Government of Newfoundland News
Auditor General Confirms Clean Audit Opinion on Public Accounts
Today, the Auditor General released her annual report, confirming that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador received an unqualified (clean) audit opinion on the 2022-23 Public Accounts which are the audited financial statements of the province for the fiscal year that ended March 31, 2023.
In her report, the Auditor General provides a comprehensive review of areas for improvement within the Provincial Government and its entities. These recommendations are welcomed and will now be reviewed in their entirety, with the aim of making changes that are necessary for the province’s financial health.
As recommended by the Auditor General, the Provincial Government continues to focus on reducing net debt and borrowings. As a result, net debt to GDP has improved from nearly 50 per cent in 2020-21 to approximately 41 per cent in 2022-23. Further, net debt per capita decreased from $32,093 in 2021-22 to $31,059 in 2022-23.
Also noted by the Auditor General, key risks that have potential to significantly impact the provincial economy and fiscal position include rate mitigation, market conditions, and demographic factors such as the need to provide services to smaller communities and the widely dispersed population.
The Provincial Government is overcoming these risks by delivering on its plan for financial improvement focused on balancing budgets, transforming and modernizing government, while managing and lowering our cost of debt. This has included fixing the financing of the Muskrat Falls Project through a $5.2 billion rate mitigation agreement with the Federal Government, as well as strengthening the Auditor General’s role, so she can provide further recommendations on strengthening the province’s financial management practices.
Economic indicators are showing healthy signs for Newfoundland and Labrador:
- According to the 2023 inventory of major projects, about $18.3 billion in major capital spending, on projects valued over $25 million, was planned or underway in the province.
- For 2023, employment in the province was 236,700, an increase of 1.8 per cent compared to 2022. This marks the highest employment level in the province since 2015.
- The unemployment rate averaged 10.0 per cent in 2023, a decrease of 1.3 percentage points compared to 2022. This marks the lowest annual unemployment rate in the province since consistent records began in 1976.
- Population growth continued for the tenth straight quarter. On an annual basis, the province’s population increased by 7,022 persons, or 1.3 per cent, from July 1, 2022 to July 1, 2023, the largest annual increase since 1972.
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“We thank the Auditor General and her team for their work. In keeping with her recommendations, we are delivering on our plan for financial improvement, with a focus on paying down our debt. At the same time, we are encouraged by Newfoundland and Labrador’s strengthened economy, high employment, and population growth, as we work towards a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, sustainable province.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board
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Learn more
All Reports – Office of the Auditor General
Provincial Government Releases 2022-23 Public Accounts
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Auditor General Delivers Report on the Province’s 2023 Financial Statement Audits
The Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador, Denise Hanrahan, today delivered her report on the province’s 2023 Financial Statement Audits to the House of Assembly, in accordance with the requirements of the Auditor General Act, 2021.
The report provides observations on the audit of the Consolidated Summary Financial Statements, and outlines opportunities for improvement across the public sector that were identified and communicated to government and its entities in 2023. The full report can be found by visiting the link below.
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“The way government manages its financial and operational responsibilities is critical, and my role is to examine how well government continues to manage that significant responsibility. I encourage government to take the necessary steps to remedy the issues I have outlined in the 2023 financial statement audits – especially given there were 91 outstanding issues across the government reporting entity, up from 30 in 2022 and some of which I have reported on previously – and ensure the best resolutions are found in a timely manner.”
Denise Hanrahan
Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador
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www.ag.gov.nl.ca/reports/all-reports
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Media contact
Chrysta Collins
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca
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Federal and Provincial Governments Sign Agreement to Support Modernization of NLHC Homes
This release is being issued on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:
The Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada today announced a new agreement to modernize and upgrade more than 850 Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) homes province-wide. This funding will complement the ongoing work of the Provincial Government to undertake repairs and renovations to its inventory of public housing.
The Affordable Housing Fund (formerly known as the National Housing Co-Investment Fund) includes $8.7 million in federal funding over three years to support renovations or repairs that include energy efficiency and accessibility improvements to existing NLHC homes.
Renovations through this fund will result in a reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of at least 25 per cent from the homes covered by the fund and will result in an additional 170 homes receiving accessibility upgrades.
