Government of Newfoundland News

The Honourable Loyola O’Driscoll, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today joined Bradley George, executive director, Newfoundland and Labrador Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA), to officially proclaim September 13-19, 2026, as Aquaculture Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Aquaculture Week is being held in conjunction with the 2026 Cold Harvest Conference, being co-hosted by NAIA and the Aquaculture Association of Canada, at the JAG Hotel in St. John’s, September 15-17, 2026.

The Newfoundland and Labrador aquaculture industry employs more than 500 workers directly and supports hundreds more across the province in processing plants and through indirect jobs in the service and supply industries.

The aquaculture industry generated over $453 million last year – the highest economic value in the history of the sector. 

Newfoundland and Labrador is also recognized for its world‑class aquaculture regulatory framework that emphasizes environmental protection, aquatic animal health, transparency, and accountability.

Quotes
“The future growth and potential of any sector is made possible by working collectively with partners and industry. Recognizing Aquaculture Week in Newfoundland and Labrador signifies the importance of aquaculture – its workers, rural communities and economic development. As global demand for seafood continues to rise, we remain committed to supporting a sustainable and growing aquaculture industry that contributes to long-term food security. We are proud to support NAIA during Aquaculture Week and Cold Harvest in an effort to highlight the significant potential of the aquaculture industry and its promising future growth opportunities.”
Honourable Loyola O’Driscoll
Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture

“Aquaculture Week is about recognizing the people who make this industry possible, including the farmers, suppliers, researchers, and community partners across Newfoundland and Labrador. Their work supports year‑round employment, strengthens rural communities, and contributes to a sustainable food system for our province and beyond. NAIA values the strong partnership with the Provincial Government and looks forward to continuing our shared efforts to support responsible growth and long‑term success for the aquaculture sector.”
Bradley George
Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Aquaculture Industry Association

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L to R – Bradley George, Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) and the Honourable Loyola O’Driscoll, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, signed a proclamation declaring Aquaculture Week in Newfoundland and Labrador, September 13-19, 2026.

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Big game season opens in most areas of Newfoundland and Labrador tomorrow (Saturday, September 12).

• Moose (island): September 12 – December 31, 2026 (except for national parks)
  • Gros Morne National Park: September 26, 2026 – January 31, 2027
  • Terra Nova National Park: October 13, 2026 – January 31, 2027
• Moose (Labrador): September 12, 2026 – March 14, 2027
• Caribou (island): September 12 – December 6, 2026 (dates vary for Caribou Management Areas 70, 71, 72). Note: Caribou hunting is prohibited in Labrador
• Black bear (island): September 12 – November 30, 2026
• Black bear (Labrador): August 10 – November 30, 2026
• Coyotes and wolves: September 12, 2026 – July 15, 2027 (coyote, province-wide). Dates for wolf vary by region
• Trapping Seasons and Zones: Dates vary by species and region
• Small game (island): Dates vary by species and region
• Small game (Labrador): Dates vary by species and region

Hunters and trappers must observe firearm regulations and safe practices. Wildlife regulations, hunting season dates, bag limits, safety tips and more are available in the 2026-27 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Information gathered from hunters and trappers is critical to establishing harvest rates for big game species. Hunters and trappers are encouraged to submit hunter return forms to the Wildlife Division and participate in specimen collection programs for moose, caribou, black bears or coyotes/wolves.

New hunters wishing to become eligible for the 2027-28 Big Game Licence Draw must complete the Canadian Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course before November 30, 2026.

Resource Enforcement Officers will carry out dedicated hunting and trapping patrols throughout the season. It is the responsibility of hunters and trappers to be aware of hunting and trapping regulations.

The public plays a vital role in protecting our natural resources. If you observe potentially illegal activity, please report it by calling 1-877-820-0999 anonymously or submitting information online at stoppoaching.ca.

