Government of Newfoundland News
/* ES HIDE ALL TABS FOR KUOOT php print render($tabs); */ ?>Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council Meeting and the Indigenous Women’s Gathering Held in St. John’s
The sixth Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council meeting and the 20th Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee Gathering took place this week in St. John’s. The goal of the Reconciliation Council is to coordinate and lead meaningful action to address existing challenges and obstacles in the areas of culture, health and wellness, justice, and human security, that impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
The Reconciliation Council meeting, held February 13 and 14, focused on the growing issue of human trafficking, with presentations from Thrive, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Public Safety Canada. There were also discussions with the Public Legal Association of Newfoundland and Labrador on its Journey Project, and the John Howard Society of Newfoundland and Labrador on its Safety and Repair programming. The meeting also included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies.
The Reconciliation Council is composed of 11 members, including five Provincial Government representatives (from Executive Council, Children, Seniors and Social Development, Health and Community Service, and Justice and Public Safety), and six Indigenous women representatives. There are three Co-Chairs: two Elders appointed by the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee and one appointed to represent government.
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing participated in the Gathering, which was hosted this year by the First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre on February 11 and 12. The event included sessions on human trafficking, gender-based violence prevention, as well as a panel discussion called housing and homelessness: connection to substance use and addictions.
Attendees also discussed topics related to the Churchill Falls Memorandum of Understanding, including environmental impacts and advocacy. The Gathering included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies, Inuit drum dancing and throat singing performances.
Unique to Canada, the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee Gathering provides an opportunity for Indigenous women from throughout the province to connect, share experiences, current realities, future aspirations, and to identify measures necessary to aid in the improvement of the quality of life of Indigenous women and gender-diverse individuals in their communities. Funding for this event is provided annually through the Office of Women and Gender Equality.
Quotes
“The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council and the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee help empower our Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people to be heard, valued and uplifted. By sharing knowledge and ideas, we are all building a stronger more just world for generations to come.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“We acknowledge the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council and the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee for their invaluable contributions and support their efforts to create a future where respect, equality, and understanding guide our path forward.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
“As our communities work to address the complex issues surrounding mental health, addictions, homelessness and housing, the guidance and wisdom of our community leaders are invaluable in finding solutions. I am grateful for the opportunity to have engaged with the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Gathering this week, and I look forward to working together to implement culturally relevant and lasting change on these issues.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
“As we gathered for our sixth meeting of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council, we continue to strengthen the path towards Reconciliation. We are ensuring that the voices of our Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals are heard, valued, and respected in shaping a safer more inclusive future”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee
“This is our sixth meeting of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council, and we have had some meaningful consultations with Government of Newfoundland and Labrador departments, where I feel our input was meaningful, and I was given consideration. As an impacted family member and mother of a daughter who was murdered, I want to ensure that we keep the focus on safety of our women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities. I want intimate partner violence and all violence to stop .”
Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee
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National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence
Office of Women and Gender Equality
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Newfoundland and Labrador Represented by Current Service Members and Veterans at Invictus Games
The Provincial Government proudly stands behind four of Newfoundland and Labrador’s own as they compete on the world stage at the 2025 Invictus Games. These exceptional athletes – Charles Arsenault, Andre Crocker, Melissa Norris, and Clifford Samms – represent not just Team Canada, but also the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit of our province.
The Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event that highlights the power of sport in recovery and rehabilitation for wounded, injured, and ill service members and veterans. For Charles, Andre, Melissa, and Clifford, the Games are more than competition – they are a testament to their perseverance and a new chapter in their journey of healing.
- Charles Arsenault is a retired Mobile Support Equipment Operator who confronted post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and found new purpose representing his country through sport. He competes in swimming, alpine skiing, and wheelchair basketball.
- Andre Crocker is an Air Maintenance Superintendent with the Royal Canadian Air Force and has faced both physical and mental health challenges. He competes in Nordic skiing, indoor rowing, skeleton, and sitting volleyball.
- Melissa Norris is a former Navy Critical Care Nursing Officer who persevered through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and military sexual trauma. She competes in wheelchair curling, alpine skiing, and swimming.
- Clifford Samms is a retired Air Maintenance Superintendent who turned to sports after his post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis. He competes in sitting volleyball, alpine skiing, and swimming.
Each of these athletes has overcome significant challenges to reach this stage. Their participation in the Invictus Games highlights the resilience of service members and veterans, and Newfoundland and Labrador is proud to cheer them on.
More information on the athletes can be found in the backgrounder below. As they compete on the world stage, we encourage everyone to support our athletes and celebrate their achievements.
For more information on the Invictus Games, visit www.invictusgames2025.ca
Quotes
“The athletes representing Newfoundland and Labrador at the Invictus Games are a testament to the strength of our province and the values we hold dear. As they represent us on the world stage, they inspire us all with their courage and perseverance. Best of luck – we know you will do us proud.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“The Invictus Games provides an important opportunity for service members and veterans to showcase their personal strength in the face of adversity through sport and competition. We thank our Newfoundland and Labrador representatives for their service, their commitment, and we will cheer them on every step of the way.”
MHA Perry Trimper
Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans and Military Relations
BACKGROUNDER
Charles Philip Arsenault
Hometown: St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Motto/Tagline: “Where there is a problem, there is always a solution.”
Charles Philip Arsenault is a retired Mobile Support Equipment Operator (MSE OP).
