Government of Newfoundland News

Effective today, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure will officially switch from summer operations to winter operations for the year. Winter readiness involves the process of hiring and recalling more than 400 seasonal heavy equipment operators, management and staff.

Annual inspections, plow installation and spreader calibrations are currently being carried out by departmental mechanics who are preparing the fleet of 463 snow plows and loaders for winter operations. Additionally, winter salt and sand has been procured at a cost of $38 million and distributed to all 67 depots throughout the province.

Budget 2023 allocated an additional $4.25 million to procure more equipment to support road maintenance operations, including loaders and tractor trucks, as well as new medium-duty plow and spreader trucks for local roads. Government has also committed an additional $25 million per year over the next five years for a heavy fleet renewal program, representing the largest ever multi-year investment in new equipment to ensure a safe and reliable road network.

Through a multi-year tender, the department has also ordered 44 new tandem axle plow trucks at a value of $16.6 million. These trucks are currently being manufactured and will be delivered next year. The department will continue to order more trucks and equipment over each year of this multi-year commitment.

The changeover to the winter season also presents an opportunity to remind the motoring public to be winter ready. Motorists should slow down and adjust their driving habits to be prepared for changes in weather, icy patches, slushy sections, snow covered sections and poor visibility. It is recommended that motorists should:

• Check nl511.ca or the 511 smartphone app for highway driving conditions and the Provincial Plow Tracker before travelling;
• Check the latest Environment Canada forecasts; and
• Slow down and drive to conditions.

Quote
“As the colder inclement weather approaches, our staff have been working hard to ensure our fleet is ready for the winter season ahead. While we improve services for the safety of all highway travelers in our province, I also want to remind motorists the best way to ensure safety is to slow down, drive to conditions and ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for winter driving.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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Co-operative enterprises benefit communities by instilling local resilience and participation, as well as more local spending, creativity and development. The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, has proclaimed October 15 to October 21 as Co-op Week throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Co-operative’s are an innovative business model used to support a variety of opportunities. Minister Parsons was joined today by Shannon Fraser, Vice-President of the Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives (NLFC) to sign a proclamation at the Confederation Building.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology works closely with co-operatives in an effort to help individuals and purpose-led businesses start, grow and make a meaningful impact. Through its work with the NLFC and co-operatives in the province, the department aims to build strong community-based enterprises that nurture the sustainability of communities throughout the province.

Earlier this year, a Memorandum of Understanding was renewed between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the NLFC. This MOU focused on research and opportunity identification, training, financing and public awareness and support. This is part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to advance co-operative development in the province.

Through the Community Capacity Building program, as well as the Regional Development Program, the department supports co-operatives and other community-based economic development organizations to enhance skills and implement projects essential to regional economic planning and development. Groups interested in learning more about the co-operative business model and available opportunities should contact their local Industry Energy and Technology office.

The purpose of National Co-op Week is to both reflect on the contributions the co-operative sector has made to the lives of Canadians and celebrate the impact that co-operatives have in our communities.

Quotes
“I applaud the co-operatives and social enterprises that are leading the way in community economic development throughout the province. Through our partnership with the NLFC, we will continue to support and promote the co-operative business model to help individuals and purpose-led businesses start, grow and make a meaningful impact.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“For 75 years, the Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Co-operatives has been supporting the co-operatives of our province representing over 100,000 members! This Co-op Week, we assert that ‘CO-OP’S MEAN BUSINESS!’ While driven by social benefits like quality of life for members and their shared communities, economic goals of profitability and providing jobs are equally prioritized. Co-operative businesses are ensuring a future for our province!”
Dave Walsh
Managing Director, Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

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Learn more
Community Capacity Building

Social Enterprise Action Plan

Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives

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October 17 is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, a day established by the United Nations to promote understanding and dialogue between people living in poverty and the wider society. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador joins global communities and partners in recognizing and reaffirming solidarities and commitments to address and eradicate poverty and all forms of discrimination and inequality.

This year’s theme, “Dignity for All in Practice,” highlights poverty as a multidimensional phenomenon that encompasses both a lack of income and the basic capabilities to live in dignity.