This funding complements the existing NLHC repairs budget of more than $20 million over that same time period.
In October 2023, the Provincial Government increased the NLHC’s renovations budget by $3 million, allowing for repairs and renovations to an additional 143 homes. As of February 23, work is complete on 123 of these homes and underway on another 19 homes.
NLHC continues to advance initiatives to increase access to stable, safe and affordable housing as part of the Provincial Government’s overall commitment to improving the social and economic well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This includes:
- The five-point plan, which will help stimulate rental housing development, support first-time homebuyers and homeowners with additional space to create basement or secondary suites in their homes.
- The Affordable Rental Housing Program, which features an $80-million investment that will support private and community sector projects to build over 900 new affordable rental homes.
- The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Benefit, which has supported over 500 families find homes in the private rental market since 2021.
To learn more about the five-point plan and other NLHC programs, visit nlhc.nl.ca.
Quotes
“As we work to increase access to affordable housing in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is also important that we continue to repair and modernize our existing homes. In partnership with the Federal Government, this agreement will make NLHC’s housing portfolio more sustainable over the long-term, ensuring our homes are available to more families.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
“NLHC housing brings a safe, affordable place to call home within reach for so many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. We’re helping them fix up existing homes to give people in our communities a roof over their head. They’re strengthening our local housing stock. That’s work we’re proud to invest in.”
Honourable Seamus O’Regan
Minister of Labour and Seniors and Member of Parliament for St. John’s South–Mount-Pearl on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
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Learn more
Significant Progress Made in Repairs and Renovations of Provincially Owned Vacant Units
Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable
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BACKGROUNDER
Quick Facts
The Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) provides funding through low-interest and/or forgivable loans or contributions to partnered organizations for new affordable housing and the renovation and repair of existing, affordable and community housing. This is a $14.2 billion program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) that gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults.
Visit Canada.ca/housing for the most requested Government of Canada housing information.
CMHC contributes to the stability of the housing market and financial system, provides support for Canadians in housing need, and offers unbiased housing research and advice to all levels of Canadian government, consumers and the housing industry. CMHC’s aim is that everyone in Canada has a home they can afford and that meets their needs. For more information, follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Facebook.
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Premier Furey and Minister Howell Recognize Pink Shirt Day in Newfoundland and Labrador
Today, the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, are recognizing Pink Shirt Day activities in schools and communities throughout the province.
Each year, Pink Shirt Day recognizes and reinforces the importance of reducing bullying and embracing kindness, while respecting and celebrating diversity in all corners of Newfoundland and Labrador. Schools, workplaces and communities are encouraged to take action to be safe, supportive, welcoming and inclusive of all people.
The Department of Education is committed to building an educational community in Newfoundland and Labrador that fosters safe, caring, inclusive and healthy learning environments for all students and staff in the K-12 public education system.
In January, the Provincial Government announced it is providing $12,500 for the Safe, Caring and Inclusive School Special Initiatives Grants, shared among 26 public schools this year. The grants support specific initiatives in schools that are student focused. Schools are recognized for their efforts in achieving safe, caring, and inclusive learning environments, promoting positive school climates, and sustaining safe and inclusive communities that celebrates equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility.
Quotes
“It is important we continue to embrace kindness, celebrate diversity, and welcome everyone with open hearts in our schools. Bullying can never be tolerated anywhere including schools or workplaces. Let us keep working towards celebrating our diverse communities and each other. The meaning behind Pink Shirt Day – kindness, respect and inclusion – reminds us to treat everyone equally as our province continues to be a welcome place for all cultures and identities.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“All students and teachers deserve to have safe and caring spaces to thrive while learning and teaching. We continue to make progress to ensure schools and workplaces are welcoming for every person from all cultures and identities in our province. I urge everyone to wear pink and show kindness today and every day. A small act of kindness to someone can go a long way in demonstrating that you value and respect them.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
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Provincial Government Applauds Expanded Access to Province; Work Continues to Attract New Routes
Air access continues to be a strategic priority for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and today the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is applauding two new routes announced by Porter Airlines, with service from Deer Lake to Halifax, and St. John’s to Ottawa.