Hunters and trappers are reminded that Forest Fire season is in effect until September 30. In accordance with provincial Forest Fire Regulations, anyone travelling through forest land on an all-terrain or motorized vehicle during the Forest Fire Season is required to have the vehicle fitted with a muffler and a screening or baffling device to prevent sparks or particles of burnt carbon from escaping. Operators are required to be equipped with a fire extinguisher containing a minimum of 225 grams of ABC-class fire retardant.

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“With the start of a new hunting and trapping season, I ask everyone who plans to spend time in our great outdoors to stay safe. Hunters are reminded that loaded firearms are not permitted in or on vehicles. Remember that it is unlawful to discharge a firearm from or across a road, within 1,000 metres of a school, playground or athletic field, or within 300 metres of a dwelling. I wish you a safe and successful hunting season.”
Honourable Pleaman Forsey
Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands

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2026-27 Hunting and Trapping Guide

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A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued for a review of the role of nurse practitioners in Newfoundland and Labrador. As key members of the health care team, nurse practitioners play an important role in improving access to care and supporting positive health outcomes for residents throughout the province.

The review will assess the current state of nurse practitioner practice in Newfoundland and Labrador and will identify opportunities to strengthen and support the role over the long term. Areas of focus will include scope of practice, service delivery models, workload considerations, reporting structures, governance and leadership approaches, recruitment and retention, and future workforce needs.

The Provincial Government worked collaboratively with Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services and the Registered Nurses Union Newfoundland and Labrador in the development of the Request for Proposals.

The Province also acknowledges the valuable contributions of the Newfoundland and Labrador Nurse Practitioners Association, which provided input on practice models, governance approaches, leadership structures, and research from other jurisdictions.

This initiative reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to listening and consulting with frontline health workers, including Nurse Practitioners and their unions, addressing the challenges they face, and working with partners across the health care system to improve access to health care and better health outcomes for all of us.

The deadline for proposals is Tuesday, September 29 at 3:00 p.m. The RFP can be found here.

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“Nurse Practitioners are a vital part of our health care system, and our government is committed to supporting them in their important work to ensure high-quality care for the people of our province. This review is an opportunity to better understand the scope of work of nurse practitioners, address their needs and ensure that we continue to support them in their dedicated work to ensure the health and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Joedy Wall
Minister of Health and Community Services

“A strong and sustainable health care workforce is essential to meeting the needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and nurse practitioners are a vital part of that workforce. This review will provide valuable insights into how we can strengthen and support the role over the long term while maximizing the contributions of nurse practitioners across the province. The findings will help inform workforce planning and support the continued evolution of the role, helping to ensure nurse practitioners can contribute fully to delivering high-quality care throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Craig Pardy
Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board

“The Newfoundland and Labrador Nurse Practitioner Association (NLNPA) is pleased to see this independent review move forward as an important step toward recognizing the evolving role and significant contributions of Nurse Practitioners across our province. Nurse Practitioners are highly educated, autonomous health-care providers who are essential to improving access to timely, high-quality care for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. We look forward to meaningful engagement throughout the process and are hopeful that the review will result in recommendations that appropriately recognize the scope, responsibility, complexity and value of NP practice, while supporting the recruitment and retention of Nurse Practitioners in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Jessica Peddle
President, NLNPA

“The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes this important review of the role of Nurse Practitioners which must lead to meaningful action to strengthen NP practice, address workload and governance, improve recruitment and retention, and ensure Nurse Practitioners have a stronger role in our publicly funded health care system. Nurse Practitioners are highly educated health care professionals who must be supported to practice to their full scope. We are pleased to have worked collaboratively with the Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS) in developing the RFP, and we recognize the valuable input provided by the Newfoundland and Labrador Nurse Practitioners Association and our NP representatives.”
Yvette Coffey
President, RNU

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“Today, we join people around the world in remembering the thousands of lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honouring the families, survivors, first responders and communities forever impacted by the tragedy.

Twenty-five years later, we continue to reflect not only on the profound loss, but also on the resilience shown in its aftermath. In a moment of global uncertainty and sorrow, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians responded as they always have by looking out for those in need. It’s a reminder of the values that define us: kindness, generosity and a willingness to help others without hesitation.

