Government of Newfoundland News

The Department of Health and Community Services is providing $105,000 to March of Dimes Canada to establish a new After Stroke Program Coordinator position to improve supports for stroke survivors, family members and caregivers in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The After Stroke Program is Canada’s most comprehensive stroke recovery program, which aims to support a seamless transition by stroke survivors from hospital to home. More information on the program is available here.

The program coordinator will work with stroke survivors and their family members and caregivers to provide:

• A personalized recovery plan;
• Emotional support and education;
• Access to resources and services in their community;
• A network of support to help navigate the journey ahead; and
• Hospital visitation with trained peer supporters that have lived experience.

The funding is aligned with the Provincial Government’s efforts to support health promotion and wellness. It is also aligned with recommendations from Health Accord NL to improve services for stroke, cancer and cardiac disease.

The March of Dimes Canada is a registered charitable organization that provides support services to people living with disabilities, their families, and caregivers across Canada. For more than 20 years, the organization has supported the After Stroke Program, providing specialized care to stroke survivors and their families.

Quotes
“With the high prevalence of stroke in this province, we acknowledge the valuable need for better stroke care in Newfoundland and Labrador. This funding will provide skills and resources to stroke survivors and family members and caregivers to support community reintegration and improve patient outcomes.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Providing support to individuals who have experienced a stroke and their families through the After Stroke Program can have a significant positive impact on their recovery. We welcome this valuable enhancement to the health care services we provide in our province.”
Cassie Chisolm
Vice President, Transformation (Health Systems) Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services

“We are thrilled to receive this funding, and extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the Department of Health and Community Services for their invaluable contribution.
Being from Newfoundland and Labrador, I know that the services we provide are very much needed, and am grateful for the opportunity to enhance our ability to serve the community, and bring about meaningful changes in the lives of stroke survivors and their families.”
Leonard Baker
President and Chief Executive Officer of March of Dimes Canada

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March of Dimes Canada

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The Provincial Government is pleased to welcome a delegation of industry stakeholders to the province this week for an immersive experience of Newfoundland and Labrador’s ocean industry.

Hosted in partnership with OceansAdvance, the two-day event welcomes over 30 industry leaders and seasoned professionals from the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, the United States and other parts of Canada for site tours, meetings and networking opportunities in St. John’s and Holyrood on June 15 and 16.

The event begins with the Ocean Technology Speaker Series, featuring presentations from:

• Dr. David Murrin, Director General, National Research Council Ocean Coastal River Engineering;
• Enrico Nake, Senior Trade Officer, Embassy of Canada – Berlin, Germany ;
• Neale Ryan, Senior Program Manager, Land and Maritime Transport, Innovate UK; and
• Wayne Murphy, Co-Founder and Partner, HATCH.

Delegates will receive tours of the National Research Council facilities, C-Core, The Launch and Marine Institute.

Newfoundland and Labrador is home to a thriving ecosystem of innovation and exploration. From deep-sea robotics and underwater mapping to renewable energy solutions and sustainable aquaculture practices, this thriving sector is revolutionizing the understanding of the oceans and opening up new avenues for economic growth and environmental stewardship in our province.

This event provides first-hand insights into this cutting-edge industry on an international scale, following the Provincial Government’s recent participation at the H2O Home to Overseas conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia earlier this week.

Quotes
“With a growing clean energy sector and a strategic location in the North Atlantic on a crossroads to international shipping lanes, Newfoundland and Labrador is well-positioned to be a leader in the ocean industry. The blue economy is blooming all across Canada, and it is important to showcase our industry’s immense potential for investment and partnerships to both national and international stakeholders.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“OceansAdvance is excited to welcome this group of delegates from several international markets to our province. Organized with support from key provincial industry players, namely Marine Institute, Memorial University, NRC and C-Core, this two-day event will afford local companies, research and academic institutions, and government agencies the opportunity to meet with a wide array of global innovators to discuss sales, partnerships and collaboration in the oceans sector. We look forward to providing our guests with an unprecedented opportunity to experience the impressive oceans community that makes Newfoundland and Labrador a global leader in ocean technology.”
Cathy Hogan
Executive Director, OceansAdvance

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OceansAdvance

H2O Home to Overseas Conference

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will bring greetings at the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Community Business Development Corporations’ (CBDCs) Annual General Meeting today (Thursday, June 15).

