Government of Newfoundland News

The preliminary results from today’s by-election in the district of Conception Bay East-Bell Island are as follows:

CONCEPTION BAY EAST- BELL ISLAND Official Candidates: Political Affiliation: Preliminary Results: CHURCHILL, Kim New Democratic Party 846 HARDING, Darryl J.   70 HUTTON, Fred Liberal Party 2603 NEARY, Tina Progressive Conservative Party 2152 TOTAL VOTES: 5671

There were 40 regular polls, 10 advance polls and Special Ballot voting in the by-election with 12,682 registered voters 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 am on Friday, February 2. After the Official Addition has concluded, 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

The post Preliminary By-Election Results for Conception Bay East-Bell Island first appeared on News Releases.

The post Preliminary By-Election Results for Conception Bay East-Bell Island appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Portugal Cove South to Cape Race Multi-use Trail                      (Reg. 2288)
Proponent: Town of Portugal Cove South

The Proponent is proposing to connect and upgrade two historical multiuse trails used for walking, biking, and ATV use, to increase regional tourism and recreation opportunities. The connected trail would be approximately 25 kilometres long, beginning in Portugal Cove South and ending at Cape Race, following historical segments of the former Southern Shore highway and Marconi Telegraph path. The undertaking would require the construction of approximately 5.9 kilometres of new trail and a small bridge crossing Clam Cove River. Construction of the trail would include grubbing, tree clearing, and the installation of signage and a small culvert. Construction of the bridge would include the installation of gabion cages on the riverbanks, cast iron tresses, and lumber decking and railing. A description of the Project can be found on the Department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on January 30, 2024; the deadline for public comment is March 5, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by March 15, 2024.

Comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

AMENDMENT TO THE SUBMITTED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT:

Port au Port-Stephenville Wind Power and Hydrogen Generation Project (Project Nujio’qonik GH2)
Proponent: World Energy GH2 Limited Partnership                    (Reg. 2202)

The Proponent has submitted an amendment to the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) submitted on August 22, 2023, as required by the minister’s decision of October 31, 2023.

The amendment is now subject to public and government review as required under the Environmental Protection Act. The EIS and the amendment are intended to address the information requirements outlined in the EIS Guidelines that were issued to the Proponent on December 13, 2022 and the minister’s decision of October 31, 2023. The EIS and the amendment can be viewed on the Department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/2202-2/.

Printed copies of the amendment will be placed in the Bay St. George South, Cape St. George, Lourdes, St. George’s, Stephenville, Stephenville Crossing and Upper Ferry (Codroy Valley) public libraries. Printed copies will also be available at the World Energy GH2 Community Office in Stephenville.

The amendment was submitted on January 30, 2024; the deadline for public comment is March 20, 2024; and the minister’s decision on the acceptability of the EIS and amendment is due by April 9, 2024.

Comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca or mailed to:

Eric Watton, M.Sc.
Project EAC Chair
Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s NL
A1B 4J6

Learn more
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:

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin first appeared on News Releases.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced the awarding of $100,000 to the Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Journey Project.

This funding will increase access to trauma-informed legal support for survivors of sexual violence and intimate partner violence in marginalized populations, with a particular focus on Indigenous and newcomer communities.

The funding is being provided through the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence.

As part of this funding, legal information materials aimed at survivors will be translated to include both dialects of Innu-Aimun, Inuktitut, Arabic, Dari, and Ukrainian. Funds will also be used to translate The Journey Project website into French.

In operation since 2017, the Journey Project exists to strengthen justice supports for survivors of sexual violence and intimate partner violence throughout Newfoundland and Labrador by providing individualized support, legal system navigation and free legal advice.

The Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to educating Newfoundlanders and Labradorians about the law, with the intent of increasing access to justice in the province.

