted love for our homeland.

May it continue to inspire generations to come and serve as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond that ties us together as Labradorians.

Happy 50th anniversary to our treasured and beloved Labrador flag! Here’s to many more years of pride and honour under its watchful gaze.

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, is today providing an update on child care space creation and announcing further measures to improve access to affordable regulated early learning and child care throughout the province, as recommended in the recent review of the Operating Grant Program. These initiatives build-on the more than 9,100 early learning and child care spaces operating at $10 a day or less in the province, with over 1,500 child care spaces created since January 2023.

Minister Howell will be available to the media today (Wednesday, April 17) at 1:30 p.m. to discuss these measures. The availability will take place outside the House of Assembly, Confederation Building. Minister Howell will be joined by Davida Smith, Dean of Academics, Applied Arts and Tourism at College of the North Atlantic.

There are currently 2,206 early learning and child care spaces in various stages of development throughout the province, with timelines for operation ranging from one to 24 months. Close to 750 spaces currently in development have received funding through the Child Care Capacity Initiative announced this past fall. A regional breakdown of spaces in development is as follows, with a full list of current capacity projects outlined in the backgrounder:

• Metro St. John’s: 1,191
• Central: 465
• Western: 465
• Labrador: 85

Additional measures have been introduced to support child care service providers, the early learning work force, and further incentivize space creation, including:

• Implementation of an Infant Incentive
  • As of April 1, 2024, regulated child care services participating in the Operating Grant Program are receiving an additional $30 per day for each infant-aged space they operate. This will bring the total funding per enrolled infant per operational day to $101 for child care centres and infant-only family child care providers.

• Streamlined Closure Days
  • Child care centres and family child care providers will receive funding for up to 12 statutory holidays.
  • To support the well-being of the early learning work force, child care centres will receive funding for five additional closure days on top of statutory holidays, which are to be determined at the discretion of the service providers.

• Improvements to Funding Structure
  • The former two-tiered funding structure of the Operating Grant Program has been condensed to provide all participating service providers with the same rate at the former higher tier. All regulated child care providers on the Operating Grant Program now receive the same rates based on the age of the child and type of service.

• Supporting Professional Development
  • All child care services participating in the Operating Grant Program will continue to receive two paid professional development days. This furthers professionalization of the sector and ensures that early childhood educators and child care workers are able to access professional development without experiencing financial impact.

These actions are part of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.

Access to high quality, affordable child care is important for families, the economy and the future of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Our government is listening to the needs of the early learning and child care sector and is working to ensure that the needs of the work force are balanced with the needs of children and parents. These additional measures will help to further increase capacity while also supporting the people who are teaching and caring for our province’s youngest residents.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Today’s announcement is a testament to the excellent progress that Newfoundland and Labrador is making to improving early learning and child care across the province. I look forward to continuing to work with the province to support operators and the early learning and child care workforce to help meet the needs of families. When we invest in early learning and child care, we are investing in the future of Canada and ensuring all children have the best possible start in life. ”
Honourable Jenna Sudds
Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Government of Canada

“Affordable access to first-rate child care is one of the most vital building blocks of a thriving economy and equitable society. Reliable, regulated child care gives parents more freedom to choose when and how they want to return to work – and when they do, they have peace of mind knowing their children’s early cognitive, social and emotional development is in qualified hands. College of the North Atlantic will continue to work closely with the Provincial Government, supporting the ongoing development of child care spaces throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Davida Smith
Dean of Academics, Applied Arts and Tourism, College of the North Atlantic

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Learn more
$10-a-day Child Care Now a Reality for Families in Newfoundland and Labrador

Provincial Government Introduces Measures to Increase Enrollment at Regulated Early Learning and Child Care Services and Support Rural and Remote Operators Review of the Operating Grant Program for Child Care Services Completed

Operating Grant Program

Early Childhood Educator Wage Grid

Child Care Capacity Initiative

 BACKGROUNDER

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 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.

