Government of Newfoundland News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Learn more
Circular Economy Month

Circular Innovation Council

Multi-Materials Stewardship Board

Rethink Waste NL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

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BACKGROUNDER

Breakdown of Vacant Units

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

Region Units to be Repaired Eastern 85 Central 15 Western 12 Labrador 31 Total 143

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

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

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

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

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

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

UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

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

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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.

Today, the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, are issuing the enclosed statement in response to people feeling unsafe in their communities.

“The crisis in Israel, West Bank, and Gaza have left some members of our communities feeling unsafe and vulnerable.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador condemns violence or hate in any form. Antisemitism and Islamophobia will not be tolerated. Newfoundland and Labrador is a safe and welcoming province. We hold the safety of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as a matter of the utmost importance. We will not tolerate any act that compromises the safety and security of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted. The unspeakable acts that the terrorist organization Hamas has carried out against the people of Israel cannot be tolerated. We stand with the Government of Canada in condemning acts of terror and call on all parties to abide by the requirements of international law.

If any member of our community feels unsafe, they are encouraged to contact their local police detachment, or in the case of an emergency call 911. People are also encouraged to call 811 or visit bridgethegapp.ca if they are experiencing any challenges with their mental health.”

Sincerely,

Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, will address the Bay St. George Chamber of Commerce on Monday, October 16.

The event will open Small Business Week, and takes place at the Days Inn, 44 Queen Street, Stephenville, with Minister Parsons scheduled to join virtually at 12:30 p.m.

The Bay St. George Chamber of Commerce boasts a membership representing a wide variety of businesses, government, service organizations and individuals. Their vision is to be the leading organization for business development, through the promotion of partnerships, business innovation and support services to achieve prosperity for the Bay St. George Region.

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The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will take part in a Candlelight Service of Hope and Remembrance hosted by MADD Canada tomorrow (Saturday, October 14).

The ceremony, which includes the dedication of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Memorial Monument, is to honour and remember those who have been killed or have suffered serious injury as a result of impaired driving.

The service will take place at the Salvation Army Grand Falls Citadel, 33 Circular Road, Grand Falls-Windsor beginning at 11:00 a.m.

MADD Canada is a non-profit organization committed to ending impaired driving and supporting victims and families of this violent crime.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Haggie to Participate in MADD Canada’s Candlelight Service of Hope and Remembrance   appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will bring greetings at the 50th annual Newfoundland and Labrador Sport Hall of Fame Induction ceremony tomorrow (Saturday, October 14).

The event will take place at The Rooms, 9 Bonaventure Avenue, St. John’s beginning at 6:30 p.m.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Davis to Bring Greetings at 50th Annual Newfoundland and Labrador Sport Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony first appeared on News Releases.

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Newfoundland and Labrador employers with an interest in filling their staffing needs with workers from outside of Canada are encouraged to register for upcoming online immigration fairs, including the October 25, 2023 regional fair for Africa.

Online fairs offer employers the ability to access an international talent pool to fill vacancies they cannot fill locally. Employers may instantly connect with prospective international candidates, review resumes and schedule interviews. The fairs focus on in-demand sectors in Newfoundland and Labrador, such as aviation, health care, early childhood education, technology and hospitality.

The process to register and attend an online fair is simple and straightforward. Employers who require additional support to register are encouraged to contact the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism at attraction@gov.nl.ca. Staff will be happy to assist with registration and orientation.

In September, the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills hosted its first online fair targeting East and South East Asia, and the Oceania regions. Employers received over 20,000 unique visits, leading to nearly 4,500 job applications. The October 25 fair is attracting tens of thousands of registrations, including 10,000 registered for the health care sector alone.

The fair will last approximately four hours; employers are encouraged to attend the entire event, as job-seekers may ask questions throughout.

For a full schedule of upcoming online fairs, please see the backgrounder below. Click here to register for a virtual job fair.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to sustained population growth. This includes the goal of welcoming 5,100 newcomers annually by 2026.

