Government of Newfoundland News

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

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

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

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

-30-

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

The post Media Advisory: Auditor General to Deliver Performance Audit Report on the Administration of Crown Lands appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proponent: EverWind Fuels

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

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

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

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

DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT GUIDELINES AND PUBLIC REVIEW:

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

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

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

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

UPdates to Environmental Preveiw Report (EPR) Submitted:

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

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

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

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

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

 

PLANS ACCEPTED:

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

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

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

https://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 appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

Ten recipients have received funding through the agreement:

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

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

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

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

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

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

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on X @GovNL and @DGS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

BACKGROUNDER

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

 

Launch of the Café de Paris pilot project.

 

Start of the French language training pilot project.

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

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

The post Recipients of French Language Services Grants Announced appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-30-

Learn more
Happy Valley-Goose Bay Hub

Follow us on X @GovNL @JPS_GovNL

The post Provincial Government Reaffirms Commitment to Public Safety in Happy Valley-Goose Bay appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on X @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Beds to be Added at Health Care Facilities in Western Region appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

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

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

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Adverse Weather Conditions Anticipated appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Parliamentary Secretary Trimper to Participate in Fly the Flag of Remembrance Ceremony appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-30-

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @FFA_GovNL

Like FFA on Facebook

The post Upcoming Legislation to Allow for Swift Provincial Government Dispossession of Crown Lands appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more
Provincial Government Commits to Introducing Medical Benefits for Early Childhood Educators

Operating Grant Program

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

BACKGROUNDER

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

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

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

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

The post Medical Benefits Now Available for Early Learning Workforce appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Moccasin Lake Brook Bridge on South Side Resource Road near Bay d’Espoir Highway Closed appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Required Maintenance for Online Payment Services appeared first on News Releases.

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

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

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

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

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

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

-30-

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

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

Learn more
Vision 2026

Follow us on X @GovNL and @TCAR_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Minister Crocker Provides Fall Update on 2024 Tourism Season appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will participate in an event hosted by the Electronic Products Recycling Association to announce the expansion of electronic products eligible for recycling.

The event will take place tomorrow (Wednesday, October 23) at 12:00 p.m. at the City of St. John’s Materials Recovery Facility operated by Scotia Recycling, 340 East White Hills Road, St. John’s.

The Electronic Products Recycling Association oversees end-of-life electronics recycling programs across Canada.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Dempster to Participate in Launch of Expanded Electronic Products Recycling Program appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced $316,583 in funding for 14 projects through the Provincial Government’s Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program. The Minister was joined by the Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

The Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program supports Newfoundland and Labrador’s Indigenous Governments and Organizations in their efforts to prevent violence against Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals.

Quotes
“The Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program is vital to fostering safer, stronger communities by empowering Indigenous Governments and Organizations to address the unique challenges they face. This program also reflects a continued commitment by this government to reconciliation, and ensuring culturally appropriate supports that promote healing, equality, and justice for Indigenous peoples throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Our work with Indigenous women’s groups and organizations has shown us there are many culturally appropriate approaches to preventing violence in Indigenous communities. The awarding of Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants supports grassroots projects that will deliver benefits to all persons and Indigenous communities.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

-30-

Learn more
Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program

Office of Women and Gender Equality

Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

Follow us on X @GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

BACKGROUNDER

AnanauKatiget Tumingit Regional Inuit Women’s Association Inc.
Project – Technology-facilitated Gender-based Violence Prevention Gathering
A weekend gathering for Inuit teenage girls to educate them on technology-facilitated gender-based violence to prevent the online exploitation of Indigenous women and girls. The gathering will include presentations from violence prevention service providers, and cultural support and guidance from Elders.
Grant Awarded: $27,263

Assembly of First Nations – NL Women’s Initiative
Project – Women’s Gathering
A women’s cultural gathering focused on violence prevention through empowering women’s leadership. The goal of this gathering is to address barriers to advance and empower Indigenous women leaders to effect positive change and progress.
Grant Awarded: $20,300

Benoit’s Cove Indian Band Inc.
Project – Community Support
This project is focused on engaging Indigenous men and boys in violence prevention through skill development, confidence building, increasing violence prevention awareness, reconnecting with their culture, and becoming changemakers.
Grant Awarded: $11,260

Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities
Project – Peer Facilitation Training Enhancement
This project is designed to empower women and gender-diverse individuals in leadership roles, with culturally informed, trauma-aware training, to help deepen trust in the community.
Grant Awarded: $20,384

Exploits Native Women’s Association
Project – Using Our Knowledge to Prevent Violence
Funding will be used to enable the development and implementation of three violence prevention workshops to address stigma in youth, engage men and boys, and connect individuals to cultural values.
Grant Awarded: $23,250