Communities across the province welcomed strangers with open doors and open hearts, offering comfort, friendship and a sense of belonging when it was needed most. Those simple acts created lasting friendships and left an enduring impression on people around the world.

The story of those connections continues to resonate through the internationally acclaimed musical Come From Away, which introduced global audiences to a defining moment in our province’s history. In doing so, it showcased the spirit of compassion and community that has long been a hallmark of this province.

As we remember those who were lost, we also express our gratitude to all who helped and to those who placed their trust in our communities during an extraordinarily difficult time. While we pause to reflect on one of the world’s darkest days, may we never lose sight of the enduring power of compassion to bring people together and light the way forward.”

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To ensure the benefits of a new Churchill Falls agreement are shared by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, the Provincial Government announced a new electricity rebate to be applied following the finalization of definitive agreements.

The Churchill River Electricity Rebate will provide a 15 per cent electricity rebate for residential ratepayers throughout the province on their first 2,000 kWh of electricity usage per month. Households in Newfoundland and Labrador use, on average, approximately 1,400 to 1,500 kWh of electricity per month.

This measure is expected to save ratepayers an average of $351 per year.

The rebate reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to ensuring the benefits of the new Churchill Falls agreement are shared directly with households across Newfoundland and Labrador.

By lowering electricity costs, this measure will help ease financial pressures and put more money back in the pockets of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Additional details on implementation of the rebate will be provided upon the finalization of the definitive agreement, which is expected by the end of 2026.

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“Our government is committed to ensuring that the long-term benefits of this historic agreement are shared by residents throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The Churchill River Electricity Rebate is a direct commitment by our government to help households with the cost of living by providing meaningful savings on monthly electricity bills. Together, we are helping residents today while building a stronger and more prosperous future for our province.”
Honourable Craig Pardy
Minister of Finance

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has introduced a new policy to guide the sale of surplus government-owned land and buildings. The policy establishes a fair, open and transparent process while helping ensure the best value for taxpayers.

Under the new policy, surplus properties will generally be sold through a public solicitation process. Before a property is declared surplus, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure will consult with relevant Provincial Government departments to confirm it is no longer needed for operational purposes.

As public assets, surplus land and buildings will be offered for sale through an open and competitive process and are expected to achieve fair market value. This approach helps ensure all interested parties are treated equitably, protects the interests of taxpayers, and supports responsible stewardship of public property.

The new disposal policy also outlines how previous owners of land will be treated when a sale is being considered. Reasonable efforts will be made to notify previous owners of the Provincial Government’s intention to sell surplus land. However, previous owners will not receive preferential treatment, a first right of refusal, or advance notice of any public solicitation process. When land is purchased or expropriated by the Provincial Government, owners are compensated for their property at the time of acquisition and ownership is transferred to the Provincial Government. As a result, all interested purchasers will have the same opportunity to acquire surplus property through a fair and open public process.

To help ensure value for taxpayers, the Provincial Government may also establish minimum bid requirements for public sales and may recover costs associated with surveys, appraisals, title searches, environmental assessments and other evaluations related to the sale.

By establishing clear and consistent rules for the disposal of surplus properties, the new disposal policy will help ensure government-owned land and buildings are managed in a fair, open and transparent manner.

A copy of the policy can be found here.

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“Provincially owned land and buildings are public assets, and decisions about their sale must be made in a fair, open and transparent way. This new policy establishes a consistent process for disposing of surplus properties, ensures all interested parties have an equal opportunity to participate, and helps maximize value for taxpayers while supporting projects that deliver public benefits to communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Barry Petten
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs

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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is continuing to support individuals and families in Conception Bay North who lost their uninsured primary residence in the 2025 wildfires.

The Temporary Housing Assistance Program is being extended to March 31, 2027, ensuring households without insurance that lost their primary residence continue to receive financial support for temporary housing.