Quotes
“Supporting initiatives aimed at reaching those at risk of sexual violence or intimate partner violence is not just a moral duty, but a collective responsibility. By standing together against these forms of harm, we are strengthening the pillars of safety, justice and dignity for all residents of our province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“The Provincial Government is committed to ensuring that survivors and individuals at risk of sexual or intimate partner violence continue to have access to legal information and support. This funding will play a key role in supporting the Journey Project to offer more inclusive services, particularly to vulnerable individuals residing in the province. Engagement with community partners, in addition to existing provincial programs, enhances options for a fulsome response.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

“This funding will contribute to the sustainability of The Journey Project and allow us to enhance our provincial outreach to marginalized communities impacted by sexual violence and intimate partner violence. We look forward to continuing to increase the accessibility of our services in support of survivors as they navigate the legal system.”
Janet Lee
Team Coordinator, Journey Project

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Learn more
Office of Women and Gender Equality

Victim Services – Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador

The Journey Project

National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence

Follow us on X @GovNL and @WGE_GovNLLike us on Facebook

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The post Provincial Government Contributes Funding to Support Survivors of Sexual and Intimate Partner Violence appeared first on News Releases.

To recognize the outstanding and invaluable contributions to life in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey is introducing for the first time in this province’s history the Premier’s Medal for Arts, Heritage, Recreation and Sport.

The Premier’s Medal for Arts, Heritage, Recreation and Sport will be the highest honour in the province in these fields. Recipients will be chosen based on significant contributions that have benefited, in an outstanding manner, the province and its people.

Premier Furey will present the medals to two recipients from each discipline at an annual awards ceremony. In special recognition of both the Year of the Arts and the 75th anniversary of Confederation, this year 10 recipients from the arts sector and 10 recipients from the heritage sector will be selected to receive the special recognition.

Recreation and sport medals will be awarded beginning in 2025 to coincide with the province hosting the 2025 Canada Games.

Nominations may be submitted for living or deceased individuals, organizations, committees, groups and enterprises.

More information on the Premier’s Medal for Arts, Heritage, Recreation and Sport, including the nomination process, is available here.

Quote
“The arts, heritage, recreation and sport sectors have had a profound influence on our province’s history and development and our incredibly talented and high-achieving artists, heritage practitioners, and recreation and sport leaders contribute so much to our province, and beyond. My deep respect and admiration for their work and legacies inspired the creation of the Premier’s Medals for Arts, Heritage, Recreation and Sport and I look forward to recognizing the first-ever recipients from the arts and heritage sectors later this year.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Year of the Arts is upon us and now is the ideal time to unveil the Premier’s Medals for outstanding contributions to our province’s arts and heritage. The first medals will be awarded in July 2024, so please consider nominating exceptional artists, creators and storytellers in recognition of their contributions to our province and people.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Premier Furey Announces 2024 as “Year of the Arts”

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The post Premier’s Medal will Honour Excellence in Arts, Heritage, Recreation and Sport first appeared on News Releases.

The post Premier’s Medal will Honour Excellence in Arts, Heritage, Recreation and Sport appeared first on News Releases.

Elections Newfoundland and Labrador is advising electors in the Conception Bay East-Bell Island by-election that polling day is Tuesday, January 30. There are no changes to the polls and electors can vote at their originally assigned polling locations. Visit our website at www.elections.gov.nl.ca, for the most current information.

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

For more information, contact the Conception Bay East-Bell Island Returning Office at 709-781-6430, 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

The post Polling Locations on Polling Day (Tuesday, January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election first appeared on News Releases.

The post Polling Locations on Polling Day (Tuesday, January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election appeared first on News Releases.

This advisory is being issued on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

With anticipated inclement weather today, the Provincial Government is advising individuals experiencing homelessness to contact Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s emergency shelter line at 1-833-724-2444 for assistance with temporary accommodations.

Safe Haven Shelter at 10 St. Clare Avenue in St. John’s serves as a warming centre during adverse weather events. The emergency shelter line will identify other options as required.

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Media contact
Jenny Bowring
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-724-3055
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca

 

 

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Shelter and Support Services Available for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Emergency Shelter and Support Services Available for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness appeared first on News Releases.

To support business growth and client development, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced $100,000 in funding for Instrumar Limited through the Business Development Support Program.

Instrumar is a Newfoundland and Labrador-founded engineering and product development company. The company’s proprietary Instrumar Fiber Sensor measures the quality of synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon as they are being produced, and the company is poised to introduce its distinctive and pioneering products to more audiences worldwide.

Through this funding, Instrumar will undertake a market expansion plan including development of a campaign strategy, asset production and paid media. This project is focused on accelerating Instrumar’s international business expansion, including activities related to business development, marketing, partnership development, product trials, as well as capacity requirements to support customer onboarding efforts relating to converting prospects into permanent customers.