The Provincial Government recognizes the current challenges experienced in Newfoundland and Labrador, the country and around the world. Since March 2022, more than half a billion dollars has been invested in targeted initiatives focused on helping residents with global increases in the cost of living, particularly those experiencing poverty. These include:

• Increasing the Newfoundland and Labrador Income Supplement, supporting approximately 162,000 individuals and families annually;
• Increasing the Seniors’ Benefit, supporting approximately 50,000 seniors aged 65 or older and their families annually;
• Investing a record high $140 million to provide access to safe and affordable housing, and an additional $65 million for a new five-point plan to incentivize the rapid construction of new housing options;
• Implementing a five per cent increase in the Income Support basic rate; benefitting approximately 20,500 eligible households;
• Implementing a targeted Basic Income Program for youth receiving residential services under the Youth Services Program;
• Launching and expanding the Employment Stability Pilot for people in receipt of Income Support province-wide;
• Enhancing the Pre-Natal Infant Nutrition Supplement to provide a monthly benefit of $150 for low income pregnant people/families with children under one, and a one-time payment of $150 during the baby’s birth month;
• Maintaining the home heating supplement, which provides up to $500 to residents who currently rely on furnace or stove oil to heat their home;
• Increasing the Minimum Wage and bringing the rate up to $15.00 per hour on October 1, 2023; and
• Making child care more affordable, from roughly $40 a day in 2020 to $10 a day today.

In addition to these measures, the Provincial Government is continuing to explore options to better meet the needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Quote
“The United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is an important opportunity to reflect on our collective responsibility to eliminate poverty and to ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities and supports they need to achieve their full potential. As a government, we remain fully committed to working collaboratively with our federal and community partners and prioritizing investments to support the overall well-being of the people of our province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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Learn more
Budget 2023: Accessible, Inclusive and Healthy Communities

Provincial Government Issues Request for Quotations for Repairs to Vacant Units

Provincial Government to Increase Income Support Basic Rate

Provincial Government Expands the Employment Stability Pilot

Provincial Government Announces New Basic Income Program for Youth Receiving Residential Services

Home Heating Supplement Program (Furnace and Stove Oil) Open for Applications

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, are today recognizing and congratulating two teachers who received the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence, and three teachers being recognized with certificates of achievements.

Margaret Reha-Taylor and Jill Rose, both teachers at Waterford Valley High in St. John’s, are the 2023 recipients of a Certificate of Excellence for their Mentoring Initiative project. They created and launched an initiative that provides students with more opportunities to work on projects they are deeply passionate about. Passion projects promote curiosity and are inquiry-based, a chance to self-direct learning and develop life-long skills.

Lisa Watts Cobb and Roxanne Penney, both educators at Beachy Cove Elementary in Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s, were recognized with a Certificate of Achievement for their dedication to develop reading and writing skills with all students at their school while creating an enriching learning experience for everyone and the community as a whole.

Heidi Kavanagh, a teacher at Holy Trinity High School in Torbay, received a Certificate of Achievement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) for her “Hands on, Minds on” engagement through science by connecting science with direct experience and reflection to transmit knowledge, develop skills, strengthen values and develop capacity to contribute to the community.

The Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence honour teachers across Canada for their remarkable achievements in education and for their commitment to preparing students for a digital and innovation-based economy. These awards have honoured exceptional elementary and secondary school teachers in all disciplines since 1994, with over 1,600 teachers honoured to date.

A complete list of award recipients and bios can be found here.

Quotes
“Educators in Newfoundland and Labrador always put their students first and find innovative ways to ensure they receive a quality education in the classroom. I congratulate this year’s recipients of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence on receiving this honour, and applaud their creativity and commitment to education.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Congratulations to this year’s recipients for their dedication and commitment to students in our province. As teachers, you have an integral role in shaping their minds and providing encouragement every day to children and young adults, who are the future leaders of our province.”
Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and Teaching Excellence in STEM

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will bring greetings at the opening night of the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival this evening (Tuesday, October 17).

The event takes place at The Majestic Theatre, 390 Duckworth Street, St. John’s, beginning with a red carpet reception from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Minister Crocker will address the audience before the screening of the feature film ‘Party Pirate’, directed by Newfoundland and Labrador filmmaker Ruth Lawrence.

The 34th annual St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival runs from October 17 to 21, 2023.

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The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation:

Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the pillars of Newfoundland and Labrador’s successful film and television industry.

Since 1989, the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival has been leading with a bold vision to create gender equity in the screen arts, and it is now recognized as a marquee event within the Canadian film industry.