He was posted to St. John’s, N.L., Petawawa, ON, Ottawa, ON, Valcartier, QC, Borden, ON, Kingston, ON, and Bagotville, QC. He was deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina (OP PALLADIUM), Kabul (OP ATHENA), Kandahar (OP ARCHER), and Kuwait (OP IMPACT). Some of his career highlights include completing the Advanced Technical Warrant Officer Program and gaining the title of Master Gunner and fulfilling his childhood dream of becoming a soldier to serve his country and help others.
Upon returning from Afghanistan in 2006, Charles found himself grappling with mental health issues. However, the societal stigma surrounding such issues made seeking help challenging. For over a decade, he concealed his struggles behind a facade of well-being. Charles’ journey highlights the profound impact of untreated PTSD and the complexities of acceptance. It took a diagnosis 12 years later to prompt him to seek help, a common experience for many struggling with mental health issues. The transition from activities he once enjoyed to finding them mentally exhausting is a poignant illustration of how PTSD can affect all aspects of life. His journey underscores the long and often arduous process of coming to terms with both mental and physical injuries incurred during service.
Charles was motivated to apply for the Invictus Games because of the positive impact that the Games have had on the team members in the past and belonging to a team with a common goal of healing and competing together. Being a member of Team Canada has re-ignited his passion for sports, allowing him to represent his country once again, and grow his support network. He is most grateful for his family who remind him about the joys and happiness life has to offer. Charles is also passionate in raising awareness within the CAF to help others who are struggling.
His lifelong lesson is that no matter how bad the day is going or how difficult it may seem, it is only temporary, and it does get better. It may feel like you are alone in this battle, but there are people who care for you and will help.
He will compete in swimming, alpine skiing, and wheelchair basketball
Andre Crocker
Hometown: Trout River, Newfoundland and Labrador
Motto/Tagline: “yes b’y”
Andre Crocker serves as an Air Maintenance Superintendent in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Andre has had three postings throughout his career: 12 Wing Shearwater 2001-2012; Cold Lake, AB 2012-2019; 12 Wing Shearwater 2019-present. He was deployed on Operation Active Endeavour 2006, Operation Savane and Operation Projection 2023.
His career highlights include participating in the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 2017 and participating in the annual Nijmegen March in the Netherlands in 2018. Along with his team, they completed the 173km march over 4 days. He is very proud of his promotions through the ranks, now serving as a Master Warrant Officer.
Andre’s injuries have had quite an impact on him, as he noticed changes in behaviour stemming from declining mental health. These changes have affected the dynamic within his family. Additionally, chronic mechanical pain has restricted his ability to perform even simple tasks, often requiring more time to complete them.
Despite these struggles, he names his family as what he is most grateful for in his life. His family inspires him with their patience, understanding and resilience in the face of adversity.
His motivations to apply to the Invictus Games come from his love of sport, and his perspective on personal growth and resilience. He aims to demonstrate to himself, his family, and his friends that injuries do not define limitations; one can adapt and maintain an active lifestyle despite them. His lifelong lesson is that it still can be difficult to maintain an active lifestyle as life often gets in the way.
“Only you know your limits and what you are able to do; starting small and progressing in your goals will lead to success.”
He will compete in Nordic skiing, indoor rowing, and skeleton and sitting volleyball.
Melissa Norris
Hometown: St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Motto/Tagline: “Life is short, and tomorrow is not promised – don’t be afraid to try anything and everything you can!”
Melissa Norris was a Navy Critical Care Nursing Officer posted in Halifax, NS. She has had postings in Petawawa, Borden, and Halifax. She has had several deployments including Operation Archer (2006) and Operation Athena (2008 and 2010) in Kandahar, AF.
Having been trained as a soldier and nurse, her career highlights include instructing across various ranks and roles within Health Services, contributing to both domestic and international missions from home, including combat deployments and humanitarian aid efforts for Pakistan, Haiti, Philippines, and Sierra Leone. Her greatest career highlight was reached at the Role 3 Multinational Medical Unit in Kandahar, AF. There, she had the honour of providing care to injured soldiers and offering comfort to the fallen in their last moments, assuring them they were never alone.
Motivated by witnessing former comrades thrive after participating in the Invictus Games, she was inspired to apply. The culmination of PTSD, a back injury, and enduring military sexual trauma pushed her into nearly two decades of physical and mental suffering, resulting in many mental and physical afflictions. She sees the Games as an opportunity to represent Canada once more, to reclaim physical activity with purpose, to challenge herself, overcome fears, and demonstrate resilience to her children.
Melissa is grateful for her family, friends, experiences, and health. Her lifelong lesson is that every event serves a purpose. Your experiences and responses shape your character and determine your path in life. Acting with love and kindness towards others leads to reciprocal treatment from the universe. Family is defined by your choices and is ultimately the most significant aspect of life. You reap what you sow; your efforts determine your outcomes.
She will compete in wheelchair curling, alpine skiing and swimming.
Clifford Samms
Hometown: Codroy, Newfoundland and Labrador
Motto/Tagline: “Anything worth doing is worth doing right the first time.”
Clifford Samms proudly served in the Air Force as an Air Maintenance Superintendent. He is now retired and originally from Codroy, NL and was posted to 14 Wing Greenwood, 4 Wing Cold Lake, 12 Wing Shearwater. Throughout his career Clifford was deployed all over the world with the CP 140 Aurora including Afghanistan, Sicily, France, Holland, Germany and many other countries.