Early Learning and Child Care Spaces in Development

Capacity Project Name Location Region Number of Spaces Peacock Elementary – Pre-K Happy Valley-Goose Bay Labrador 15 A.P. Low Primary – Pre-K Labrador City Labrador 20 Jens Haven Memorial – Pre-K Nain Labrador 20 Independent Applicant Wabush Labrador 30 Viking Trail Academy – Pre-K Plum Point Western 11 École CC Loughlin Elementary – Pre-K Corner Brook Western 16 Stephenville Primary – Pre-K Stephenville Western 17 Contract Pending Corner Brook Western 32 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – Eastside Elementary Corner Brook Western 34 GNP Community Place Port au Choix Western 16 St. George’s Indian Band St. George’s Western 35 Gros Morne Preschool Daycamp Corp. Norris Point Western 56 Three Rivers Mi’Kmaq Band Robinsons Western 32 Contract Pending Cape St. George/Mainland Western 10 Contract Pending Deer Lake Western 70 FRC-Way 2 Grow Baie Verte Western 43 Contract Pending Port aux Basques Western 26 Independent Applicant Pasadena Western 67 Sacred Heart Academy – Pre-K Marystown Central 15 Helen Tulk Elementary – Pre-K Bishop’s Falls Central 12 Glovertown Academy – Pre-K Glovertown Central 15 A Home Away From Home Infant, Toddler & Preschool Bay Roberts Central 37 Independent Applicant Whiteway Central 41 Independent Applicant Bay Roberts Central 28 Independent Applicant Grand Falls-Windsor Central 41 YMCA of Exploits Valley (YMCA Fogo Island) Fogo Island Central 26 EVCC Early Learning Centre Botwood Central 17 Happy Kids Child Care Wesleyville Central 44 Above and Beyond Childcare Inc. Shearstown Central 33 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – Discovery Collegiate Bonavista Central 50 YMCA of Exploits Valley (YMCA Connections 2) Grand Falls-Windsor Central 56 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – All Hallows North River Central 30 Bright Start Child Care Ltd. Gander Central 20 St. Peter’s Primary – Pre-K Mount Pearl Metro 14 St. Edward’s School – Pre-K Conception Bay South Metro 20 Holy Family Elementary – Pre-K Paradise Metro 20 Mary Queen of Peace Elementary – Pre-K St. John’s Metro 20 Octagon Pond Area School – Pre-K Paradise Metro 20 Goulds Elementary – Pre-K St. John’s Metro 20 Hazelwood Elementary – Pre-K St. John’s Metro 20 St. John Bosco – Pre-K St. John’s Metro 15 Topsail Elementary – Pre-K Conception Bay South Metro 13 Dream With Us Daycare Center Inc. Portugal Cove-St. Philips Metro 94 Independent Applicant Conception Bay South Metro 53 Treehouse Daycare Ltd. St. John’s Metro 118 Independent Applicant St. John’s Metro 156 Little Stars Daycare Inc. St. John’s Metro 80 Fédération des francophones de Terre-Neuve et du Labrador – École Rocher du Nord St. John’s Metro 20 The Fluvarium St. John’s Metro 55 Association for New Canadians St. John’s Metro 32 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – Juniper Ridge Torbay Metro 30 Contract Pending St. John’s Metro 60 Contract Pending St. John’s Metro 62 Contract Pending Portugal Cove-St. Philips Metro 38 Contract Pending Portugal Cove-St. Philips Metro 41 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – MacDonald Drive St. John’s Metro 30 Fédération des francophones de Terre-Neuve et du Labrador – École Des Grands Vents St. John’s Metro 20 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – Austin Street St. John’s Metro 70 YMCA of Northeast Avalon – St. Michael’s Ave St. John’s Metro 70 Total Number of Spaces   2,206

*Total number of spaces created upon project completion may differ.

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Under section 13.5 of the Fatalities Investigations Act, the Minister of Justice and Public Safety is required, within 60 days after receiving a report from the Child Death Review Committee (CDRC), to make public those recommendations relating to:

• Relevant protocols, policies and procedures.
• Standards and legislation.
• Linkages and coordination of services.
• Improvements to services affecting children and pregnant women.

The CDRC forwarded a report to the Minister of Justice and Public Safety on February 22, 2024.

This report resulted in the following recommendation:
• It is recommended that the Minister of Justice and Public Safety refer this matter to the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate for her review and determination of whether further action is required by her office pursuant to the Child and Youth Advocate Act.

This report has been forwarded to the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-016 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-2024-016 Report Date: April 15, 2024 Public Body: Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to NL Hydro for records relating to the organization’s employment equity plan and the number of employees who self-identify as disabled within the organization. NL Hydro responded by providing one page of responsive records, but did not include information on self-identified disabled employees. After receiving NL Hydro’s final response to their request, the Complainant reviewed NL Hydro’s 2024-2026 Accessibility Plan which suggested NL Hydro did in fact have information on employees with disabilities within the organization. The Complainant then filed a complaint with this Office about NL Hydro not providing this information in response to their request. NL Hydro submitted it would not release the responsive information as it was not accurate and it would involve the creation of a record, which ATIPPA, 2015 does not require. After reviewing submissions, the Commissioner found NL Hydro did not meet its burden of proof to deny access and recommended it search for and provide the requested information within 10 business days, subject to any applicable exceptions.