I would like to congratulate the festival’s board of directors and staff for their tireless commitment to providing a platform for women and gender-diverse artists to share their perspectives, and also for shining the spotlight on our province’s unique arts and culture.

The festival also provides invaluable opportunities for learning and networking for those who are seeking to develop their craft.

Speaker, the 2023 Festival opens tonight and the lineup of feature-length and short films is nothing short of spectacular – films from around the world that are not only entertaining, but also inspiring, informative and thought-provoking.

Headlining this year is Party Pirate, directed by our province’s own Ruth Lawrence and written by her son Luke.

I would also like to congratulate Dr. Noreen Golfman, O.N.L., one of the festival’s founding directors and vice-chair of Picture NL, on being invested into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s festival runs until October 21 and I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the shows!

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A family care team now established in the Eastern Rural Zone is accepting patients. The team, located in Clarenville, is one of 14 teams increasing access to primary care in Newfoundland and Labrador.

To date, 19 family care teams have been announced and the number of people rostered with family care team has risen from approximately 28,000 people in March 2023 to more than 49,000 as of September 2023. In addition, the number of health care professionals employed with family care teams has grown from 100 in April to 196 in September.

The team is located at 105 Manitoba Drive and is operational Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., by appointment only.

Patients who do not have access to a primary care provider such as a family physician or a nurse practitioner can register to be seen at the family care team clinic through the Patient Connect NL website at https://patientconnect.nlchi.nl.ca/ or via phone at 1-833-913-4679. Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services will work to assign those who register to a family care team when one becomes available in their area.

Residents will be contacted by someone from the clinic to book an appointment. There may be a waiting period from the time that patients register to the time when they receive an appointment with the clinic.

Family care teams are aligned with recommendations from Health Accord NL, and represent a new vision of team-based care to transform our primary health care system. They improve access to primary health care for individuals and families and offer access to multiple health care professionals, including:

• Family doctors;
• Nurse practitioners;
• Nurses;
• Social workers;
• Pharmacists; and
• Other allied health professionals.

Family care teams also have clear pathways to connect and affiliate with other health and social services in the communities they serve, and focus on meeting both the health and social needs of individuals and families.

More information on family care teams is available by visiting the Provincial Government’s Health Care Action website.

As part of a record investment in health care, Budget 2023 included $21.2 million to fund 10 teams for 2023-24, along with an eleventh team on the Burin Peninsula. Once fully implemented, these new teams will provide access to primary care for up to 80,000 people.

Quotes
“More and more people are being connected to family care teams as we modernize our province’s health care system by delivering the highest quality of primary care. In a team-based model, health care professionals work together, strengthening patient outcomes and enhancing their overall health and well-being through personalized health care services. By investing in and prioritizing accessible primary health care, we not only improve the well-being of residents, but also bolster the overall health of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We are pleased to announce the implementation of the Clarenville Family Care Team, which is committed to enhancing access to community-based care and attachment to primary care providers. Our goal is to provide a team-based approach to wellness, with care provided by health clinicians including nurse practitioners, registered nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, social workers, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, to name a few. In the Eastern Rural Zone, we are continuously looking for innovative ways to deliver primary care close to home.”
Debbie Walsh
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, NL Health Services, Eastern Rural Zone.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will bring greetings at the Genesis Centre’s Enterprise Program graduation tonight (Tuesday, October 17).

The event is being held at the Emera Innovation Exchange at MUN’s Signal Hill Campus, 100 Signal Hill Road, St. John’s from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Genesis Centre’s Enterprise Program is a three-year incubator program designed to help technology start-ups in growing their business and finding their place in the market. Start-ups accepted to the program have access to a wide range of resources and programs.

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Small Business Week is about highlighting the value and importance of small business owners who contribute to our communities and economy throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The Provincial Government is supporting these businesses through more than $15.4 million in funding since the start of the year. This funding supports small business and economic development, through a variety of programs and services offered by the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology.

Since January 1, 2023, the Provincial Government has provided:

• $5.9 million in Research and Development investments. This included approximately $2.2 million directly to companies, which leveraged a further $4.2 million in partnership funding.
• Almost $6.5 million was approved to support 67 projects through the Regional Development Fund, to assist with community economic development projects, leveraging over $29 million from other partners and sources.
• More than $1.75 million was approved to support 125 projects through the Business Development Support Program, leveraging $3.2 million from clients and other sources.
• Over $1.3 million was approved to support six commercial repayable loans through the Business Investment Program, leveraging almost $1.9 million in additional investments.