Leveraging the financial support provided by the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, the company will invest a further $220,163 and has successfully secured federal support for total funding of $339,726 for this expansion project. The funding from the Department will enable Instrumar to develop new partnerships, identify prospects and subsequently turn those prospects into sales.

The province’s fast-growing tech sector employs about 8,000 people and is projected to employ more than 10,000 within the next three years. The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology continues to provide support for companies in the tech sector through financial investment and business support as they help in diversifying the economy while also creating high-quality technical positions.

Quotes
“For more than 40 years, Instrumar has been a key local employer and one of our earliest tech success stories. We are pleased to support them as they work to expand the reach of their market into new territory, while growing their base operations here at home.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Instrumar greatly appreciates the ongoing support of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador in advancing our business development efforts. It has helped us to successfully showcase our capabilities at the world’s largest textile tradeshow, and to better reach key customers and prospects around the world. Our technology is leading the industry in improving quality, sustainability and costs for fiber manufacturers, and we thank the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology for its instrumental role in helping us grow.”
Michael Handrigan
Manager of Finance and Administration, Instrumar Ltd.

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Learn more
Business Development Support Program

Instrumar

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The post Supporting Business Development in the Tech Sector first appeared on News Releases.

The post Supporting Business Development in the Tech Sector appeared first on News Releases.

Monday, January 29, in Newfoundland and Labrador is designated as the Day of Remembrance for the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia.

On this day, the Provincial Government continues its commitment to stopping Islamophobia while remembering and paying tribute to those killed or injured in the horrific events seven years ago at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City.

At the request of the Ministerial Committee on Anti-Racism, Confederation Building will be lit in green on the night of January 29. The colour green has long been associated with the Islamic faith.

As Muslim communities across Newfoundland and Labrador continue to grow, the Provincial Government is committed to working together with the Muslim Association of Newfoundland and Labrador to recognize and celebrate the cultures and contributions that enrich our province, while continuing to stand with our Muslim friends and neighbours against the scourge of Islamophobia.

Sincerely:

Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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The post Joint Statement for Day of Remembrance for the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia first appeared on News Releases.

The post Joint Statement for Day of Remembrance for the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister Responsible for Labour, today announced a $0.60 increase to the minimum wage rate, effective April 1, 2024, in accordance with Labour Standards Regulations.

As of April 1, 2024, the minimum wage will be $15.60 per hour. The minimum overtime wage rate will increase to $23.40. This increase is required under the Labour Standards Regulations and is based on the percentage change in the National Consumer Price Index.

The most recent increase to the minimum wage rate of $0.50 occurred on October 1, 2023, bringing the minimum wage rate to $15.00 per hour.

Quote
“The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of the minimum wage and continues to monitor and review labour standards legislation to ensure it remains relevant, responsive and comparable to jurisdictions across the country. We continue to work to find a balanced approach for both employers and wage earners in the province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

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Learn more
Employers Reminded of Minimum Wage Increase on October 1, 2023

Labour Standards Act and Regulations

The post Minister Davis Announces Increase to the Minimum Wage first appeared on News Releases.

The post Minister Davis Announces Increase to the Minimum Wage appeared first on News Releases.

Elections Newfoundland and Labrador wishes to advise electors, that due to inclement weather, voting will now occur Tuesday, January 30, in the by-election for the District of Conception Bay East-Bell Island.

Voting will take place from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm Tuesday, January 30. Please note that there may be some changes to voting locations. Elections Newfoundland and Labrador will provide an update on the www.elections.gov.nl.ca website and through further news releases.

The decision to postpone Polling Day, is due to the forecasted intense weather during the busiest hours of voting. The safety of electors and staff is our primary focus, while providing electors with a fair opportunity to vote.

For more information, contact the Conception Bay East-Bell Island Returning Office at 709-781-6430, 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

The post Voting Day is Postponed Until Tuesday (January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election first appeared on News Releases.

The post Voting Day is Postponed Until Tuesday (January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election appeared first on News Releases.

Elections Newfoundland and Labrador wishes to advise electors that polls will be open in the by-election for the District of Conception Bay East-Bell Island tomorrow (Monday, January 29.)