Both routes will fly daily, with service to Halifax from Deer Lake beginning on June 4 and service from St. John’s to Ottawa beginning on June 6. Deer Lake is a new destination on Porter’s flight map while the Ottawa route is returning to the province for the first time in five years.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with airports, airlines and other stakeholders, is making great strides on the issue of air access. Just last week, Deer Lake Regional Airport announced new flights to Toronto Pearson and Calgary. In 2023, the Provincial Government announced the reestablishment of a direct flight to Europe with WestJet’s St. John’s-London route, Flair Airlines’ entrance into the provincial market and Air Canada’s new agreement with PAL Airlines.
In 2023, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador made up to $3.75 million available to provincial airports to use as needed to help foster route development.
Quotes
“The combination of government investment and strong stakeholder relationships is paying off. This year alone we have seen the return of our direct connection to Europe, WestJet’s return to the west coast, and now Porter’s return of the St. Johns-Ottawa route, as well as Deer Lake-Halifax. I’d like to thank Porter Airlines for their commitment to this province and I look forward to seeing these new routes succeed.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“During Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s Annual Conference and Trade Show last week, we heard that access to and from the province continues to be a major priority for tourism development and growth. The demonstrated collaboration between governments, airports and airlines around air service development is proving its value by creating positive advancements. Today’s announcement from Porter is an important step toward increasing connectivity for Newfoundland and Labrador, both domestically and internationally.”
Craig Foley
Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
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Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-009 Released
The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-009 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.
To view the Report in its entirety, please go to www.oipc.nl.ca/reports/commissioner.
Report: A-2024-009 Report Date: February 26, 2024 Public Body: Town of Musgrave Harbour Summary: The Town of Musgrave Harbour received two access requests, one for audio recordings of Town meetings, and another for records related to rules of procedure. The Town responded to the first request by stating that the recordings could not be provided because of technical difficulties. It provided responsive records in response to the second request. The Complainant argued that the Town should be able to overcome the technical issues with the recordings and that the Town should be required to answer specific questions arising from the other records it provided. The Commissioner concluded that the Town had responded adequately to both requests, and that public bodies are not required by the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to answer questions or provide interpretations. The Commissioner recommended that the Town provide the Complainant with an opportunity to listen to the recordings and provide copies if the technical issues were resolved.-30-
Media contact
Sean Murray
Director of Research & Quality Assurance
709-729-6309
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Public Advisory: Provincial Government Increasing Availability of Naloxone Kits
The Department of Health and Community Services is reminding the public of the availability of naloxone kits for individuals who use opioids and family members, friends and other persons in a position to assist a person at risk of overdose from opioids across Newfoundland and Labrador.
Free naloxone kits are publicly available to reverse the potentially fatal effects of an overdose involving opioids such as fentanyl. Residents are encouraged to call 811 or visit naloxone kit distribution sites for information on where to access free naloxone kits.
The department encourages the public to follow harm reduction guidelines, such as not using alone, reducing the quantity used at one time and always keeping a naloxone kit on hand. Using a free naloxone kit could save a life.
The Provincial Take Home Naloxone program has increased the number of distribution sites from 100 to over 130 distribution sites across the province with efforts underway to increase access to free naloxone kits by adding new sites, including municipal offices and food banks. Mail-out options are also available for people who wish to receive a kit.
Since the program was established in 2016, it has distributed over 17,400 naloxone kits, with ongoing efforts to increase the sites available for people to obtain a naloxone kit.
The department met with community organizations and persons with lived and living experience to discuss possible overdose prevention sites. The Provincial Government is committed to working with community agencies to consider this option locally.
More information on mental health and additions resources is available by visiting the department’s Mental Health and Addictions website.
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Resumption of the House of Assembly for the Spring Sitting
The House of Assembly advises that, in accordance with the 2024 parliamentary calendar, the House will reconvene on Monday, March 4 at 1:30 p.m.
Proceedings throughout the spring sitting will be broadcast live via the House of Assembly television channel and streamed via the House of Assembly website. Proceedings will also be livestreamed on Facebook, X and YouTube.
