Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister of Women and Gender Equality, will bring greetings at an International Women’s Day luncheon hosted by PerSIStence Theatre Company on Friday, April 5.

The event takes place at The Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s, beginning at 12:00 p.m.

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The Provincial Government is providing support to an innovative health tech startup in Western Newfoundland that is developing a solution for a common medical problem.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced $149,000 in funding for Swiftsure Innovations Inc. The province’s investment helps to leverage a $210,000 contribution from Swiftsure, for total project funding of $359,000.

The Provincial Government’s investment will support the second stage in the company’s development of its novel and complete oral care system for ventilated patients, named SwishKit. The system aims to reduce the risk of Ventilator Acquired Pneumonia by providing a safe and effective method for cleaning the nasal and oral cavities of patients on life support while minimizing secondary infection risk.

This investment in Swiftsure supports the Provincial Government’s Business Innovation Agenda as the technical capacity of a local company will be enhanced to produce an end product which has export potential.

The project creates a new position for a Clinical Study Coordinator that will be based out of Corner Brook. Through the Provincial Government’s Research and Development Funding program, applicants can receive financial support that reduces the technical and financial risk of research and development projects where R&D is required to realize the commercial potential of innovative products, processes or services.

Quotes
“Our provincial government was an early investor in Swiftsure and we are pleased to continue that support as they work to bring their SwishKit product to market. Swiftsure’s founder Deanne McCarthy is a great example of how one person with a novel idea can turn that into a successful business.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Investing in health tech startups helps to reshape and reimagine the future of health care delivery. Our government is committed to providing accessible health care and, through this technology advancement, the company is working to improve health outcomes, and enhancing overall well-being. This funding will help to stimulate economic growth but also foster healthier, more resilient communities.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“I am very pleased that the province is investing in an innovative health care company in Western Newfoundland. This will allow Swiftsure to develop a very important medical care system and help grow the economy of the region.”
Scott Reid
MHA for St. George’s-Humber

“The funding from the Department of IET will support our second clinical study at the Cleveland Clinic, providing Swiftsure the ability to generate clinical evidence required for widespread commercial adoption of our flagship product, the SwishKit. We believe the simple act of rinsing the mouth of patients on life support will improve objective and measurable patient outcomes, decrease healthcare costs, and enhance patient comfort.”
Deanne McCarthy, RN
Founder and CEO, Swiftsure

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Research and Development

Swiftsure

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The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, announced approximately $84,000 in funding to support mental health and addiction services offered through U-Turn Drop-In Centre.

U-Turn Drop-In Centre provides peer support for people with substance use disorder across the province. It offers in-person, telephone-based and online individual support, as well as in-person and online self-help support groups and education groups weekly.

The funding will allow U-Turn to continue to provide peer support opportunities for individuals attending in-patient addictions treatment at the Grace Centre and Humberwood and help make connections for their after-care.

More information about the U-Turn program that supports individuals living with addiction as they continue working towards recovery can be found online.

Supporting U-Turn Drop-In Centre aligns with recommendations from Towards Recovery and the Provincial Alcohol Action Plan to further improve collaboration among mental health and addictions stakeholders and increase mental health literacy and awareness of programs and services available throughout the province.

Quotes
“We recognize the invaluable contribution of U-Turn in the delivery of mental health and addictions programming. This funding helps ensure the centre can continue to offer a very unique and much needed peer support service for individuals working towards recovery and improving wellness.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Over the last number of years, I have witnessed the coming together of officials from the Department of Health and Community Services, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, community groups, Indigenous communities, and people living for the sole purpose of working towards the wellness of people within our beautiful province of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Jeff Bourne
Executive Director

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Provincial Alcohol Action Plan

Towards Recovery

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Folk musicians from across the country will come together in St. John’s this weekend to celebrate the 2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards. From April 3-7, the capital city will be infused with musicality, including special showcases and two award shows.

Throughout the weekend, showcases will include Folk For Families (a family friendly music showcase); Songs and Stories – Songwriter Showcase; Music NL Showcase; and Tradworks – Traditional and Global Roots Showcase.