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

For more information, contact the Conception Bay East-Bell Island Returning Office at 709-781-6430, 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

The post Voting Day is Tomorrow (January 29) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election first appeared on News Releases.

The post Voting Day is Tomorrow (January 29) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Botwood Flowers Hill Quarry                                                     (Reg. 2287)
Proponent: C & H Construction

The Proponent is proposing to develop and operate a two-hectare sand and gravel quarry located at Flowers Hill near Botwood, in central Newfoundland. Development of the undertaking would include the construction of an access road, clearing of vegetation and grubbing of soils. The purpose of the quarry is to provide material for local construction projects. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on January 25, 2024; the deadline for public comment is March 1, 2024, and the minister’s decision is due by March 10, 2024.

Learn more
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:

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

Project comments may be forwarded 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.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin first appeared on News Releases.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-004 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-2024-004 Report Date: January 24, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Department of Justice and Public Safety for records relating to proposed amendments to ATIPPA, 2015. The Department responded by providing several hundred pages of responsive records, but withheld over 2,500 pages using the cabinet confidences exception as justification and cited sections 29, 30, 31, 34, 35, and 40 to support various redactions throughout the provided records. In response, the Complainant filed a complaint with this Office alleging the Department applied the exceptions invalidly and failed to meet its duty to assist. In its response to this Office, the Department withheld some information within the cabinet records from this Office, stating it would create a conflict of interest as we are an advocate on the issues related to ATIPPA, 2015. After review of the submissions and responsive records, the Commissioner concluded the Department met its burden of proving its claim of cabinet confidences, but recommended release of some information withheld pursuant to sections 29 and 35.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-004 Released first appeared on News Releases.

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-004 Released appeared first on News Releases.

On Saturday, January 27, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will recognize International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The Provincial Government stands with Jewish communities to remember the tragedy of the Holocaust in the hope that, through reflection and learning, humanity will never again be stained by such condemnable actions.

In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution that declared January 27, the date of the liberation of the Auschwitz Concentration Camp, to be an International Day of Remembrance for the six million Jews, and millions more, who were victims of the Holocaust.

We remember, we mourn and we use the stories of the victims and survivors to help build a better world.

The Provincial Government continues to stand with Jewish friends and neighbours, and challenge anti-Semitism in all its forms. It is incumbent upon us all to celebrate the rich history of Jewish people in Newfoundland and Labrador and to stand by them, to encourage peace and understanding amongst everyone who calls this place home.

Sincerely:
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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The post Joint Statement for International Holocaust Remembrance Day first appeared on News Releases.

The post Joint Statement for International Holocaust Remembrance Day appeared first on News Releases.

Applications for the 2024 Vegetable Transplant Program are open to commercial vegetable producers until February 8.

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture offers high-quality, low-cost vegetable transplants to eligible commercial farmers to help increase the production and variety of produce grown in the province, promote higher marketable yields and earlier harvests, and support food self-sufficiency. In 2023, the Vegetable Transplant Program provided 4.3 million vegetable transplants to 123 farmers.

Available crop varieties include cabbage, rutabaga, broccoli, cauliflower, onion, kale, lettuce, leek and asparagus – all grown at the Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Development in Wooddale.

Farmers demonstrating strong compliance with prior programs will receive priority for allocations. The 2024 program guide and online application form are available on the Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website.

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The post Public Advisory: Applications Open for 2024 Vegetable Transplant Program appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, gratefully acknowledges the Newfoundland and Labrador agriculture industry’s recognition of the Honourable Derrick Bragg’s contributions to agriculture.

The Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador nominated Minister Bragg for the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture’s Outstanding Contribution to the Agriculture Industry Award. The honour was awarded posthumously during the federation’s annual Agriculture Industry Symposium in Grand-Falls Windsor on January 24 following the passing of Minister Bragg on January 22.

Minister Bragg was involved in Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture sector since 2018, first as Parliamentary Secretary to the department and, later, as Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

From his many conversations with farmers and his deep interest in their work, Minister Bragg was able to advocate strongly for the province’s agriculture sector at the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Policy Table. He valued the work of departmental agriculture staff, worked hard to ensure they had access to the resources required to support the agriculture industry more effectively, and was a proud supporter of Newfoundland and Labrador-produced agriculture products.