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Media contact
Bobbi Russell
Principal Clerk of Committees
Director of Communications & Policy
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca
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Provincial Government Provides $600,000 to Provincial Public Libraries
Today the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, and the Honourable Derek Bennett, MHA Lewisporte-Twillingate, announced $600,000 to the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board (PILRB), which is responsible for public library services in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Minister made the announcement at the Lewisporte Public Library and was joined by Myrtice Alpen, Chair of the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board.
One-time funding of $500,000 has been allocated to supplement the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board’s core operating grant, for a total of over $12.8 million in Provincial Government funding for this fiscal year. This will support the board with costs for maintenance, operations and acquiring additional resources such as new hard copy and digital books.
An additional $100,000 will be provided to the board to support the expansion of the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries’ early years programming to include digital literacy tools. Using digital technologies responsively with children over the age of three helps prepare them for the future and is important in achieving early literacy goals.
There are currently 94 public libraries throughout the province that provide a variety of important literacy and community-based services to individuals, families and community groups. Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries works to ensure that library materials, free access to the Internet and programs are available to meet the needs of the province’s people.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing high-quality public library services for access to reading material, internet and related programs to children, youth and adults in the province. The Department of Education provides core operational funding to the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board each year to support public library services in Newfoundland and Labrador.
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“Library services play an important role in communities throughout the province. This additional funding to the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board will further support their important work to increase literacy of people of all ages in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“The Lewisporte Public Library is one of many outstanding service providers that is helping to meet the needs of people in the province. I am pleased that libraries like this one will be supported to meet their operational needs through increased funding. I thank Minister Howell and Chairperson Myrtice Alpen for their continued collaboration.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
MHA Lewisporte-Twillingate
“We are extremely grateful for the support of Minister Howell and her department and look forward to continuing to work together to provide excellent library services to our province. We are excited about the additional resources that we will be able to provide, not just in terms of physical and digital books, but with improved library spaces. We are grateful for the additional $100,000 to expand and modernize our Early Literacy program with digital material which will provide children with a wider range of experiences than we traditionally could provide.”
Andrew Hunt
Executive Director, Provincial Information and Library Resources Board
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BACKGROUNDER
Provincial Information and Library Resources Board
The Provincial Information and Library Resources Board (PILRB) is an independent board established by the Provincial Government through the Public Libraries Act. The Board is charged with the responsibility of:
- Establishing and operating public libraries throughout the province.
- A Provincial Reference and Resource Library.
- A centralized Technical Services division.
- Library services to communities without libraries through a Books-by-Mail Service.
- Centralized administrative services from its provincial headquarters.
The Provincial Board presently operates 94 public libraries throughout the province.
Early Years Programming
The Department of Education provided over $1.1 million in 2023 to Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries to support a three-year Early Literacy Outreach program from 2023-2026. Promotion of appropriate and safe use of digital tools engages children’s development, learning, and well-being.
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Transportation and Highway Safety Priorities Discussed at Meeting of Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, attended a meeting of the Council of Ministers Responsible for Transportation and Highway Safety in Montreal February 22-23. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together to ensure Canadians can benefit from safe, reliable, efficient and modern transportation infrastructure.
Ministers highlighted the impacts of climate change on transportation infrastructure throughout the country, as well as the need to increase the resiliency of infrastructure when replacing or rebuilding. The Council agreed to continue to collaborate on addressing the transportation infrastructure gaps that exist in northern and rural regions, understanding the importance of strong transportation services and infrastructure in northern, remote and rural communities.
Ministers also explored ways to strengthen supply chains and trade corridors in an effort to make life more affordable for all Canadians and support Canada’s economy, as well as enhancing transportation safety and security.
The transportation sector in Canada is facing critical labour and skills shortages resulting in disruptions in the movement of goods and people across the country. Ministers highlighted the need for a strong transportation workforce in supporting resilient supply chains. Within their transportation mandates, ministers support continued collaboration on this issue as well as working with their respective counterparts in labour-market development and skills training.
