Government of Newfoundland News

New rules for the mortgage broker industry in Newfoundland and Labrador come into effect today, April 1, 2025.

The new Mortgage Brokerages and Brokers Act and Regulations:

• Implement a licensing framework for the industry.
• Authorize establishing a Code of Conduct for the industry.
• Introduce education and continuing education requirements for the industry.
• Require the industry to have errors and omissions insurance.
• Require mortgage brokerages to maintain trust accounts.
• Strengthen client disclosure requirements for the industry.
• Authorize administrative penalties for the industry.

The new Act and Regulations ensure provincial legislation is current and modern, reflecting national best practices in the regulation of the mortgage broker industry.

The new Act and Regulations also provide greater protection and reassurance for people using mortgage brokering services.

Over the last few years, the Provincial Government has made many significant legislative changes to strengthen consumer protection including changes to:

• The Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act and Regulations
• The Insurance Companies Act
• The Life Insurance Act
• The Payday Loan Regulations
• The Petroleum Products Act and Regulations
• The Real Estate Trading Act
• The Securities Act

Mortgage interest rates are not affected by the Mortgage Brokerages and Brokers Act and Regulations as these are primarily determined by the Bank of Canada policy rate.

For more information, please visit the department’s website.

The new Mortgage Brokerages and Brokers Act is available here and the Regulations are also available here.

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Beginning Wednesday, April 2, work resumes on the Cloverleaf Overpass where Pitts Memorial Drive (Route 2) travels over the Trans-Canada Highway. The westbound lane of Route 2 (from Pitts Memorial heading to Conception Bay South) will be reduced to one lane.

The lane closure is part of a bridge rehabilitation project necessary to facilitate repairs on the structure and are expected to be ongoing until October.

At this time there will be no impacts on the traffic travelling eastbound (Conception Bay South heading towards downtown) or travelling eastbound onto the Outer Ring Road. Planning is ongoing and there will be further notices of lane reductions as work progresses.

Motorists travelling on the highway are asked to slow their vehicles and please respect the traffic control measures in place. Motorists are also encouraged to seek alternate traffic routes while construction work is underway.

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.

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Through the Green Transition Fund, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced $740,000 to support seven green projects throughout the province.

Through the expression of interest process, seven new projects have been approved for funding. These include:

• Ever Green Environmental Corporation – $120,310
• Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University – $114,425
• Newfoundland Adventures Limited – $97,000
• Nunacor Development Corporation – $131,500
• Oceans Advance – $93,200
• Pedego Ebikes – $18,243
• Qalipu Development Corporation – $165,452

Information related to the projects can be found in the backgrounder below.

The Green Transition Fund aims to propel the development of environmentally sustainable business practices and clean technologies in the province and position Newfoundland and Labrador as a leader in the global green transition. This fund supports the greening of commercial operations, research and development, manufacturing and extractive resource development, and other areas that help transition to a greener economy.

There has been significant interest shown for the Provincial Government’s Green Transition Fund with over $4.9 million in funding approved. To date, throughout the province there have been 27 projects approved and 23 are currently under assessment by the department. This funding has leveraged significant investment from the Federal Government and private sources.

Quote
“We are pleased to see continued interest in the Green Transition Fund with a number of innovative projects being undertaken. Our government recognizes the importance of supporting local businesses and organizations through the global green transition. This support with have a positive impact on our economy and contributes to Newfoundland and Labrador’s strong position in the green economy.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
Green Transition Fund

Provincial Government Invests in Initiatives Through Green Transition Fund

Significant Interest in Green Transition Fund Results in Project Approvals and Second Expression of Interest

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Announces First Two Projects from Green Transition Fund

Provincial Government Launches New Green Transition Fund

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BACKGROUNDER

Below are projects approved to receive funding from the Green Transition Fund.

Ever Green Environmental
Ever Green Environmental, a non-profit social enterprise, is receiving $120,310 in funding for its Next Generation Smart 24/7 Mobile Automated Recycling Systems project. The company’s U-Cycle bins are aiding to the greening of their supply chain, reducing barriers to regular recycling and increasing access in rural areas, which directly diverts waste from landfills. In addition, their U-Cycle bins are being sought in other areas of Canada, opening up lines of export for the organization. This shines a spotlight on Newfoundland and Labrador as an expert and leader in the rapidly growing global green economy. Ever Green Environmental’s operations are enhancing economic development in the province. Their mandate is to promote innovation and excellence in the environmental sector, achieve self-sufficiency as a social enterprise and to employ and advance individuals from vulnerable populations.

Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University
The Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University School of Maritime Studies is receiving $114,425 in funding for their Transitioning the Fishing Industry to Whalesafe Fishing Technology project. An educational campaign to build awareness of the project and the need for whalesafe fishing technologies in the commercial fishery, the project will also promote technology adoption among commercial fishing enterprises who will need to transition to these technologies. The project will work with over 200 commercial fishers to build awareness, trial technologies and demonstrate their results to the fleet. The objective of this project is assisting the Newfoundland and Labrador fishing industry in its transition to the green economy by reducing its environmental impact. The project aims to improve education and awareness of the problem and assist technology developers with a testbed for emerging new technologies that can assist fishing enterprises.

Newfoundland Adventures Limited
Newfoundland Adventures Outfitters is receiving $97,000 in funding for a solar energy installation to expand to all year operations at their recently renovated lodge that offers upscale accommodations, attracting hunters from all over the world. Established in 1989, the company provides world-class hunting experiences for Eastern Moose, Woodland Caribou, and Black Bear in Newfoundland’s remote wilderness. The system is necessary to reduce its diesel fuel dependence, enhance its environmental sustainability and decrease operational costs. By expanding its solar power, the outfitter aims to mitigate the environmental risks and noise pollution caused by its diesel generators, while ensuring a quieter, eco-friendly environment that will benefit wildlife habitats and breeding patterns in the area. The new solar installation will contribute to reduced fuel costs, aligning with the outfitter’s long-term sustainability goals and Canada’s 2050 net-zero target and bring in new revenue streams.

Nunacor Development Corporation
Nunacor Development Corporation, the economic development arm of the NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC), is receiving $131,500 in funding for the Cartwright Wind Energy Project. The project is being proposed as a potential onshore wind renewable energy generation facility located nearby Cartwright, Labrador. This site has been chosen due to its location, abundance of wind resources, local support of wind energy and year-round community energy demand characteristics. The funding will be used to complete the necessary pre-development project phase as they work towards the first renewable energy development project for Nunacor. These developments will help to increase energy sovereignty and security through capacity and knowledge acquisition as an Inuit-owned independent power producer. Existing relationships with NL Hydro will help prepare this project for market in the future.

Oceans Advance
Oceans Advance, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Ocean technology innovation cluster, is receiving $93,200 in funding. A member-driven not-for-profit, it consists of export-oriented ocean technology companies, research and technology organizations, municipal, provincial and federal governments along with several post-secondary educational institutes and trade associations that are focused on producing the next generation of ocean leaders. The proposed project receiving funding is a nine-month study project focusing on evaluating energy diversification options for marine vessels. The study will evaluate alternative fuels, hybridization, powertrains, batteries, and coatings to reduce emissions and promote greener vessel technologies and electrification. This study will explore the potential for hydrogen production utilizing existing or upcoming renewable energy projects and assess the feasibility of employing hydrogen, or other alternative fuels, in Newfoundland and Labrador’s shipping sector.

Pedego Ebikes
Pedego Electric Bikes, a premium retailer of electric bikes and mobility devices launched in 2023, will be receiving $18,243 in funding. Located in St. John’s, the company offers electric bike rentals in three separate locations within the metro region. With this funding, they are proposing to provide support for enhanced electric bike technical education and training to maintain and repair electric bikes that will grow and support sustainable transportation solutions for commuting and recreational use within communities year-round. With the growing number of electric bike and electronic scooter users in the province, Pedego would like to expand their services throughout other areas in Newfoundland and Labrador. Usage and popularity in electric bikes continue to grow, contributing to a greener economy and supporting the health and wellbeing of communities.