Through the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, the Provincial Government provides a wide array of services and financial support to small and medium-sized businesses. This includes counselling, repayable and non-repayable financing options, enterprise promotion and export development.

As Newfoundland and Labrador celebrates Small Business Week from October 15 to October 21, activities are planned across the province to highlight the important contributions of small businesses to the growth of the provincial economy.

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“Small business owners play an integral role in Newfoundland and Labrador’s economic success. The Provincial Government invests significantly in programs and supports for start-up companies, and the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem as we know it creates jobs, contributes to our province’s high quality of life, and plays a big part in both rural and urban communities. It is important that we support small businesses throughout the year and recognize the impact they have on energizing local economies and building communities.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Business Development Support Program

Regional Development Fund

Business Investment Program

Newfoundland and Labrador Association of CBDCs

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Proposed changes to the Aquaculture Act, 2023, will modernize policy and regulations and will provide guidance and direction for growing Newfoundland and Labrador’s aquaculture sector.

Proposed improvements to the legislation would support the orderly development of an environmentally sustainable aquaculture industry, increased public trust, and the establishment of this province as a leader in aquaculture health and production.

The Aquaculture Act, 2023 includes a number of measures to enhance public transparency, biosecurity and aquatic animal health. Regulations under the new Act, if approved, would require aquaculture operators to undertake or implement:

• Increased licensing and operating requirements;
• Formalized aquatic animal health practices;
• Prescribed mitigation and monitoring requirements; and
• Stringent public reporting requirements.

Quote
“Changes to the Aquaculture Act provide a set of strong, modernized policies and regulations that position Newfoundland and Labrador as a respected global leader in aquaculture. I look forward to working with all stakeholders as we continue to grow an environmentally sustainable aquaculture industry throughout the province.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Aquaculture Act, 2023

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In an effort to maximize and accelerate the decarbonization of Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore through the development of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced a new CCUS Innovation Challenge.

Through the CCUS Innovation Challenge, the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is inviting expressions of interest for financial support to qualifying businesses, organizations and researchers engaged in research and development focused on the development of CCUS in Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore. Up to $6 million in Provincial Government funding has been allocated for two streams of work:

• Up to $3 million to support research and development to advance the development of CCUS to decarbonize ongoing oil production in the province’s offshore; and
• Up to $3 million to support studies of the potential and feasibility of the province’s offshore to serve as a regional CCUS hub for the storage of locally and externally-produced carbon dioxide.

To learn more about CCUS, please see the backgrounder below.

The funding can support up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs. Proposals must be submitted jointly by industry and academic partners to promote cooperation between these sectors. Lead applicants must be post-secondary institutions in Newfoundland and Labrador with CCUS research experience, and registered incorporated businesses with at least two years of offshore operations in the province. For more information see the backgrounder below, or contact CCUS@gov.nl.ca.

Premier Furey was joined in making the announcement by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, as well as Dr. Lesley James, a professor with the Memorial University Department of Process Engineering, Kieran Hanley, Chief Executive Officer of econext and Charlene Johnson, Chief Executive Officer with Energy NL.

Offshore CCUS can play a key role in helping Newfoundland and Labrador achieve its greenhouse gas reduction targets. The province’s offshore storage potential could also help other jurisdictions to meet their own emissions reduction targets.

Quotes
“The CCUS Innovation Challenge will help ensure Newfoundland and Labrador’s educational institutions, businesses and workers are at the forefront of this emerging technology, with the goal of creating new, highly-skilled jobs here at home, and solutions that can help Canada and the world to achieve vital decarbonization goals.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“As net zero will not be achieved without large-scale carbon capture technology and storage, offshore carbon storage represents an excellent economic opportunity for Newfoundland and Labrador given its vast offshore storage potential and existing offshore workforce and infrastructure.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Carbon capture and storage has an important role to play in mitigating climate change and attaining our net zero goals. We are pleased to support the CCUS Innovation Challenge as an impactful initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote clean innovation and growth, and support the green economy.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“It is exciting to be part of energy-related research and development efforts. Carbon storage is taking our oil and gas subsurface knowledge and turning it upside down. Engineering wise, it’s exciting to re-think and re-work a complex problem with new objectives and constraints. To educate and train students and ourselves to solve a global greenhouse gas problem and find local innovations and solutions is inspiring.”
Dr. Lesley James
Professor, Memorial University