The meeting is taking place at the St. Christopher’s Hotel, 146 Caribou Road, Channel-Port aux Basques. Minister Parsons is scheduled to speak at 6:30 p.m.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of CBDCs are non-profit organizations that offer a variety of programs and services to help start, expand or modernize a business.

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June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging reports that the prevalence of elder abuse in Canada is increasing, which appears to be the practice experience in Newfoundland and Labrador as well. This increase is a significant concern given the under-reporting of abuse of older persons.

Elder abuse, which includes emotional, physical, sexual or financial abuse, unfortunately couples with ageist attitudes and beliefs, and people with ageist attitudes tend to believe their actions are justified. Older adults who are physically, cognitively or emotionally vulnerable, living in poverty and/or members of an underrepresented group are at increased risk.

There are actions you can take to prevent and help eradicate elder abuse. If you have concerns that a senior is experiencing abuse, report it by calling 1-855-376-4957 or contacting your local police.

Further, research shows that having social supports is a strong protective factor to guard against elder abuse, so consider:

• reaching out to offer support to the seniors in your life who may be more isolated;
• addressing ageist attitudes when you hear them; and
• promoting the value seniors have contributed, and continue to contribute, to our communities.

Quote
“Under the Adult Protection Act, we all have a legal responsibility to report suspected abuse. We must also work toward the prevention of abuse of older adults through: creating age friendly communities that enable social inclusion; educating on impact of elder abuse and ageism; and promoting services, policies and programs that respect the dignity of older adults.”
Susan Walsh
Seniors’ Advocate Newfoundland and Labrador

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Media contact
Sherri-Lee Owens
709-729-6603, 1-833-729-6603 (toll free)
seniorsadvocate@seniorsadvocatenl.ca

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced changes to his Cabinet.

Effective immediately, the changes are:

• The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education
• The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development; Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities; Minister Responsible for the Community Sector; and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
• The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and Registrar General
• The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Agency
• The Honourable Derrick Bragg, Minister without portfolio.

Biographies of the ministers are included in the backgrounder below.

Quote
“I am fortunate to serve the people of Newfoundland and Labrador with an excellent team of passionate, dedicated individuals committed to building a brighter future for our province. I thank each and every member of our government for their unwavering dedication, and for the energy they bring to each of their portfolios. As I support Minister Bragg in dealing with his health, I welcome Minister Pike to Cabinet and look forward to working with each minister in their new roles.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographies

Hon. Krista Lynn Howell, Member for St. Barbe – L’Anse aux Meadows
Krista Lynn Howell was born and raised on the Great Northern Peninsula. With the exception of time spent in St. John’s to attend Memorial University, Krista has lived in the district of St. Barbe – L’Anse aux Meadows.

In 2011 she graduated from the Memorial University School of Nursing with a Bachelor of Nursing Degree. Minister Howell has an interest in the dynamics and scope of rural nursing, so working on the Northern Peninsula was a perfect fit. She enrolled in a Masters of Nursing Program to increase her knowledge and skill set and while other things are taking up her time these days, with only two courses left to completion, it is still on her priority list.

Minister Howell is active in her community. She was a Girl Guide leader, a youth advocate, a swim team coach and a Boys and Girls Club Board Member. Aside from advocating for people in those roles Krista also found a passion in representing the people as a “voice” for her community.

A successful by-election bid for local council in St. Anthony in 2015 introduced her to what would become one of her greatest interests: Municipal Government.

