Government of Newfoundland News

The public is advised that the T’Railway Provincial Park has reopened between MacDougall’s and Port aux Basques, following repairs to areas that were damaged by Hurricane Fiona and by heavy rain earlier this summer.

The public is asked to report any damage or concerns related to the T’Railway to the Parks Division by emailing trailway@gov.nl.ca or by calling 709-637-2040.

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The following statement was issued today by the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture:

“We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the crew members of the vessel that was lost at sea while fishing off the north central coast of the island.

Those in the fishing industry of Newfoundland and Labrador have a strong bond. The people of our province, and the communities of the Baie Verte Peninsula in particular, are deeply affected and grieving as a result of this tragedy.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the Canadian Coast Guard, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and all those who support the search and recovery efforts during this difficult time.”

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will speak at the opening ceremony of SARscene 2023 on Friday, September 15.

The event is taking place in the Avalon Ballroom, Salon A, at the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s beginning at 8:00 a.m. Premier Furey will be joined at this event by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

Minister Dempster and the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, will also participate in conference events tomorrow (Thursday, September 14):

• Minister Hogan will participate in the kickoff of the SARscene Games at Rotary Sunshine Park, Thorburn Road, St. John’s beginning at 8:00 a.m.
• Minister Dempster will speak at the SARscene 2023 volunteer appreciation night, taking place in Avalon Ballroom of the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Hosted by the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association, SARscene facilitates coordination and implementation of search and rescue activities in Canada, and serves as a multi-stakeholder forum for discussing search and rescue issues and information sharing.

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The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will deliver remarks at the Newfoundland and Labrador 50+ Federation’s 46th Annual Convention banquet tomorrow (Thursday, September 14).

The banquet will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Quality Hotel, 100 Trans-Canada Highway, Gander.

The Newfoundland and Labrador 50+ Federation Inc. is an umbrella organization that represents more than 132 clubs and approximately 7,000 members throughout the province. The 50+ Federation’s mission is to link member clubs and disseminate information pertinent to quality of life for seniors and older adults of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, will bring greetings at the Turning the Tide Marine Industry Awards Gala tomorrow (Thursday, September 14).

The event is scheduled to take place at the St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The sixth annual Turning the Tide Marine Industry Awards Gala will recognize five individuals and organizations that have contributed to the evolution and success of the marine industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will make an announcement related to Year of the Arts funding for the music community tomorrow (Thursday, September 14).

The event will take place at the Quidi Vidi Artisan Studios, 10 Maple View Place in Quidi Vidi Village, St. John’s at 2:00 p.m.

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The Provincial Government has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for not-for-profit organizations to operate the second phase of locations for the Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Program in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Pre-Kindergarten locations are opening in phases throughout the province and will result in the creation of over 3,000 regulated child care spaces in communities throughout the province by March 31, 2026. The Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Program runs full-time, including during the summer months. As a regulated full-day early learning program under the Operating Grant Program, families will pay $10 per day. YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador was chosen as the not-for-profit operator for the first phase of the pilot program through the RFP process, and approximately 600 new regulated early learning and child care spaces will be created.

The RFP closes on October 11, 2023. Submissions will be evaluated based on compliance with requirements of the RFP, including experience and an organization’s ability to run multiple locations.

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

Information on tenders and requests for proposals issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

Quote
“It is with great excitement that I announce the release of the new RFP process for the development of the second phase of the Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Program. I encourage all not-for-profit organizations to submit a proposal and to be a part of this important program for children in our province.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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

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

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

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

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

BACKGROUNDER

Federal-Provincial Early Learning and Child Care Action Plan 

The Federal-Provincial Early Learning and Child Care Action Plan is increasing access to regulated child care through the creation of approximately 6,000 spaces by 2025-26, as well as improving affordability, inclusivity and the quality of early learning and child care programming in Newfoundland and Labrador. This plan is made possible by federal investments in the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system. These include $306 million for the 2021-22 to 2025-26 Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, a one-time investment of nearly $6.5 million in 2021-22 to support the early childhood workforce, as well as over $34 million for the 2021-22 to 2025-26 Early Learning and Child Care Extension Agreement.

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The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, today announced the Chair of the Board of Governors of the College of the North Atlantic. Minister Howell also announced two appointments and four re-appointments to the Board.

