Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today outlined a new proposed Quarry Resources Act to manage and regulate the development and extraction of quarry resources. The new Act, developed following consultation with stakeholders, Indigenous Governments and Organizations and the public, would replace the Quarry Materials Act, 1998.

The new proposed Act:

• Redefines quarry resources to clarify the distinction between minerals and quarry resources, while adding dimension stone and gemstone to the definition and removing peat;
• Creates a new tenure system for quarries by creating a two-year, non-renewable wayside permit and two classes of leases for longer-term operations;
• Requires holders of exploration licences, wayside permits and leases to rehabilitate a site in accordance with the rehabilitation standards prescribed in the regulations;
• Enhances the compliance monitoring and enforcement of quarry operations; and
• Establishes quarry resource management areas to enhance short- and long-term management of quarry resources.

Quarry resources are a crucial component used in construction of public and private infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, schools, houses, breakwaters, hydro-electric dams and offshore drilling platforms. The industry is valued at approximately $30 million per year with annual employment of approximately 550 person years.

Quote
“This new proposed Act would ensure efficient, transparent and fair management of provincial quarries. These amendments, if passed, will support the development of quarry resources in a manner that is responsible, sustainable and competitive, with a regulatory framework that is more consistent with other jurisdictions.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

-30-

Learn more
What We Heard – Quarry Legislation Review

Follow us on X @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Introduces New Quarry Resources Act first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Introduces New Quarry Resources Act appeared first on News Releases.

Following consultation with stakeholders, Indigenous Governments and Organizations, and the public, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today outlined proposed amendments to the Mineral Act.

The Mineral Act regulates the issuance and maintenance of land tenure for the purposes of mineral exploration and mining in the province. The total value of mineral shipments for the province in 2022 was $5.2 billion, with an estimated $243 million spent on exploration activities. Mining related employment for the same period was estimated to be 9,021 person years.

The proposed amendments to the Act deal with the issues of licence terms and licence reinstatement.

Several licence holders have mineral licences approaching the maximum 30-year term provided for in the current legislation. Some of these licences will reach the 30 year mark in November 2024. A proposed amendment will enable unlimited one-year extensions after 20 years, provided the licence holder meets the annual expenditure requirements and provides a pathway for exploration activities to continue. This is aligned with other jurisdictions, as most have open-ended licence terms.

Another proposed amendment will enable licence holders to apply to have mineral licences reinstated within 30 days after cancellation or expiration in certain specific instances. There will be a fee to the licence holder associated with the reinstatement, proposed to be set at $100 per claim with a $1,000 minimum per licence.

If passed, these amendments are meant to avoid unanticipated negative impacts on current exploration investment decisions from when the Act was last updated.

Quote
“Our government is committed to ensuring that legislation is modern, comprehensive and adopts best practices from other jurisdictions that regulate mineral tenure, mineral exploration and mining. These amendments ensure that the province can continue to regulate mineral development in a manner that is responsible, sustainable and competitive to enhance private-sector investments and job growth.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

-30-

Learn more
What We Heard – Mineral Act Review

Follow us on X @GovNL and @IET_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Introduces Amendments to the Mineral Act first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Introduces Amendments to the Mineral Act appeared first on News Releases.

To support health technology and innovation, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced over $1.5 million through research and development funding for three local businesses.

Polyamyna Nanotech Inc. is a next generation biotechnology company located in St. John’s that was founded and incorporated in 2017. The company has innovated advanced technologies to battle hospital acquired infections caused mainly by six of the world’s deadliest bacteria pathogens and viruses that have reached pandemic status across the globe. Polyamyna Nanotech is undertaking a research and development project to assess how its antimicrobial coating, Keep Klear, adheres to commonly used surfaces in the health care environment and to discern the effectiveness of the coating in reducing bacterial growth. This research will help gather important data and assist with the growth of the company. The Provincial Government is supporting this business diversification by providing the company with non-repayable funding of $543,537 with the aim of improving patient outcomes.