First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre
Project – Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Inclusion Initiative
This project will see the establishment of Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer specific services to the Urban Indigenous community, focussing on professional development and cultural knowledge building, enabling access to established programs across Turtle Island (Canada), and providing access to formal training and engagement with Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
Grant Awarded: $24,210

Flat Bay Band
Project – K’taqmkuk Restorative Justice Strategy Capacity Enhancement
This project aims to address violence prevention, with a specific focus on the Indigenous Mi’kmaw communities in the province. Funding will support gatherings, workshops and training sessions, the distribution of educational materials, implementation of mentoring and capacity-building programs, as well as referrals and support services.
Grant Awarded: $24,210

Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation
Project – Four Seasons Four Gatherings
This initiative is designed to empower Indigenous youth, ages 15 to 30, by deepening their cultural knowledge and strengthening their connections to their heritage at seasonal gatherings with Elders and mentors.
Grant Awarded: $24,210

Mushuau Innu First Nation
Project – Indigenous Violence Prevention Project
This project is designed to address violence against women and girls in the Mushuau Innu First Nation of Natuashish through culturally relevant approaches via dialogue, knowledge sharing and awareness building using healing circles, workshops and education sessions focused on trauma-informed care.
Grant Awarded: $17,500

Newfoundland Indigenous Peoples Alliance Inc.
Project – Culture and Connections on the Land
This project will consist of holding group sessions to connect youth and adults with communities that have limited opportunities to engage in Indigenous wellness and cultural ways. Activities will include a women’s retreat, moccasin-making workshops, feather wrapping, craft sessions, medicine walks, foraging workshops, snowshoeing, and hiking.
Grant Awarded: $22,936

Newfoundland Native Women’s Association
Project – Violence Prevention (Virtual) Resource-Sharing, Information and Engagement
This project will involve the facilitation of virtual violence prevention information sessions for Indigenous Groups and Organizations throughout Newfoundland and Labrador seeking resources for women, girls, Two-Spirit and gender-diverse people.
Grant Awarded: $22,000

Northern Peninsula (Mekap’sk) Mi’kmaq Band
Project – Indigenous Path Forward
This project is designed to address challenges related to violence against Indigenous populations on the Northern Peninsula. A facilitator will be hired to conduct research through gatherings and workshops, where data will be collected to complete a report for future capacity-building.
Grant Awarded: $28,810

NunatuKavut Community Council
Project – Growing our Wellness
The NunatuKavut Community Council will engage with NunatuKavut Inuit of all ages to develop violence prevention and healing groups. This will include education and skill building for youth to help build self-esteem and self-worth and create and maintain healthy connections with their communities and service providers.
Grant Awarded: $27,500

Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation
Project – Elder / Community Engagement Project
This project will use culturally appropriate approaches to preventing violence in the community of Sheshatshiu and includes a week-long gathering to bring Elders and 10 families together to focus on conflict resolution, communication, storytelling, and traditional healing practices.
Grant Awarded: $22,750

The post Funding Awarded for 14 Indigenous Violence Prevention Initiatives appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will bring greetings at the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival’s Trailblazer Awards Luncheon tomorrow (Tuesday, October 22).

The event will take place at 11:00 a.m. at the Alt Hotel, 125 Water St, St. John’s.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Crocker Bringing Greetings at the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival’s Trailblazer Awards Luncheon appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government is seeking Expressions of Interest from not-for-profit organizations to operate one or more of 12 site locations for pre-kindergarten programming in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Pre-kindergarten locations have opened in phases throughout the province and will result in the creation of more than 3,000 regulated child care spaces in communities by March 31, 2026. There are currently 34 pre-kindergarten program locations operating in the province, representing close to 600 early learning and child care spaces.

The pre-kindergarten program runs full-time, including during the summer months and during traditional after school hours. The program operates in a school setting to support children’s transition to school. As a regulated full-day early learning program under the Operating Grant Program, participating families will pay $10 per day.

Additionally, the Child Care Subsidy Program is available to assist families with the cost of child care fees at regulated child care services

Expressions of interest are being accepted until 5:00 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. information on the pre-kindergarten program and the expression of interest is available by visiting gov.nl.ca/education/pre-kindergarten/.

This initiative is a part of several actions under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing high-quality, affordable child care that is accessible throughout the province. There are over 10,100 early learning and child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or less in the province, with a further 2,100 spaces in development.