Mark Bradbury has been appointed as Chair of the Board of Governors.

Members appointed for three-year terms include:

• Kevin Bond; and,
• Allan Hawkins.

Members re-appointed for three-year terms include:

• Kenneth Martin;
• Dorothy Pye-Johnson;
• Jill Quilty; and,
• Dr. Charles Randell.

College of the North Atlantic’s Board of Governors, established under section 9 of the College Act, 1996, is the corporate body responsible for the oversight and strategic management of College of the North Atlantic. The Board of Governors consists of individuals with a diverse range of knowledge and expertise.

Biographical information on the appointees can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“I thank each member of the Board of Governors for their dedication to supporting the College of the North Atlantic and the post-secondary fabric of the province. Congratulations on your appointment to help guide this important institution for the next three years.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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College Act

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographical Information of Appointees to College of the North Atlantic’s Board of Governors

Kevin Bond
Kevin Bond serves as Instructional Coordinator for Engineering, Natural Resources and Industrial Trades for the Corner Brook Campus of the College of the North Atlantic. He is a chemist and lead instructor for the Environmental Engineering Technology program with a 31-year teaching career. Mr. Bond is a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Canadian Armed Forces, serving as Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. He serves on several boards, including ACAP Humber Arm assisting with research into the water quality of the Bay of Islands.

Mark Bradbury
Mark Bradbury holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Memorial University. He served as an officer in the Canadian Navy before returning to Newfoundland and Labrador to pursue studies as a Chartered Accountant. Mr. Bradbury worked in private business before beginning a 26-year career with Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro. He is a past member of the Memorial University Board of Regents and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Canada. He served as president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Newfoundland and was awarded the Fellow Chartered Accountant designation in 2001. Mr. Bradbury is active with a number of community groups and has served on the Board of Governors for the College of the North Atlantic since 2014.

Allan Hawkins
Allan Hawkins is a former Provincial Government Minister with the departments of Advanced Education and Skills, Transportation and Works, and Education and Early Learning. He has experience as the President of Kiwanis Club, Vice President of Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, and Vice Chair of the Gander International Airport Authority. Mr. Hawkins holds undergraduate degrees in Arts and Education from Memorial University.

Kenneth Martin
Kenneth Martin is a graduate of Memorial University’s Bachelor of Commerce program, and he holds a Masters of Business Administration degree from the University of Calgary. Mr. Martin has expertise in banking and finance, and he held the role of Regional Vice President with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. He is a former board member of the Genesis Centre at Memorial University and OceansAdvance.

Dorothy Pye-Johnson
Dorothy Pye-Johnson is the CEO of NunatuKavut Community Council. Ms. Pye-Johnson has over 30 years of experience in municipal governance and economic development. She is an active member of the Economic Developers Association of Canada and AFOA Canada, and is a former Co-Chair and Treasurer of the Mokami Status of Women Council.

Jill Quilty
Jill Quilty is a Crown Attorney with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Ms. Quilty holds undergraduate degrees from St. Thomas University and Memorial University, and a Masters of Education degree from Mount Saint Vincent University. She completed her law degree at Dalhousie University and is an active member of the Canadian Bar Association and Indigenous Bar Association.

Charles Randell
Charles Randell is the former President and CEO of C-CORE. Mr. Randell completed his undergraduate degree in engineering from Lakehead University before completing his masters degree and PhD in engineering from the University of Victoria. Mr. Randell is a director of Anglican Homes Inc., and was a founding member of the Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove Fire Department.

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is sending hearty congratulations to two filmmakers from Newfoundland and Labrador whose film is debuting tonight at the Toronto International Film Festival. Christian Sparkes, director, and Allison White, producer, have both seen incredible success on the national and international film scenes over the span of their careers.

Their film, ‘The King Tide’, tells the story of a young girl with special gifts who is adopted in an isolated East Coast island town and the ensuing effect on the family and the community. Filming took place from August to October 2022 in the community of Keels in Bonavista Bay. Approximately 100 people from this province were employed during the film’s production.

While the film debuts tonight at the Toronto International Film Festival, it will be available in theatres later in the year.