Clifford represented the CAF at many National Sport competitions from Powerlifting to Softball. Sports have always been a major part of his life. He received multiple commendations from the CDS, CAS and Wing Comd’s for his involvement in the CAF sports programs and a professionalism Award through the Flight Safety Program. One of his fondest moments included receiving an email directly from General Hiller, for winning the Canadian National Powerlifting Championships, in 2006.
In 2021, he was diagnosed with PTSD and had to be released. “Being told I was no longer able to serve because of my injuries was devastating. I have a lot of anger problems which makes my family life difficult. I struggle being around people I don’t know. I deal with chronic pain daily in my lower back and various other joints.”
Clifford was inspired to apply for the Invictus Games by a close friend who previously competed. He is most grateful for his beautiful wife, Rebecca and two boys Ryan and Henry and believes, “They are what push me to be the best Husband and father I can be.” His lifelong lesson is that life truly is short. Take the time to slow down and enjoy it. The rearview mirror is only a fraction the size of the windshield for a reason.
He will compete in sitting volleyball, alpine skiing, and swimming.
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Minister Dempster Announces Increase to the Minimum Wage
Today, the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labour, announced a $0.40 increase to the minimum wage rate, effective April 1, 2025, in accordance with Newfoundland and Labrador’s Labour Standards Regulations.
As of April 1, 2025, the minimum wage will be $16.00 per hour. The minimum overtime wage rate will increase to $24.00. This annual increase is required under the Labour Standards Regulations and is based on the percentage change in the National Consumer Price Index.
The most recent increase to the minimum wage rate of $0.60 occurred on April 1, 2024, bringing the minimum wage rate to $15.60 per hour.
Quote
“Our government understands the importance of the minimum wage rate to employees and employers in Newfoundland and Labrador. This increase is part of our commitment to regularly monitor the minimum wage in the province and ensure it remains relevant, responsive and comparable to other provinces in the country.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Labour
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Learn more
Minister Davis Announces Increase to the Minimum Wage
Labour Standards Act and Regulations
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Public Advisory: Poultry Owners Urged to Protect Commercial and Backyard Flocks from Avian Influenza
Animal health officials with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture have reported two suspected cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5) in backyard poultry flocks in Central Newfoundland to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Avian influenza continues to circulate in wild birds since an original outbreak in late 2021, with ongoing risk to the poultry sector. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is leading the investigation and providing updates at Latest Bird Flu Situation.
Commercial poultry producers follow strict biosecurity plans and procedures to prevent the spread of avian influenza and other disease. All commercial and backyard poultry producers, regardless of the size of their flocks, are urged to review the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s biosecurity measures to ensure flocks are protected from exposure to wild birds.
Signs of bird flu include:
- Lack of energy, movement or appetite.
- Decreased egg production.
- Swelling around the head, neck and eyes.
- Coughing, gasping for air or sneezing.
- Nervous signs, tremors or lack of coordination.
- Diarrhea.
- Sudden death.
Report signs of illness immediately to:
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency: 709-772-4424; or
- Provincial Animal Health Division:
- St. John’s: 709-729-6879/after-hours 709-729-6899
- Clarenville 24-hours: 709-466-2808
- Pynn’s Brook 24-hours: 709-686-2672
Five tips for keeping poultry safe:
- Prevent contact between poultry and wild birds or other animals.
- Frequently clean coops, feeders and waterers, and your clothing and boots.
- Watch for signs of avian influenza and report them.
- Limit visitors to your property.
- Keep new birds separate from your flock for at least 30 days to avoid introducing disease.
Detailed information is available at Protect your flock from bird flu.
Provincial officials are working with federal agencies including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Environment and Climate Change Canada to help limit the spread of avian influenza in Newfoundland and Labrador. If you find a dead, injured or sick wild bird, report it to Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative online, call 1-866-544-4744 or email atlantic@cwhc-rcsf.ca. Do not touch or handle dead, sick or injured birds.
Avian influenza viruses rarely infect humans, but people in close contact with infected birds may be at increased risk. Consult the Public Health Agency of Canada publication, Human health issues related to avian influenza in Canada for more information.
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Environmental Assessment Bulletin
The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, has announced the following relative to Environmental Assessment – Part 10 – of the Environmental Protection Act.
UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:
Beaver Brook Bridge Removal (Reg. 2344)
Proponent: Gander Bay Indian Band Council (GBIBC)
The proponent is proposing to remove a collapsed bridge located at Beaver Brook, near Gander Bay that is creating a barrier for fish migration to spawning grounds. The project would span approximately three weeks between June 1 and September 30 when water levels are at their lowest. A description of the project can be found on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.
The undertaking was registered on February 13, 2025. The deadline for public comments is March 20, 2025, and the minister’s decision is due by March 30, 2025.
UNDERTAKING RELEASED:
New Nain Airport (Reg. 2280)
Proponent: Nunatsiavut Government
The project has been released from environmental assessment subject to conditions as outlined in the minister’s decision letter available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2280/.
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT GUIDELINES AND PUBLIC REVIEW:
Botwood and Area EVREC Green Energy Project (Reg. 2327)
Proponent: Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation (EVREC)
The proposed Botwood and Area EVREC Green Energy Project is undergoing an environmental assessment, and an environmental impact statement (EIS) is required. The Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) has prepared draft EIS Guidelines that identify information that must be included in the EIS. The public is invited to review these guidelines and provide written comments by March 26, 2025. Comments received will be considered before final EIS guidelines are issued to the proponent.
More information on the project is available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2327/.
Written comments must be submitted by March 26, 2025, to
Eric Watton
EAC Chair
Environmental Assessment Division
Department of Environment and Climate Change
West Block, Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6
Email: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca.