“Our analysis tells us that net zero by 2050 is not achievable in Newfoundland and Labrador without initiatives that result in negative GHG emissions. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage is a promising technology that can help us – and the world – get there. Therefore, econext is excited about the creation of the CCUS Innovation Challenge. Targeted investments in innovation like the one being made today will help put our province on the leading edge of cleantech development on an international basis.”
Kieran Hanley, CEO
econext

“Carbon capture and storage has the potential to further decarbonize our already lower carbon offshore, while also extending the life cycle of current projects. The CCUS Innovation Challenge is an important way to bring together offshore companies and academic institutions and help move our sector forward. I highly anticipate the role Energy NL members will play in making this exciting initiative a success.”
Charlene Johnson, CEO
Energy NL

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Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Innovation Challenge

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BACKGROUNDER

Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Innovation Challenge

What is carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS)?
Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) involves the capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) generally from large point sources like power generation or industrial facilities that use either fossil fuels or biomass as fuel.

The captured CO2 can be used in a range of applications or permanently stored. The captured CO2 is compressed and transported by pipeline, ship, rail or truck to be used in a range of applications most commonly Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), or permanently stored in deeply buried rocks and sealed off by impermeable layers of rock above. Reaching net zero will require CCUS.

What is the objective of the CCUS Innovation Challenge?
The objective of the CCUS Innovation Challenge is to maximize and accelerate the decarbonization of the offshore through CCUS, and to demonstrate the potential for sequestering externally sourced CO2 in Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore.

The initiative is a cost-shared funding program, through which the Department of Industry, Industry and Technology will contribute a maximum of 50 per cent towards project costs with the remaining balance provided by the proponent either through its own or other sources.

The International Energy Agency estimates that 14 per cent of global CO2 reductions must come from CCUS by 2060. As there are limited locations globally where significant amounts of carbon can be securely stored, there will be a global demand for carbon storage, representing an economic opportunity expected to be worth billions of dollars.

Jurisdictions with existing offshore oil and gas industries have distinct competitive advantages in this regard. This is because they have available and extensive offshore geological data, infrastructure such as platforms that can be repurposed to transport and inject CO2 into offshore reservoirs, and a skilled offshore workforce that requires relatively little training to carry out CCUS activities. Offshore CO2 storage, particularly in deep water areas, also allows for these activities to be conducted in areas that will present minimal disruption to human activities and the environment.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore, which initial estimates suggest has a gigaton-level storage potential for carbon dioxide, is an ideal candidate for the establishment of a significant CCUS industry. A CCUS industry would enable the province to maximize the lifespan of current oil-producing assets by enabling further de-carbonization of existing production activities and storage of imported carbon dioxide. In addition, it would provide a substantial new economic opportunity for the existing offshore infrastructure and workforce for decades to come.

What is involved with the CCUS Innovation Challenge?

This call will focus on two challenges:

• Offshore CCUS to decarbonize existing oil production

The first challenge is focused on the potential of Newfoundland and Labrador’s active offshore fields to facilitate carbon storage to decarbonize existing oil production. This research and development challenge will require active offshore operators and post-secondary institutions in the province to partner to facilitate knowledge transfer and build capacity, as well as to identify how offshore CCUS can contribute to Newfoundland and Labrador’s goal of reducing carbon emissions by 30 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030. The Provincial Government will award up to $3 million to support this challenge.

• The province’s potential to establish an offshore CCUS hub

The second challenge will focus on research and development of CO2 storage and transportation technologies, particularly with regard to the transport of externally sourced CO2, as well as on related scientific activities that advance and enable the characterization and development of safe, cost-effective, and permanent geological storage of CO2. Projects should consider the development of a roadmap for offshore implementation in hub scenarios in the province’s offshore. The Provincial Government will award up to $3 million to support this challenge.

Proposals submitted for funding under the CCUS challenge must demonstrate the potential to deliver technical, economic, and other impacts and benefits, such as:

• Demonstrating the viability of offshore CCUS in Newfoundland and Labrador;
• Furthering the development of knowledge and/or technology that will enable offshore CCUS in the province;
• Facilitating CCUS collaboration between academia and industry in the province;
• Improved awareness of the province’s offshore as a potential solution to help industry and other jurisdictions achieve decarbonization targets;
• Improved awareness of offshore CCUS in the province as a potential business, investment, and employment opportunity; and
• Promoting the province as a leader in offshore CCUS technologies and the green transition.