The award shows, taking place on Saturday, April 6, and Sunday, April 7, at the Majestic Theatre, will feature performances by artists from this province, along with artists from Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec.

Members of the public are welcome to attend these events and tickets can be purchased through the Canadian Folk Music Awards website.

As part of the Year of the Arts, Celebrate NL provided $63,500 in funding support to host the 2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards. In addition, Celebrate NL has partnered with the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society to support a Folk Night to welcome artists and delegates. This event will take place tonight, April 3, at the Ship Pub in St. John’s.

The Canadian Folk Music Awards’ mission is to celebrate and promote Canadian folk music in all its forms. The events of the awards weekend will capture the true heart of the folk community, while celebrating the nominees and the category recipients.

Quotes
“I cannot think of a better year for Newfoundland and Labrador to host the Canadian Folk Music Awards than during 2024 – the Year of the Arts in our beautiful province. It is an excellent fit for the Year of the Arts as it celebrates both artists and the vibrancy they bring to our communities. I wish all nominees the best of luck.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Provincial Government, through Celebrate NL, is a proud partner in bringing the Canadian Folk Music Awards to St. John’s. It marks a triumphant return to Newfoundland and Labrador for the first time since 2008 and will have positive social, cultural, and economic impacts on the province. Congratulations to the organizers and nominees.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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CFMA 2024 – Canadian Folk Music Awards (folkawards.ca)

Year of The Arts

Celebrate NL

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The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Labour, is attending the annual ministers’ meeting of the Canadian Association of Administrators of Labour Legislation from April 4-5.

The meeting is being held at the Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport, Richmond, B.C.

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On April 3, 1925, women in what was then known as the Dominion of Newfoundland gained the right to vote and hold public office for the first time. This was made possible after years of campaigning by suffragists, who worked tirelessly to make their voices heard and their votes count.

The first general election in which women were able to participate occurred in 1928. In that election, 90 per cent of eligible women voters cast ballots.

Leading the Newfoundland suffrage movement in the 1920s was Armine Nutting Gosling, a pioneer in social reform and feminism. In 2023, PerSIStence Theatre Company started the Raise Her Up fundraising campaign to have a statue of Gosling erected in St. John’s.

The Provincial Government has provided $40,000 to this cause. The statue will become the third named statue of a woman in Newfoundland and Labrador, joining statues of Shanawdithit in Boyd’s Cove and Amelia Earhart in Harbour Grace. Local sculptor Sheila Coultas will also be the first woman in Newfoundland and Labrador to design a public statue.

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“Reflecting on the anniversary of women gaining the right to vote, we recognize not just this milestone, but also the progress made in advancing women’s empowerment and the challenges that still exist in achieving inclusivity and gender equality.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for the Office of Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more
Provincial Government Provides Funding Support to Raise First Statue of a Historical Woman in St. John’s

Office of Women and Gender Equality

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-014 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-2024-014 Report Date: March 28, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made an access 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 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 of receipt of this Report.

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

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The Chief Medical Officer of Health is reminding Newfoundlanders and Labradorians of the importance of practicing eye safety when viewing the upcoming solar eclipse.

On April 8, 2024, a solar eclipse will occur, visible over much of Canada, the United States and Mexico. In Newfoundland and Labrador, a total solar eclipse will be visible across the centre of the island, including Bonavista, Terra Nova National Park and Codroy Valley, with other areas experiencing a partial eclipse.

Avoid looking at the eclipse with the naked eye, as it can cause permanent eye damage, including vision loss. Safe viewing tips include wearing solar eclipse glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2 standard for the entire duration of the eclipse. Only the sun should be visible through these glasses.

If unable to obtain eclipse glasses, use indirect viewing methods such as an eclipse projector or watching online.

Ensure children and vulnerable individuals follow these guidelines. If you experience vision problems or eye pain after viewing the eclipse, seek immediate medical attention from an optometrist or primary care provider. You may also contact 811 for advice.