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
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2024.pdf
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Project comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca
Anyone submitting comments on a project under environmental assessment should notify the Department of Environment and Climate Change if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the project proponent.
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Provincial Government Issues Request for Proposals for the Purchase of Marble Mountain Ski Resort
As part of its continued commitment to divest the Marble Mountain Ski Resort, the Provincial Government has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the resort’s purchase. Through the RFP process, the vision is to maximize the social and economic potential of the resort as a four-season destination.
The RFP seeks proposals from those interested in purchasing Marble Mountain Ski Resort. The deadline for proposals is April 9 at 2:00 p.m. NST. The RFP can be found here.
Marble Mountain Ski Resort is the largest ski hill in Atlantic Canada and averages approximately 65,000 skiers annually. It provides skiers with:
- A vertical drop of 519 metres.
- 64 hectares of skiable terrain.
- 39 runs and four lifts, including the only high‐speed detachable, quadruple chairlift in Atlantic Canada.
Both the Premier’s Economic Recovery Team’s report, led by Dame Moya Greene, and the Rothschild & Co report into provincial assets, recommended the divestiture of the resort. Since 2022, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has made strategic investments in the form of upgrades and additions to facilitate year-round operations and better position the resort for prospective buyers.
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“The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has taken a measured approach to the divestiture of the Marble Mountain Ski Resort. We have consulted with experts on the best path forward and we have assessed interest in the property through our recent Expression of Interest process. We are committed to placing the resort in the hands of the private sector, as they possess the financial capabilities to fully realize the immense potential of Marble Mountain Ski Resort, an asset of great significance to the region and its future.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Learn more
Marble Mountain Ski Resort
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Applications Open for 2025 Vegetable Transplant Program
Applications for the 2025 Vegetable Transplant Program are open to commercial vegetable producers until February 24.
The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture offers high-quality, low-cost vegetable transplants to eligible commercial farmers to help increase the production and variety of produce grown in the province, promote higher marketable yields and earlier harvests, and support food self-sufficiency.
In 2024, the Vegetable Transplant Program grew 4.3 million vegetable transplants, which were provided to 129 farmers.
Available crop varieties include cabbage, rutabaga, broccoli, cauliflower, onion, kale, lettuce, leek and asparagus – all grown at the Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Development in Wooddale.
Farmers demonstrating strong compliance with prior programs will receive priority for allocations. The 2025 program guide and online application form are available on the Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website.
Quote
“The Provincial Government remains steadfast in its commitment to explore opportunities to promote locally grown and produced products to ensure consumers have more options to buy local goods. The Provincial Vegetable Program is a practical, home-grown solution tailored to meet Newfoundland and Labrador’s specific growing conditions and farmers’ particular needs. I encourage all commercial farmers to avail of this unique program.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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Learn more
2025 Provincial Vegetable Transplant Program Guide and Application
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New ‘Make It Excellent’ Campaign Encourages Careers in the Skilled Trades
The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, today announced the launch of the Make It Excellent in the Skilled Trades campaign to encourage youth and underemployed individuals to pursue careers in the skilled trades through apprenticeship.
With approximately 6,000 construction workers expected to retire in the next 10 years, and the potential for thousands of new jobs created through new hydroelectric projects in Labrador, there is a great future for the next generation of local skilled tradespeople.
The Make It Excellent campaign highlights the skills, dedication and rewarding opportunities that come with a career in the skilled trades. It demonstrates how choosing this path means not only mastering a craft, but also securing good pay and long-term job stability right here in Newfoundland and Labrador. The benefits of employers hiring apprentices is also featured, including generous wage subsidies and access to a talented pool of apprentices.
Apprenticeship programs are profiled in the campaign as opportunities for individuals to “earn while they learn”, gaining hands-on experience with talented mentors and journeypersons. Testimonials feature local apprentices and journeypersons from a variety of backgrounds, working as automotive service technicians, heavy duty equipment technicians, carpenters, welders, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics, plumbers and electricians.
Another element is supports available for unemployed and underemployed individuals to complete pre-employment training programs of up to three years, which covers the length of most skilled trades programs. Newfoundland and Labrador offers some of Canada’s most generous skills development benefits, including covering tuition, books, living costs and child care expenses.
For more information about the campaign and to learn about opportunities in the skilled trades, visit MakeItExcellent.ca.
In addition to the Make it Excellent campaign, the Provincial Government has undertaken a number of actions to support skilled trades workforce development and training. These actions are outlined in the backgrounder.
Quotes
“The Make It Excellent campaign is an exciting opportunity to showcase the incredible potential of skilled trades careers in Newfoundland and Labrador. With a growing demand for skilled workers in our province, we are committed to providing the next generation with the tools, training, and support they need to succeed. It’s a great time to pursue a career in the trades, and we’re proud to offer opportunities for youth and underemployed individuals to learn, grow, and succeed right here at home.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills
“This campaign will help capture the attention of youth in Mount Pearl, and across the province, and get them thinking about how rewarding a career in the skilled trades can be. Tradespeople do excellent work and have the opportunity to build a great life in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Lucy Stoyles
Member of the House of Assembly for Mount Pearl North
“As a proud employer and advocate for apprentices and skilled trades in the automotive sector, we are committed to fostering an environment where skilled trade professionals can thrive. By investing in their training and development, we are not only strengthening our industry but also empowering the next generation of skilled workers. Together, we are driving innovation and excellence forward in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Stefan Pike
Executive General Manager, Steele Honda
“Apprenticing as a welder through the Youth Summer Apprenticeship Program has opened so many doors for me. I’ve gained real hands-on experience, learned from skilled mentors, and discovered a career that I’m passionate about. It’s exciting to know that I’m building a future in a trade that’s in high demand in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Taylor Whiffen
Welding Apprentice, Youth Apprenticeship Summer Program
“The Office to Advance Women Apprentices has proudly supported tradeswomen in Newfoundland and Labrador for over 15 years. During this time, much progress has been made toward gender equality in skilled trades. We have slowly changed the narrative that skilled trades aren’t an appropriate career path for women and girls. Despite this progress, female enrollment in apprentice programs remains extremely low. As this province faces critical skilled labor shortages it is more important than ever to encourage young women and girls to pursue rewarding and successful careers as tradeswomen.”