All proposed work must be completed within a 24-month period from the date that funding is received. At the discretion of the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, limited extensions may be provided in cases where proponents can demonstrate sufficient justification.

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, today announced that the Child Care Demand Portal is now available as a tool to assess and understand the current demand for child care services in the province.

Families or caregivers seeking child care are asked to visit the portal and input information regarding their child care needs. The portal will collect information on the age range of the child, the type of care required and whether the child is currently on a wait list. This information will assist the department to better focus on where space creation is needed most and will guide plans for targeted space creation.

The portal also provides an avenue for parents to be able to submit information if they suspect a regulated or unregulated child care service is not adhering to the Child Care Act and regulations.

The Child Care Demand Portal is the first phase of an Early Learning Gateway, which will be a robust information management system for the Department of Education’s Early Learning and Child Care Division. The Department of Education has started work on the second phase of the approach, which will connect parents in need of child care with child care services that have available space. The department will hold virtual consultations with service providers, early childhood educators and the Minister’s Advisory Committee to help inform the development of this second phase.

The phased in approach for the Early Learning Gateway includes identifying a parent wait list and matching child care spaces, child care services information management, application for grants and internal staff case management.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing high-quality, affordable child care that is accessible throughout the province. There are currently over 8,300 child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or less in the province, with government on track to achieve the creation of 1,000 new spaces in 2023.

Quote
“I encourage parents in need of child care to visit the Child Care Demand Portal and upload their information. We are eager to receive as much data as possible so we can better understand the overall need for child care in all parts of the province. Increasing access to high-quality child care has positive outcomes for the well-being of parents and guardians in the province and we remain focused on meeting the demand.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Child Care Demand Portal

Child Care Act and Regulations

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Digital Government and Service NL reminds the public that as the winter season approaches, motorists should consider having their winter tires installed before road conditions turn to snow and ice. Those who choose to use studded tires may do so as of Wednesday, November 1, 2023.

Motorists are reminded to drive according to weather conditions, ensure tires are in good condition, that brakes, wipers and lights are in working order, and that all fluid levels including windshield wash, antifreeze and oil are checked regularly.

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The post Public Advisory: Studded Tires Permitted as of November 1, 2023 appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will launch a new Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Innovation Challenge in St. John’s tomorrow (Tuesday, October 17).

The event will take place at the Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Memorial University Campus, St. John’s at 10:00 a.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 9:15 a.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Lesley James, professor with the Memorial University Department of Process Engineering, Kieran Hanley, Chief Executive Officer of econext and Charlene Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Energy NL.

Media planning to attend are asked to pre-register via email brodiethomas@gov.nl.ca.

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The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Launch New Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Innovation Challenge appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology:

Speaker, small businesses and cooperatives make a significant contribution to the economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. That is why I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House today to recognize October 15 to October 21 as both Small Business Week and Co-op Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

There are over 15,000 small businesses in this province that create jobs, build stronger communities, and generate a more diversified economy. Our government invests significantly in small businesses through programs and supports for existing businesses, start-up companies and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. These have supported the diverse sectors in our economy such as technology, craft, tourism, construction, mining and quarrying, oil and gas extraction, agriculture, forestry, fishing and outfitting industries. We cannot underestimate the impact small- and medium-sized businesses have on energizing local economies and sustaining rural communities.

Our province has more than 70 registered co-operatives. These, along with social enterprises, are leaders in community economic development. This year, the Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives (NLFC) is proclaiming that “Co-op’s mean business!” My department works closely with the NLFC and other partners, such as credit unions, in an effort to help individuals and purpose-led businesses start, grow and make a meaningful impact. Together we work to transform the way business is done to build strong community-based enterprises that nurture the sustainability of communities across the province.

Speaker, I ask all members to join me in recognizing the persistence and commitment of small businesses and co-ops in our communities.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Recognizes Small Business Week and Co-op Week first appeared on News Releases.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Recognizes Small Business Week and Co-op Week appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government today introduced a five-point plan designed to increase the availability of housing that is affordable in Newfoundland and Labrador by helping stimulate private sector development and stabilize or reduce housing prices. Through the targeted actions, valued at more than $65 million, there will be upwards of 500 new housing options added to the market.

Similar to other jurisdictions across Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador is experiencing increased demand for housing that is impacted by a number of factors, including the province’s sustained growth in population, demographic shifts, and higher costs.