Quotes
“Congratulations to Christian Sparkes and Allison White on the incredibly exciting debut of ‘The King Tide’ at the Toronto International Film Festival. It is thanks to the talent of creatives like Christian and Allison that we have a robust film and television industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. This vibrant industry just keeps growing and garnering attention and I look forward to what the future holds.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“PictureNL is thrilled that the ‘The King Tide’ is screening at the prestigious Platform program at TIFF. This film showcases not only the beauty of our province, but also the exceptional Newfoundland and Labrador talent and dedication to the craft that Director, Christian Sparkes, and Producer, Allison White, bring to the table. We congratulate everyone who was involved with the film and look forward to celebrating Newfoundland and Labrador cinema on an international stage.”
Laura Churchill
PictureNL

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The King Tide

Toronto International Film Festival

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Members of the public and others interested in giving input into a review of the provincial apprenticeship system are encouraged to take part in a series of town halls that began this morning at The Rooms in St. John’s and run through to October 11.

The town halls will seek feedback on key aspects of the apprenticeship system related to effectiveness, sustainability, governance, and accessibility to apprentices. For a full schedule of dates, locations and times, please see backgrounder below. Registration is not required to attend upcoming town halls.

All responses and documents received will be reviewed by the consultant and considered in developing a report aimed at further enhancing the apprenticeship system. The provincial apprenticeship system is seeing evidence of continuing improvement with Newfoundland and Labrador tradespeople achieving the third-highest Red Seal pass rate in Canada for 2021 and 2022,

Those unable to attend in person are encouraged to submit their feedback through a submission template. Submissions and supplemental information must be submitted by October 20, 2023 directly to Prism Economics and Analysis at submissions@prismeconomics.com with subject line: NL Apprenticeship Review.

Click to download submission guide.

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BACKGROUNDER

Event Date Place Time Venue Town Hall 2 September 12, 2023 St. John’s, NL 6:30 p.m. –
8:30 p.m. The Rooms, Theatre Room, 9 Bonaventure Ave., www.therooms.com Town Hall 3 September 13, 2023 Grand Falls-Windsor, NL 6:30 p.m. –
8:30 pm The Newfoundland Room, Mt. Peyton Resort & Conference Centre, 214 Lincoln Road,
www.mountpeyton.ca Town Hall 4 September 14, 2023 Corner Brook, NL 6:30 p.m. –
8:30 p.m. Grenfell Room, Glynmill Inn, Cobb Lane Town Hall 5 October 11, 2023 Labrador West, NL 6:30 p.m. –
8:30 p.m. College of the North Atlantic, Room 111-112, Labrador West Campus, 1600 Nichols-Adam Highway, Labrador City

 

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The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality has proclaimed September 10-16, 2023, as Sexual Violence Awareness Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise public awareness about sexual assault, and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence. The Provincial Government works closely with community partners and violence prevention advocates, including End Sexual Violence NL, to reduce all forms of violence, abuse and neglect in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Gender-based violence, including sexual violence, is a significant and preventable barrier to gender equality. In August 2023, Women and Gender Equality Canada announced $700,000 in funding to support crisis hotlines in Newfoundland and Labrador. Crisis hotlines are a lifeline for survivors of gender-based violence, and are critical support services.

This funding is part of the $30 million investment over five years by the Government of Canada to support crisis hotlines throughout the country. It also builds on the historic launch of the November 2022 National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This 10-year plan is a concrete step towards fulfilling a long-standing commitment of federal, provincial and territorial governments working together for a country free of gender-based violence, that supports victims, survivors and their families.

Additionally, Budget 2023: Your Health. Our Priority. provided $241,500 for the Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program to support Newfoundland and Labrador’s Indigenous governments and organizations in their efforts to prevent violence against Indigenous women and children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals.

To learn more about Sexual Violence Awareness Week and upcoming events, visit End Sexual Violence NL on www.facebook.com/EndSV.