For more information, visit the Canadian Space Agency’s website or view details of viewing the solar eclipse in your community.

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To support the effective, sustained and timely transition to a green economy, and to realize the province’s net zero goals, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced the first two projects to receive funding from the Green Transition Fund. The combined investment in two projects totals just over $349,000.

The St. John’s International Airport Authority will receive an investment of $215,100 which will assist it in obtaining Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation. The Airport Carbon Accreditation program is the only internationally recognized, airport-specific certification for carbon management. It is a voluntary program and will enable the airport to reduce operating costs and increase resilience to future disruptions.

Aspects of the project include development of a carbon management plan, completion of a greenhouse gas inventory, and energy retrofits to several buildings.

Larch Grove Farm Ltd., located in Cormack, has a herd of 225 Holstein cows which produce 2.5 million litres of milk annually. The farm is constructing an energy-efficient dairy facility and is receiving $134,737 from the Green Transition Fund towards that project. The funding will assist in covering the costs of a new feed pusher, bedding system, manure removal equipment and alley scrapers.

This project includes upgrades and improvements to the farm’s operation that will lead to positive impacts in terms of methane outputs, greenhouse gas emissions, nutrient management, recycling of products, reduction in energy consumptions, energy efficiencies and adoptions of advanced modern technology.

The Green Transition Fund provides support to projects for businesses, organizations, post-secondary institutions and industry associations, as well as other collaborative efforts to assist with the province’s transition to a green economy. The program will de-risk commercial and non-commercial activities that facilitate collaboration, investment, and industry growth required for the transition.

As part of the restructuring of its agreement with the Provincial Government in May 2022 to restart the West White Rose project, project partners committed $100 million to establish the Green Transition Fund. The annual payment began at $6 million in 2023 and will increase to $12 million in 2034-35.

Quotes
“These first investments from the Green Transition Fund show that Newfoundland and Labrador businesses and organizations understand the importance of decarbonization and are leading the way in taking steps to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting a green economy across the entire province is important, and these first projects show that there’s an opportunity to make our province more sustainable in every corner. My department is proud to support these industry leaders, and we look forward to helping more businesses aim for net-zero goals with assistance from the fund.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Every agriculture project funded under programs like the Green Transition Fund, the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, and the Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program provides an opportunity for a farm enterprise to grow and thrive. By enhancing environmental sustainability and stewardship, and helping farmers and producers adapt to climate change, we continue to build a strong and vibrant dairy sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“As a major community stakeholder and provincial economic driver, the St. John’s International Airport Authority is committed to responsible environmental stewardship. This important funding enables our airport to set the stage for several immediate energy reduction projects, as well as the creation of a comprehensive carbon management plan. We thank our provincial government partner for recognizing and supporting the value in these initiatives.”
Dennis Hogan
Chief Executive Officer, St. John’s International Airport Authority

“Reducing environmental impacts and adopting technologies for sustainable dairy farming is an on-going effort and priority for Larch Grove Farm. Recent green transitions made on the farm have already led to a reduction in emissions and energy, cost savings and healthier animals that produce quality milk. We applaud Industry, Energy and Technology for supporting farmers as they work towards reducing their carbon footprints for future generations.”
Ian Richardson
Larch Grove Farm

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Green Transition Fund

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The Provincial Government has partnered with the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association (NLCA) to establish a new staff position aimed at fostering collaboration between the construction industry and municipalities across the province.

Supported by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure and working closely with the NLCA, the new Municipal Industry Training Coordinator will be responsible for developing, implementing and managing training programs tailored to meet the specific needs of municipal employees undertaking municipal infrastructure projects in the province.

The Municipal Industry Training Coordinator position is the first of its kind in Newfoundland and Labrador, representing a significant step towards enhancing infrastructure development in communities across the province, including many of the projects outlined in Budget 2024.