The new initiatives will incentivize the rapid construction of housing that is affordable and support the transition to home ownership. They include:

1. Removal of the GST/HST on new purpose-built rental housing. This could potentially save developers hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on the size of the build.
2. A low interest financing program that will provide financing to assist in constructing purpose-built rental housing, including modular, or converting non-residential buildings into purpose-built rentals.
3. Use of available Provincial Government-owned land and buildings for construction or conversion for purpose-built rental housing, including modular.
4. A home ownership assistance program for first-time homebuyers with lower-to-moderate incomes who qualify for a mortgage to access the required downpayment to purchase a home. The program will also assist with closing costs of up to $1,500 to match the Federal First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit.
5. A Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive, which will be a pilot project, whereby homeowners will be able to access a forgivable loan of 50 per cent of the cost of renovations, up to a maximum of $40,000 over five years.

These actions are in addition to the extra $3 million to repair and renovate approximately 143 vacant Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation units announced today, along with the more than 750 new public housing options that have been advanced over the last two years, and the $140 million record high investment in housing in Budget 2023. Through the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, the province has seen more than 2,000 individuals and families access permanent housing over the last two years, and expansion completed or underway of 165 emergency shelter beds 76 supportive housing units, and 12 second stage housing units, and shelter beds for women.

Quotes
“Our government has set out on a course to improve the social and economic well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Improving accessibility to housing that is affordable is a major part of that agenda, and through the five-point plan we launched today we are incentivizing the rapid construction of new housing options as we continue to increase the availability of public housing options as well.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Newfoundland and Labrador, like other jurisdictions across Canada and around the world, are all experiencing demand for safe, accessible, and affordable housing. Our government is rising to the challenge of support the more vulnerable people in our communities, as well as help meet market demand for affordable housing.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, and Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“We applaud the government’s continued commitment to stimulate new housing construction that will make housing more affordable and accessible in the province. We look forward to working closely with the government and our partners in the construction industry to ensure the work is executed with the highest standards of quality and efficiency. Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable future for our province, where everyone can access safe and comfortable housing.”
Stephen Short
Vice-Chair and Executive Member, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association

“As the advocate for the residential construction sector in Newfoundland and Labrador, we are thankful for our government’s continued efforts to address housing issues in our province. Providing Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with access to affordable and safe homes is vital. While there are many challenges with the current housing crisis, we are eager to collaborate with the province and our members to support initiatives which strengthen the residential construction sector and improve the quality of life for all residents.”
Alexis Foster
Executive Officer, Canadian Home Builders’ Association Newfoundland and Labrador

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The post Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, is pleased to recognize October 16 to 22, 2023 as Waste Reduction Week, now a part of Circular Economy Month, in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Launched by the Circular Innovation Council in 2022, Circular Economy Month is a national campaign to increase awareness about the concept of a circular economy, which is an economy that promotes the development of new, responsible and sustainable ways for products and materials to be maintained, reused, remanufactured and recycled, ultimately diverting more waste from landfills and enabling resource conservation.

Through the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB), Newfoundland and Labrador joins a coalition of not-for-profit environmental groups and governments supporting this campaign across 13 provincial and territorial jurisdictions.

For Waste Reduction Week 2023, MMSB will be highlighting various special-themed days specific to food waste, recycling, composting and reusing.

MMSB has also launched an online initiative aimed at offering educational resources and practical tips on ways consumers can contribute to reducing waste. The organization will conduct online giveaways to support sustainable activities at home. Residents can participate through MMSB’s Facebook page for a chance to win prizes.

Throughout the Circular Economy Month, MMSB will also feature local champions and innovators leading the province to a greener future.

Quotes
“We have a shared responsibility to protect and conserve our environment for generations to come. Our government is pleased to support the work of the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board in assisting residents to better understand and discover new ways to reduce our environmental footprint. This week, and every week, I encourage individuals, businesses, schools, and communities to adopt actions to reduce the amount of waste we send to our landfills and help create a cleaner environment.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“MMSB takes great pride in our partnership and active participation in Circular Economy Month in Canada, with special emphasis on our recognition of Waste Reduction Week. We are dedicated to developing initiatives and educational campaigns aimed at promoting sustainability among our residents, schools, businesses, and communities. By instilling a sense of responsibility and encouraging environmentally friendly behaviors in waste management, we believe that together, we can protect our beautiful province and preserve our environment for future generations.”
Derm Flynn
Chair of the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board

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Learn more
Circular Economy Month

Circular Innovation Council

Multi-Materials Stewardship Board

Rethink Waste NL

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The post Provincial Government Recognizes Waste Reduction Week first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Recognizes Waste Reduction Week appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government, through the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, has issued a request for quotations for repairs and renovations to provincially-owned vacant units. The repairs and renovations will be supported by an additional $3 million investment, bringing the total amount allocated to close to $6 million.