Learning from experienced members of the Council team and realizing she could facilitate meaningful changes for the people of her town and region simply meant she was hooked! She ran again in 2017 and became the Deputy Mayor of St. Anthony. In 2019 she made a little history when she was appointed the first ever female Mayor of historic St. Anthony.

When the chance came to step into provincial politics there was no hesitation. Being a voice for even more people was a once in a life time opportunity. She could not turn it down. Krista was up for the challenge and in March 2021 she was elected to the House of Assembly. In April 2021 her passion was realized when she was appointed Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and Registrar General for the province.

Hon. Elvis Loveless, Member for Fortune Bay – Cape La Hune
Elvis Loveless originates from Seal Cove Fortune Bay, married to Marsha (Newport) Loveless with two children; Kaitlyn and Ryan. He was first elected to the House of Assembly for the beautiful district of Fortune Bay-Cape La Hune in 2019.

Minister Loveless takes great pride in representing his constituents, and that will always be his top priority. He pledges to work tirelessly for all issues that matter to his constituents. He began his journey in the political field in 1996 and since that time, he worked as Executive Assistant and Policy Advisor to three former Newfoundland and Labrador Premiers, and also worked with various cabinet ministers. In August 2020, he was appointed to cabinet as Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture. In April 2021, he was appointed as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Act.

Hon. Paul Pike, Member for Burin – Grand Bank
Paul Pike graduated from Memorial University with a Bachelor of Arts (Education) Degree and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration. He has four decades of experience in teaching and administration at all education levels including post-secondary.

Minister Pike has been involved in promoting the development and economic sustainability of the Burin Peninsula for a number of years, having served on municipal council with the Town of St. Lawrence for twenty-eight years, including time as mayor. He also served as Vice-President of Municipalities NL and Public Relations Chairperson of the Municipal Assessment Agency.

Minister Pike has also been an active volunteer in his community as a Director with the Community Credit Union, Director with the Burin Peninsula Community Development Board and as a member of the Burin Peninsula Eastern Health Advisory Board, among involvement in other organizations.

He and his wife Laura have three children and seven grandchildren.

Minister Pike was elected as the MHA for Burin – Grand Bank in the 2021 Provincial General Election.

Hon. John Haggie, Member for Gander
Born in England, the Honourable John Haggie completed his medical studies at Victoria University in Manchester. He held several positions as physician, surgeon, tutor and registrar in the North West region of England and after a two-year fellowship, he received a doctorate in cancer research.

Since moving to Canada in the early nineties, Minister Haggie has had a long and distinguished career in medicine in Newfoundland and Labrador. He practiced initially as a general surgeon in St. Anthony with the Grenfell Region Health Services. In 1997, he was appointed attending surgeon of general and vascular surgery at James Paton Memorial Hospital in Gander. In 2008, he was appointed Chief of Staff at James Paton Memorial Hospital.

Minister Haggie served as President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association and the Canadian Medical Association.

In Newfoundland and Labrador’s 2015 general election, he was elected MHA for the District of Gander and appointed to Cabinet to serve as the Minister of Health and Community Services, after which he served as Minister of Education.

Hon. John G. Abbott, Member for St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi
John G. Abbott is one of ten children born to William & Angela (Ennis) Abbott raised in the family home on Portugal Cove Road in the District of St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi.

He attended Memorial University where he met his wife, Colleen Hanrahan, in a Political Science class and completed a degree in Political Science & Economics, followed by a graduate degree in Public Administration from Carleton University. Following graduation, he started work with the Provincial Finance Department.

Minister Abbott was a senior executive in various departments: Health, Municipal Affairs, Transportation & Works, Treasury Board, and Newfoundland & Labrador Housing. In 2017, he led the development of the much-heralded mental health and addictions action plan for the province. He is also former CEO of both the Canadian Mental Health Association – NL Division and Health Council of Canada.

In 1999, he was awarded the IPAC Lt. Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration and the Pottle Award for promoting mental health in the community.

Minister Abbott has served on national and provincial boards including the Kiwanis Music Festival Association, the Jimmy Pratt Foundation, and Canadian Corps of Commissionaires-NL.