Incorporated in 2018, BreatheSuite Inc. is designed to provide users with the education and support needed to improve their health outcomes. BreatheSuite’s mission is to help people with respiratory problems by maximizing their lung capacity and mobility by reducing their symptoms and activity limitations through exercise and self-management in turn, keeping their respiratory health condition as stable as possible. To expand their services into the United States, the company proposes the building of a senior-oriented automated exercise program facilitation and tracking tool, plus the facilitation of an internal electronic medical record system to reduce administration time and improve profitability, as they administer and deliver remote pulmonary rehab services to their COPD/asthma client base. To support this business growth, the Provincial Government is providing $521,431 to the company as non-repayable funding.

PolyUnity Tech Inc. is an additive manufacturing company located in St. John’s. The company was founded and incorporated in 2018 by three physicians with a passion for 3D printing and the innovative impact additive manufacturing could have on health care. Over the next 16 months, PolyUnity is undertaking the proposed research and development project to scale its current operations moving from platform and service validation into commercialization and growth. The proposed project sees the company undertaking a series of major activities designed to support the expansion of the i3D.Health platforms’ capabilities and performance, as well as researching new materials and technologies to develop new innovative products for the health care sector. To support this business development effort, the company is receiving non-repayable funding of $449,150 from the Provincial Government.

The Provincial Government offers programs to support research and development projects for both commercial and non-commercial applicants. These programs aim to both realize the commercial potential of innovative products, processes or services and develop and implement research and innovation projects for the long-term economic benefit of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Our province has been making great strides in research and development and we are committed to continue to support medical technology and health innovation. These projects assist with the identification of new opportunities to expand their important work, as well as develop solutions to ongoing challenges that can benefit the health of not only Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, but people around the world.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Supporting health innovation is not just an investment in technology, it’s an investment in the health and well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Through innovative research and development, we are able to improve health care delivery and accessibility while guaranteeing positive health outcomes well into the future.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“We’re beyond thankful and thrilled for this approval. At Polyamyna, our mission is to save lives by reducing hospital-acquired infections. This support empowers us to showcase our advanced technology worldwide, thanks to NL partners. Deep gratitude to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Health Authority for championing our vision of a safer health care future. Together, we’ll make a significant impact.”
Ramesh Kumar Mani
Polyamyna Nanotech Inc.

“We are delighted with this funding announcement from Industry, Energy and Technology that shows their commitment to innovation in the province. We are proud to be on a journey to improve outcomes for patients with COPD worldwide. We’re very excited for what the future holds for BreatheSuite.”
Brett Vokey
Founder and CEO, BreatheSuite Inc.

“The ongoing support from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is critical to the success of PolyUnity as we push the bounds of cutting edge technology to improve healthcare. We are delighted to have the province behind us as we continue essential research and development resulting in accelerated innovation for our healthcare clients across the country and beyond.”
Jacqueline Lee
CEO, PolyUnity Tech Inc.

-30-

Learn more
Research and Development Funding Programs

Polyamyna Nanotech Inc.

BreatheSuite Inc.

PolyUnity Tech Inc.

Follow us on X @GovNL, @IET_GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

The post Supporting Health Innovation Through Research and Development Investments first appeared on News Releases.

The post Supporting Health Innovation Through Research and Development Investments appeared first on News Releases.

Students in schools, universities, and community colleges in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island will benefit from additional resources to support career development and well-being. These resources can be found at https://careersatlanticcanada.ca/ and were launched today by the Council of Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training (CAMET) in conjunction with the 2023 Atlantic Canada Career Week running from October 30 to November 3, 2023. The theme for the 2023 career week is Your Skills, Your Success Your Well-Being.

The new website is an expansion of the 2022 Atlantic Canada Career Week website and now contains relevant information and resources that can help youth understand the relationship between skills for success and the skills needed to support well-being as they navigate the labour market and make career decisions that are appropriate for them and their needs. More specifically, the information outlined in the website will assist youth in:

• developing positive relationships with colleagues and supervisors;
• feeling valued and supported;
• having a sense of belonging and purpose;
• managing stress and emotions; and
• building self-confidence and resilience.

Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training recognize the importance of assisting students and youth to make the connection between skills for success and well-being.  Ministers are committed to promoting the importance of advocacy, resiliency and adaptability as students and youth prepare to transition to post-secondary education and training and enter the workforce.