More information on this position, including the application process, will become available at the upcoming NLCA Build 2024 Expo taking place May 8 and 9. The 2024 Build Expo continues to be a venue for municipalities to connect with leaders in Newfoundland and Labrador’s construction industry and gain insights into the latest industry developments and their applications.

Quotes
“Our government is proud to support initiatives that strengthen our province’s infrastructure and foster collaboration between the construction industry and municipalities. This new position will play a vital role in ensuring that municipal employees have the necessary skills and training to successfully undertake infrastructure projects.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The creation of this position is a reflection of the partnership between government and industry. We are committed to connecting members with potential projects, and this new staff position will further enhance our ability to do so.”
Rhonda Neary
President/Chief Operating Officer, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association

“We are excited about the opportunities that this partnership will bring to our members and the construction industry as a whole. By working together, we can drive innovation and construction in Newfoundland and Labrador, ultimately benefiting our communities and economy.”
Derek Brown
Board Chair, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association

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Motorists on the Northern Peninsula are advised to use caution on the roadway between Eddies Cove East and St. Anthony Airport. A large portion of the St. Anthony caribou herd has overwintered in this area.

The herd’s daily movements are increasing as caribou trek from winter to spring ranges, requiring them to cross roadways and making them vulnerable to traffic.

Motorists are reminded to:

• Scan both sides of the highway and encourage passengers to watch for caribou.
• Pay attention to caribou warning signs.
• Avoid driving at dusk and dawn when caribou are more common near highways.
• Reduce speeds when driving at night when caribou are more difficult to see.

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-013 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 http://www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2024-013 Report Date: March 28, 2024 Public Body: Town of Musgrave Harbour Summary: The Complainant made a request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to the Town of Musgrave Harbour for records relating to legal costs. The Town did not respond to the request, or to the complaint filed by the Complainant. The Commissioner concluded that the Town had failed to comply with its statutory obligations and recommended that the Town respond to the access request, providing all records responsive to the request, subject to any necessary redactions.

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

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Nominations are now open for the 2024 Seniors of Distinction Awards, which recognize the contributions and achievements of older Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The deadline for submissions is May 17, 2024.

To be eligible, a senior must be:

• nominated by an individual or group.
• 50 years of age or older.
• a current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Awards are presented to individuals and seniors may be nominated if they have made notable contributions through paid or volunteer work activities. As well, nominations from previous years will be considered at the request of a nominator or nominee and posthumous awards may be given.

More information about Seniors of Distinction Awards and/or a nomination package can be found here, or by calling toll free 1-888-494-2266.

Quotes
“Seniors and older adults have and continue to strengthen and enrich our communities with their knowledge, skills, dedication and lifelong perseverance. Today, we invite all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to take the opportunity to honour and celebrate seniors for their legacy and contributions by nominating them for the prestigious Seniors of Distinction Award.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“We see examples everyday of seniors making a difference in communities throughout our province, our country and around the world. The annual Seniors of Distinction Awards provide a fitting tribute to older Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who dedicate their time and talents to contribute to the social and cultural fabric and overall well-being of communities near and far.”
Josh Carey
Vice-Chair, Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors

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Seniors of Distinction Awards

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Effective Tuesday, April 2, several forest access roads in the Point Leamington, Botwood, Lewisporte, Glenwood, Birchy Bay, Gander Bay, Gambo and Glovertown areas will be temporarily closed to vehicle traffic until further notice. Signage will be posted at gates leading to closed roads.

Temporary closures at this time of year are required to protect forest access roads from damage during the spring thawing period. Roads will remain open for snowmobile and ATV use.

Roads scheduled for temporary closure include:

• Salmon Pond Access Road
• Birchy Bay Access Road
• Clarke’s Head Access Road
• Otter Pond Access Road
• Shipbuilder’s Pond Access Road
• Stoneville Access Road
• Osmonton Arm Access Road
• Diver Pond Access Road
• Southern Lake Access Road
• Burnt Bay Lake Access Road
• Wings Point Access Road
• Neil’s Brook Access Road
• Rod and Gun Club Access Road
• Island Pond Access Road
• Second Pond Access Road
• Chapel’s Island Access Road
• Mint Brook Forest Access Road
• Drover’s Ridge Forest Access Road
• Northwest Pond Forest Access Road
• Weir’s Pond Forest Access Road
• Kinden’s Ridge Forest Access Road

For further information regarding forest access road closures, please contact the Lewisporte Forest Management Office at 709-541-0214 for areas west of the Gander River, or the Gambo Forest Management Office at 709-674-1521 for areas east of the Gander River.