Minister Abbott is an avid hiker, having backpacked across Newfoundland, in Europe and Mount Kilimanjaro, and slept under the stars in the Antarctic. On April 8, 2021, he was sworn in as Minister of Children, Seniors & Social Development, Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, Minister Responsible for the Community Sector, and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland & Labrador Housing.

Hon. Derrick Bragg, Member for Fogo Island – Cape Freels
Derrick Bragg was born and raised in the small community of Greenspond, Newfoundland and Labrador, where he was employed in the municipal sector for 30 years as town clerk/manager. He was a strong advocate of community engagement and volunteered on various committees including fire chief for 28 years.

Minister Bragg served on the board of directors for the NL Association of Municipal Administrators for eight years, five of which was in the capacity of president. He was elected on November 30, 2015 and re-elected May 16, 2019, and previously served as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment.

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A swearing-in ceremony for Cabinet will take place at 3:30 p.m. today (Wednesday, June 14), in the Billiards Room at Government House.

3:00 p.m. Billiards Room available for set up by media representatives; enter through the west side entrance of Government House
3:15 p.m. Media representatives in place
3:30 p.m. Swearing-in ceremony
3:45 p.m. Media availability in the Billiards Room (approximate)

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

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The Standing Committee on Public Accounts advises that it is actively following up on the Auditor General’s findings and recommendations contained in the performance audit report respecting the Food Premises Inspection and Licensing Program. The Auditor General’s audit on the matter focused on whether the Department of Digital Government and Service NL effectively manages the Food Premises Inspection and Licensing Program; and whether the program has effective monitoring and oversight by the Departments of Digital Government and Service NL and Health and Community Services.

The Public Accounts Committee met with the Auditor General and officials recently to discuss the findings and recommendations contained in the audit report. As its next follow-up action on this matter, the Committee has contacted the Departments of Digital Government and Service NL and Health and Community Services requesting a written action plan for implementation of the Auditor General’s recommendations by September 30, 2023. It has also advised both entities that officials may be invited to appear before the Committee at a future public hearing with respect to this matter.

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts is a committee of the House of Assembly, deriving its authority from the House itself. The Committee is dedicated to improving public administration in partnership with the Auditor General by assessing the effective implementation of government policy, not the merits of it.

Quote
“Now that the Auditor General’s work on this matter has concluded, the Public Accounts Committee is committed to ensuring appropriate oversight and accountability on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Committee looks forward to the cooperation of the entities concerned as it conducts its follow-up on this matter.”
Helen Conway Ottenheimer, MHA
Chair, Public Accounts Committee

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Learn more
Public Accounts Committee

Food Premises Inspection & Licensing Program Audit Report

Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Policy & Communications Officer
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

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The Provincial Government is issuing a call for members to expand the Minister of Education’s Early Learning and Child Care Advisory Committee.

Members of the advisory committee will contribute to the development and implementation of the provincial Early Learning Action Plan 2023-2026. The committee will provide advice to the Minister of Education respecting early learning and child care, programs and services, and funding and activities that support early learning and child care and ensure a high quality and inclusive system.

The current committee has been instrumental in efforts to create an affordable, accessible, and quality early learning and child care system in Newfoundland and Labrador. Recent initiatives include the move to $10-a-day child care in January 2023,  along with a new wage grid to attract and retain early childhood educators in April and more than 700 new spaces set to be added before the end of the year.

Representation on the committee will include a range of practitioners and experts from around the province in the area of early learning and child care, including academia, leaders and social groups, service providers and persons with experience in using early learning and child care services, including parents and guardians.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the committee can email ELCCAdvisory@gov.nl.ca to receive an expression of interest. The deadline is July 7, 2023.