Quotes
“Violence of any kind will not be tolerated in our province, and ending it is a shared responsibility. The Office of Women and Gender Equality works closely with our community partners, the Department of Justice and Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, to prevent gender-based and sexual violence, and to help individuals experiencing it.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality and MHA for the District of Port de Grave

“Due to low reporting rates and social discomfort, sexual violence and gender-based violence are often labeled ‘crimes of silence’. A goal of Sexual Violence Awareness Week is to shine a light on the various forms of gender-based violence. Events held during this week are meant to generate discussion, promote action and lend support to anyone who has been impacted by sexual violence.”
Sandra McKellar
Executive Director, End Sexual Violence NL

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Office of Women and Gender Equality

End Sexual Violence NL 

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The Provincial Government is now accepting applications from individuals who are interested in serving as Team Newfoundland and Labrador’s Chef de Mission, Assistant Chef de Mission and Mission Staff for the 2025 Canada Summer Games, which will take place in St. John’s from August 8 to 24, 2025.

The Chef de Mission, Assistant Chef(s) de Mission and Mission Staff are appointed by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and provide planning, leadership and operational support for Team NL, in partnership with Sport Newfoundland and Labrador.

Team NL Chef Team and Mission Staff members traditionally have significant sport background, including past Canada Games or other relevant Games experiences.

Held every two years, alternating between summer and winter, the Canada Games are a key event in the development of young athletes in Canada.

The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation provides funding to Provincial Sport Organizations to support training and competition in preparing Team NL for the Canada Games.

For more information and to apply to become a Team NL Chef de Mission, Assistant Chef de Mission and/or Mission Staff, please visit: Canada Games – Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation (gov.nl.ca)

The deadline for Chef Team applications is September 18, 2023 and the deadline for Mission Staff applications is October 16, 2023.

Quote
“Serving as Chef de Mission, Assistant Chef de Mission or Mission Staff are rewarding leadership opportunities. They each will help shape the next generation of national, international and Olympic athletes for the 2025 Canada Summer Games which will be hosted in their own province. I encourage interested individuals with the skills, experience and passion for sport to apply.
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
St. John’s Named Host of the 2025 Canada Summer Games

Minister Crocker Announces Over $1 Million for Tennis Facility Upgrades

New Track and Field Facilities in St. John’s for the 2025 Canada Summer Games

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Atlantic Canada is known for its innovative startups that generate sustainable solutions and good jobs that fuel the economy. The Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada are investing to help Memorial University of Newfoundland’s Grenfell campus strengthen its Navigate Incubator and Makerspace to deliver more opportunities and resources for entrepreneurs in Western Newfoundland.

Today, the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, on behalf of the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, announced a non-repayable contribution of $289,000 to Grenfell campus. The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced a non-repayable contribution of $867,000.

This will support the Navigate Incubator and Makerspace—a partnership between Grenfell and the College of the North Atlantic’s Corner Brook campus—with general operations and programming. The space, located in the Centre for Research and Innovation (CRI), will be outfitted with specialized equipment for training areas, carpentry and welding shops, and the clean makerspace. This project will further develop the innovative and entrepreneurial culture throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Navigate Incubator and Makerspace places entrepreneurs in a vibrant setting with other risk-taking entrepreneurs. The collaboration we foster here will lead to stronger networks and more successful businesses for our province. With this investment, we will help create and support sustainable growth and economic opportunities in the region.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Atlantic Canada is full of great minds with a talent for ingenuity. In the Long Range Mountains, and across Newfoundland and Labrador, we are seeing startups generate game-changing ideas that wind up on the global stage. We’re doing our part to nurture that creativity, and help entrepreneurs and innovation flourish in our rural communities. This is how we create a strong, diverse economy that works for all Canadians.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Today’s announcement will help Grenfell and all our partners and stakeholders contribute ever more to the social, cultural, and economic vibrancy of the region. It will help the Navigate Entrepreneurship Centre and the CRI to provide an exciting continuum of supports spanning entrepreneurial ideation, business planning, prototyping and launching. This investment means residents of the whole region, and their collaborators, have access to cutting edge technology, expert advice, and a comfortable environment in which to grow the next great ideas.”
Dr. Ian Sutherland
Vice-President, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Grenfell Campus

“Partnerships, such as this one, are essential to further the region’s opportunities for economic development and address identified labour shortage gaps that are impacting today’s global job market. To have spaces and resources that are dedicated to nurturing, assisting and fostering innovative ideas and make them a reality means we are achieving our goals, as a college, to support learning and a career-ready workforce. We appreciate both governments’ investment in this shared vision as a result of this funding.”
Liz Kidd
President & CEO, College of the North Atlantic

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Plans for a world-class walking and biking trail on the Great Northern Peninsula are moving forward with a Provincial Government commitment of $7 million. This funding will support the trail’s development, including efforts to construct and promote the planned 850 kilometre Great Coastal Trail as a world-class adventure tourism destination. This funding will also support the creation a trail head to mark the start of the trail in Parson’s Pond.