Qalipu Development Corporation
Qalipu Development Corporation, representing Qalipu First Nation, is receiving $165,452 in funding to explore business partnerships in green hydrogen projects across Newfoundland and Labrador. This initiative is crucial not only for economic growth, ensuring that financial benefits remain within the local community, but also for positioning the province as a key player in the global green economy. This collaboration between Indigenous leadership and industry integrates Qalipu First Nation, a vital Indigenous community stakeholder, into the foundation of the green hydrogen projects’ success. This initiative presents an opportunity for Indigenous economic participation, job creation and workforce development, regional economic growth, global market positioning and sustainable development as a leader in carbon reduction. By securing funding, Qalipu Development Corporation will set a precedent for sustainable, Indigenous-led economic development while ensuring Newfoundland and Labrador remains at the forefront of the global green hydrogen economy.

 

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Auditor General, Denise Hanrahan, delivered a performance audit report to the Public Accounts Committee today on matters related to personal care homes in the province. The audit was initiated at the request of the Committee in December 2023 pursuant to section 22 of the Auditor General Act, 2021, following concerns that previous recommendations of the Auditor General related to personal care homes remained outstanding at that time.

The audit found serious issues with the program delivery and oversight of the provincial personal care home program. Outdated operational standards are being used and the department has increasingly distanced itself from oversight responsibilities. There appeared to be a culture of acceptance within the department and the health authority towards the ongoing backlog of overdue resident care reassessments. Incidents and compliance violations were also found to be pervasive and personal care home relicensing was found to be too subjective, with homes often relicensed while carrying unresolved or persistent compliance issues. Neither Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services or the Department of Health and Community Services disclose the nature or number of personal care home instances of non-compliance publicly.

The Public Accounts Committee shares the concerns of the Auditor General on these matters and remains committed to following up on behalf of the Legislature and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to hold concerned entities accountable for correcting deficiencies identified. The Committee will be contacting Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services and the Department of Health and Community Services to request an action plan for implementation of the Auditor General’s recommendations and to advise that officials may be invited to appear at a future public hearing with respect to these matters.

The Public Accounts Committee’s request to the Auditor General also included an audit of matters related to long-term facilities in the province, which is currently underway at the Office of the Auditor General.

Quotes
“I am seriously concerned about the risks within the Provincial Personal Care Home Program. The Department of Health and Community Services has failed in its responsibilities to maintain modern operational standards, which may not adequately reflect the needs of the people that call these properties home. The findings of this audit indicate that the department is not delivering on the commitments made in its own standards, particularly given our Office has highlighted these issues before and recommendations from our 2015 report on Personal Care Home Regulation remain unresolved.”
Denise Hanrahan
Auditor General of Newfoundland and Labrador

“All members of the Public Accounts Committee stand united in the view that the delivery and quality of care to vulnerable individuals of our society is of the utmost importance, forming the basis for why the Committee requested the Auditor General to undertake this work. The Committee appreciates the attention of the Auditor General to these important matters as we continue working in partnership to improve delivery of programs and services that affect the lives of people across this province.”
Pleaman Forsey, MHA
Chair, Public Accounts Committee

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Learn more
Personal Care Homes – Audit Report

Public Accounts Committee

Media contacts
Chrysta Collins
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

Bobbi Russell
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today provided an update on renewable energy projects.

Effective today, the Provincial Government has extended the Crown lands reserve to August 31, 2025 and the overall wind energy land reserve has been reduced by 132,733 hectares to 381,676 hectares. It was anticipated that as the companies continued work on proposed projects, the amount of Crown lands required would likely change.

Two companies have had Crown lands reserves reduced, upon their request – EverWind NL Company (EverWind), and Toqlukuti’k Wind and Hydrogen Ltd. (TQK). Everwind has had its Crown land reserve reduced by 79,923 hectares to 188,396 hectares. TQK has had its Crown land reserve reduced by 52,810 hectares to 54,777 hectares.

Adjusting the Crown lands reserve allows the Provincial Government and proponents to be more responsive to changing markets. Crown lands no longer being reserved for wind-hydrogen projects will be available for other potential land users.

Extending the Crown lands reserve also allows proponents more time to secure agreements with investors and continue with pre-development work.

Six companies are pursuing wind-hydrogen projects in the province: EverWind NL Company, Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation, Toqlukuti’k Wind and Hydrogen, World Energy GH2 Ltd., Argentia Renewables LP, and North Atlantic Refining Limited

Quote
“Our government supports the development of wind-hydrogen in the province. We continue to work with companies as they finalize project plans and land area. Enabling a new provincial green hydrogen production industry has the potential to increase jobs and provide clean, renewable energy the world needs.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Learn more
Renewable Energy Plan: Maximizing Our Renewable Future

Hydrogen Development Action Plan

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On Sunday, March 30, a ceremony took place in Mulligan to commemorate Labrador author and matriarch Lydia Campbell who is considered one of Labrador’s most well-known and respected historical figures.