An important topic of discussion at the meeting for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador is the changing environment in the air transportation sector, including the proposed changes to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations under the Canada Transportation Act, and their impact on connectivity. This matter was also recently addressed at the Council of Atlantic Premiers meeting in January. Minister Abbott reiterated that these potential changes do not recognize the issues that are associated with flight availability and frequency in smaller market centres such as Atlantic Canada and could hinder efforts to add capacity.
Ministers also continued the dialogue with Indigenous Peoples. They agreed to ongoing engagement with their respective Indigenous partners to better understand the transportation challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada and take responsive actions whenever possible and appropriate. Ministers also encouraged the federal minister to report back on progress achieved.
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“Connecting our country and our communities is essential, and modern, reliable infrastructure is necessary for the movement of both goods and people from coast to coast. Meetings like this one are critical to our collective efforts to ensure safe and reliable transportation networks, as well as finding ways to work together to tackle challenges that are facing the transportation sector in every province and territory. I was particularly pleased with the collaborative commitment to address transportation concerns facing our northern, remote and rural communities such as those in northern Labrador.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
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Members of the Council of Ministers Responsible for Transportation and Highway Safety
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Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreement with Association of Allied Health Professionals
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to announce that the tentative collective agreement with the Association of Allied Health Professionals (AAHP) has been ratified. The Association represents over 750 vital health care professionals working in all areas of the health care system in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Provincial Government and AAHP have successfully negotiated an agreement that is fair and respectful to all health care professionals who deliver important services to the people of this province every day.
Highlights of the agreement include:
- A two per cent wage increase each year for four years;
- A one-time employee recognition bonus payment of $2,000;
- Wage recognition to ensure occupation competitiveness;
- Improvements in compensation to retain permanent full-time employees;
- Flexibility for employees to substitute a statutory holiday such that they may observe a non-Christian faith-based holiday; and,
- The addition of paid family violence leave, providing the ability for employees to take time away from the workplace.
In the last 18 months, the Provincial Government has negotiated 29 collective agreements with public sector unions, representing more than 35,000 public sector workers.
Quotes
“The ratification of this collective agreement is another example of the dedicated commitment the province’s negotiating team and our public service unions bring to the bargaining table. With this vote of acceptance by the members of AAHP, government has negotiated the vast majority of our collective agreements with over 35,000 public service employees.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board
“We are delighted that the Association of Allied Health Professionals have ratified the collective agreement, which includes compensation and benefits that are competitive. The work of AAHP members is essential all across the care continuum in all health care settings. We look forward to working with AAHP going forward as we continue to reimagine our health care system.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
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Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association Sign Collective Agreement
Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreements with CUPE
Provincial Government and NAPE Sign Collective Agreements
Provincial Government and Labrador West Teachers Ratify Tentative Agreement
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Media Advisory: Minister Haggie to Participate in 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games Opening Ceremonies
The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, will bring greetings at the 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Winter Games Opening Ceremonies today (Saturday, February 24).
The event will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Steele Community Centre, 155 Airport Boulevard, Gander.
Since their inception in 1976, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has supported the Newfoundland and Labrador Games program, which celebrates participation in sport and the pursuit of sport excellence in communities throughout the province.
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Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Announce Funding for Public Libraries
The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, will announce funding for provincial public libraries on Monday, February 26. Minister Howell will be joined by Derek Bennett, MHA for Lewisporte-Twillingate.
The announcement takes place at Lewisporte Public Library, 152 Main Street, Lewisporte, beginning at 1:30 p.m.
A virtual media availability will follow via Zoom at 2:00 p.m. To participate, please RSVP to Lynn Robinson (lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca) who will provide the required information.
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Teachers Think Tank Results in New Initiatives to Improve Recruitment and Retention of Teachers in the Province; Media Availability at 4:00 p.m.
Today the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, attended a virtual Teachers Think Tank hosted by the Provincial Government and the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association (NLTA). The Provincial Government, in collaboration with the NLTA, will implement a number of initiatives to help address some of the immediate issues identified during the Teachers Think Tank to improve the recruitment and retention of teachers in the province.
The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education and Trent Langdon, President of the NLTA, will be available to the media today (Friday, February 23) at 4:00 p.m. to discuss these measures. The availability will take place outside the House of Assembly, Confederation Building.