CAMET is an agency of the departments responsible for public and post-secondary education, and its purpose is to enhance cooperation in public (Entry–12) and post-secondary education in Atlantic Canada by working together to improve learning, optimize efficiencies and bring added value to provincial initiatives.

-30-

Les ministres de l’Éducation et de la Formation des provinces atlantiques s’engagent à favoriser le développement des compétences et le bien-être dans les écoles, les universités et les collèges communautaires

The post Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training to Promote Skills Development and Well-Being in Schools, Universities, and Training Colleges first appeared on News Releases.

The post Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training to Promote Skills Development and Well-Being in Schools, Universities, and Training Colleges appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs:

Speaker, I stand today to congratulate Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador and the Professional Municipal Administrators on the success of their annual conferences held this month in St. John’s and Gander respectively.

These conferences are excellent opportunities to build upon our regular discussions with members of the municipal sector about priorities and opportunities for their communities.

These individuals work tirelessly every day to make our communities the best possible places to live, always striving to enrich the lives and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Discussions ranged from housing supports and social well-being to economic development, climate change impacts and mitigation, and collaboration and service sharing. These topics were also the focus of discussion at the Premier’s Forum on Friday at the Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador conference, which encompassed rural and regional development and opportunities to continue building a sustainable future.

Our government continues to support municipalities, including a $6 million increase over two years to municipal operating grants, more than $2 million announced for Age Friendly Community Grants in March 2023, and a combined $1 million for Community Collaboration Grants and Accessible Communities Grants.

I look forward to ongoing discussions and continued work with municipal leaders as we continue to collaborate to build strong, vibrant communities.

I ask my honourable colleagues to join me in congratulating municipal leaders and staff who have received long service awards this year. Their work is recognized and very much appreciated.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Haggie Highlights Discussions at Recent Municipal Conferences first appeared on News Releases.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Haggie Highlights Discussions at Recent Municipal Conferences appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, today delivered the mid-year fiscal and economic update, highlighting a stable financial situation and a strong economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador.

The projected deficit for 2023-24 is $154 million, slightly improved as compared to the $160 million projected at Budget 2023. Other highlights include:

• Revenue is projected to be higher than forecast by $204 million for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, largely due to offshore exploration forfeitures;
• Most expenses remain the same as projected at budget, with a few exceptions including increases negotiated in collective bargaining agreements and debt expenses due to rising interest rates; and
• The average price of oil for 2023-24 has been revised to US$85 from the Budget 2023 projection of US$86. The Canada to United States exchange rate has been adjusted to 74.3 cents from the Budget 2023 forecast of 75.7 cents.

Looking forward, most economic indicators for the province are expected to remain on track to meet or exceed the Budget 2023 forecast, with opportunities in oil and gas, mining, aquaculture, wind-hydrogen, technology and the film and television sectors:

• For the year as a whole, employment is forecast to increase by 2.2 per cent, while the unemployment rate is forecast to decrease by 1.2 percentage points to average 10.1 per cent. If realized, this would be the lowest annual unemployment rate since consistent records began in 1976;
• Consumer spending is expected to remain strong, with the value of retail sales forecast to increase by 4.0 per cent; and
• Population growth continued for the tenth straight quarter. On an annual basis, the province’s population increased by 7,022 persons, or 1.3 per cent, from July 1, 2022 to July 1, 2023, the largest annual increase since 1972.

The 2023 Fiscal and Economic Update is available here.

Quote

“We are delivering on our goal of stabilizing the province’s financial situation. While there is still much work to be done, our success to date is as a result of the hard work of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. We are delivering on our strategic plan for financial improvement, which ensures prudent fiscal governance and responsible debt management. We remain committed to our overall vision of a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, sustainable Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

-30-

Learn more
Cost of Living Measures

DBRS Morningstar Upgrades Province’s Credit Rating

Budget 2023

Follow us on X @GovNL and @FIN_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Stable Fiscal and Economic Outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador first appeared on News Releases.

The post Stable Fiscal and Economic Outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will address the Mineral Resource Review Conference tomorrow (Wednesday, November 1). Minister Parsons will also provide an update on the province’s critical minerals plan.