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In keeping with the Provincial Government’s commitment to work with companies interested in wind-hydrogen development, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced that a Contingent-Wind Energy Land Reserve has been established for Argentia Renewables Wind LP (Pattern).

Pattern, a 100 per cent owned affiliate of Pattern Energy, has publicly outlined it had been pursuing its own project with the Port of Argentia outside of the call for bids process which was announced by the Provincial Government last August. A Contingent-Wind Energy Land Reserve of approximately 2,453 hectares has been established to allow Pattern to apply for Crown land within this limited reserve should it be required for its 300 megawatt project.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology will only consider recommending these reserve lands for Crown lands applications in circumstances where it can be demonstrated that the request is a result of area constraints. This can be identified either by the company through its project development and site assessment, or by the Provincial Government through processes such as the Environmental Assessment process.

These lands represent less than 0.5 per cent of the lands included in the four reserves established through the Call for Bids Process. They will be held in reserve for the company for a period of 18 months or until the company makes an application to the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture for the lands required for contingent turbine positions for its current project, whichever occurs earlier.

The potential wind project remains subject to the province’s legislative and regulatory framework. The issuance of a wind energy land reserve consideration letter is distinct and separate from the Crown lands application and approval process, as well as the Environmental Assessment process.

The company will be required to submit a Benefits Plan and a Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan for the project that meets the approval of the province and must be approved prior to the commencement of project construction. The company’s project will be subject to the Province’s Wind-Hydrogen Fiscal Framework, which was announced in February 2023.

Quote
“Pattern’s project is expected to be developed within its own private land. However, this wind reserve consideration letter provides an option should they require additional land for contingency. We are committed to continuing to work with the companies that were not successful in the initial call for bids and remain optimistic about wind-hydrogen development in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Releases Wind-Hydrogen Fiscal Framework

Renewable Energy Plan: Maximizing Our Renewable Future

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On April 1, 1949 – 75 years ago today – the people of this province awoke as Canadian citizens.

To celebrate this momentous anniversary, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has a series of commemorations planned over the coming months.

Beginning today, the Confederation 75 flag will fly on the courtesy pole outside Confederation Building for 75 days.

The Confederation 75 Celebration Grant Program is supporting communities and heritage/Indigenous organizations in planning their own commemorative activities and celebrations.

This upcoming season, all Provincial Historic Sites will offer free admission to Newfoundland and Labrador residents who are 75 years of age and older.

One such Provincial Historic Site is the Colonial Building, the location of Newfoundland and Labrador’s first House of Assembly. Colonial Building will have special Confederation 75 programming this season, including:

• Opera on the Avalon’s 75×75, which will feature a multimedia exhibit and programming.
• Special performances of Confederation themed plays, including Last Living Father and The Vote (which will also be delivered at Mockbeggar Plantation Provincial Historic Site in Bonavista).
• A Confederation Speaker Series (which will also be featured at Mockbeggar Plantation Provincial Historic Site in Bonavista).
• A Confederation Film Evening (featuring movies such as The Little Fellow from Gambo).
• A programming partnership with the Newfoundland and Labrador Historical Society – 52-48: Seventy-Five Years of Confederation, its Impact, and its Legacy.
• A partnership with Heritage NL on a Confederation 75 oral history project featuring interviews with individuals who lived through the debates, votes and early years of Confederation.

The House of Assembly will also offer Confederation 75 programming, including a Teacher’s Institute offering professional development and learning opportunities for educators focused on democracy, governance and citizenship. Additionally, there will be a regional tour of the House of Assembly Mace, including visits to schools and broader community events.