Initiatives that will be implemented immediately following the Teachers Think Tank include:
- Formation of a committee to address recruitment and retention, led by the Deputy Minister of Education and President of the NLTA, which was a commitment made in the new collective agreement;
- Provincial Government to provide a $450,000 grant to the NLTA to help expand mental health supports and initiatives for teachers;
- Provision of an additional 125 hours per day to the total allocation of student assistant hours in English public schools for the remainder of this school year to support student needs; and,
- Assignment of an additional two floating teacher positions within rural schools of the Conseil scolaire francophone provincial to ensure coverage during teacher absences.
Furthermore, beginning in the 2024-25 school year, one professional learning day per school year will be added to focus on mental health issues affecting teachers. This will continue for the next three school years. In addition, Education Accord NL will focus on delivering a 10-year Education Accord with short, medium, and long-term goals for an education system that better meets the needs of students and learners in Newfoundland and Labrador.
These initiatives build upon commitments made in the recently signed NLTA collective agreement which fairly and responsibly reflects the value placed on educators in the province.
More than 2,200 teachers and administrators in the province completed an online questionnaire related to recruitment and retention which informed the topics discussed at the Teachers Think Tank. An overview of the results of the questionnaire is linked below.
The Provincial Government will continue to work on other initiatives with the NLTA and other stakeholders to address challenges related to recruitment and retention of teachers.
Quotes
“Supporting our educators is critical to creating a prosperous future for Newfoundland and Labrador, and I thank all teachers and staff for the work they do. The Teachers Think Tank demonstrated how these types of discussions can yield honest conversations and innovative solutions. I believe the initiatives we announced today are a starting point for positive change moving forward. The work continues to address recruitment and retention of teachers to our public education system and we will work together with the NLTA to find further solutions.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“The Teachers Think Tank was a truly valuable experience, and I appreciate the frank conversations and feedback from all educators today on what is needed to improve the teaching environment. We hear the challenges that teachers are experiencing in the classroom and in the system daily. The Think Tank and the initiatives announced today have laid a solid foundation to further our work and collaboration to address recruitment and retention.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“The Teachers Think Tank offered a unique opportunity for teachers in the field, the front-line workers in our education system, to tell their story directly to the decision makers in this province. We are grateful for the participation of all our members in this event. Our Association has been shining a light on the issues impacting recruitment and retention of teachers in this province for some time. We are optimistic that the measures announced today are the start of a meaningful action plan to improve the working conditions of teachers. Afterall, the working conditions of teachers are the learning conditions of students.”
Trent Langdon
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association
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Learn more
Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association Sign Collective Agreement
Teachers Think Tank to be Held in New Year to Inform Recruitment and Retention Initiatives
What We Heard – Recruitment and Retention Online Questionnaire
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Media Advisory: Premier Furey and Ministers to Speak at Future of Lab West Summit
The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will deliver a keynote address at the Future of Lab West Summit at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 26, 2024.
In addition to Premier Furey’s participation in the three day event, the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation; the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation; and the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, are speaking at the event.
Hosted by the Labrador West Chamber of Commerce, the Future of Lab West Summit will take place from February 26-28 at the Wabush Hotel, 9 Grenfell Drive, Wabush. The summit features presentations and roundtables with participation from industry, community and government to initiate discussion on issues and developments in the region.
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Applications Open for Community Garden Support Program
Funding applications for the 2024 Community Garden Support Program are available to help eligible municipalities, schools and community groups establish and enhance new and existing community gardens. There is no deadline to apply, but applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
As part of the $2.28 million Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program, the Provincial Government is investing over $132,000 into non-repayable grants to help increase food self-sufficiency, access to fresh foods, consumption of fruits and vegetables, and awareness and appreciation of the importance of local food production and the agriculture sector.
Since 2019, the Community Garden Support Program has supported more than 680 projects, with thousands of people working together to establish and grow community gardens throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
The 2024 application and program guide are available on the Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website. For more information on the program call 709-637-2474 or email CGSP@gov.nl.ca.