The event takes place at the Delta Hotel, 120 New Gower Street, St. John’s with Minister Parsons scheduled to speak at 9:15 a.m.

The Mineral Resources Review Conference and Trade Show takes place from October 31 to November 3, 2023 and is a joint venture of the Newfoundland and Labrador Branch of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM NL) and the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology. The three-day program focuses on activities of the Mines Branch of the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, recent and pending developments, emerging projects, and the potential for future investment and discovery.

Speakers from Newfoundland and Labrador’s mining, exploration and service and supply sectors, as well as representatives from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology will provide updates on industry developments.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Provide Update on Critical Minerals Plan at Mineral Resource Review Conference first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Provide Update on Critical Minerals Plan at Mineral Resource Review Conference appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will bring greetings at the launch of techNL’s Innovation Week 2023 tomorrow (Tuesday, October 31).

The event is taking place at St. John’s Convention Centre, 50 New Gower Street, St. John’s at 9:00 a.m.

Innovation Week is being held from October 31 to November 3, 2023. This year marks the 10th year of Innovation Week, which brings together the province’s business community, youth and public and private partners for a series of events aimed to raise awareness, create connections, showcase startup entrepreneurship and create a foundation for a strong tech sector ecosystem within the province.

-30-

 

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Bring Greetings at techNL Innovation Week Launch first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Parsons to Bring Greetings at techNL Innovation Week Launch appeared first on News Releases.

The Public Accounts for 2022-23, the audited financial statements of the province for the fiscal year that ended March 31, 2023, have been released and tabled with the House of Assembly. The surplus for 2022-23 is confirmed at $323.1 million, a $674.5 million improvement compared to the original estimated deficit of $351.4 million.

This surplus is primarily related to an increase in revenues of $1.1 billion compared to the original estimate, mainly due to higher than anticipated taxation revenue and offshore royalties. This was offset by an increase in expenses of $445.5 million compared to the original estimate.

The Public Accounts are prepared in accordance with the standards established for governments by the Public Sector Accounting Board. The Consolidated Summary Financial Statements were independently audited by the Auditor General and were issued with an unqualified audit opinion.

The Public Accounts for 2022-23 were prepared using the accrual basis of accounting, similar to statements provided in Budget 2022.

Copies of the Public Accounts and the related reports for 2022-23 are available here.

Quote
“Public Accounts highlight the fiscal health of the province and provide the financial statements which received an unqualified audit opinion from the Auditor General. We will continue to deliver on our strategic plan for financial improvement, which ensures prudent fiscal governance and responsible debt management – all towards a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, sustainable Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
President of Treasury Board

-30-

Learn more
Public Accounts for 2022-23

Report on the Program Expenditures and Revenues of the Consolidated Revenue Fund

Budget 2022

Follow us on X @GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Releases 2022-23 Public Accounts first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Releases 2022-23 Public Accounts appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to celebrate the opening of new Memorial University Faculty of Nursing learning sites in Gander and Grand Falls-Windsor.

Sites outside of Memorial’s St. John’s campus, such as Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Corner Brook, and Happy Valley-Goose Bay, create opportunities for students who want to become nurses to receive their education closer to home.

We take great pride in increasing opportunities for people to earn their nursing degrees. We also take great pride in the number of nurses who we have recruited to work in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year, every nursing graduate was offered employment opportunities to work here in the province. Since April, 239 new nurses have been hired. That is in addition to 545 new nurses hired between April 2022 and March 2023.

We continue to provide significant financial incentives, including signing bonuses, education bursaries and incentives for nurses working abroad who want to return home.

We are also focused on retention. We have offered retention bonuses earlier this year totalling $10 million, incentives to nurse practitioners who commit to work in family care teams, and have implemented recommendations from our collaboration on the nursing think tank.

All of this is the result of our government’s plans to transform our health system.

We encourage nursing students, graduates, and nurses who work abroad to visit www.workinhealthnl.ca to learn more about the ways we are working to add more nurses to our health care system.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Osborne Celebrates Expansion of Memorial University Faculty of Nursing first appeared on News Releases.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Osborne Celebrates Expansion of Memorial University Faculty of Nursing appeared first on News Releases.