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BACKGROUNDER

Upcoming Online Employment Fairs

Region Date Location time NDT/NST Africa October 25, 2023 6:00 p.m. West Africa Time 2:30 p.m. NDT Europe, Central Asia November 16, 2023 7:00 p.m Irish Standard Time 3:30 p.m. NST Middle East, South Asia January 24, 2024 6:00 p.m. Gulf Standard Time 10:30 a.m. NST The Americas March 27, 2024 7:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time 8:30 p.m. NDT

 

The post Public Advisory: Online Employment Fair Attracts Thousands of Potential Workers; Local Employers Urged to Take Part first appeared on News Releases.

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A family care team in the Coast of Bays region is now accepting patients, which is part of a series of new teams being added throughout the province to increase access to primary care.

To date, the number of people rostered with family care team has risen from approximately 28,000 people in March 2023 to more than 49,000 in September 2023. In addition, the number of full-time health care professionals, including clerical and managers, employed with family care teams has grown from approximately 100 in April to 196 in September.

The team is located in the Connaigre Peninsula Health Centre and Bay d’Espoir Community Health Centre, and is operational Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., by appointment only.

Residents who do not have a primary care provider now or who expect to not have one within the next three months in the Coast of Bays area, as well as province-wide, can register with Patient Connect NL online at https://patientconnect.nlchi.nl.ca/ or via phone at 1-833-913-4679. Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services will work to assign those who register to a family care team or primary health care provider when one becomes available in their area.

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes
“More and more people are getting their primary health care from family care teams. The team-based model is providing accessible, high-quality and patient-centred medical services to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that need it. Collaboration among health care professionals is also ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive and personalized care from the appropriate health care professional, leading to improved health outcomes and a stronger, healthier province.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“I am thrilled to see the launch of a family care team in the Coast of Bays area. With strategic guidance from Health Accord NL, we are driving transformative changes to enhance the accessibility and quality of our health care services. Family care teams are increasingly becoming the cornerstone of primary care, employing a collaborative approach to deliver tailored, patient-centric care to our community.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture and MHA for Fortune Bay – Cape La Hune

“As we continue in our work to improve access to services and strengthen health-care delivery in the province, we are pleased that the services of the family care team are now available to the residents in the Coast of Bays area. We have reached this milestone in partnership with community leaders, and are thankful for their engagement and continued support.”
Joanne Pelley
Vice President-Chief Operating Officer, Central Zone, and Provincial Chief Nursing Officer, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services

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Learn more
New Family Care Teams Announced for Newfoundland and Labrador

New Family Care Team Established in Grand Falls-Windsor

New Family Care Team in Western Zone Now Accepting Patients

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today congratulated Joan Marie Aylward on her appointment by the Prime Minister as the province’s new Lieutenant Governor.

“I have known Ms. Aylward for many years, and can attest to her advocacy and compassion for Newfoundland and Labrador. She is a wonderful selection by the Prime Minister. She has proudly served Newfoundlanders and Labradorians in many capacities – nurse, union leader, cabinet minister and community leader – and her spirit will position her well as Lieutenant Governor.”

Premier Furey is also acknowledging the work of outgoing Lieutenant Governor Judy Foote.

“Ms. Foote will be remembered as Newfoundland and Labrador’s first female Lieutenant Governor. That title will be celebrated forever. I would like to thank both Ms. Foote, and her husband Howard, for their service and wish them the very best.”

The installation of the Lieutenant Governor designate, Joan Marie Aylward, will take place on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, during a ceremony at the House of Assembly. Further details on the installation will be announced in the coming weeks.

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Work is underway on the demolition of the nurses’ residence at the site of the former Grace Hospital. In July, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure awarded a contract valued at $2.5 million to Inflector Environmental Services for the demolition of the nurses’ residence at the site of the former hospital on LeMarchant Road in St. John’s.

The scope of work for the demolition contract includes hazardous material abatement and disposal, as well as pest control, and this abatement work has now begun as the first phase of the contract.

Along with the abatement work, the contract also includes the demolition of the structure, site security, and removal of building service lines. Professional services associated with abatement and safe removal of materials and structures are also part of the contract.