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“It is so rewarding to see the continued success of the Community Garden Support Program and the many people, from primary school students to senior citizens, working together to grow their own crops and contributing to food self-sufficiency in Newfoundland and Labrador. I encourage municipalities, schools, service groups and not-for-profit organizations to keep the momentum going and apply for a Community Garden Support Program grant for the upcoming season.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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Les demandes au titre du Programme de soutien des jardins communautaires sont ouvertes
Learn more
2024-25 Community Garden Support Program Guide
2024-25 Community Garden Support Program Application
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Public Advisory: Scheduled Maintenance this Weekend for MCP Services
Please be advised that MCP services on MyGovNL will undergo planned maintenance on Saturday, February 24, between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. (6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in parts of Labrador).
Users who try to access MCP services through MyGovNL will receive a notification alerting them to the scheduled maintenance.
The department thanks the public for their patience and apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.
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Provincial Government Providing Funding for Grief and Suicide Loss Support
The Provincial Government is providing $175,000 in funding to the Ruah Counselling Centre in St. John’s to provide grief and suicide loss support.
Ruah is a non-profit community counselling agency that provides counselling to individuals, couples and families, and educational and supportive groups to people 16 years of age and older.
Ruah receives thousands of requests for service each year from people seeking assistance through counselling, psychoeducational groups, workshops and community support.
Board members and staff are registered clinicians who provide evidence-based care to people seeking support for a variety of mental health and substance use needs, including anxiety, depression, trauma, suicide loss, stress and anger.
Workshops for schools and community agencies on topics, such as anxiety and conflict resolution, are also provided. The organization regularly accepts referrals from government departments and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services’ Eastern Urban Zone through the Psychiatric Assessment Unit at Waterford Hospital and the Doorways program.
Services provided by Ruah align with the department’s commitment to transform the provincial mental health and addictions system, reduce incidents of suicide and prevent and reduce alcohol-related harms through actions detailed in the final Towards Recovery Evaluation Report; the Provincial Alcohol Action Plan, Reducing Harms and Costs in Newfoundland and Labrador; and Our Path of Resilience: An Action Plan to Promote Life and Prevent Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador.
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“The Ruah Counselling Centre provides a valuable service to numerous people each year who are seeking help with mental health and substance use needs. We’re delighted to help support the centre financially so they can provide grief and suicide loss support groups provincially.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“As a non-profit, community counselling agency, Ruah strives to provide accessible, timely, and professional mental health and wellness services to those who need them. We are so pleased to collaborate with other agencies and, especially, to work with the Department of Health and Community Services to strategically deliver essential services in the areas of grief and suicide loss. This funding will help us to continue to be responsive to the needs of the individuals, families and communities we serve in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Amelia O’Dea, MSW, RSW
Executive Director, Ruah Counselling Centre
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Federal-Provincial Agreement Allows Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to Switch from Heating Homes with Oil to Heat Pumps and Other Electric Home Heating Systems
Canadians know that climate change is costly – not just for the environment, but for their pocketbooks. They also know that we must prioritize affordability while fighting the worst possible impacts of climate change to ensure a strong economy and clean air for our communities.
Today, the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador; and the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Federal Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources; provided an update on federal-provincial investments for energy efficiency initiatives for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
The Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador have already collaborated on several initiatives designed to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy bills. Building on that momentum, today the federal and provincial governments announced a $24-million agreement through the Low Carbon Economy Fund to boost the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil to Electric Incentive Program. The funding announced today will help cover the average cost of a heat pump and enable the provincial Government to transition 3,000 homes to cleaner, more affordable heating options in the coming year.
The agreement supports the recently announced strengthened Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program (OHPA). This program allows eligible Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to receive up to $22,000 in support for switching to a heat pump, electric furnace, or electric boiler. The $22,000 funding includes up to $15,000 from the Government of Canada’s OHPA program and another up to $7,000 from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and other federal funds.
To date, 2,065 Newfoundland and Labrador households have applied to the OHPA and the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil to Electric Incentive Program to make the switch from an oil tank to a new electric heat source. This builds on the success of the Government of Canada’s Greener Homes Grant which has led to the installation of 4,481 heat pumps in homes across Newfoundland and Labrador.