A review that will provide government with recommendations on ways to enhance fertility services, including access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) services, is now underway.

A contract valued at $122,435 has been awarded to Thinkwell Research Inc. As part of the contract, Thinkwell Research Inc. will be required to:

• Complete an analysis of the projected demand for existing fertility services and additional services;
• Consult with stakeholders, including physician specialists, staff at Newfoundland and Labrador Fertility Services, and others determined by the steering committee;
• Review best practices and complete a jurisdictional scan of fertility services provided in other parts of Canada; and
• Recommend opportunities for improvements and provide recommendations with advice on implementation.

The Department of Health and Community Services anticipates receiving a report on this review in winter 2024.

In March 2022, the Provincial Government introduced an IVF Subsidy Program of $5,000 per IVF cycle, up to a maximum of three IVF cycles per individual for those clinically eligible throughout their lifetime. The program provides assistance to those who need to travel out of province for IVF treatments and aligns with government’s commitment to increase access to fertility treatments.

To date, 149 people have accessed the IVF subsidy, including 67 people applying for their second subsidy and 19 applying for the third subsidy.

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

Quotes
“It’s important to our government that we complete this review so we can ensure we are providing the best possible services here in Newfoundland and Labrador. This review will provide government with information on what fertility services can and should be provided here, and options to make improvements to the current services for individuals who are looking for fertility services.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Newfoundland and Labrador Fertility Services is a vital component of our health care system. Therefore, it is important that we provide the most comprehensive and inclusive services for women and gender-diverse people wanting to conceive.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“NL Health Services is committed to strengthening fertility services in the province and looks forward to this review and its recommendations. The review will look at opportunities for improvement to fertility services in this province and will consider the valuable experiences of both patients on a fertility journey and health care providers who provide care to fertility patients.”
Ron Johnson
Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, NL Health Services, Eastern-Urban Zone

-30-

Learn more
Follow us on X @GovNL and @HCS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

 

The post Provincial Government Awards Contract for Fertility Services Review first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Awards Contract for Fertility Services Review appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, will deliver a fiscal and economic update tomorrow (Tuesday, October 31).

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 10:30 a.m.

The update will also be live-streamed on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Facebook page.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Coady to Provide 2023 Fiscal and Economic Update first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Coady to Provide 2023 Fiscal and Economic Update appeared first on News Releases.

Motorists are advised that the bridge on Terminal Service Road in Port aux Basques (known-locally as the CNR Bridge) will be closed to all vehicular traffic as of Wednesday, November 1. The bridge remains safe to use for pedestrians and cyclists. All other vehicles will be required to use the Trans-Canada Highway.

Until Wednesday, November 1, the bridge will be open to one lane of traffic between 7:00 a.m. and midnight for vehicles under 10 tonnes. This will allow Marine Atlantic to put contingencies in place to address employee and foot passenger traffic within their secure area.

The closure is necessary following a recent inspection which determined the bridge is experiencing ongoing deterioration that has reduced its ability to carry traffic loads. The maximum load limit was reduced to 10 tonnes in November 2021.

Since this time, the department has taken measures in anticipation of the bridge’s imminent closure. The department will continue to work with the Town of Port aux Basques and Marine Atlantic regarding the replacement of the bridge.

Details on highway construction projects are available on www.nl511.ca and the NL 511 smartphone app.

-30-

The post UPDATE: Public Advisory: Closure of Port aux Basques Bridge on Terminal Service Road first appeared on News Releases.

The post UPDATE: Public Advisory: Closure of Port aux Basques Bridge on Terminal Service Road 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:

Valentine Gold Project Expansion – Berry Pit                                  (Reg. 2262)
Proponent: Marathon Gold Corp
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 Water Resources Management Division (WRMD) of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires the following prior to the start of construction:
  • A Water Resources Management Plan submitted to and approved by the WRMD;
  • An updated baseline groundwater quality and quantity report for the Berry Pit area that encompasses all seasonal variations;
  • A report on hydrogeological testing of the Berry Pit including testing of the faults/structures and verification that the Berry Pit is suitable (low permeability) for in-pit tailings storage; and
  • Installation of additional real-time stations.  Terms and conditions for the additional real time stations will be stipulated in the regulatory permits to be issued for this expansion under the Water Resources Act. The Proponent is to bear all capital, operational and maintenance costs associated with the monitoring network.
• The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following:
  • Marathon Gold Corporation must continue to collect data at the Valentine Gold project site (EA Reg. #2015) and at the Berry Pit project area in co-operation with the Wildlife Division, and assess the degree of caribou response to existing/approved disturbances/obstacles to inform whether additional mitigations at Berry Pit are needed;
  • The Caribou Protection and Environmental Effects Mitigation Plan is to be reviewed with the Wildlife Division and required mitigations are to be implemented prior to project construction. The efficacy of mitigations must be reported to the Wildlife Division prior to each migration period, and adaptive management implemented as needed;
  • Data collection and monitoring must be undertaken at the Berry Pit  site in cooperation with the Wildlife Division, in addition to data collection and monitoring required at the Valentine Gold project site (EA Reg. # 2015), to enable analysis and evaluation of responses from migrating and resident caribou to new and ongoing activities and changes in landscape features.
  • A targeted Short-eared Owl survey must be completed within the Combined Project Area during the next breeding season, and provided to FFA for review. Further mitigations may be required.
  • A targeted Common Nighthawk survey must be completed within the Combined Project Area during the next breeding season, and provided to FFA for review. Further mitigations may be required.
  • Marathon Gold Corporation must update the Mitigation Measures Plans outlined in Appendix 2E of the environmental assessment submission in consultation with, and for the approval of, the Wildlife Division for the lifetime of the project.
• The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology requires the Newfoundland and Labrador Benefits Agreement for the Valentine Gold Project to be updated to include the Berry Pit. The updates must be completed in consultation with, and for the approval of, the Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology. The updated Benefits Agreement must include an updated Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan that meets the requirements of the Minister responsible for Women and Gender Equality. Marathon Gold Corporation is required to finalize the Benefits Agreement and Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan and obtain Ministerial approval prior to the start of construction.
• The Proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by e-mailing 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.

Humber Village Forage Production                                                     (Reg. 2267)
Proponent: Briarside Affair Limited
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 requires the following:
  • Under the Newfoundland and Labrador Endangered Species Act (NL ESA) Black Ash has recently been listed as “Threatened,” and Blue Felt Lichen has been recently been listed “Vulnerable.” The Wildlife Division requires a pre-clearing survey for Black-Ash as well as any large (> 25 cm DBH) deciduous trees on the project site, as the Blue Felt Lichen can be found on large trees (> 25 cm DBH) of any deciduous species. Survey results must be presented to the Wildlife Division for further consultation regarding potential lichen occurrences and to discuss, if needed, mitigations/requirements for black ash prior to clearing activities.
  • Vegetation clearing is not to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) and within 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer also applies to all other raptor nests (e.g. Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest site must be reported to the Wildlife Division.
  • A minimum 30-metre undisturbed riparian buffer must be maintained from the high water mark of all wetlands and waterbodies within and adjacent to the project that are identified on either the 1:50,000 scale National Topographic System maps or the topographic mapping layer shown in the Provincial Land Use atlas, to protect sensitive riparian and aquatic species and their habitats.
• The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology requires that the access road route be amended to avoid an active quarry site.
• The Proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by e-mailing 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.

Long Lake Water Control Structure Decommissioning                 (Reg. 2268)
Proponent: Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro

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.

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 Twitter: @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

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

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin first appeared on News Releases.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is reminding the public of the importance of only dialing 9-1-1 in an emergency.

The RCMP is reporting an increase in prank 9-1-1 calls from youth. What may seem like a harmless practical joke creates a serious public safety risk, with repercussions that can include criminal charges.

Prank calls pose significant risks to the public, including:

• Diverting critical resources away from actual life-threatening situations;
• Delaying response times; and
• Undermining public trust in the 9-1-1 service.

Parents, caregivers and educators are urged to remind youth that 9-1-1 should only be used in an emergency when immediate help is required from emergency services. It is also important to note that when a child is given a cellular phone without a SIM card or voice plan, the phone is still able to call 9-1-1.