In addition, the Provincial Government is offering educational opportunities for students in the province related to the 75th anniversary of Confederation. In partnership with the Department of Education, Confederation 75 educational resource packages will be offered to schools. As well, Confederation 75 scholarships will be presented to 75 Grade 12 students in the province.

Quotes
“With the 75th anniversary of our Confederation with Canada comes much to celebrate and much to reflect on. There is no doubt that the decision to join Canada in 1949 was the right one. Equally, there is no doubt that we are significant contributors to our country, helping make Canada the strong country it is today. I hope all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians take some time to reflect on what it means to be Canadian and how lucky we are to live in a country that values freedom, diversity and inclusion.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“This year, through programming at our Provincial Historic Sites, the Colonial Building in particular, we will help tell the story of Confederation. We have also been administering Confederation 75 Celebration Grants to municipalities and heritage/Indigenous organizations across the province to help them celebrate the occasion. Of course, Confederation 75 license plates are now in circulation and Confederation 75 medals will be recognizing those people in our communities who contribute to making Newfoundland and Labrador a better place to live.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“It is important that students continue to learn about the history of our beautiful province and the impact of Confederation. Our government is pleased to provide Confederation 75 educational resources to schools, and to mark the 75th anniversary of Confederation with scholarships that will support recipient students as they continue their educational journey.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Premier Furey Announces Initiatives to Commemorate 75th Anniversary of Confederation

Opera on the Avalon’s 75×75

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Motorists are advised that a section of Highway 460, located on the Port-au-Port Peninsula, has been impacted by severe flooding and washouts. At this time, Highway 460 is closed in both directions from Marches Point to De Grau.

Transportation and Infrastructure officials, engineers and contractors are on site today (Saturday, March 30, 2024) to assess damage, make appropriate repairs and determine alternate routes where necessary. Motorists are encouraged to use extreme caution in the area, and to check NL 511 via the mobile app, nl511.ca or call 511 for updated driving conditions.

The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is currently activated to Level 1 – Enhanced Monitoring. Necessary partners are engaged, and the situation continues to be monitored.

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 The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced $30,000 to support Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre’s 2SLGBTQQIA+ Warm Line.

The funding is provided under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, a four-year bilateral agreement the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador signed with Women and Gender Equality Canada, resulting in $13.6 million in new funding to invest in violence-prevention-related initiatives throughout the province.

Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre is a non-profit organization serving all regions of the province. The Warm Line is a free, confidential and inclusive, volunteer peer-support service run by and for members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, providing a safe space for people to talk through problems and concerns, including experiences with gender-based violence.

The Warm Line operates from Wednesday to Sunday, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Those needing to access the line should call or text 1-800-230-8041.

Quotes
“The Provincial Government is pleased to provide financial support to Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre for their Warm Line, which offers a crucial safe space for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community to talk to their peers. In this space, voices are heard, hurts are acknowledged, and healing begins.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. We believe everyone deserves a safe space to express their feelings and concerns, and we are so thankful to the Provincial Government for this support.”
Nikki Baldwin
Executive Director, Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre

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Learn more
National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence

Office of Women and Gender Equality

Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre

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Applications are now being accepted for the 2024-25 Active NL Fund. Funding is available to support community-based active living initiatives, infrastructure or equipment that will help directly increase physical activity, sport, and active recreation for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Not-for-profit community-based groups and organizations, municipalities, Indigenous Governments, Local Service Districts and schools are eligible for funding. Applications will be accepted up to and including September 30, 2024.

Approximately $800,000 was allocated to this program in 2023, bringing the total funding available to $2,590,000.

Those interested in applying for Active NL funding are encouraged to carefully review the program guidelines to determine eligibility of applicants, infrastructure projects, equipment and initiatives.