Additionally, the Provincial Government has directed the Canadian Red Cross to focus the province’s $3.1 million portion of the Appeal Fund on supporting longer-term housing solutions for these households.

To ensure support is aligned with the needs of those most impacted, the Provincial Government will continue working directly with these households to determine next steps toward permanent housing solutions.

As part of the broader recovery efforts, officials from the CBN Wildfire Response and Recovery Team and from the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will be scheduling one-on-one sessions with each of these households in the coming weeks to discuss options and help identify a path forward. Following the one-on-one discussions with the households, an announcement will take place that outlines the next steps.

Members of the Cabinet Committee on Conception Bay North Response and Recovery will continue to engage with residents and local leaders to ensure recovery efforts remain responsive to community needs.

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“We are committed to ensuring individuals and families affected by the wildfires have the support they need as they rebuild their lives. We know the Temporary Housing Assistance Program has provided stability during an incredibly difficult time, and we hope this extension offers continued peace of mind while we work directly with affected residents to identify and advance long-term housing solutions.”
Honourable Chris Tibbs
Minister of Social Supports and Well-Being and Minister of Housing

“Since the 2025 wildfires, our Government’s Cabinet Committee on Conception Bay North Response and Recovery has worked to ensure recovery efforts remain focused on the needs of all affected residents. We have a team in place whose sole focus is dedicated to this effort and, together, our commitment is to ensure residents remain at the centre of every decision as recovery efforts continue.”
Honourable Craig Pardy
Minister of Finance, Chair of Cabinet Committee on Conception Bay North Response and Recovery

“The people of Conception Bay North have shown tremendous resilience over the past year, but we also recognize that many families are still facing difficult decisions about their future. This extension provides important peace of mind while longer-term plans are developed. We will continue working closely with residents and community partners to ensure those impacted by the wildfires have the support they need to move forward with confidence.”
Riley Balsom
MHA for Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde
Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier

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Temporary Housing Assistance for Conception Bay North Residents Extended to end of September

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The Honourable Joedy Wall, Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, today joined Tina Davies, founder and president of Richard’s Legacy Foundation, for a proclamation to recognize September 6-12 as Suicide Prevention Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Suicide Prevention Week provides an opportunity to recognize the profound emotional, social and practical impact of suicide on survivors, encourage discussions and increase awareness to prevent suicide.

Minister Wall was also joined by community partners to highlight the Hope and Healing: A Practical Guide for Survivors of Suicide. This guide provides practical guidance, local resources, and compassionate support for survivors and people who care for them.

The Hope and Healing Guide was collaboratively developed by people with lived experience, health professionals, and community partners, including Richard’s Legacy Foundation. This initiative is a part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing efforts to increase access to mental health services and supports and improve overall well-being for all of us.

The guide also helps fulfill an action under Our Path of Resilience: An Action Plan to Promote Life and Prevent Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador to increase access to evidence-based mental health and suicide prevention training, thereby enhancing community resources and creating more resilient and supportive communities.

The Hope and Healing Guide can be accessed on the BridgetheGapp website.

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“Suicide has a profound and lasting impact on families, friends and communities. During Suicide Prevention Week, we recognize people who have lost someone to suicide and reaffirm our government’s commitment to ensuring that people have access to compassionate and appropriate supports when they need them. The Hope and Healing Guide is an important resource that offers practical information, comfort and connection for survivors and the people who support them.”
Honourable Joedy Wall
Minister of Health and Community Services
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

“There is no better time than now to raise awareness of suicide, and the importance of suicide prevention, intervention and postvention. Newfoundland and Labrador is leading the country in this work. I am proud of our government, health services and community partners who support all the work being done to support people across the province. The new Hope and Healing booklet is a compassionate and helpful resource for those navigating the loss of a loved one by suicide. As new initiatives move forward, we must continue to strengthen supports and remind one another that no one has to face grief or hardship alone.”
Tina Davies
Founder and President, Richard’s Legacy Foundation

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Hope and Healing: A Practical Guide for Survivors of Suicide
Our Path of Resilience
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The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador today announced its proposed rules for a special sitting of the House of Assembly to debate the Definitive Cooperation and Implementation Agreement for Churchill Falls and Gull Island, and the Government of Canada’s commitments associated with the agreement.