The Provincial Government will now assist with the creation of a board of directors to oversee development and governance of the trail and to administer funding.

Preliminary work on the trail has already begun. This includes completion of an inventory of existing trails, attractions and services, as well as an assessment of existing bridges. Consultations occurred with communities along the proposed route of the Great Coastal Trail this past summer, with positive feedback being received on the concept of the trail.

The trail will be anchored by two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Gros Morne National Park and L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site – and will give users the adventure of a lifetime as they experience rugged coastlines, mountains, icebergs and whales. With these incredible assets, the Great Coastal Trail will attract more adventure tourism enthusiasts and increase tourism revenues in host communities throughout the Great Northern Peninsula.

Along with increased access to outdoor recreation opportunities, the Great Coastal Trail will provide opportunities for increased health, well-being and quality of life The trail’s development is expected to stimulate new business and tourism growth, strengthen existing businesses, and create new employment opportunities that will support population growth by attracting and retaining residents to the area.

Quotes
“Our commitment to the development of the Great Coastal Trail has Newfoundland and Labrador hitting our stride in the adventure tourism sector like never before. The planned development of the province’s newest 850 kilometres of trail puts us on an exciting path, as our partners move forward with development, creating the latest addition to our expanding trail network.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Today, the dream of a Great Coastal Trail for the Great Northern Peninsula is well on its way to being realized, thanks to the initial funding this government is providing. A world-class hiking and biking trail like no other will perfectly complement the natural beauty and spirit of adventure we offer here on the peninsula, drawing still more tourists to this spectacular region, and supporting economic development and job creation for generations.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“The Great Coastal Trail will add tremendous value to Newfoundland and Labrador as a tourism product. I am pleased to see this investment in the development of the trail and I look forward to the project’s advancement.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Today, our shared vision of a Great Coastal Trail is closer to a reality. The Central Development Association is proud to have played a charter role in this project and looks forward to partnering with other like-minded individuals and organizations on the Great Northern Peninsula to see this opportunity happen. We look forward to developing a trail that residents can enjoy for improved health and well-being, and visitors from around the globe will be drawn to enjoy as a unique adventure-tourism experience.”
Lucy Goosney
Co-ordinator, Central Development Association

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The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, is participating in two events during the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services convention in Gander on Sunday, September 10.

Minister Hogan is participating in a Memorial Service at the Joseph R. Smallwood Arts and Culture Centre, 155 Airport Boulevard at 3:00 p.m.

Minister Hogan is speaking at the Association’s Annual General Meeting at the Quality Hotel and Suites, 100 Trans-Canada Highway at 6:00 p.m.

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As part of the heightened focus to improve access to affordable housing, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador visited Labrador West today, where he met with community leaders to discuss the many important housing initiatives underway in that region, along with the emergent housing needs.

Premier Furey was joined by the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, and the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs.

Budget 2023 includes the largest provincial housing investment in our history, with almost $140 million to provide Newfoundlanders and Labradorians access to safe and affordable housing. Over the last two years, more than 750 new housing options have been created or are underway throughout the province. Budget 2023 also announced a new, three-year, $70 million Affordable Rental Housing Program to build over 850 new rental homes, which was launched in June.