Quotes
“Minister Bragg’s keen interest in the agriculture sector, his empathy for the challenges our farmers and producers face, and his deep respect for the work they do ran very deep. His practical ability to solve problems and his can-do attitude have earned a great deal of respect from an industry that thrives on hard work and innovation. I know that this honour would have meant the world to him. On behalf of our department, our staff, and the Provincial Government, I join the agriculture industry in honouring our friend, Derrick Bragg.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Minister Bragg was a fine gentleman and very good at putting people at ease in conversations. As a backyard farmer himself, he took every opportunity to highlight the hard work and resiliency farming requires, and never missed an opportunity to meet with farmers to learn what he could about their operations. The agriculture industry of Newfoundland and Labrador is much stronger today because of his influence.”
Lee Noel, Chair
Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Local farmers who knew Minister Bragg liked him because he listened to them. He spent time visiting farms and learning about their issues and challenges in order to be a strong advocate for Newfoundland and Labrador farmers. He was a vocal supporter of the agriculture sector and worked hard to provide opportunities to advance the industry. We are proud to recognize Minister Bragg for this award because he was a great agriculture minister and a great person, and he will be missed. The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture would also like to express our condolences to Minister Bragg’s family at this difficult time.”
Wayne Simmons, President
Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture

Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador

The post Minister Bragg Honoured for Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture first appeared on News Releases.

The post Minister Bragg Honoured for Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, announced the creation of Education Accord NL. Education Accord NL, which will be co-chaired by Dr. Anne Burke and Dr. Karen Goodnough, will develop a targeted approach to transforming and modernizing Newfoundland and Labrador’s education system.

Minister Howell will be available to media to discuss the Education Accord today (Thursday, January 25) at 1:00 p.m. in the NLSchools board room at 95 Elizabeth Avenue, St. John’s. Minister Howell will be joined Dr. Burke and Dr. Goodnough, Co-Chairs of the Education Accord NL Advisory Team.

Dedicated to supporting a modern educational experience for all students in Newfoundland and Labrador, Education Accord NL will reimagine the education system to ensure students and learners at all levels receive the educational services they need in the classroom, are prepared for the modern global economy, and develop strong decision-making skills to foster positive health and well-being.

The Accord aims to create better outcomes for students and learners while also supporting the Provincial Government’s goal of becoming one of Canada’s healthiest provinces by 2031.

Education Accord NL will focus on four pillars:

• Early learning and childhood development;
• Education engagement and transformation;
• Health and well-being in education environments; and,
• Post-secondary education and learning across the life span.

The Accord will be developed in consultation with stakeholders and will incorporate research garnered through the extensive engagement and consultation process of Health Accord NL.

Education Accord NL will focus on delivering a 10-Year Education Accord with short, medium, and long-term goals for an education system that better meets the needs of students and learners in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Accord will be delivered to government by December 31, 2024.

Biographies for Dr. Burke and Dr. Goodnough can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“The current education system needs to evolve to ensure we are best preparing our students and our province for success. The Education Accord will contribute to improved educational outcomes and support the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians now and into the future. I look forward to supporting the work of Dr. Burke and Dr. Goodnough as they lead this important project.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Delivering a modernized and holistic education, and ensuring our students are ready to participate in the global economy, has never been more important. I look forward to working with many stakeholders to include a diversity of voices, concerns and ideas, all of which will be critical to the success of this Accord. I am excited to help lead this new initiative, as we reimagine the Newfoundland and Labrador education system as an empowered society embracing education across the lifespan.”
Dr. Anne Burke
Co-Chair, Education Accord Advisory Team

“I am very excited about this opportunity to work with individuals, groups and stakeholders, to develop a shared vision for education, at all levels, in the province. The Accord will provide a means to build on our strengths and foster excellence in learning and teaching.”
Dr. Karen Goodnough
Co-Chair, Education Accord Advisory Team

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Learn more
Provincial Government Completes Integration of English School District

Teachers Think Tank to be Held in New Year to Inform Recruitment and Retention Initiatives

Provincial Government Partners with Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security to Improve Food Access for Families

Provincial Government Updates Progress on Early Learning and Child Care Initiatives

Provincial Government to Introduce New Model of Assessment and Evaluation for High School Students