The proposed format will give Members of the House of Assembly the opportunity to hear directly from the individuals responsible for negotiating, overseeing the negotiation of, and providing independent advice on the agreement. It will allow Members to ask questions on behalf of their constituents and seek answers from those with direct knowledge of the agreement before the House votes.

For the first three days of the four-day debate, Members will have access to representatives of the negotiating team, independent commercial advisors, financial experts, representatives of the Board of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, the Chair of the Oversight Committee, a senior official from Natural Resources Canada, and a Member of Parliament who will address the House on matters related to the Federal Government’s commitments under the agreement.

The debate will begin with opening remarks from the Leaders of all parties, the Minister of Energy and Mines and the Opposition and Third Party critics for that portfolio, as well as the independent member for Humber-Bay of Islands, to speak on the proposed resolution. This will be followed by more than 19 hours allocated for Members to question the expert guests directly. Responses from these experts will not be restricted by speaking-time limits, allowing Members to pursue detailed lines of questioning, ask follow-up questions and seek clarification on issues important to the people of the province.

In addition to questioning the invited experts over three days, every Member of the House will receive a dedicated 10-minute period for closing remarks on the final day of debate. This will give Members an opportunity to reflect on the information they have heard, address questions raised by their constituents and explain their position before the House votes on the resolution pertaining to the new agreement and commitments from the Government of Canada.

Each day of the four-day debate will also have a dedicated question period where members can ask questions of government relevant to the resolution being debated.

The special sitting will take place from September 14 to September 17, 2026. Debate on the resolution will be the sole business before the House during that period. The proposed rules of debate can be found here.

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“This debate is about ensuring Newfoundlanders and Labradorians get answers on a historic agreement between our province and Quebec and the Federal Government, rather than political talking points. The proposed format will give every Member of the House direct access to the people who negotiated the agreement and those providing independent advice on it. Members will have the opportunity to ask detailed questions, seek clarification and get answers directly from the people best positioned to provide them. That information will help Members make an informed decision on behalf of their constituents.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Some have suggested this approach limits debate. The opposite is true. Over 19 hours of time are allocated for questions from Members, with responses from the expert participants not restricted by speaking-time limits. Members will have the opportunity to challenge assumptions, test the evidence and seek detailed explanations directly from experts, advisors, negotiators and federal representatives. This provides a level of examination that traditional debate formats simply do not. It is our hope that all parties will accept these rules so the debate can proceed without delay and Members can make the most of the time available to question the people best positioned to provide the answers Newfoundlanders and Labradorians deserve.”
Honourable Lloyd Parrott
Government House Leader

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The Honourable Lloyd Parrott, Minister of Energy and Mines and Government House Leader, will provide details on the upcoming special sitting of the House of Assembly beginning September 14.

Minister Parrott will be available to media outside the House of Assembly at Confederation Building, East Block, Thursday, September 10, at 12:00 p.m.

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The Honourable Joedy Wall, Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, will sign a proclamation to recognize September 6-12 as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Week and share an important resource for survivors of suicide loss.

The event will take place tomorrow (Thursday, September 10), at 12:30 p.m. at Confederation Building, East Block Lobby.

Minister Wall will be joined by Tina Davies, founder and president of Richard’s Legacy Foundation.

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On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Honourable Joedy Wall, Minister of Health and Community Services, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, and MHA for Cape St. Francis, will bring remarks to the St. John’s International Airport’s Remembering September 11th ceremony on Friday, September 11.

Minister Wall will be joined by His Worship Danny Breen, Mayor of St. John’s, and Dennis Hogan, CEO of the St. John’s International Airport Authority. The ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the airport’s main atrium.