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

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The Council of Atlantic Premiers recently wrote to the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, regarding the billions of carbon tax rebates overdue to Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Atlantic Premiers are concerned about the federal government’s approach to managing carbon tax rebates for businesses in the region, recognizing the unique challenges faced by SMEs operating in the Atlantic provinces. To find a resolution that supports impacted businesses, Premiers urged the Ministers to take immediate action to both ensure the prompt return of the overdue carbon tax revenues to businesses in the Atlantic provinces and to establish a transparent and efficient mechanism for annual distribution going forward.

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To view the Letter to Ministers Freeland and Valdez: Letter to Ministers Freeland and Valdez

Les premiers ministres de l’Atlantique abordent les remboursements de la taxe sur le carbone aux PME dans une lettre adressée aux ministres fédérales

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Housing:

Speaker, it is my privilege to rise and recognize April 14 to 20 as National Volunteer Week here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

National Volunteer Week recognizes and celebrates every volunteer, and their contributions to strengthen inclusivity and well-being in our communities. The theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is “Every Moment Matters,” signifying the importance of every moment that a volunteer gives their time, their skills, their creativity and their empathy to help others.

In a few short weeks as Minister of Housing, I’ve seen first-hand the incredible, positive impacts that volunteers have across our housing continuum.

The volunteer staff and boards at community centres throughout the province provide supports that foster a deep sense of community, becoming the focal point for community life. Last week I had the pleasure of visiting Vine Place Community Centre in Corner Brook, and it was evident how the work of the team there is shaping and supporting that community.

I also want to recognize all community partners in the housing and homelessness sector, including the volunteers and Boards associated with non-profit community housing projects. The efforts of these volunteers and community agencies are instrumental in helping many individuals overcome barriers and transform lives.

To all volunteers across every sector in this province, thank you for your dedication to your fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

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In celebration of the Year of the Arts, today the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, announced an additional $3 million in 2024 for ArtsNL, along with the Year of the Arts lineup for Arts and Culture Centres across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Since 2023, ArtsNL has received historic support from the Provincial Government, totaling $15 million. The majority of this investment has been distributed directly to artists and arts organizations through ArtsNL funding programs in support of their creative endeavors.

With this special Year of the Arts funding, Arts NL will support professional artists through an augmentation of existing grant programs and a second offering of the Senior Arts program. Funds will also be allocated specifically to support Indigenous artists. The enhanced programming will support more professional artists to focus on their artistic practice and create works during Year of the Arts.

Details about ArtsNL Year of the Arts funding can be found here: Year of the Arts Programming.

As part of Year of the Arts, the Arts and Culture Centres will feature an exciting lineup of performances that showcase Newfoundland and Labrador artists, including provincial tours. More information on the Arts and Culture Centre lineup can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“ArtsNL plays an important role in our province’s arts and cultural sector and providing them with an additional $3 million during the Year of the Arts acknowledges their role, as well as the significance of the arts on our province’s culture. Through today’s funding and programming announcements, this government is ensuring comprehensive support for the arts, highlighting their vital role in our communities province wide.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“As Chair of Arts NL, I’m thrilled and grateful we’ve received this additional $3 million investment from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador as part of the Year of Arts initiative. This additional money empowers us to further support our professional artists and professional arts organizations, fostering creation and cultural enrichment across our province.”
David Brown
Chair, ArtsNL

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Arts NL

Arts and Culture Centres

Minister Crocker Announces 2024 Year of the Arts Initiatives

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BACKGROUNDER

Arts and Culture Centre Year of the Arts Programming 2024-25

Rum Ragged Provincial tour. Newfoundland and Labrador’s own Juno nominees Rum Ragged take a bold approach to the distinct folk music of their home. With a reverence for their roots and a creative, contemporary edge, Rum Ragged has quickly become known as the finest performers of their great, living, musical tradition.

Kelly Russell Provincial tour. Who Knit Ya? As Newfoundland’s leading traditional music performer, Kelly has been a member of Figgy Duff, The Wonderful Grand Band, and The Irish Descendants and now shares yarns of his travels and influencers through songs and stories including his father, Ted Russell, and his mentors – fiddler Émile Benoît and fiddler/accordionist/composer Rufus Guinchard.