Quote
“I encourage those in the early learning and child care field, and parents or guardians who use these services, to apply to become a member of the advisory committee. I look forward to hearing the committee’s valuable advice and input as we develop the new Early Learning Action Plan.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

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Canada – Newfoundland and Labrador Early Learning and Child Care Agreement – 2021 – 2025

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, will bring greetings at the Event Atlantic Summit tomorrow (Wednesday, June 14).

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

The Event Atlantic Summit is a conference for event industry stakeholders being held June 14 to 16 in St. John’s. Members of the Atlantic Canadian events industry will come together to share ideas and best practices and further develop ways to make Atlantic Canada the very best location for hosting and attending events.

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The Provincial Government is recognizing graduating students across Newfoundland and Labrador for their leadership and engagement in initiatives aimed at building and nurturing safe, caring and inclusive school communities.

This year, the province is providing $7,500 through the Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Leadership Bursary, shared among 15 students. A list of recipients for 2023 is available in the backgrounder below.

The Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Graduating Leadership Bursary helps to establish school-based protocols and practices that challenge all forms of bullying, harassment, and inappropriate behavior, and to create an environment of acceptance, belonging, respect and empathy. The bursary highlights the contributions from youth in establishing and maintaining safe, caring and inclusive schools and communities, and promoting student awareness of the Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Policy.

The Provincial Government promotes an inclusive and welcoming school culture, where all members of the school community feel accepted, are able to realize their potential and contribute to the school community.

Quote
“Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the Safe, Inclusive and Caring Graduating Student Leadership Bursary. It is through initiatives such as this that we continue to highlight the great work by students in our school communities. I wish you all the best in your future studies.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

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Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools

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BACKGROUNDER

Safe, Caring and Inclusive Schools Graduating Student Leadership Bursary Recipients 2022-2023

Student

School  

Location Hannah Barrett Gonzaga High School St. John’s Amy Bishop Dunne Memorial Academy St. Mary’s Jenna Blackmore O’Donel High School Mount Pearl Chloe Clarke Waterford Valley High School St. John’s Rainer Clarke Clarenville High School Hillview Cian Cole Lewisporte Collegiate Lewisporte Stella Cook Holy Heart of Mary High School St. John’s Adrianna Cutler St. Boniface All Grade Ramea Teagan Dwyer Corner Brook Regional High Corner Brook Anna Gosling Eric G. Lambert School Churchill Falls Antonia Lundrigan St. Lawrence Academy St. Lawrence Caley-Anne MacDonald Mealy Mountain Collegiate Goose Bay Serena Squires Carbonear Collegiate Harbour Grace Brooklyn Watkins Botwood Collegiate Botwood Mark Willcott Bay d’Espoir Academy St. Alban’s

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Following efforts by the Provincial Government and a court appointed monitor, a new buyer has been confirmed for Canada Fluorspar (NL) Inc. (CFI) and its fluorspar mine in St. Lawrence.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, was joined in St. Lawrence for the announcement today by Rudolph de Bruin, Director of Fluorspar Holdings Pte Ltd (the buyer); His Worship Kevin Pittman, Mayor of St. Lawrence; and Paul Pike, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and MHA for Burin-Grand Bank.

On June 6, 2023, the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador approved the sale of CFI to the buyer, a private company registered in Singapore, for $25 million, which closed today (June 13, 2023). The buyer is a subsidiary company of AMED Funds. AMED Funds is a group of private equity funds with over US$1.4 billion in assets under management, including significant fluorspar investments and projects. AMED Fund’s team is composed of experienced professionals in the mining and exploration industry with an impressive track record and network of partners.

With the sale in place, the new operator can now engage with employees, contractors, and suppliers over the coming months to restart the idled mine. As a sponsor partner of AMED Funds and the buyer, Mr. de Bruin brings decades of mining experience to CFI.

The fluorspar mine in St. Lawrence is the only mine of its kind in North America. The mine is a significant employer in the region and an economic generator for the province. Fluorspar is integral to lithium batteries, solar panels and steel. Prior to its closure in February 2022, the mine produced acidspar grade fluorspar and shipped its product year-round to global customers in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia.