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Salmon anglers in Newfoundland and Labrador are reminded to support responsible management, conservation and long-term sustainability of Atlantic salmon by completing and submitting the salmon angling return form included in their licences as soon as possible.

This important catch-and-effort information includes whether licence holders fished, where they fished, the amount of time spent angling, and the number of salmon they retained or released.

All salmon licence holders are encouraged to complete their returns, even if they did not fish, did not retain salmon, or were unsuccessful while angling.

Complete and accurate returns help ensure that decisions affecting salmon conservation and future angling opportunities are informed by the best available information.

Returns may be submitted by mail using the address provided on the log card, by email to DFO.NLSalmonAnglers-PecheursdeSaumonNL.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca, or online through Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Salmon Angling Return Form.

Salmon angling season closed on September 7 for most of the Island of Newfoundland and closes on September 15 in Labrador.

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The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2026-026 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/reports/.

Report: A-2026-026 Report Date: September 8, 2026 Public Body: Public Service Commission Summary: The Complainant made a request to the Public Service Commission for records regarding the vacation of the Office of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer and the appointment of the current Deputy Chief Executive Officer with the Labour Relations Board, including their job description, consultations, nominations, assessments, and approvals. The Public Service Commission provided responsive records, withholding information under section 32 (confidential evaluations) of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. The Commissioner found the exception had been properly applied and recommended the Public Service Commission continue to withhold the information.

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

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The Honourable Helen Conway Ottenheimer, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, announced today that Richard Deveau has been appointed director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Serious Incident Response Team. Mr. Deveau was most recently senior Crown attorney, Eastern Region, Public Prosecutions. His biography can be found in the backgrounder below.

The appointment of Mr. Deveau is effective September 9, 2026, for a five-year term. He will lead an independent team that will investigate all matters involving death, serious injury, sexual offences, and domestic violence as well as other matters of significant public interest that involve police in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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“The Newfoundland and Labrador Serious Incident Response Team plays a very important role in our province and I am pleased to announce Richard Deveau as its new director. He brings a wealth of experience and will make a significant contribution to civilian-led oversight of the police agencies in Newfoundland and Labrador. I wish him well in his new role.”
Honourable Helen Conway Ottenheimer, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

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BACKGROUNDER

Biography of Richard Deveau
Richard Deveau most recently served as Senior Crown Attorney for the Eastern Region. He has held this position since 2023, prior to which he held the position of senior Crown attorney for the Labrador Region for over two years. He has been with the Public Prosecution Service since 2016, practicing primarily in St. John’s, Harbour Grace and Labrador, but travelling all over the province on an as-needed basis to prosecute matters in the French language.

Mr. Deveau is originally from New Brunswick and first relocated to Newfoundland and Labrador in 2010 to complete his articles with the Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission. He started his legal career as a staff solicitor with the commission in its Happy Valley-Goose Bay office, where he practiced for two years across all of Labrador, including the north coast, prior to taking a position with the Nova Scotia Public Prosecution Service in Halifax, returning to Legal Aid in St. John’s in 2015.

Mr. Deveau holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminology and Bachelor of Applied Arts in Criminal Justice, both from St. Thomas University. He obtained his law degree from Université de Moncton and has a Master of Arts in international criminal law and justice from the University of New Hampshire.

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The Provincial Government is introducing universal screening for the 2026-27 school year to help identify and assist students who may require additional learning support.

Universal screening refers to evidence-based assessments used to identify students who require additional support. The screening process will be introduced for kindergarten and Grade 1 students using Acadience Reading and Acadience Reading Français screeners. These assessments are designed to measure early literacy skills and include six measures that assess the foundational skills students need to become better readers.

The screening will provide educators with additional information to better understand learning needs earlier in the learning process.

Universal mathematics screening tools will also be introduced for Grade 1 and Grade 2 students in both French and English. These assessments are designed to help educators better understand students’ foundational mathematics skills and identify early indicators of learning challenges.