Resources are available to help teach youth about the importance of using 9-1-1 appropriately.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Prank Calls to 9-1-1 Cause Serious Public Safety Risk first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Prank Calls to 9-1-1 Cause Serious Public Safety Risk appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will deliver apologies to residential schools survivors and family members in the five Labrador Inuit communities and Happy Valley-Goose Bay, November 1 to 3, 2023.

The delivery of apologies is being undertaken in collaboration with the Nunatsiavut Government and former students of residential schools. Joining Premier Furey for the apology ceremonies are Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe, other elected officials of the Nunatsiavut Assembly, and former students and family members.

Apology ceremonies are scheduled as follows:

November 1

• Rigolet, Northern Lights Academy, 11:00 a.m.
• Postville, Recreation Centre, 3:00 p.m.

November 2

• Makkovik, Community Centre, 10:00 a.m.
• Hopedale, Nanuk Community Centre, 3:00 p.m.

November 3

• Nain, Jeremiah Sillett Community Centre, 10:00 a.m.
• Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Masonic Lodge, 348 Hamilton River Road, 3:30 p.m.

The Nunatsiavut Government and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador invite former students, their family members, community members, and others impacted by residential schools to attend. Mental health supports will be available.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is following through on a commitment made in 2017, and we are working with Indigenous Governments and Organizations on the delivery of apologies to former students of residential schools.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Premier Furey to Deliver Apologies to Residential Schools Survivors in Nunatsiavut first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Premier Furey to Deliver Apologies to Residential Schools Survivors in Nunatsiavut appeared first on News Releases.

Fifteen projects that will receive funding support of up to $50,000 under the 2023-24 Inclusion and Capacity Grant Programs, to help advance accessibility, inclusion and well-being of persons with disabilities across the province, were announced today.

In 2023-24, the following 15 recipients were awarded funding through the Inclusion and Capacity Grant Programs:

• Association for New Canadians;
• CNIB Newfoundland and Labrador;
• Corner Brook Curling Lions Club;
• Easter Seals NL;
• Goodwill Lodge #84, Society of United Fishermen;
• Grand Bank Lions Club;
• History of Disability Rights NL;
• Lawnya Vawnya;
• NL Association of the Deaf;
• Planned Parenthood NL;
• St. John’s Sports and Entertainment;
• The Hub;
• Town of Centreville-Wareham-Trinity;
• Town of Pasadena; and
• YMCA of Northeast Avalon.

For more information on recipients of the 2023-24 Inclusion and Capacity Grant Programs, please see the backgrounder below.

The Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development administers two grant programs that focus on improving accessibility and inclusion and removing barriers for persons with disabilities in their communities, including:

• The Inclusion Grant Program: This project specific grant is available to eligible community-based and non-profit organizations to help create more accessible and inclusive facilities and events. This can include renovation projects or disability-related accommodations for events and meetings.
• The Capacity Grant Program: This grant is designed to help non-profit community-based organizations, incorporated municipalities, and Indigenous Governments and Organizations to build capacity to prevent and remove barriers to inclusion by building a positive image of disability, and enabling persons with disabilities to become fully engaged in their community.

Quotes
“I am pleased to announce that 15 projects will be funded under the 2023-24 Inclusion and Capacity Grant Programs. Together with community organizations and municipalities, our government shares a common goal of improving accessibility, inclusion and well-being throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. We remain committed to identifying, preventing and removing barriers that keep persons with disabilities from fully participating in society.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“The YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador strives to continuously improve accessibility features in all of its facilities. Inclusion is of paramount importance to the YMCA. With the help of Provincial Inclusion Grant funding, the YMCA is able to install specialized equipment such as lifts so that participants can engage in programs that meet their ongoing needs with dignity and respect.”
Sherry Squires
Chief Operating Officer, YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador

-30-

Learn more
Inclusion Grants Funding

Capacity Grant Program

Follow us on X @GovNL and @CSSD_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

BACKGROUNDER

2023-24 Inclusion and Capacity Grant Recipients

Applicant Project Description Association for New Canadians Disability related supports for the ANC’s IDEAS Summit.