The Provincial Government will receive close to $4 million from the proceeds of the sale. This will repay a loan of $3.25 million, plus interest, that it provided to CFI to sustain its operations during the sales and investment solicitation process that was led by Grant Thornton under the CCAA proceedings in its capacity as the Court-appointed Monitor. The Provincial Government agreed with the buyer to provide up to, but not more than, $3.785 million toward the costs associated with a water treatment management plan at the site to assist with the restart of the mine. This project is expected to reach into the tens of millions of dollars in expenditures. These funds will help ensure the restart of the mine and the return of jobs and economic activity to the region.

The Provincial Government expresses its gratitude to the Monitor, Grant Thornton, for successfully leading the solicitation and sale process to this point, and for providing stewardship to CFI for the last 15 months.

Quotes
“Our government committed to exploring all reasonable options to help secure a future for the fluorspar mine and its employees. We are pleased that the mine has found a new owner. We look forward to the restart of the mine in St. Lawrence, and to the benefits and jobs that this will bring back to the town and to the broader region in the Burin Peninsula.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“We at AMED Funds are delighted that after months of detailed work by our technical teams, constructive engagements with the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and with the Monitor, the transaction was realized. Our aim is not only to bring Canada Fluorspar back into production, but to transform it into a world class fluorspar mine as part of AMED’s diverse product offering. We aim to do this in partnership with the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and the community.”
Rudolph de Bruin, Director
Fluorspar Holdings Pte Ltd.

“This is a very positive step for our community moving forward. The mining industry has been a part of our history for a long time and we wait, optimistically, to see what the parameters are around the sale and what it means for future employment. At this point there’s a positive outlook and, and we are very happy about the completion of the sale process.”
His Worship Kevin Pittman
Mayor of the Town of St. Lawrence

“This is an exciting development for the community of St. Lawrence, and as the MHA for Burin – Grand Bank I am proud to be a part of a government that responsibly helped support the restart of the fluorspar mine. This is a good day for the entire region, providing employment, creating a stable local economy, and benefitting all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Paul Pike
Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and MHA for Burin-Grand Bank

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will bring greetings at the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Newfoundland and Labrador conference tomorrow (Wednesday, June 14).

The event takes place at the Delta Hotel, 115 Gower Street, St. John’s, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters is the largest trade and industry association in the country, representing more than 10,000 companies nationwide.

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will join mayors from the northeast Avalon region for a discussion on collaborating communities tomorrow (June 14).

The event will take place at the Emera Innovation Exchange, 100 Signal Hill Road, St. John’s beginning at 9:00 a.m.

“Collaborating Communities – A Conversation About Common Objectives, Shared Challenges and Collective Opportunities” is being hosted by the St. John’s Board of Trade, the Conception Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Mount Pearl Paradise Chamber of Commerce.

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will hold a news conference in St. Lawrence tomorrow (Tuesday, June 13).

The event will take place at the St. Lawrence Municipal Centre (second floor), Burin Peninsula Highway (Route 220), Town of St. Lawrence beginning at 12:00 p.m.

The minister will be joined by Paul Pike, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and MHA for Burin-Grand Bank.

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The following is being distributed at the request of The Council of Atlantic Premiers:

Atlantic Premiers are working to improve health care, address labour shortages and strengthen the region’s economy through collaboration and focusing on what can be accomplished by working together to meet the needs of Atlantic Canada.

As Chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island was joined by Premier Blaine Higgs of New Brunswick, Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia, and Premier Dr. Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premiers reiterated their commitment to support Nova Scotians as they continue to address the impacts of devastating wildfires.

Recognizing the importance of mitigating the impacts of climate change, the Atlantic Provinces have taken considerable action to advance the green transition. Premiers call on the Federal Government to clarify the economic impacts of the Clean Fuel Regulations, taking into account the unique characteristics of the region, including supply constraints and the regulatory environment.