Andy Jones “Don’t Give Up On Me Dad” Provincial tour. In “Don’t Give Up on Me, Dad,” veteran playwright Andy Jones pays tribute to his late son, Louis, who died by suicide in 2014. Through this deeply personal production, Andy explores Louis’ struggles with mental health and shares his own journey of grief and healing.

The Rowdymen Provincial tour. What do you get when you combine two in demand NL musicians with one Come From Away? You get the Rowdymen: Gerry Finn, Greg Hawco and George Masswohl, a band dedicated to sharing the music of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Rod Jackson Newfoundland and Labrador’s own Rod Jackson is ready to hit the road once again with his crowd-pleasing Christmas Tour. After taking a year off, he and his band are ready to spread the Christmas spirit across the island.

Songbird Tour Mallory Johnson and Carolynn Dawn Johnson. Newfoundland and Labrador meets Canada as NL’s own songbird Mallory Johnson teams up with Canadian country award winning singer /songwriter Carolyn Dawn Johnson for an acoustic evening of their songs and their stories like you have never heard them before.

Atlantic Jazz Nights 1, 2, 3, and Provincial Tour Atlantic Jazz Nights, is an international jazz series presented by the Arts and Culture Centre and is hosted and curated by celebrated St. John’s-based Juno Award winning pianist Florian Hoefner and bassist, Jim Vivian.

Mic Davis Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Corner Brook, Stephenville and Labrador West. Bob Dylan Tribute. One of Newfoundland and Labrador’s greatest rock musicians take on one of the world’s greatest songwriters. Finding international fame as part of the group The Novak’s, Mic Davis has shared the stage with a who’s who of musicians but now takes the stage solo to perform a tribute to the music of Bob Dylan

Grace St. John’s. At the heart of everything is the question of behaving with grace. It is a Newfoundland wedding full of love and rackets. From Megan Gail Coles comes a new play adapted from Lisa Moore’s novella of the same name, Grace is equal parts guts and grit. Sometimes it is okay to be messy, sometimes it’s not.

Tamasha O’ Tamasha St. John’s. In Partnership with RCA Theatre and This Might be Satire Productions, Tamasha O’ Tamasha is a political satire focused on the struggles of the everyday person under the thumb of unsympathetic leaders, told through eccentric humour and absurd situations. A new work aimed at redefining and reengaging in political theatre for today, the narrative of this piece is formed through new translations of the short plays of much lauded playwright Gursharan Singh Bhaji, with a brand-new connective story by playwright, director, and principal adapter Azal Dosanjh.

Off Balance St. John’s. Off Balance is a dazzling contemporary circus show, with a boisterous cabaret vibe. The show features funny and deeply personal anecdotes and inspiring circus acts as we follow the struggles and triumphs of a diverse cast of characters as they strive for inner growth and real connections in an increasingly isolating world. It was created by St. John’s own Anahareo Doelle of Wonderbolt Circus.

Drive Gander and St. John’s. Inspired by life during the pandemic, Drive tells the story or a parent’s journey across the country in isolation while dealing with a child’s decisions and identity. Written and performed by Broadway actor and Original Come From Away cast member Sharon Wheatley and featuring both Broadway and Gander Come from Away Actress Astrid Van Weiren, this story of love, crisis, and acceptance is what family is all about.

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Through the Municipal Capital Works Program, a joint investment of approximately $120,000 by the Provincial Government and the Town of Wabana will support a study for a town hall.

The project will assess the feasibility of a new town hall that has a smaller footprint and  is less costly to operate, while also being accessible and environmentally friendly. The town will also explore a more centralized location for the building in an effort to make it more convenient for residents to access.

The Municipal Capital Works program fosters the development of cost-shared projects for many types of municipal infrastructure. Typical projects include water and waste-water treatment, seawalls, roads, recreational facilities, town halls and fire halls. Funding is cost-shared between provincial and municipal governments and is available to municipalities, local service districts and Inuit Community Governments. More information on initiatives to facilitate and build on municipal capital works throughout the province can be found here.