Follow us on X @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

 BACKGROUNDER

Biographies of the Co-Chairs of the Education Accord Advisory Team

Dr. Anne Burke
Dr. Anne Burke is a Professor in Literacy Education and Digital Learning at Memorial University’s Faculty of Education, where she is also the Project Lead for the Discovery Play Centre. Dr. Burke’s extensive scholarship focuses on the interface of equity, social inclusion and the well-being of children through research that supports broader socio-cultural perspectives on literacy education delivery in culturally diverse K-12 classrooms. Much of her international interdisciplinary research in Canada, Finland and U.K. is public engagement-oriented, showing a broad mastery of partnerships with schools, NGOs, cultural institutions, artistic industries and governments. Dr. Burke has received awards for her scholarship, teaching and public engagement partnerships. She has a passion for researching in classrooms alongside teachers, youth and children always advocating for young people’s voices, agency and well- being.

Dr. Karen Goodnough
Dr. Karen Goodnough is a well-established national and international scholar and former dean of the Faculty of Education, Memorial University. She also completed a three-year appointment as an associate dean (undergraduate programs) in the Faculty of Education. Prior to arriving at Memorial, she held faculty appointments at the University of New Brunswick and the University of Rochester, New York. During her academic career, she has been involved in scholarship and research focused on collaborative action research, inclusive science education, pre-service teacher education, and professional learning in teacher education and higher education. Dr. Goodnough received Memorial’s 2016 President’s Award for Outstanding Research in recognition of her contributions to community partnership development; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education; and the “teacher as researcher” movement. She holds a PhD from the University of Toronto, as well as three degrees from Memorial (M.Ed., B.Ed. and B.Sc.). She was a high school science teacher and post-secondary instructor before moving into academia.

The post Provincial Government Announces the Creation of Education Accord NL first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Announces the Creation of Education Accord NL appeared first on News Releases.

Today, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, launched an engagement process to inform the development of an Intergenerational Program Guide to encourage and support positive and meaningful interactions between younger and older generations.

Intergenerational programs and activities can have a positive impact on participants’ well-being. Interactions between children, youth and young adults, and older adults help challenge ageism, support physical and mental health and foster cross-generational empathy and understanding.

Once complete, the Intergenerational Program Guide will highlight the benefits of encouraging deliberate and meaningful intergenerational interaction for individuals and groups working with seniors and/or youth, and provide ideas and resources to support such activities.

The engagement process will provide individuals and community stakeholders with an opportunity to share their insights and perspectives to help inform development of the guide.

Several options will be available to provide input including an online questionnaire through EngageNL. There will be an opportunity to make written submissions to the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development via mail or email. There will also be targeted engagement sessions with individuals and organizations that work closely with specific age groups.

For more information and to participate in the engagement process, please visit engageNL.ca or email aging-and-seniors@gov.nl.ca. You can also call 709-729-1382. The engagement process will close on February 29, 2024.

Quotes
“Our government is committed to supporting intergenerational initiatives that bring children, youth and seniors together to encourage the sharing of skills, knowledge and experiences that foster understanding and respect. Today, I am pleased to announce the engagement process that will help inform the development of an Intergenerational Program Guide, which will further support intergenerational initiatives in the province. I encourage everyone to participate in this process and join our collective efforts to build a healthy, inclusive and age-friendly province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“Our 50-plus club recently completed an intergenerational baking project with club members and children from the community through funding provided through the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative. It was so much fun to bring everybody together and work on a common goal. We can all learn from each other and I think development of a guide will encourage more activities like this and bring new ideas that we can all benefit from.”
Yvonne Roul
President, Lawn Golden Age 50-plus Club

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www.engagenl.ca

Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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The post Provincial Government Launches Engagement Process for Intergenerational Program Guide first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Launches Engagement Process for Intergenerational Program Guide appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced funding of $52,800 through the Business Development Support Program to support SubC Imaging market its underwater imaging technology.

Recently, SubC Imaging developed new products and applications to expand the market for its underwater imaging and technology. With its work in the field of underwater surveillance and coastal monitoring, SubC Imaging has the ability to work with partners to support the defence sector. To market these new products and advancements, it is important to implement a strategic marketing plan to inform the marketplace.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology continues to support the province’s technology success stories, whether it be through research and innovation, business growth activities, or exploring new markets. This funding will help assist SubC Imaging retain expertise, and pass that retained knowledge on to new hires, which will contribute to company growth.