The Active NL Fund is designed to support active living, contributing to the physical, mental and social wellbeing of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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“The Active NL fund is an excellent way for communities to increase capacity for new, ongoing and innovative ways to engage in active, healthy lifestyles. In previous years, the fund has supported improvements to walking trails, playground equipment, community gardens, physical activity programs and more. These are excellent ways to engage residents and encourage people to lead more active lives. I look forward seeing the variety of project proposals that come in over the coming weeks and months.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Active NL Fund Guidelines

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The post Active NL Fund Applications Now Being Accepted appeared first on News Releases.

The Labrador Flag – a symbol of the history, heritage and identity of the Big Land – is celebrating its 50th anniversary this Sunday, March 31, 2024.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Labrador Flag, Confederation Building will be illuminated in the colours of the flag from Friday to Sunday. The Labrador flag will also be flown at Confederation Building this weekend.

The idea for a Labrador flag was conceived in 1973 when the Provincial Government asked citizens to adopt special projects to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the province’s Confederation with Canada in 1949. Michael S. Martin of Cartwright, who represented the district of Labrador South in the House of Assembly from 1972-75, saw an opportunity to create a representation of Labrador’s geography, diverse cultures, and its people.

Efforts focused on designing a flag to celebrate the significance of Labrador’s heritage, which resulted in the creation of a design for a flag. In early 1974, 64 flags were produced – one for each of the 59 towns and villages in Labrador, one for each of the three Members of the House of Assembly, and two for the Martin family.

The flags were sent to communities with a request to fly or display the flag on March 31, 1974. Shortly thereafter, at Mr. Martin’s request, the Labrador Heritage Society secured ownership and copyright of the design.

In 2015, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador adopted a policy concerning the Labrador flag. The policy provided direction for the flag to be flown at the Labrador/Quebec border crossings near L’Anse au Clair and Labrador City, at Provincial-Government-owned and leased buildings, and for display purposes during Provincial Government events in Labrador.

In 2016, elected officials and area residents participated in a ceremony at Labrador West to celebrate and raise the Labrador flag at the Quebec-Labrador border.

The Provincial Government, in collaboration with community partners, is planning events in the coming months to mark the 50th anniversary of the Labrador flag.

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“The Labrador flag is an iconic symbol that celebrates the rich culture, traditions and spectacular landscape that makes Labrador so unique. We join in celebrating the special connection and passion that Labradorians have with a flag that has reached a significant milestone.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Labrador flag is more than just a piece of cloth. It is a powerful embodiment of our Labrador history and our identity as a people. May it continue to inspire generations to come and serve as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond that ties us together as Labradorians.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair

“Labradorians have a strong attachment to their Labrador flag. There is no other image or symbol that unites areas and the people of Labrador like the Labrador flag. The flag has and will continue to be a source of great pride for everyone in the Big Land.”
Ernie McLean
President, Labrador Heritage Society

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The Labrador Flag

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BACKGROUNDER

Elements of the Labrador Flag
“The top white bar of the flag represents the snows, the one element which, more than any other, coloured our culture and dictated our lifestyle. The bottom blue bar represents the waters of our rivers, lakes and oceans. The waters, like the snows of winter, have been our highways and nurtured our fish and wildlife that was our sustenance and the basis of our economy. The centre green bar represents the land – the green and bountiful land, which is the connecting element that unites our three diverse cultures.

“The twig of the black spruce tree, in two year-growths, represents the past and the future. The shorter growth of the inner twigs represents the hard times of the past, while the longer outer twigs speak of our hopes for the future. The twig is typically in three branches and represents here the three original founding races of modern Labrador – the Innu, the Inuit and the white settler. The three branches emerging from a common stalk represents the commonality of all humankind regardless of race.”

Source: Michael S. Martin, 2002

Labrador Flag Connections

The flag of the Nunatsiavut Government was initially adopted in the early 1970s by the Labrador Inuit Association. It features a white, green and blue inukshuk reproduced in the colours of the Labrador flag.

 

The Franco-Newfoundlander flag, adopted in 1986, includes a spruce twig, which is featured on the Labrador flag.

The post Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Labrador Flag appeared first on News Releases.