Budget 2024 includes more than $172 million for community infrastructure projects being completed under the Municipal Capital Works Program and the now concluded Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Quotes
“Improved municipal infrastructure not only adds to a municipality’s ability to better deliver services, but also contributes to how residents feel about their community. A study aimed at providing a town hall that better meets the needs of residents in an economically and environmentally sustainable manner will help achieve that aim.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Town halls are vital to our communities as places of gathering and decision making. As MHA, I am pleased our government and the Town of Wabana are partnering on this worthwhile study to help ensure a new Town Hall meets the needs of today’s residents and into the future.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island

“We are extremely happy to receive this funding from the province. We truly believe that downsizing into a more efficient cost-effective Town Hall that uses cleaner energy, as opposed to the existing Town Hall, will benefit both our community and the environment in the years to come. Thank you to the province for recognizing our efforts to contribute to lessening the carbon footprint and saving our taxpayers’ annual operating costs.”
His Worship Gary Gosine
Mayor of Wabana

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The preliminary results from today’s by-election in the District of Fogo Island-Cape Freels are as follows:

FOGO ISLAND- CAPE FREELS Official Candidates: Political Affiliation: Preliminary Results: BLACKMORE, Dana Liberal Party 2244 GILL, Jim New Democratic Party 169 McKENNA, Jim Progressive Conservative Party 3290 TOTAL VOTES: 5703

There were 50 regular polls, 4 advance polls and Special Ballot voting in the by-election with 10,244 registered electors on the final revised list of electors.

The Official Addition of the Votes, a procedure whereby the vote tallies from by-election night are reviewed, will take place at the district Returning Office beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 18th. At the conclusion of the Official Addition, the by-election results are considered official and a candidate is declared elected.

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Media contact
Rexanne Eddy
Communications and Training Officer, ATIPP Coordinator
Elections Newfoundland and Labrador
Office of the Chief Electoral Officer
709-729-1474
rexanneeddy@electionsnl.ca

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will make an announcement related to funding and programming for Year of the Arts initiatives tomorrow (Tuesday, April 16).

The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the John C. Perlin Arts and Culture Centre, 95 Allandale Road, St. John’s.

Minister Crocker will be joined by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and Melanie Martin from Arts NL.

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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, I rise today to recognize a seminal moment in the history of our great province.

Our agreement to enter into Confederation on March 31, 1949, was the next chapter of our unique political evolution from colony to Dominion to province of Canada.

In every city and town throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, this subject still sparks lively debate,75 years later.

Speaker, we may be the youngest province in this federation, but our history spans many centuries before Canada became a country in 1867.

And so, when the Terms of Union were signed on December 11, 1948, our stalwart and resilient people chose to become a part of Canada – enriching the country with our remarkable culture ever since.

Today, Newfoundland and Labrador continues to be an important part of the Canadian mosaic. This is anchored by our profound sense of cultural identity and our incredibly rich cultural heritage, which continues to enrich the very fabric of Canada as a whole.

So, Speaker, today I acknowledge and celebrate the 75th anniversary of this marriage of cultures, economies and people.

As we look forward to the next 75 years, let’s do so with the optimism, innovation, resilience, pride and flair that we’ve shown for the past 75 years, as we continue to make our mark within this country called Canada.

Thank you.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will bring remarks at the Code to Career Atlantic Canada Launch tomorrow (Tuesday, April 16).

The event takes place at the Emera Innovation Exchange, 100 Signal Hill Road, St. John’s, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Code to Career is a new national skilling initiative that subsidizes Software Engineering bootcamps to provide training to individuals in Canada who have been historically and currently are underrepresented in the tech sector.

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This morning, the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, signed a proclamation recognizing April 15-19 as National Tourism Week. Deborah Bourden, Chair of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, joined Minister Crocker for the signing.

National Tourism Week is an initiative led by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. Each year, the organization associates a theme with the week’s celebrations. This year’s theme is “Canada: Powered by Tourism” and reflects on the tourism industry’s significant contribution to the country’s economy while intertwining with the cultural sector to reflect the diverse ideals, people, and communities that comprise the country.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s tourism industry is unique, offering authentic experiences, vast and differing geography and a saturation of arts and heritage. Provincially, the tourism industry contributes over $1 billion annually and supports more than 20,000 jobs which has a substantial positive impact on the province, its communities and families.

With the launch of Vision 2026, the Provincial Government committed to supporting the tourism industry through the transition out of the effects of the pandemic, transforming it into a more modern and sustainable industry that is able to thrive and grow.

Significant progress has been made toward the goals and objectives of Vision 2026, including the reestablishment of a direct link to Europe with the WestJet route from St. John’s to London (Gatwick).