Lori LeDrew
Executive Director, Office to Advance Women Apprentices
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BACKGROUNDER
Actions to Support Skilled Trades Workforce Development and Training
- Undertaking a review of the provincial apprenticeship system and finalizing an implementation plan for recommendations.
- Hiring a virtual learning strategist to provide customized support services for apprentices preparing to challenge the certification exam.
- Launching the Working Opportunities program, a game-changer for individuals facing barriers to education and training.
- Maintaining the harmonization of 23 skilled trades with other Atlantic provinces.
- Increasing direct outreach and engagement with high school students and underemployed to promote careers in the skilled trades and careers services available through Provincial Government employment centres.
- Continuing to fund the Trades NL Indigenous Skilled Trades Office, with locations in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Corner Brook, and St. John’s.
- Continuing to fund the Youth Apprenticeship Summer Program through Skills Canada Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Ongoing support for women apprentices through the Office to Advance Women Apprentices.
- Providing supports for newcomers in the skilled trades to obtain credentials and employment through the Fair Registration Practices Office.
- Increasing awareness of skilled trades by expanding outreach with industry.
- Increasing collaboration with industry and other labour market partners to determine future workforce requirements and awareness of job possibilities in the skilled trades.
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Public Advisory: Application Deadline for the Adventure French Summer Program Extended to February 18
The deadline for students to apply for the 2025 Adventure Program in Quebec has been extended to Tuesday, February 18, 2025
The Adventure Program offers a four-week summer bursary to Level 1/Grade 10 students meeting the eligibility requirements with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a French-speaking environment in Quebec. The program provides beginner and advanced French language classes, along with engaging cultural activities and excursions conducted entirely in French.
Bursaries are paid directly to the post-secondary institution hosting the program, Collège Saint-Charles-Garnier (Laval Campus), Quebec City, and cover the cost of tuition, room and board, instructional materials, and all compulsory activities.
The application and eligibility requirements can be found on the Department of Education website. Please contact adventure@gov.nl.ca for questions or assistance with the application.
This program is made possible through funding received through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on Minority Language Education and Second Official Language Instruction.
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Minister Dempster Announces Funding for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Projects
Today, the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced a $12-million investment in the province’s Climate Change Challenge Fund.
The Climate Change Challenge Fund is a competitive, application-based grant program open to the private sector, not-for profit organizations, public sector bodies or boards, municipal governments, and Indigenous organizations to undertake greenhouse gas emission reduction projects in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Projects must cost effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fall under one or more of the following target areas:
- Energy efficiency that results in reduced fossil fuel use.
- Fuel switching to reduce emissions.
- Process changes in the industrial sector.
- Adoption of new technologies that displace or eliminate on-site greenhouse gas emissions.
- Carbon sequestration in agriculture and forestry sectors.
The deadline for applications is Friday, April 11, 2025, and projects must be completed no later than December 31, 2028, to be eligible. Complete eligibility and application guidelines are available here. For questions about the program, please call 709-729-1394 or email eccinfo@gov.nl.ca
The Climate Change Challenge Fund aims to improve energy efficiency, create economic growth, and effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Quotes
“Supporting businesses, communities, and not-for-profit organizations under the Climate Change Challenge Fund will drive our economy and bring us closer to reaching our climate change mitigation goals in Newfoundland and Labrador. I encourage all eligible groups to submit their project proposals for consideration and look forward to seeing those projects generate real results in reducing our greenhouse gas emissions.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister Responsible for Labour
“Thanks to the Climate Change Challenge Fund, we were given the ability to make crucial upgrades to our heating systems going from fossil fuels to zero-emissions, drastically reducing our corporate greenhouse gas emissions.”
Her Worship Carol McDonald
Mayor of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s
“Taking advantage of the Climate Change Challenge Fund made a huge difference for us in 2023. We were able to transition to a more environmentally friendly boiler and are excited about more programs like this to come. I would definitely encourage other businesses to apply.”
Justin Fong
Sales and Marketing Director
Quidi Vidi Brewery
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Media Advisory: Minister Dempster to Announce Funding for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Projects
The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement tomorrow (Wednesday, February 12, 2025) regarding the 2025 Climate Change Challenge Fund.
The event will take place at the Portugal Cove – St. Phillip’s Town Hall, at 11:00 a.m.
Minister Dempster will be joined by the Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and MHA for Conception Bay East – Bell Island, Mayor Carol McDonald, Town of Portugal Cove St. Philip’s and Justin Fong, Quidi Vidi Brewery.
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Premier Furey Announces New Deputy Minister
The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today named Karen Stone, KC, as the new deputy minister of Justice and Public Safety and deputy attorney general of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Ms. Stone replaces Denis Mahoney, KC, who, while retiring from the public service, will continue to be a part of the negotiating team created to draft the definitive agreements outlined in the memorandum of understanding between Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and Hydro-Quebec.