Incorporated in 2010 in Clarenville, SubC Imaging develops and commercializes innovative custom-built underwater cameras and complete imaging solutions. Currently, SubC Imaging has 25 full-time employees and has been successful in establishing itself as a leading provider of revolutionary and reliable underwater imaging solutions for subsea markets. SubC Imaging’s one-of-a-kind solutions deliver high-definition video, images, lighting, management and storage software to a variety of marine research clients to aid researchers around the world in gaining new insights into ocean ecosystems and marine life.

Quotes
“Our government sees the value in supporting the growth of tech companies in our province. The foresight of SubC Imaging to develop a strategic marketing plan is important as they seek additional new customers in new locations around the world. It will also allow them to best position their business and products to stand out in the global marketplace.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“As SubC Imaging continues to pioneer advancements in underwater technology, our emphasis remains on growth and innovation. We’re grateful for this vital funding from the province to help make this possible. With this support, we’re not just expanding our strategic marketing efforts and reach; we’re elevating the standards in the industry to deliver valuable solutions to customers around the world.”
Marcie Crosbie, Director of Marketing
SubC Imaging

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SubC Imaging

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The post Supporting Development in Ocean Technology first appeared on News Releases.

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This release is being issued on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

As part of the Provincial Government’s continued efforts to increase the availability of affordable housing in Newfoundland and Labrador, applications opened today for the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive pilot program.

In October 2023, this initiative was announced as one of the pillars of the Five-Point Plan to help make housing more affordable for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians by supporting the creation of more housing. This program will allow homeowners to access a forgivable loan of 50 per cent of the cost of renovations, up to a maximum of $40,000, to create a new, self-contained secondary or basement suite within their home.

These loans will be fully forgivable, provided the new unit is rented out below market rates for a minimum of five years. The rental rates will be established by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC), based on annual rental market reports published by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Criteria to qualify for the incentive include:

• The property where the new unit will be developed must be the primary residence of the applicant, and the applicant must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
• The individual renting the unit cannot be a sibling or child of the homeowner/applicant, but may be a parent or parents aged 65 or older;
• The new unit must be registered (where applicable), self-contained and provide living, sleeping, eating, food preparation and sanitary facilities for the exclusive use of the household occupying the unit; and
• A municipal building permit for the unit must be dated after January 1, 2024.

A full list of program criteria, as well as information on how to apply, can be found on the NLHC website here. A full list of eligible costs under the program can be found in the backgrounder below.

Total funding for the program is $4 million and eligible applicants will be approved on a first-come, first-served basis until all funding is allocated.

Quotes
“Our government continues to invest in creative solutions to increase access to both housing that is affordable and provincially owned social housing in our province. This incentive will support homeowners to create upwards of 100 new basement apartments or secondary suites, helping families find an affordable place to live within existing communities and near existing services. We will continue to advance initiatives under the five-point plan to help meet demand for affordable housing throughout the province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“The Canadian Home Builders’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is optimistic that this program will not only provide more rental options for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, but also create opportunities for our members to complete projects integral to increasing the housing supply in our province.”
Alexis Foster
Executive Officer
Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Newfoundland and Labrador

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Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable

Proposals Invited for Development of Land for Rental Housing That is Affordable

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BACKGROUNDER

List of Eligible Costs Covered Under the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive Program

The following list includes costs that can be covered under the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive Program:

Eligible costs:

• Architectural and design fees;
• Inspection fees (where applicable);
• Structural modification;
• Electrical work;
• Fixtures;
• Appliances (50 per cent of actual cost to a maximum of $2,500);
• Building and trade permit fees;
• Costs to obtain certificates, drawings and specifications directly related to eligible scope of work;
• Materials related to the approved construction;
• Contractor labour (not including work done by applicant or any member of the household); and

Costs that are not eligible include:

• Repair of existing rental units;
• Labour costs for work completed by the homeowner; and
• Landscaping costs.

Any cost not covered by either list must be approved by NLHC prior to work commencing. For more information, visit Secondary Basement Suite Incentive Program FAQ.

The post Applications Now Open for Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive first appeared on News Releases.

The post Applications Now Open for Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive appeared first on News Releases.