  CNIB Newfoundland and Labrador Supply and install accessible kitchen space in the community room. Corner Brook Curling Lions Club Accessible entranceway and washrooms.

  Easter Seals NL Creating a Skill Building Program for youth living with disabilities. Goodwill Lodge #84, Society of United Fishermen Accessible washrooms renovation. Grand Bank Lions Club Accessible entranceway. History of Disability Rights NL Disability related supports for event. Lawnya Vawnya Disability related supports for event. NL Association of the Deaf Host workshop for the Deaf community in Newfoundland and Labrador. Planned Parenthood NL Disability related supports for three events. St. John’s Sports and Entertainment Enhance assisted listening system to better accommodate individuals with hearing difficulties. The Hub Accessible entranceway and accessible deck. Town of Centreville-Wareham-Trinity Create an accessible space for children and seniors. Town of Pasadena Offer an inclusive recreational outlet to neuro-diverse children with unique developmental and intellectual exceptionalities. YMCA of Northeast Avalon Portable mobility lift for transfers purchase.

 

The post Recipients of 2023-24 Inclusion and Capacity Grant Programs Announced first appeared on News Releases.

The post Recipients of 2023-24 Inclusion and Capacity Grant Programs Announced appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, will speak at Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services’ Innovation Summit tomorrow (Friday, October 27).

The event will take place at the Health Innovation Acceleration Centre, 66 Pippy Place, St. John’s beginning at 9:00 a.m.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Minister Osborne to Bring Greetings at the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services’ Health Innovation Summit first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Osborne to Bring Greetings at the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services’ Health Innovation Summit appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education:

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to recognize the work happening throughout Newfoundland and Labrador to improve access to high-quality and affordable child care.

On January 1, three years ahead of schedule, we implemented $10-a-day early learning and child care for children of all age groups. According to a report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, this has decreased the cost of regulated early learning and child care by almost 70 per cent for pre-school aged children, and almost 80 per cent for infants.

We are also focused on increasing access to early learning and child care through space creation initiatives, as well as the recruitment and retention of early childhood educators.

We recently announced $7.5 million to support infrastructure and renovations to regulated child care services availing of the operating grant program. We also increased funding for projects operating under the Child Care Capacity Initiative program, which includes an hourly wage increase to $25 per hour for developmental workers.

Our efforts are working. We have created close to 1,100 early learning and child care spaces this year, and there are currently close to 8,400 child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or lower in the province.

Recently we launched our child care demand portal to help us assess and understand current demand and to continue our efforts and I encourage all families seeking child care to visit the site.

Speaker, our government will continue to work so that all families throughout the province are able to access the early learning and child care services that they need.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Howell Highlights Actions to Increase Access to Affordable Child Care first appeared on News Releases.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Howell Highlights Actions to Increase Access to Affordable Child Care appeared first on News Releases.

The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House to highlight how our government is helping Labrador youth, Special Olympians and sports teams travel to other areas of the province to participate in provincial competitions, development camps and try-outs.

The Department of Labrador Affairs is increasing financial assistance through enhancements in the Labrador Sport Travel Subsidy program. The changes include increasing the subsidy to offset the higher cost of team airfare, improving the mileage claim process, and enhancing travel for Labrador athletes who qualify for provincial teams.

Through Budget 2023, Labrador Affairs also increased funding to School Sports Newfoundland and Labrador by $100,000. This boost in funding is expanding opportunities for student athletes from Labrador and laying the groundwork for the development of Indigenous-themed games. Total spending on both programs now amounts to $830,000. Full details are available on the Labrador Affairs website.

Encouraging and promoting physical activity at an early age improves self-esteem and mental and physical well-being. Young athletes across Labrador have proven they have the ability to compete at a high level. In order to tap into this incredible potential, it’s essential they have opportunities to grow, develop and mature.

As a Government, we recognized the need to do more and we are delivering to support young athletes from Labrador.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Dempster Outlines Greater Support for Athletes, Special Olympians and Sports Teams from Labrador first appeared on News Releases.

The post Ministerial Statement – Minister Dempster Outlines Greater Support for Athletes, Special Olympians and Sports Teams from Labrador appeared first on News Releases.