Since June 2024, Ms. Stone was the interim chief executive officer of NL Health Services where she led the implementation of recommendations from Health Accord NL from a provincial health authority perspective and helped improve access to care.
During her long history in the public service she served in many senior leadership positions, including deputy minister of Health and Community Services where she helped the province navigate the global pandemic. She was also the deputy minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation when the province invited Newfoundlanders and Labradorians living abroad to return home during the successful Come Home Year celebrations, and the deputy minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills when the province experienced the largest growth in its population since 1998. Her bio is noted below in the enclosed biography.
Over the course of Mr. Mahoney’s successful career in the private and public sectors, he made many meaningful contributions to Newfoundland and Labrador. Most recently, he provided strong leadership through the 2024 Labrador forest fires and the subsequent safe evacuations of residents, as well as playing a critical role in improving the safety of the province’s communities and helping negotiate an MOU with Hydro Quebec that will invite considerable benefits for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. He also has a long history of community volunteerism through his involvement with such organizations as Memorial University’s Board of Regents, the 2025 Canada Games Host Society, and the Boys and Girls Club.
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“We are fortunate in Newfoundland and Labrador to have a highly talented public service and public service employees who make incredible contributions to our communities. I am very much looking forward to working with Ms. Stone and Mr. Mahoney in their new roles and would like to sincerely thank them for their work over the years. We are a stronger province because of your efforts.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
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Biography
Karen Stone, KC, completed her articles of law and was admitted to the bar in 1992. She began her public service career as a solicitor at the Department of Justice in 1995. She provided legal advice to numerous government departments before joining the Department of Health and Community Services in 2005 as its legislative consultant. She most recently served as the interim chief executive officer of NL Health Services.
Prior to that role, she was the deputy minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills. She has also served as the deputy minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation and the deputy minister of Health and Community Services. She has held the positions of assistant secretary to cabinet (social policy) with the Office of the Executive Council, assistant deputy minister of policy and planning, and assistant deputy minister of population health at the Department of Health and Community Services.
Ms. Stone’s law degree is from Osgoode Hall Law School and she has a Bachelor of Arts and a Certificate in Public Administration from Memorial University. She holds a Certificate in Alternate Dispute Resolution from the University of Windsor.
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Media Advisory: Minister Stoodley to Launch Apprenticeship Campaign
The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will announce a new campaign to support apprenticeships in the skilled trades on Wednesday, February 12, at Steele Honda, 547 Kenmount Road, St. John’s.
The event will begin at 1:30 p.m.
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Provincial Government Congratulates Regional Craft Award Winners
This year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence recognized several Newfoundland and Labrador entrepreneurs with prestigious awards. The 28th annual awards were presented at an event in Halifax, Nova Scotia, during Craft East Buyers’ Expo on February 8, 2025.
An Inuk artist from Rigolet on Labrador’s North Coast, April Allen, was awarded the Industry Leader Award. Through her company, Stitched by April, she brings together traditional materials such as sealskin, leather, and fur, and blends them with modern design elements to reflect the strength and resilience of Inuit culture.
Ms. Allen’s designs have been shown at major runway fashion shows in New York, Paris and Milan, as well as at Indigenous art festivals and cultural events across Canada. Her Inuit doll collection was permanently added to the Provincial Art Bank at The Rooms. She strives to inspire young Indigenous artists to use their own backgrounds and experiences in their creations and uses her platform for advocacy for meaningful causes.
East Coast Quilt co received the award for Outstanding Retailer. Entrepreneurs and lovers of cloth, Debbie Northover and Read Bowen, came together in 2019 to offer services to the local quilt community.
The business has grown into a thriving destination for makers of craft, offering fabrics, classes, tools and services as well as finished products. They work and collaborate with local designers and makers to provide quality products and services that showcase the province. Their space in downtown St. John’s offers opportunities for workshops for all ages and have provided new revenue streams for working makers, providing customers with a new way to support locally made products.
Newbornlander Baby Store Inc. received the award for Outstanding Exporter. Constanza Safatle, originally from Chile, is founder and owner of Newbornlander, a social enterprise that offers baby accessories with a mission to create opportunities and support newcomer women.
Starting in 2017, Ms. Safatle designed and made all Newbornlander products herself, while caring for her own newborn. She sold her work at local markets and has since expanded to Atlantic Canda and beyond. Through a variety of channels, such as an online store, direct retail and wholesale, Newbornlander has seven employees, and the product line is wholesaled across Canada. Through strategic developments, such as trade shows and appearing on the national television show Dragons’ Den, Ms. Safatle was also the 2023 winner of Tales of Triumph, a prestigious national award with Canada Post, which led to an increase in export sales.
Recognizing the importance of celebrating the artistic and economic achievements of the craft community, the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Awards Committee meets throughout the year to ensure Newfoundland and Labrador craft makers, fine craft artists and craft retailers are recognized for their exceptional work.
The Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence are presented annually in conjunction with the Craft East Buyers’ Expo, which showcases craft and giftware made exclusively in the Atlantic Provinces.
Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador continues to be a leader in traditional and contemporary crafts. Congratulations to April Allen, East Coast Quilt co and Newbornlander for their recognition at this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence. We recognize the value of the craftspeople from this province and we are happy to continue to support their creative initiatives as they grow their businesses and have a positive impact on the local economy.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence, with a special shout-out to Newfoundland and Labrador’s own, Stitched by April, East Coast Quilt co and Newbornlander. Our province is filled with incredibly creative artisans whose work enriches the vibrancy and heritage of our communities. These talented craftspeople continue to inspire and showcase the rich cultural fabric of our province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Learn More
Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Industry Strategy 2023-2025
April Allen – Stitched By April
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Public Advisory: Applications Now Being Accepted for the 2025 Athletic Excellence Fund
The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is advising athletes throughout Newfoundland and Labrador that provincial sport organizations are now accepting applications for the 2025 Athletic Excellence Fund.
The Athletic Excellence Fund supports local athletes by providing financial assistance to help offset costs associated with training and competition. Funding is provided to athletes through five channels – the Premier’s Athletic Awards, the Team Gushue Awards, the Michelle Healey Memorial Award, the Elite Athlete Assistance Program, and the Sport NL Scholarship Program.
In order to apply, applicants must be members in good standing of a Provincial Sport Organization. Individuals must submit their applications to their respective Provincial Sport Organization by March 3, 2025. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. The application form and guidelines for applicants are available here.
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Media Advisory: Canada’s Premiers Visit to Washington, D.C. on February 12, 2025
For the first time ever, all 13 of Canada’s Premiers will visit Washington, D.C. as part of a joint mission aimed at strengthening Canada-United States relations. Doug Ford, Chair of the Council of the Federation, will lead the group as they undertake a series of meetings and events in the United States capital.
Preliminary Media Program (All times and events to be confirmed)
Wednesday, February 12 7:00 a.m.
8:15 a.m.
Photo opportunity
Media will be escorted from the State Room, Lobby Level, The Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.Scrum and photo opportunity as Premiers depart hotel for meetingsState Room, Lobby Level, The Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.
11:45 a.m. Scrum and photo opportunity as Premiers depart for a luncheon meeting
Outside the main entrance of 101 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.
As they become available, additional program details and media opportunities will be communicated to interested media via email. To be added to the media email list, please email paola@canadaspremiers.ca.
The Council of the Federation comprises all 13 provincial and territorial Premiers. It enables Premiers to work collaboratively, form closer ties, foster constructive relationships among governments, and show leadership on important issues that matter to Canadians.
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Celebrating the Strength and Potential of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Agriculture Sector on Canada’s Agriculture Day
Today and every day, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to raise their forks to the farmers and producers who support food self-sufficiency across the country, and especially here at home.
Canada’s Agriculture Day is a celebration of Canadian agriculture and food, and in Newfoundland and Labrador, there is much to celebrate. The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is working with farmers and producers to explore opportunities to promote locally grown and produced products to ensure consumers have more options to buy local goods. The Provincial Government’s BuyNLCan campaign is also encouraging citizens to choose products and services from Newfoundland and Labrador first, keeping money and jobs here at home.
The province’s agriculture sector is 100 per cent self-sufficient in production of fluid milk, chicken and eggs, and self-sufficiency in beef and sheep production is increasing.
The Provincial Government continues to grow food self-sufficiency in Newfoundland and Labrador by:
- Working closely with the dairy, poultry and egg sectors to continue increasing the amount of locally produced products.
- Working with farmers to develop and enhance farmland for fruit and vegetable production. Farmers are producing traditional crops including potato, cabbage, turnip, carrot and strawberries, as well as diversified products such as broccoli, kale, leek, onion, asparagus, canola, wheat and cranberry.
- Encouraging farmers to avail of financial support from a suite of funding programs – including subsidized crop insurance – to help protect their valuable crops and improve their businesses. The option to insure crops helps diversify and strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture sector and better protect our farmers.
- Offering programs that increase food self-sufficiency in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the Provincial Vegetable Transplant Program at the Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Development in Wooddale. Vegetable transplants give farmers a head-start on the province’s short growing season by providing high-quality vegetable transplants – more than four million annually – to promote higher marketable yields, more crop variety, and earlier harvest and returns.
- Collaborating with academic institutions and other agencies to research innovative crop and livestock production practices that help improve local food self-sufficiency.
- Providing a fresh new crop of agriculture technology students with hands-on experience in agricultural practices at the Western Agriculture Research Station in Pynn’s Brook.
- Continuing to support food self-sufficiency through the annual Community Garden Support Program, with thousands of people from municipalities, schools and community groups working together to establish and grow their own community gardens throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
Minister Byrne will mark Canada’s Agriculture Day today by co-hosting a reception with the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture. Minister Byrne’s Parliamentary Secretary, Lucy Stoyles, MHA for Mount Pearl North, will visit St. Bernard’s Elementary School in Witless Bay on February 13 to join in a celebration hosted by Agriculture in the Classroom Newfoundland and Labrador.
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“Farmers, producers and industry professionals are key to the Provincial Government’s commitment to a strong local agriculture sector. Together, we are increasing access to good food and supporting the well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This year more than ever, Canada’s Agriculture Day is a testament to the resilience and future of our agriculture sector and the people who keep it strong.
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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Public Advisory: Written Commercial Driver Tests Now Available on MyGovNL
The written tests for commercial classes of driver’s licence (Class 1,2,3,4) and for an air brake endorsement are now available online at MyGovNL.
A commercial driver’s licence is required to operate the commercial classes of vehicles outlined below:
- Class 1 – Semi-trailer trucks.
- Class 2 – Buses over 24 passengers.
- Class 3 – Trucks with three or more axles.