Through strong partnerships with federal and municipal governments and community partners, we remain committed to investing in housing initiatives in the Labrador West region. These include:

• Affordable housing options with 85 Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) homes located in Labrador City.
• Supporting the work for affordable housing options for seniors through project pre-development funding of $64,000. This funding is supporting the Labrador West Pioneers Inc. to advance planning for the development of an aging in place affordable housing option to meet the needs of seniors in the area. This model will serve as a pilot for similar housing developments for seniors throughout the province. The Provincial Government will continue to work with the federal and municipal governments and industry partners to leverage provincial funding in order to make the vision of the Pioneers a reality.
• Renovation and vacancy refurbishment of over 20 NLHC homes on Cavendish Crescent were recently completed through a $2 million investment. The significant improvements included exterior renovations and energy efficiency upgrades, as well as interior upgrades to vacant units, allowing new families to be welcomed to the neighbourhood.
• Opening of a staffed emergency response shelter in partnership with the Labrador West Housing and Homelessness Coalition. This partnership, supported through the use of an NLHC home and an annual investment of $71,000, creates a safe place for individuals experiencing homelessness and connection to supports to transition to more permanent housing options.
• Front-line supports for individuals experiencing, or at risk, of homelessness are provided by a Housing Support Worker, through a partnership between the NLHC and the Labrador West Housing and Homelessness Coalition with annual provincial funding of over $100,000. 
• Short-term accommodations and supports for Women and Children fleeing intimate partner violence are available through Hope Haven Transition House, with annual provincial funding of over $700,000.
• Construction of a new seven-unit, second-stage housing project is underway through an investment of more than $4.8 million that will expand safe and affordable housing options and help reduce barriers for women and children experiencing or at risk of intimate partner violence.

Quotes
“Our government is firmly committed to addressing housing needs in Labrador West and helping to ensure that everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home. These initiatives are a great example of our strong partnership with federal, municipal and community partners. Together, we will continue our important work of building strong and resilient communities here in Labrador West.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“A safe and affordable home is the cornerstone of social and economic growth and overall health and well-being. We look forward to continuing to work with our valued partners to create safe, affordable and inclusive communities in Labrador West, and to ensure supports for all residents, from young families to seniors. ”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“Housing initiatives contribute directly to achieving progress on socio-economic goals and we know investment in housing is a driver of economic growth and community development. Our government is committed to partnering with all stakeholders to help make real progress on housing challenges in Labrador West.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister for Labrador Affairs

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Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

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The post Provincial Government Highlights Ongoing Initiatives to Improve Access to Affordable Housing in Labrador West first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Highlights Ongoing Initiatives to Improve Access to Affordable Housing in Labrador West appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will make an announcement regarding support for entrepreneurs on Monday, September 11.

Minister Byrne will speak at the Grenfell Campus Centre for Research and Innovation, 1 Mill Road, Corner Brook beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Minister Byrne will be joined by the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Byrne to Make Funding Announcement in Corner Brook first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Byrne to Make Funding Announcement in Corner Brook appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, today announced enhancements that will benefit patients who use the Medical Transportation Assistance Program (MTAP).

A new In-Province Flight Voucher Program has been established in partnership with PAL Airlines. Residents of the Labrador-Grenfell Health Zone who have to fly to a larger centre within the province to access specialized insured medical services can apply to MTAP for a fast-track upfront flight voucher.

The voucher program offers patients and escorts in the Labrador-Grenfell Health Zone $1,000 upfront towards their first eligible airfare costs, plus an assistance rate of 75 per cent towards any additional eligible airfare costs exceeding $1,000.

The 75 per cent enhanced assistance rate towards eligible airfare costs also extends to patients and escorts in the Labrador-Grenfell Health Zone who travel out of province to access specialized insured medical services.

The changes in medical transportation assistance support a commitment from the Provincial Government to be more responsive to the needs of patients and to help ease the financial burden on individuals who have to travel to larger centres to access specialized insured medical services.

The enhancements also reflect a response to issues that have been identified by residents and advocates of medical transportation assistance. The changes are financed through a $1 million initiative announced in Budget 2023. An assessment of medical transportation assistance is ongoing and additional improvements will be announced when arrangements are finalized.

Residents of the Labrador-Grenfell Health Zone who wish to access the voucher program must complete the online, fillable In-Province Flight Voucher application form available on the Labrador Affairs webpage under the Medical Transportation Assistance Program page, and must email the form to PALFlightVoucher@gov.nl.ca.

The improvements that have financial implications come into effect for eligible travel on September 8, 2023.

On April 1, 2023, responsibility for MTAP and the Medical Transportation Program for Income Support Clients (ISMT) for all areas of the province was transferred to the Department of Labrador Affairs.