The repairs to the approximately 143 vacant units align with the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s unwavering commitment to providing access to safe and affordable housing options to its clients. The present request for quotations is in addition to the more than $15 million invested since 2021 to repair and revitalize over 2,000 provincially-owned homes throughout the province.

This investment is also in addition to the more than 750 new public housing options that have been advanced over the last two years, and the $140 million record high investment in housing in Budget 2023.

Through the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, the province has supported more than 2,000 individuals and families to access permanent housing over the last two years, along with expansion either completed or underway of:

• 165 emergency shelter beds;
• 76 supportive housing units;
• 12 second stage housing units and shelter beds for women.

Quotes
“Reflected by the largest-ever investment in public housing in our province’s history in Budget 2023, our government is fully committed to creating access to safe and affordable housing options. Our investment to repair vacant units complements the many ongoing actions that we are advancing to support residents in need of public housing, and will help alleviate some of the pressures presently being experienced.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Across Canada, and around the world, there are considerable pressures for individuals and families to secure safe and accessible housing. We have been actively working with our partners in the community and with other levels of government to take tangible and meaningful actions to build capacity and create new homes for residents in need.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation and Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

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BACKGROUNDER

Breakdown of Vacant Units

The following is a breakdown by region of the vacant units to be repaired:

The post Provincial Government Issues Request for Quotations for Repairs to Vacant Units first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Issues Request for Quotations for Repairs to Vacant Units appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will today (Monday, October 16) announce a five-point plan with new initiatives to stimulate new housing construction and help make housing more affordable in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The announcement will take place in the Media Centre, East Block, Confederation Building at 11:30 a.m. A technical briefing for media will take place at 11:00 a.m.

Premier Furey will be joined by the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, as well as Stephen Short, Vice-Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association and Alexis Foster, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Home Builders Association-Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce a New Plan to Improve Availability of Affordable Housing first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Premier Furey to Announce a New Plan to Improve Availability of Affordable Housing appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

Northwest River Bridge Replacements                                               (Reg. 2264)
Proponent: Scouts Canada (NL) Properties Inc.

The project is released from environmental assessment subject to the following conditions:

• The Proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

Gander to Gambo Transmission Line 146L Rebuild                       (Reg. 2265)
Proponent: Newfoundland Power Inc.

The project is released from environmental assessment subject to the following conditions:

• The Proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (FFA) requires the following:
• • A short-eared owl nest (ground nesting birds) survey must be completed within seven days of any ground disturbance (e.g. road maintenance, laydown areas) or clearing during the breeding season (May 1 to August 15). If any nests or young are found within the project footprint, an 800-metre buffer around the nest site must be maintained until they are fledged. Any short-eared owl occurrences/potential nests outside but within 800-metres of the project footprint must be mitigated to avoid negative impacts on breeding success. Possible mitigation would be to move active work site where these birds are no longer disturbed (e.g. outside an estimated 800-metre buffer of such a nest site).

• • No vegetation clearing is to occur within 800-metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer also applies to all other active raptor nests (e.g. Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl) during the nesting season. The location of any raptor nest site must be reported to the Wildlife Division.

• The Provincial Archaeology Office (PAO) of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation has advised that there are two known aircraft wreck sites located east of Gander. These sites are protected under the Historic Resources Act and should not be interfered with in any way. The PAO requires a 50-metre buffer to be maintained around these sites. The coordinates for the sites are:
• • LAT_DD 48.926737, LONG_DD -54.579904; and
  • LAT_DD 48.926398, LONG_DD -54.58314 (NAD 1983).
• The Proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
• The Proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_September-2023.pdf

Follow us on X: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

Project comments may be forwarded to: EAprojectcomments@gov.nl.ca

Anyone submitting comments on a project under environmental assessment is asked to please advise the Department if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the Project Proponent.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin first appeared on News Releases.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.