Budget 2024 allocates $13 million to continue to promote Newfoundland and Labrador to key markets, highlighting the province as a bucket list destination.

Quote
“National Tourism Week is the perfect opportunity for the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation to show our appreciation to all those who work in our incredible tourism and hospitality industry. Tourism’s contribution to our province is measured by more than economic successes – it contributes to our quality of life and well-being by providing dynamic experiences and spectacular places to see, supporting cultural understanding and promoting our unique way of life. With the help and support of our key partners, like Hospitality NL, we envision a tourism industry that continues to grow and thrive.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Tourism Industry Association of Canada

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Community Sector, joined Colin Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer, Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador, to proclaim April 14 to 20 as National Volunteer Week.

Volunteers give generously of their time and talents to support the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. National Volunteer Week provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the impactful service of volunteers in the province and across Canada. This year’s theme – Every Moment Matters – highlights the vital contribution of each and every volunteer in helping to improve lives and build stronger, safer and more inclusive communities.

Since 1976, the Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador has played an important role in engaging communities, fostering volunteerism and cultivating leadership to build healthy and dynamic communities.

In Budget 2024 the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to invest more than $100 million in grants and core funding to support the community sector.

Quotes
“Volunteers are an integral part of our diverse and thriving community sector. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the kindness and dedicated efforts of each and every volunteer who make a world of positive difference with their far-reaching work in our communities. Thank you for all you do to improve the lives of the people of our province. I encourage everyone to get involved in their communities and help build a stronger, healthier and more inclusive province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
Minister Responsible for the Community Sector

“Volunteering, to freely give your time and energy to causes you are passionate about, is a privilege. Not everyone is in the position to be able to volunteer and this makes the hours which happen matter so much more. I want to thank each and every single Newfoundlander and Labradorian who volunteer and recognize their contributions to our community sector. We can all consider taking some time this week to choose just one volunteer in our lives to thank for the moments they give, leading to collective impact through collective care. Thank you to our volunteers.”
Colin Corcoran
Chief Executive Officer, Community Sector Council, NL

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National Volunteer Week 2024

Budget 2024: Community Sector

Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Provincial Government is today announcing a partnership with End Homelessness St. John’s to operate a Transitional Supportive Living Initiative at 106 Airport Road in St. John’s. The partnership will help individuals experiencing homelessness who require housing and wrap-around supports receive the assistance they need from trained staff with sector expertise and experience.

In this role, End Homelessness St. John’s will oversee the operations of the facility, managing coordination with key partners, including Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NL Health Services), community partners and security services.

The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Housing, and the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will join Doug Pawson, Executive Director of End Homelessness St. John’s and Ron Johnson, Chief Operating Officer, Eastern Urban Zone, NL Health Services for a media availability today at 11:00 a.m. at 106 Airport Road, St. John’s. Following the availability, members of the media will be invited to tour the facility. 

The Transitional Supportive Living Initiative fills a current gap in the housing system for individuals experiencing homelessness with complex needs who require not only a safe place to live, but also wrap-around supports. It will provide a pathway for individuals to successfully transition to more independent and stable housing in the future. The initiative will:

• Offer on-site health supports and life skills development to help transition from homelessness to more stable housing; and
• Support system-wide transformation to better align health, housing and social supports.

A collaborative intake process will be used to select residents, which will follow the established Coordinated Access system currently used by End Homelessness St. John’s and community partners. This process will be designed to reflect the best practices identified by community partners locally.

Project implementation will occur in a phased approach for both intake and staffing. This approach will allow the organization to pay close attention to the mix of residents, their level of need and available rooms and support.

The facility includes over 140 rooms and common areas for service delivery. In addition to staffing and intake, End Homelessness St. John’s will work to design tenant-led site programming, which will be integrated with community programming. This may include cultural support, peer support, counselling and life skills development. At the same time, NL Health Services will provide wrap-around health care services to those on-site, including harm reduction, primary health care, case management, mental health and addiction services and social navigation.

The Provincial Government will maintain an oversight and monitoring role for the project, ensuring that the project is meeting its intended outcomes.