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

Quotes
“The demolition of this structure has been long awaited, so I am very pleased that the first phase is underway with the abatement of the site. For some time, the dilapidated state of the building has been an issue for residents of the area. The start of the abatement work brings us a step closer to the removal of the structure and the return of the site to a condition where it can be assessed for future use.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Having the contractor on site and work underway on the initial step of the demolition process is a crucial step toward the rehabilitation of this site. We continue to work with the Northeast Avalon Health Care Infrastructure Advisory Committee to meet existing and projected health care infrastructure needs on the Northeast Avalon, including a potential future use for this site.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“We are delighted to see the process to demolish the former Grace Hospital nurses’ residence get underway. Having the current building demolished and the site remediated is important for everyone who lives nearby. While a site for a new hospital to replace St Clare’s Mercy Hospital has not yet been chosen, we look forward to next steps in assessing the site and determining the future use.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

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Work is underway on the demolition of the nurses’ residence at the site of the former Grace Hospital.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn more
Contract Awarded for Demolition of Grace Hospital Nurses’ Residence

Tender Issued for Demolition of Grace Hospital Nurses’ Residence 

Budget 2023: Infrastructure

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The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has awarded a contract valued at approximately $1.4 million to Gibbons Snow Architects Inc. for the planning and design of a new K-12 school in the Town of Cartwright in Labrador to replace the existing Henry Gordon Academy.

The department issued a Request for Proposals for the planning and design of the new school in June 2023.

Once the design is complete, the project will be tendered in a single contract with three phases:

• Construction of a new K-12 school with community library, pre-kindergarten space and gym;
• Abatement and demolition of the existing school; and
• Development of a new parking lot and play/sports field in the area of the old school.

More than $1.1 billion in funding was allocated in Budget 2023 for infrastructure, including more than $127 million for new schools in Cartwright, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s and Kenmount Terrace in St. John’s, as well as the redevelopment of the school in Pilley’s Island.

Quotes
“The awarding of the contract for the design of the new school in Cartwright signals another important step in the realization of this infrastructure priority. Our government continues to support learning environments throughout the province through our ongoing investments in both new schools as well as alterations to existing ones. Ensuring safe schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador that are conducive to learning remains a priority.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The journey to provide students and the community of Cartwright with a new and modern K-12 school has reached the next stage. I am grateful to our government for supporting calls to replace Henry Gordon Academy and I am proud to work with the community of Cartwright to bring a significant investment that will greatly benefit the students of today and tomorrow.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and MHA for the District of Cartwright – L’Anse au Clair

“Ensuring that schools are suited to meet the current and future educational needs of students is one part of transforming the K-12 education system. I look forward to walking the halls of a new and modern facility that will support students and educators in Cartwright for years to come.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Learn more
Request for Proposals Issued for Design of New School in Labrador

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The post Contract Awarded for Design of New School in Labrador first appeared on News Releases.

The post Contract Awarded for Design of New School in Labrador appeared first on News Releases.

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2023-041 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.

Report: A-2023-041 Report Date: October 10, 2023 Public Body: Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services Summary: The Complainant requested that Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS) provide copies of Operational Standards Compliance Reports for a named privately-run personal care home and for Pleasant View Towers, which is operated by NLHS. The Complainant was provided the Operational Standards Compliance Reports for the privately-run personal care home but NLHS stated that such reports do not exist for Pleasant View Towers or other publicly-run personal care homes, in general. The Complainant asserted that the reports do exist for Pleasant View Towers and alleged that NLHS was withholding or had not properly searched for the records. A review by this Office into the private and public personal care home system confirmed that Operational Standards Compliance Reports do not exist in the public system. This Office further confirmed that there is not a report akin to a Compliance Report under the publicly-run personal care home system, which addresses quality assurance in a different manner than private personal care homes.

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2023-041 Released first appeared on News Releases.

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2023-041 Released appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, will participate in a proclamation signing recognizing International Credit Union Day tomorrow (Thursday, October 12).

Hosted by Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union (NLCU), the proclamation signing will take place at their corporate office, 240 Water Street, St. John’s at 12:30 p.m.

NLCU is the largest credit union in the province, serving over 20,000 people and businesses. Along with the NLCU, several other local credit leaders will also be participating in the signing.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of International Credit Union Day, which is celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October. This milestone recognizes the collective achievements through the credit union movement’s history, acknowledges employees and recognizes shared member experiences.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Participate in Proclamation Signing for International Credit Union Day first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Participate in Proclamation Signing for International Credit Union Day appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, is today acknowledging October 11 as International Day of the Girl Child. This day brings attention and awareness to the challenges facing girls around the world. It is also a day to highlight the importance of empowering girls, and the actions being taken to achieve gender equality.

Throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, girls are making an impact and creating positive change in their communities and beyond. They are leading the way at their schools, as business people, volunteers and social activists, and proving that you are never too young to help shape the future and improve the lives of others.

The Office of Women and Gender Equality works collaboratively with stakeholders to advance the status of women, girls and gender-diverse people. Ongoing initiatives to support girls in this province include making period products available in all K-12 schools. This is an important step toward gender equality and gender inclusivity.

Additionally, in October 2022, the Office of Women and Gender Equality allocated $30,000 to Equal Voice NL, to support the execution of the Future of the Vote event. Forty young women and gender-diverse individuals participated. The event provided an opportunity for future leaders to network, build relationships and foster mentorship roles that will assist them in exploring their paths to boardroom tables, municipal councils and provincial and federal governments.

The Provincial Government also helps women prepare for, attain, and maintain employment, by funding several groups dedicated to ensuring more women are starting businesses or training to acquire the skills necessary to secure meaningful employment in today’s labour market.

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“Girls around the world are breaking barriers, tackling issues like child marriage, education, inequality, violence, climate change, and access to healthcare. On this International Day of the Girl Child, let us all work together to ensure they are connected, supported and empowered to create a better world for them and future generations.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more
International Day of the Girl Child

Office of Women and Gender Equality

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The post Provincial Government Recognizes International Day of the Girl Child first appeared on News Releases.

The post Provincial Government Recognizes International Day of the Girl Child appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will be signing a proclamation tomorrow (Wednesday, October 11) officially designating October as annual Disability Employment Awareness Month.

The signing will take place at Bowering Building, Suite 301, 277 Water Street, St. John’s at 9:30 am.

Disability Employment Awareness Month recognizes the contributions of workers with disabilities, while also recognizing employers who promote inclusion and disability employment, and the benefits of inclusion to all citizens.

Newfoundland and Labrador is committed in our work towards employment inclusion through the provision of leadership, resources, and ongoing opportunities for dialogue and engagement.

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The post Media Advisory: Minister Byrne to Sign Disability Employment Awareness Month Proclamation first appeared on News Releases.

The post Media Advisory: Minister Byrne to Sign Disability Employment Awareness Month Proclamation appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government offers Newfoundlanders and Labradorians experiencing challenges with securing access to housing a range of supports and services. Anyone seeking assistance in completing the necessary applications for affordable housing are encouraged to avail of these resources.

Over the last week, officials from the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services’ Harm Reduction Team, have joined community partners on multiple occasions, to visit individuals currently requesting housing supports on Prince Philip Drive. The intent of all of these interactions has been to acquire an understanding of the needs of the individuals and link them with available housing services.

As part of these efforts:

• All individuals in this group currently experiencing homelessness have been offered staffed shelter placements, where they would have access to supports and services, including case management and housing search services;
• Several individuals have been assisted in completing both housing and income support applications; and
• Several individuals have been assisted in making other community connections and referrals, as appropriate.

As a result of these directed efforts, some individuals have secured housing and accepted placement in shelters to receive the necessary supports to secure more permanent housing.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, along with other government departments and community partners are continuing efforts to secure more permanent housing options for others at the site.

Along with engaging with staff visiting the Prince Philip Drive location, other available options for individuals seeking supports to obtain housing include:

• Call their Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Regional Office:
• • Avalon Regional Office:
    709-724-3197
  • Corner Brook:
    709-639-5201
  • Gander:
    709-256-1300
  • Happy Valley-Goose Bay:
    709-896-1920
  • Grand Falls-Windsor:
    709-292-1000
  • Marystown:
    709-279-5375
  • Stephenville:
    709-643-6826
• Engage with community groups, such as End Homelessness St. John’s for assistance.

Anyone looking to support individuals on site in completing the necessary applications can access them here.

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The post Public Advisory: Update on Housing and Support Services first appeared on News Releases.

The post Public Advisory: Update on Housing and Support Services appeared first on News Releases.