The changes reflect the department’s commitment to strengthening student learning and providing educators with the tools needed to support diverse student learning needs. These changes were developed with a focus on improving outcomes for students across Newfoundland and Labrador.

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“Every student deserves the opportunity and appropriate support to succeed. Identifying learning needs early is an important part of providing effective support. Universal screening will help educators better understand student needs and provide support throughout their learning journey.”
Honourable Paul Dinn
Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development

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Premier Wakeham met with industry partners today to hear directly about the effects of ongoing trade uncertainty between Canada and the United States. The current tariffs increase costs for businesses and consumers on both sides of the border, disrupt integrated North American supply chains, and create uncertainty for workers and investors. He was joined by the Honourable Craig Pardy, Minister of Finance, and the Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development.

During the meeting, Premier Wakeham highlighted the Provincial Government’s unwavering commitment to collaboration with industry, community, and labour organizations. Premier Wakeham also took the opportunity to outline how the Provincial Government has prioritized protecting provincial interests by standing up for workers, supporting businesses, and safeguarding the economic well-being of every Newfoundlander and Labradorian in the face of the ongoing trade situation.

As partners shared their concerns about potential impacts, discussions focused on how Canada’s response programs must be ambitious, targeted, and responsive to the challenges ahead, ensuring support measures are designed to work for all regions of the country, including smaller export-oriented jurisdictions such as Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Provincial Government is working as part of Team Canada to defend Canada’s interests as an independent, sovereign country.

In 2025, the United States accounted for approximately 34 per cent of the total value of Newfoundland and Labrador’s international merchandise exports, making it the province’s largest individual export market. With a long tradition of international trade and a strategic position in the North Atlantic, Newfoundland and Labrador is well positioned to build on existing trade relationships and pursue new opportunities in global markets.

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“Historically, Canada and the United States have had one of the world’s most significant bilateral trading relationships. Canada has been placed in a challenging position by the United States’ decision to impose tariffs, an economic attack that threatens key industries, increases costs and creates uncertainty for workers and businesses throughout our province. We will continue to engage with partners about the trade situation and closely track the effects of Canada’s response to ensure the interests of Newfoundland and Labrador’s workers, businesses, and communities are protected.”
The Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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The Provincial Government wishes students an exciting and fulfilling new school year and welcomes teachers, administrators and staff back for the 2026-27 year.

Students in K-12 will be starting at or returning to one of over 250 schools in the province with a team of teachers, administrators, and school support staff who are excited to welcome them back for a brand-new year of learning and growing together.

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development is committed to providing high-quality education for children and youth throughout the province. Students deserve a system that prepares them for success beyond the classroom and helps build a stronger future for Newfoundland and Labrador. The Provincial Government continues to work with education partners to give every young person the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Budget 2026 includes the following support:

• Almost $625 million for educators, teaching and learning assistants, which is a $29 million increase to enable the addition of 94 teachers and 20 teaching and learning assistants.
• $2 million in funding for student assistant supports.

As the new school year begins, members of the community are reminded to be mindful on roadways, particularly in school zones, to support the safety of students, staff, and families.

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“Today is an exciting time for students, parents, teachers, and staff as we welcome a new school year. Our teachers have dedicated significant time and effort to preparing classrooms and learning environments that support student success. I want to thank our teachers and parents for the important role they play in helping students thrive. I wish everyone a wonderful school year and that students start the year filled with curiosity for learning new things and growing with each other.”
Honourable Paul Dinn
Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development

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Pursuant to Standing Order 8(7), the Government advised the Speaker on August 17, 2026, that the public interest requires the House of Assembly to meet on an extraordinary basis to provide Members of the House of Assembly with the opportunity to debate and consider matters relating to a Definitive Cooperation and Implementation Agreement between Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, Hydro- Québec and Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation Limited.

Further to this notice, the Speaker has advised Members that the House of Assembly will reconvene at 10 a.m. on Monday, September 14.

Proceedings will be broadcast live via the House of Assembly television channel and streamed via the House of Assembly website and social media channels (Facebook and YouTube).