Quotes
“We are pleased to expand our partnership with End Homelessness St. John’s. This organization is well positioned to lead the coordination and integration of system-wide planning to support those experiencing homelessness in transitioning to more secure, long-term solutions.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Housing

“This new initiative will expand the housing continuum in the province, and is another example of how, in working with dedicated community partners, we can find creative solutions to addressing the issue of homelessness.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“End Homelessness St. John’s is pleased to lead the operations of the Transitional Supportive Living Initiative. The strategic integration of housing, health and community support in this initiative is transformative for our community and province. At the foundation of this initiative is strong partnerships between NL Housing, NL Health Services, End Homelessness St. John’s and our many community partners which demonstrate that when we work together, we can improve housing and health outcomes for our most vulnerable neighbours.”
Doug Pawson
Executive Director, End Homelessness St. John’s

“NL Health Services is pleased to work with our partners to explore different models of health-care delivery that support the well-being of every person. The transitional supportive living facility on Airport Road will provide an opportunity to implement a housing-first model of care, where comprehensive health services will focus on life skills development from a trauma-informed lens.”
Ron Johnson
Chief Operating Officer – Eastern Urban Zone, NL Health Services

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Learn more
Provincial Government Announces Partnership for Transitional Supportive Living Arrangements

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Today at the Confederation Building in St. John’s, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, met with leadership of the Fish Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW) and the Association of Seafood Producers (ASP). The meeting culminated in an agreement between the FFAW and the ASP to commence the 2024 crab fishery.

The fishing industry and all those working within it are important to Newfoundland and Labrador, and our province is proud of the quality product delivered to local, national and international markets. The industry is particularly significant in rural parts of the province, and the Provincial Government is pleased to see a resolution for the benefit of harvesters, plant workers, processors, and all those who rely on the fishing sector.

We encourage all parties to maintain public safety and respect the process. Police agencies will continue to monitor the situation closely to protect the safety of all those involved. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador remains committed to working with communities and our police agencies to ensure all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feel safe and secure.

Please see the backgrounder below for the terms of the agreement to commence the 2024 crab fishery.

Quotes
“I have been fully seized with working to support both the FFAW and the ASP in reaching an agreement to commence the 2024 crab fishery in a timely manner. I am pleased to see the two parties were able to come to an agreement, and commit to continuing to work together to make improvements to Newfoundland and Labrador’s valuable fishing industry.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Our government recognizes the significance of a sustainable fishing industry that works for all directly and indirectly employed by the sector. We have been engaged in working with the FFAW and ASP to reach a resolution, and I thank the parties, as well as the senior mediator involved, for coming to an agreement. A negotiated deal between the two parties is always the most beneficial outcome.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“The fishing industry plays a critical role in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly for harvesters and plant workers, and our government has remained committed to all those who rely on our valuable public resource. We look forward to maintaining our province’s reputation for high quality product.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“This is an historic pricing agreement for harvesters in our province; restoring fairness in the crab fishery and giving harvesters a sharing arrangement they have not seen in a long time. We’re very pleased about the progress made here today and thank Premier Furey for ensuring the fishery gets off the ground as quickly as possible for the benefit of all those involved.”
Greg Pretty
President, FFAW-Unifor

“This is a positive day for Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly for plant workers, processors and harvesters. The ASP will continue to work with all stakeholders to advance and grow the crab fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Paul Grant, Board Chair
Association of Seafood Producers

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Learn more

Statement from Minister Loveless on Fisheries Discussions – News Releases (gov.nl.ca)

Provincial Government Recaps Commitments on Fisheries Issues – News Releases

Application Guidelines for Fish Buyers License – Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (gov.nl.ca)

Provincial Government Establishes Fish Price-Setting Strategic Review Team

Public Advisory: Fish Price-Setting Strategic Review Team Seeks Public Input

Minister Davis Releases Report from the Fish Price-Setting Strategic Review Team

BACKGROUNDER

The terms of the agreement to commence the 2024 crab fishery are as follows:

1. The minimum price for the 2024 crab fishery is $3.00;
2. The settlement price will be determined by actual FOB Boston sales of 2024 5-8oz sections from the start of the fishery through three weeks after the fishery ends, based on a statistically significant representative sample of the actual sales of 5-8oz sections, FOB Boston, determined by an independent third party;
3. The settlement price will be 38.5% the value listed above;
4. Both parties will be entitled to a reconsideration. There will be a reconsideration after the market reaches $6.50 USD;
5. The agreement will be signed without prejudice;
6. All other terms and conditions of sale are as per the Panel’s decision.

This Memorandum of Agreement is to remain in place for the remainder of the 2024 season.