For more information about the Medical Transportation Assistance Program, call toll-free 1-877-475-2412 or follow this link.

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“The Provincial Government recognizes that residents of the province who have to travel the furthest distance to access specialized insured medical services have been shouldering a significant portion of travel and related costs. Our government is pleased to partner with PAL Airlines to implement an In-Province Voucher Program that eases the financial responsibility for patients and escorts.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The enhancements we are announcing provide additional compensation for residents who have to travel frequently or long distances to access specialized insured medical services. In particular, we have reduced the financial burden that was associated with large, upfront airfare costs for residents of the Labrador-Grenfell Health Zone.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“PAL Airlines is proud to partner with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on the enhancements to the Medical Transportation Assistance Program (MTAP) announced today.  As a company with deep roots in the province we understand the challenges associated with medical travel, and we’re thrilled to be part of a constructive solution that eases the burden of upfront travel costs for residents traveling to receive specialized medical care.”
Calvin Ash
President, PAL Airlines

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Policy Change Announced for Medical Transportation Assistance Program

Medical Transportation Assistance

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The post Provincial Government Introducing Enhancements in Medical Transportation Assistance first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Introducing Enhancements in Medical Transportation Assistance appeared first on News Releases.

Submissions are now being accepted for one of the province’s most prestigious annual arts recognition initiatives – the Arts and Letters Award Program. The 2024 program will be enhanced during the province-wide Year of the Arts, celebrating Newfoundland and Labrador’s incredible and vibrant arts and cultural sector.

The Arts and Letters Awards Program was established in 1952 to encourage the creation of new works of art by residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Submissions of original creative works completed during the past year are accepted from established and emerging artists of all ages. Submission categories include visual arts, literary, French literary, music, media arts and the Percy Janes First Novel Award.

Award winners are recognized through the awarding of cash prizes and the inclusion of their works at an exhibition of meritorious entries.

As part of their centennial celebration, and coinciding with Year of the Arts, the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association is sponsoring a one-time visual arts category – “The Art of Medicine: Celebrating 100 Years of the NLMA”. Entries thematically related to the achievements of physicians or the role of medicine and health care in the lives of patients in Newfoundland and Labrador may be submitted in any visual arts medium. Two winners will be chosen to receive a cash prize of $2,000 each, along with the opportunity for their winning work to be included in the 2024 Arts and Letters Awards Exhibition.

Deadlines for entries is November 22, 2023. The awards will be presented at a ceremony at The Rooms on April 19, 2024.

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“The Arts and Letters Awards recognize and celebrate our province’s artists. It is a diverse program that offers opportunities for artists of all ages and skill-levels to submit their art for adjudication. I encourage anyone with a creative flair to consider taking their practice to the next level by making a submission to this iconic program.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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The Arts and Letters Award Program

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The post 2024 Arts and Letters Awards Program Now Accepting Submissions first appeared on News Releases.

The post 2024 Arts and Letters Awards Program Now Accepting Submissions appeared first on News Releases.

Two wildland fire specialists from the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture will be representing Newfoundland and Labrador at the 2023 Fallen Firefighter Memorial taking place on Sunday, September 10 in Ottawa.

Wildland Fire Training Specialist Stephanie Pinksen, based in Corner Brook, and Forest Fire Protection Supervisor Tom Burry, based in Gander, will be participating in this annual ceremony that honours fallen firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Ms. Pinksen has also been selected by the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation to be one of four wildland firefighting personnel to be a part of the Headdress Party that will present helmets to the families of fallen firefighters.

The Canadian Fire Service’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial is attended by the top fire service personnel in Canada, firefighters from across the country, government representatives, families and friends.

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“Forest fires impacting Newfoundland and Labrador and other parts of Canada over the past few years have highlighted the hazards faced by our firefighting professionals. The Canadian Fallen Firefighting Memorial serves as a stark reminder about the inherent risks that are an unfortunate reality of this honourable profession. We are proud to have such fine representation from our province attending this special ceremony.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation

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The post Wildland Firefighting Personnel To Represent Province at Canadian Firefighter Memorial Ceremony first appeared on News Releases.

The post Wildland Firefighting Personnel To Represent Province at Canadian Firefighter Memorial Ceremony appeared first on News Releases.