As Canada continues its efforts to build a low-carbon future, it will continue to provide Canadians with the tools and support needed to heat their homes cleaner and more affordably. This includes supporting projects across Newfoundland and Labrador such as:
- Enabling the switch from oil heating to electric heat pumps.
- Energy-efficiency improvements in low-income homes, schools, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
- Power grid projects that ensure electricity is reliable, clean and affordable in every home.
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“We are pleased to continue to work with the Government of Canada to reduce reliance on fuel oil and enhance energy affordability for homeowners. Our provincial Oil to Electric Incentive Program, supported by the federal Low Carbon Economy Fund and Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program, will help in the transition to a lower carbon economy, and reduce overall living costs. We are pleased to see the uptake and encourage more residents to avail of this program.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
“People should be able to make the switch to electric and save on their energy bills. But the start up costs have been getting in the way for many households. So we’re stepping in, and helping cover the costs for even more of those who need it.”
Honourable Seamus O’Regan
Minister of Labour and Seniors, Government of Canada
“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are ready to make the switch from expensive and polluting oil heat, to cheaper, cleaner, and more efficient electric heating systems. An electric heat pump will reduce monthly heating bills, while lowering emissions. It is a win-win for your wallet, and the environment.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Government of Canada
“Installing a heat pump in your home is simultaneously a good way to save on your monthly energy bills and reduce the pollution causing climate change. Our government is coming to the table with substantial funds to help Newfoundlanders and Labradorians make the transition off oil, in close partnership with the Provincial Government.”
Honourable Steven Guilbeault
Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Canada
“The federal government knows that Canadians want a cheaper and cleaner way to heat their homes. That’s why we are making historic investments in Newfoundland and Labrador, and across the country, to ensure that families can move from home heating oil to a heat pump. Thousands of families across the country are eligible to make this switch, which could save them thousands of dollars on their bills every year.”
Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Government of Canada
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Learn more
Oil to Electric Incentive Program
Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program
2030 Emissions Reduction Plan—Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy
Budget 2022—A Plan to Grow Our Economy and Make Life More Affordable
Making Home Heating More Affordable for Atlantic Canada and Other Regions
Budget 2023: A Made-in-Canada Plan: Strong Middle Class, Affordable Economy, Healthy Future
2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy
Canada Greener Homes Initiative
Making Home Heating More Affordable for Canadians While Fighting Climate Change
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Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council Receives $550,000 for Violence Prevention Efforts
The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today announced $550,000 for the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council.
The funding is provided under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, a four-year bilateral agreement the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador signed with Women and Gender Equality Canada, resulting in $13.6 million in new funding to invest in violence prevention initiatives throughout the province.
In collaboration with community groups, organizations and Indigenous Governments and Organizations, the Office of Women and Gender Equality has identified violence prevention priorities for Newfoundland and Labrador and is moving forward with implementation that is tailored to the needs of the province.
By engaging with the Calls for Justice regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, fostering collaboration with Indigenous communities, and heightening public awareness about the imperative for reconciliation, the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council is just one example of the province’s commitment to rectifying past wrongs and advancing a more equitable and inclusive future for all residents.
The formation of the Reconciliation Council was a recommendation of the Hear Our Voices: MMIWG Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador report.
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, which impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
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“This is not just an allocation of money, it is a profound commitment by the Provincial Government to foster an environment where Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people living in this province can thrive, feel valued and be respected. By working in partnership with Indigenous women, their governments, and organizations, we will make positive strides together to prevent violence in our communities.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“The approval of funding for the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council reinforces the priority that the Provincial Government has placed on ending gender-based violence. This is another important step towards the collaborative work that is required to advance violence prevention.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
“Receiving funding from our National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence is not just a financial investment; it is an investment in the future of our Indigenous women that will enable us to work on the 196 recommendations put forth to the Provincial Government in the ‘Hear Our Voices’ report. Achieving true reconciliation requires collaboration and partnership. Receiving this funding is a step in the right direction toward healing and making the lives of our Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people safer.”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
“Funding for the Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence is an investment in the safety, dignity and rights of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. It is also a commitment to justice, healing, and reconciliation, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to live free from harm and discrimination.”
Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
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National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence
Office of Women and Gender Equality
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