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The Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker, today provided the following statement regarding access to the House of Assembly and parliamentary precinct:

“It is the responsibility of the Speaker to act as the guardian of the rights and privileges of Members of the House of Assembly and of the House as an institution. One of the privileges of Members is the right to be free from any obstruction in the execution of their parliamentary duties, which includes attendance at proceedings of the House of Assembly and its Committees so that they can duly represent their constituents.

As Speaker, I also recognize and affirm the undoubted rights of freedom to lawfully assemble, to lawfully demonstrate and to lawfully dissent, and I recognize that the matters at hand are important. However, I would ask for the cooperation and respect of those who may attend Confederation Building Complex, including the parliamentary precinct, to enable Members to fulfill their parliamentary duties, and those officials who support them in the execution of those duties.”

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Elections Newfoundland and Labrador wishes to advise electors that Polls will be open in the By-Election for the District of Fogo Island-Cape Freels tomorrow (Monday, April 15).

Voting will take place from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

For more information, contact the Fogo Island-Cape Freels Returning Office at 709-690-1563, or Elections Newfoundland and Labrador toll-free at 1-877-729-7987 or visit www.elections.gov.nl.ca.

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Media contact
Rexanne Eddy
Communications and Training Officer, ATIPP Coordinator
Elections Newfoundland and Labrador
Office of the Chief Electoral Officer
709-729-1474
rexanneeddy@electionsnl.ca

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The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will bring greetings at Sport Newfoundland and Labrador’s Annual Provincial Awards celebration tomorrow (Saturday, April 13).

The event will take place beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s.

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is announcing the Team NL Chefs for the 2025 Canada Summer Games.

The Chef Team, which is comprised of the Chef de Mission and Assistant Chefs de Mission, is appointed by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation. The team provides planning, leadership and operational support for Team NL, in partnership with Sport Newfoundland and Labrador, prior to and during the Games.

The Chef de Mission for Team NL will be Jamie Randell. Working alongside the Chef will be Assistant Chefs de Mission Frank Humber, Allison Sturge and Mike Summers. Biographies for each of the individuals are provided in the backgrounder below.

The 2025 Canada Summer Games Team NL Mission Staff will be announced in the coming weeks. Team NL Mission Staff act as a liaison between designated sport team(s), the Chef Team and the host society performing several roles, which support their designated sport team.

The 2025 Canada Summer Games are taking place in St. John’s from August 8-24, 2025. The Canada Games are the country’s largest amateur multi-sport event and is held every two years, alternating between summer and winter events.

Quote
“I would like to extend my appreciation to these four individuals for accepting the invitation to serve as members of the Team NL Chef Team at the 2025 Canada Summer Games. Each brings a wealth of sport experiences to the Chef team, which will be valuable in supporting the mission staff, coaches, managers and Team NL athletes and teams in preparation for the Games. I wish you and all Team NL members the best of luck as you prepare for success at the Canada Games.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Team NL

2025 Canada Summer Games

2027 Canada Winter Games

Follow us on X @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographies for the 2025 Canada Summer Games Team NL Chef Team

Jamie Randell
Jamie Randell has over 20 years of experience in the sporting world as an athlete and volunteer coach. She has extensive Canada Games experience, as a member of Team NL’s Mission Staff at the Canada Games in 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2017 and a member of the Chef Team at the Canada Games in 2022 and 2023. She was an athlete at the 1995 Canada Winter Games and was an Assistant Coach with the women’s hockey team at the 1999 Canada Winter Games.

Allison Sturge
Allison Sturge has extensive Canada Games experience with Team NL. She was an athlete in 1999 and a member of Team NL’s Mission Staff six times from 2011 through 2023. She has previously coached provincially for Team NL hockey and continues to coach with the Northeast Avalon Minor Hockey Association. Allison will also be volunteering with the Mount Pearl Marlins swim team this year.

Frank Humber
Frank Humber was a member of the Team NL Mission Staff for four Canada Games from 2001 through 2015. He was also Assistant Chef de Mission in 2017 and 2019. Frank has been a member of the Sport NL Board of Directors for two terms and is a longtime coach and volunteer for various sports in the province. Frank was also a member of the Canada Games Council Technical Bid Review committee for the 2025 Games.

Mike Summers
Mike Summers has over 30 years of experience in the sporting community through coaching, officiating and volunteering with Boxing NL and Boxing Canada. Mike also participated in the Canada Games as both an official and an athlete and has been a member of Team NL mission staff a number of times. Mike is also a hockey coach with various teams in the Northeast Eagles Association, the Don Johnson Hockey League and the Doug Marshall Hockey League.

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