- Class 4 – Taxis, ride-sharing vehicles, and/or ambulances, and buses up to 24 passengers.
To take a commercial driver’s test, a driver must have a valid Class 5 licence for at least one year, not including time spent as a novice driver (5ii) or learner (5i). An air brake endorsement is also required to drive vehicles equipped with air brakes.
To receive a learner’s permit, applicants must also submit a routine medical form completed by a healthcare provider and take a vision test.
After successfully completing these requirements, drivers will receive an updated licence in the mail which will allow them to receive instruction from an accompanying driver who is licensed for the relevant commercial class of licence.
Entry level training from an approved post-secondary institution is required before receiving a Class 1 commercial licence and road tests are required to move from the learners stage for all classes of licence.
Additional information on how to become a commercial vehicle driver in Newfoundland and Labrador can be found here.
This addition to MyGovNL demonstrates the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to regulatory modernization and a digital-by-design approach.
The Provincial Government committed to increasing the number of services offered online by 75 per cent by 2022. Having exceeded this target, work continues to progressively digitize service delivery with dozens of licensing and permitting functions now available online.
MyGovNL allows residents to access and manage multiple Provincial Government services from the convenience of their own home 24/7, 365 days a year. Anyone can create a free account using a valid email address and creating a personal, secure password.
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Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Roundtables Show Strength in Unified Response to Tariff Threat
Participants in some of the most inclusive and far-reaching fisheries, forestry and agriculture roundtables are showing unprecedented unity and resolve as they collectively prepare a plan of action for potential U.S. tariffs and establish a long-term vision for growth and development. The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, hosted a series of roundtables with the province’s three renewable resource sectors.
The launch of the fisheries roundtables saw what may be the largest and most diverse assembly in Newfoundland and Labrador’s fisheries history. Minister Byrne was joined by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labour. The sector demonstrated unity and a desire to work cooperatively. Specific actions will be taken immediately, including key discussions with the federal government around an early start to the snow crab season and financial supports and flexibilities for the sector. Minister Byrne is making nearly $6 million of provincial funding available to support market diversification initiatives.
Minister Byrne met with forest sector representatives from the province’s sawmill and paper industries, for a wide-ranging discussion. The group reflected on how the Provincial Government could work with the forest sector to reduce costs in the face of tariffs, and to help diversify markets, with expansion into Europe being a possible option. Expanding the local domestic market for Newfoundland and Labrador’s forest products and utilizing more lumber production at home are also key factors.
Minister Byrne hosted an enthusiastic discussion about the province’s agriculture sector with representatives from the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture; fruit and vegetable, dairy, egg, chicken, sheep, honey and cranberry producer associations; and young farmers. While most food produced in Newfoundland and Labrador is consumed locally, there is great potential for growth and expansion of local products in the province’s grocery stores and restaurants.
Minister Byrne and agriculture sector representatives plan to explore opportunities to promote locally grown and produced products to ensure consumers have more options to buy local goods.
Minister Byrne and representatives from all three sectors have committed to continue working collaboratively to ensure these vital industries are well prepared to adapt to the uncertain and changing environment ahead and are actively looking to diversity markets for these products. The Provincial Government has also launched BuyFromNL, an awareness campaign encouraging citizens to choose products and services from Newfoundland and Labrador first, keeping money and jobs here at home.
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“The people who work in our renewable resource sectors – fisheries, forestry and agriculture – are facing a challenge of historic proportion. They face this challenge head on, with great courage, and a collective resolve to overcome. I am heartened to know that we are not working to maintain the status quo – we are working to grow. That distinction is our strength, and I am confident our industries will emerge reinvigorated and strengthened for the future.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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Provincial Government Recognizes Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
The Provincial Government is recognizing February 9-15 as Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week was created by the Canadian Home and School Federation in 1988. It recognizes the work of teachers, administrators and school staff who are committed to supporting the educational experience of children and youth.
Newfoundland and Labrador is home to approximately 10,900 permanent and casual school staff working as teachers, administrators and support staff throughout the province’s school system. The Provincial Government recognizes the important role of teachers and support staff in supporting and enhancing the school environment.
This year, the position of student services teaching and learning assistant was introduced in select schools throughout the province. In addition, the Department of Education added 160 student assistants and close to 50 instructional resource teachers to the K-12 system this year to support students at school.
Educators were celebrated for their accomplishments through the annual Premier’s Award for Innovation in Teaching and the Minister’s Award for Compassion in Teaching in 2024. The awards acknowledge the leadership role that educators play in the lives of students. Applications for the 2025 premier’s and minister’s teaching awards will open in the coming months.
Quotes
“We recognize and applaud the hard work and dedication of our teachers and support staff who enrich the lives of our students every day in our schools. I extend my gratitude as you ensure our students benefit from your creativity, compassion and dedication. Thank you for all your work to inspire a lifelong love of learning whether it is in the classroom, playing a sport in the gymnasium, learning a new instrument in the music room, or doing research in the library learning commons. I encourage everyone to take a moment this week and recognize their hard work and dedication.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“National Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is a great opportunity to recognize the influence our teachers and school staff have on the lives of our children. We are extremely fortunate to have so many professional and caring teachers and staff in our education system who go above and beyond their roles to nurture and help our youth reach their full potential as students and citizens. Their dedication and hard work is vital to ensuring our students have the skills necessary to one day be leaders in our communities and province. On behalf of parents and school councils thank you for bringing out the very best in our children.”
Don Coombs
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils
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Learn more
Premier Furey and Minister Howell Announce Recipients of 2024 Teaching Awards
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