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The following is being distributed at the request of Her Honour, The Honourable Joan Marie Aylward, O.N.L., Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador:

An investiture ceremony on October 8, 2026, at Government House will see eight people named to the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. This will be the 19th investiture ceremony since the first appointments were made in 2004, bringing the total number of recipients to 167. This year’s recipients and the categories in which they are being honoured are:

• Ann Bell – Public Service
• Garrett F. Browne – History Preservation
• Evangeline Mae Drudge – Health Care
• Kathleen L. Knowling – Cultural
• Randy Murphy – Volunteerism
• The Very Rev. Dr. A. Marion Pardy – Humanitarian Activities
• Ronald G. Penney – History Preservation
• Winston M.K. Perry – History Preservation

The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is the province’s highest honour and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an exemplary manner the province and its residents. More information about the award can be found in the backgrounder below.

Appointments to the Order are made by the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador as Chancellor of the Order on the recommendation of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Advisory Council.

For more information about the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, or to nominate someone, visit www.gov.nl.ca/onl.

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“Each year, the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador gives us an opportunity to recognize and honour the very best among us. As Chancellor of the Order, it will be my great pleasure to invest these eight extraordinary Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and to celebrate their remarkable achievements.”
The Honourable Joan Marie J. Aylward, O.N.L.
Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes individuals whose dedication, leadership, and service have shaped our province for the better. This year’s recipients have made remarkable contributions in fields ranging from health care and public service, to culture, humanitarian work, and history preservation. Our cultural tapestry is richer because of their commitment – their achievements reflecting the very best of Newfoundland and Labrador. I congratulate each of them on this well-deserved honour.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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BACKGROUNDER

About the Award
The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador is the highest honour of the province. The object of the Order is to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour benefiting in an outstanding manner Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents. The first investiture took place in 2004.

Any Canadian citizen who is a present or former long-term resident of Newfoundland and Labrador is eligible for nomination to the Order. According to the legislation governing the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, the exceptions are public officials such as; judges, members of the Senate, House of Commons, House of Assembly or legislative assembly of a province, members of municipal, town, regional councils or local service district committees who may not be nominated while they are in office.

Posthumous nominations are not accepted. Organizations, groups, or couples may not be nominated; the Order is for individuals only. Additionally, an individual who is not a Canadian citizen or current or former long-term resident of the province, but who has demonstrated excellence in their field of endeavour, and who has benefited the province and its residents in an outstanding manner, may be nominated as an honorary member.

If you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to Newfoundland and Labrador and its residents, you are encouraged to nominate them for the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

At a formal ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, as Chancellor of the Order, will present each recipient with a medal bearing the shield of Newfoundland and Labrador surmounted by the Crown. A member will receive a certificate signed by the Chancellor and sealed with the seal of the Order, as well as a miniature medal and a lapel pin. The medal is worn with a blue, green, white and gold ribbon. Members of the Order are entitled to use the initials ONL after their names.

The Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Advisory Council selects members to be invested into the Order each year after considering all nominations received.

Order of Newfoundland and Labrador Insignia
The insignia of the Order is in the shape of a stylized pitcher plant (sarracenia purpurea Linnaeus), which was declared Newfoundland and Labrador’s floral emblem in 1954. The petals are crafted with the provincial mineral, Labradorite. The pitcher plant is found primarily in bogs and marshland throughout the province. It has a large wine-red flower with a red and gold centre, and hollow pitcher-shaped leaves are attached to the base of the stem.

The insignia of the Order has at its centre the Arms of the Province, granted by King Charles I, in January 1638. The Arms incorporate some of the most ancient heraldic symbols, the unicorn representing Scotland and the lion representing England.

The gold elements of the medal represent the excellence of achievement that the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes. The Crown is taken from the official standard of the Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. It symbolizes honour and merit and recalls Newfoundland and Labrador’s place as a province of Canada, a constitutional monarchy, and as part of the Commonwealth. The insignia of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador was approved by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II on June 3, 2003.

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