Federal measures taking effect on July 1, 2023, will significantly increase prices for gasoline and diesel and create additional inflationary pressures on families, and more vulnerable people. The Parliamentary Budget Officer has found that these federal policies disproportionately impact Atlantic Canadians. Premiers urge the Federal Government to re-examine its policies to ensure that Atlantic Canadians do not bear a heavier cost burden than other Canadians.

Premiers discussed the region’s long-term electricity needs and the need for firm, reliable power for the region’s growing energy needs.  Premiers reiterated their commitment to protecting ratepayers to the greatest extent possible while managing the energy transition.

Atlantic Canada is well positioned to be an energy powerhouse in the years ahead with new energy resources and export opportunities being developed. An effective provincial-federal partnership focused on economic growth and affordable energy costs is required.

Through increased collaboration under the Atlantic Health Accord, Premiers remain dedicated to improving health care. Since coming into effect on May 1, 87 physicians have opted into the Atlantic Physician Registry, enabling them to work seamlessly throughout the region. The Registry marks the first multi-jurisdiction licencing model in Canada.

Premiers are committed to building on this success, and have agreed to explore, together with health partners, expanding the Atlantic Registry concept to cover more health professions, reducing administrative burden, improving information and data sharing, and establishing an Atlantic Working Group on International Recruitment. Through these actions, Premiers aim to continue building innovative health systems and improving care for Atlantic Canadians. Premiers look forward to further discussions on health innovation and human resources when they join their colleagues at the Council of the Federation meeting in Winnipeg next month.

Atlantic Premiers met virtually with the Honourable Sean Fraser, federal Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, to discuss immigration and labour force challenges. Premiers noted that expediting the processing of immigrants for key sectors is important and noted the steps already taken by Minister Fraser to address the issue. The Premiers and Minister Fraser committed to ongoing discussions, and they look forward to meeting again next month at the Atlantic Growth Strategy meeting in New Brunswick. Atlantic Premiers were pleased with Minister Fraser’s support for continued improvements to the various immigration streams, including a commitment to be flexible, and the willingness he expressed to continue to work with Atlantic Premiers.

Atlantic Premiers also met virtually with the Premiers of Canada’s northern territories: Premier Caroline Cochrane, Northwest Territories; Premier Ranj Pillai, Yukon; and Premier P.J. Akeeagok, Nunavut. They discussed shared priorities and ways to address common challenges, including health care human resources and the unique funding needs of small jurisdictions. Premiers from Atlantic Canada and the North agreed to explore further opportunities for collaboration.

Premiers agree on the need for a new federal infrastructure program to address the impacts of climate change and build infrastructure that supports economic growth. Federal programs must provide adequate and predictable funding while also being flexible enough to allow Provinces to use the funding in accordance with their unique infrastructure priorities.

The Chignecto Isthmus between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia is a vital corridor at risk due to rising sea levels. Premiers reiterated that the Federal Government has a constitutional responsibility to maintain links between provinces and fully fund this project.

Premiers reinforced their commitment to improving access to affordable housing and reducing homelessness. They encouraged the Federal Government to accelerate program delivery and increase flexible funding for existing provincial programming to meet the region’s unique needs.

Premiers also urged the Federal Government to renew Labour Market Transfer Agreements as an important tool supporting workers and employers with training and retraining opportunities that are key to expanding jobs and growth in Atlantic Canada.

Atlantic Canada is acting to reduce barriers to trade and labour mobility within the Atlantic region. Premiers have agreed to work toward an Agreement to Improve Technical Safety, Interjurisdictional Commerce, and the Mobility of Certified Tradespeople in Atlantic Canada. This Agreement would commit to working towards enabling regulated technical tradespeople to work throughout the region as efficiently and effectively as possible.

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Les premiers ministres de l’Atlantique se concertent pour améliorer les soins de santé et consolider l’économie des provinces de l’Atlantique

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As a result of an incident at the Regatta Plaza Employment Centre in St. John’s, clients seeking services can avail of them through the Duckworth Street Employment Centre at 285 Duckworth Street. SIRT-NL are investigating the incident.