Quote
“I am excited to announce the release of the expression of interest process for the development of the next phase of the pre-kindergarten program. Supporting families and their children during the early learning years is crucial for their development. We are listening to families and their need for access to early learning and child care services. I encourage all not-for-profit organizations to submit their interest for this next stage, and to be a part of this important program for children in our province.”
Honourable John Haggie
Alternate Minister of Education

-30-

Learn more
Request for Proposals Issued for Second Phase of Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Program

Registration Set to Open for First Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Locations in Newfoundland and Labrador

YMCA-NL to Act as Not-For-Profit Operator of Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Locations

Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Set to Create Approximately 600 Regulated Early Learning Spaces in 2022-23

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

Budget 2021: A Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Plan 

BACKGROUNDER

Federal-Provincial Early Learning and Child Care Action Plan

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Action Plan is increasing access to regulated child care through the creation of approximately 6,000 spaces by 2025-26, as well as improving affordability, inclusivity and the 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 2021-22 to 2025-26 Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, a one-time investment of nearly $6.5 million in 2021-22 to support the early childhood workforce, as well as over $34 million for the 2021-22 to 2024-25 Early Learning and Child Care Extension Agreement.

The post Provincial Government Seeking Expressions of Interest for Next Phase of Pre-Kindergarten Program appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is an independent Statutory Office that supports the province’s children and youth by advocating for their rights and interests in dealing with child serving systems. The Office works tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard – and elevated – in matters that affect them.

“Given recent public discourse, I am gravely concerned with the conversation as it relates to the recent Order in Council from the Premier that directed me “to review, investigate and report on the policies and procedures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth in receipt of protective intervention services where a report is received alleging that a child or youth has been sexually abused or exploited.” I adamantly believe the focus needs to return to the fundamental rights, well-being, and the safety of vulnerable children and youth in our province. Young people need to have their voices heard, rights respected, and their issues responded to appropriately. This is my promise and responsibility to them, and should be everyone’s promise to them,” said Linda Clemens Spurrell, Child and Youth Advocate.

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is well positioned, with its legislative authority and decades of investigative expertise, to do this work while remaining solely focused on children and youth. Furthermore, the Child and Youth Advocate Act outlines the powers and duties of the Advocate including receiving, reviewing and investigating a matter relating to a child or youth or a group of them, whether or not a request or complaint is made. Through the investigative process, the Advocate also has subpoena powers and can require a person to give information relating to a matter being investigated, to produce documents related to the matter, and may summon and examine, on oath or affirmation, a person who in the opinion of the Advocate is able to give information relating to the investigation. These powers position the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate to fulfill its mandate with impunity.

“I was appointed by resolution of the House of Assembly and there are processes in place to address any potential conflict of interest – these processes were undertaken with great diligence. Given the recent public discourse I can share that work has commenced and required documents have been requested from the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development,” said Linda Clemens Spurrell, Child and Youth Advocate. “However, I want to ensure that the focus remains on what is the foundation of my role – the rights, safety and well-being of our province’s children and youth – that is my priority.”

-30-

The post Statement by the Child and Youth Advocate appeared first on News Releases.

The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-047 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/reports/.

Report:  A-2024-047 Report Date: October 18, 2024 Public Body: Memorial University Summary: Memorial University received an access request for certain email records sent by a senior University official. The University responded that the official had used his personal email account, not a University email account, and that a search had failed to locate any responsive records. The Complainant filed a complaint with our Office. The Commissioner concluded that the University had conducted a reasonable search for records, that the explanation for failing to locate any records was reasonable, and that there was insufficient evidence to conclude an offence had been committed. The Commissioner, however, recommended that the University create a clear and enforceable policy requiring all employees and officials to use a Memorial University email account, not a personal email account, for University business.

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-047 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh, has released her Report A-2024-046 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/reports/.

Report:  A-2024-046 Report Date: October 18, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made a request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Department of Justice and Public Safety. The Department did not respond to the request in the timeframe required by section 16 of the Act and was deemed to have refused access. The Complainant made a complaint to this Office. The Commissioner found the Department had not complied with its obligations under the Act, in particular sections 13 (duty to assist) and 16 (time limit for final response). The Commissioner recommended the Department respond to the Complainant’s request without further delay, comply with its statutory duties in the future, apply for extensions when necessary, provide updates to applicants if deadlines are missed, provide periodic partial disclosure when appropriate, and provide a final response to the request within 10 business days of receipt of this Report.

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-046 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will announce recipients of the annual Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program tomorrow (Tuesday, October 22) at 1:30 p.m. in the East Block of Confederation Building in St. John’s. Minister Parsons will be joined by the Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

The Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program supports Newfoundland and Labrador’s Indigenous Governments and Organizations in their efforts to prevent violence against Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Provincial Government to Announce Recipients of Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants appeared first on News Releases.