Clients seeking assistance with Income Support can call 1-709-729-7888.

Mental health and crisis supports will be available through the Employment Assistance Program. The services offered are professional, confidential and readily available.

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The post Public Advisory: Employment Centre Closed Following Incident appeared first on News Releases.

As part of the ongoing efforts to build capacity within the early learning and child care system, a contract valued at $149,000 has been awarded to Deloitte to review the Operating Grant Program following a Request for Proposals.

The Operating Grant Program helps address affordability of child care services for families with young children. It is a key component of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. As part of the agreement, government committed to exploring potential enhancements to the program to ensure that regulated operations remain financially viable, and to retain and attract new early childhood educators.

This is one of many initiatives that reflect our government’s ongoing commitment to create an early learning and child care system that meets the needs of our communities. Other recent measures include the move to $10-a-day child care in January along with a new wage grid to attract and retain early childhood educators in April, and more than 700 new spaces set to be added before the end of the year.

Results of the review are due back to the Department of Education by September 30, 2023.

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“An affordable, accessible, quality child care system is important for the future of our province. The Operating Grant Program has grown exponentially since it was introduced almost 10 years ago. As we continue to increase capacity for families, this is an opportunity to review the program and identify areas of improvement to benefit everyone.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education

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Learn more
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

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The House of Assembly advises that a meeting of the Management Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, June 14 at 9 a.m.

The meeting will be broadcast live via the House of Assembly television channel and streamed via the House of Assembly website. As provided for in subsection 19(1) of the House of Assembly Accountability Integrity and Administration Act, an in camera session will follow the televised portion of the meeting.

Briefing materials for the meeting will be available on the website at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday. The agenda for the meeting follows.

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Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Policy & Communications Officer
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

House of Assembly Management Commission
Agenda

Date:              June 14, 2023
Time:             9:00 a.m.
Location:      HOA Committee Room

Televised Meeting

1. Approval of Minutes:
   a. February 21, 2023
   b. February 22, 2023
   c. May 24, 2023
   d. June 7, 2023
2. Speaker’s Report – Rulings on Allowance Use
3. Financial Reports:
   a. April 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022
   b. April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023
4. Report of Budget Transfers Processed – Fiscal Year 2022-23
5. Confirmation of Rule Amendment for Intra & Extra Constituency Allocations
6. Audit Committee Recommendation – Employee Code of Conduct
7. Eligibility of Christmas Greetings – Advertising and Special Occasion Cards
8. Severance Policy for MHAs

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An online gaming platform is now available in Newfoundland and Labrador through Atlantic Lottery.

As the only regulated provider in the region, Atlantic Lottery maintains Level IV (the highest) World Lottery Association certification and employs Healthy Play features to inform and support responsible play.

Newfoundland and Labrador is the third Atlantic province to make online games available, following New Brunswick in 2020 and Nova Scotia in 2022.

Atlantic Lottery’s mandate is to provide government regulated and responsible products for Atlantic Canadians who choose to game. It is a partnership comprised of the provincial governments of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

If gambling becomes a problem for you or someone you know, there are many resources that can help. The Gambling Help Line is a free, confidential service available province-wide, 24 hours a day. Please call 811 for information and support.

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“As a government, we wish to ensure the safety of residents who engage in online gaming. Atlantic Lottery’s platform provides a responsible alternative for residents who currently have access to hundreds of online gaming sites, none of which are legal or regulated.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

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Learn more
PlayWise | Atlantic Lottery Corporation (alc.ca)

The post Residents Provided with a Regulated and Responsible Space for Online Gaming appeared first on News Releases.

The press conference for the meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers meeting at Mill River, Prince Edward Island, that had been scheduled for today (Monday, June 12) is cancelled due to scheduling constraints. A communique will be released following the conclusion of the meeting.

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The post Media Advisory: Council of Atlantic Premiers Press Conference Cancelled appeared first on News Releases.