About 60 people made the trip by snowmobile to the event which included the unveiling of a new headstone at the cemetery in Mulligan Bay to honour the accomplishments and writings of “Aunt Lydia” and acknowledge her stature as a strong, skillful, resourceful, and resilient Indigenous woman.

The project to replace the more than 100-year-old headstone came to life after discussions between Mina Campbell of North West River and Minister Lisa Dempster, both descendants of Lydia Campbell, about the weatherbeaten monument. The Department of Labrador Affairs provided financial support to Mina Campbell to assist with the acquisition of a new headstone, as well as Them Days, which led the replacement of the monument and organized this weekend’s event.

The ceremony included remarks by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville, Edward Blake-Rudkowski, chairperson of Them Days, descendants of “Aunt Lydia” and some of the last living residents of Mulligan.

Lydia Campbell was born in Hamilton Inlet, Groswater Bay, in 1818 and passed away at Mulligan River in 1905 at the age of 86. Home-schooled by her father, she was given an exercise book by a clergyman who begged her to write an account of Labrador life and ways. Living in Mulligan and in her 70s, Lydia filled a diary with recollections of 19th-century Labrador life and spending time on the land. The clergyman submitted entries from her diary to the St. John’s Evening Herald which published 13 excerpts under the title Sketches of Labrador Life, cementing Lydia’s legacy to Labrador history.

Many Labradorians are descendants of Lydia Campbell, including a long line of acclaimed Labrador authors: daughter Margaret Baikie (Labrador Memories: Reflections of Mulligan); son Thomas L. Blake (The Diary of Thomas L. Blake); great-niece Elizabeth Goudie (Woman of Labrador); great-great-granddaughter Doris Saunders (first editor of Them Days); and great-grandson Benjamin Powell Senior (who wrote and published 19 books of life in Labrador).

Quotes
“I am honored to commemorate the life of Lydia Campbell and her contributions to our culture as a strong, resilient, Indigenous woman of Labrador. Aunt Lydia not only left a legacy of descendants, myself included, throughout Labrador, but was amongst the first authors to offer insights into life in the Big Land. The Department of Labrador Affairs was able to assist in replacing the monument in partnership with Mina Campbell and Them Days. I encourage Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to learn more about the contributions of Lydia Campbell to our culture and heritage.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair

“Them Days is so proud to facilitate this momentous occasion. Lydia Campbell is a true icon of Labrador history and literature, so honouring her not only is richly deserved but also aligns with Them Days’ mandate of preserving and promoting the heritage of Labrador. A huge thank you to Mina Campbell and to Minister Dempster for making this happen.”
Edward Blake-Rudkowski
Chairperson, Them Days

“The recollections of Lydia Campbell, those sketches of her own experience living in Labrador, are incredibly valuable. Most descriptions of life during the19th century in Labrador are from others who travelled to the area. If you are proud to call Labrador home, you are also proud of Lydia Campbell. I am honoured to be a part of this important recognition.”
Perry Trimper
MHA for Lake Melville

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Learn more
Them Days

Lydia Campbell: The Canadian Encyclopedia

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BACKGROUNDER

• In 2009, Lydia Campbell was designated as a National Historic Person by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board for her significance in Labrador’s history.
• Based in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Them Days is a non-profit organization which produces a quarterly oral history magazine and maintains an extensive archive of documents, photographs, recordings and historical records.
• The building which houses Them Days magazine and archives is named in memory of Lydia Campbell.
• Sketches of Labrador Life was published in book form by Them Days in 1980.

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Today, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, is announcing a call for applications for the 2025-26 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program.

Incorporated municipalities, not-for-profit groups and Indigenous governments and communities are eligible to apply for up to $100,000 to develop, implement and evaluate accessible and inclusive community-based transportation programs.

Projects under the program should focus on helping to enhance and expand community transportation services for people who experience barriers to transportation. Supporting accessible, inclusive, and affordable transportation is an important well-being initiative as transportation is key to accessing vital services and to participating in community and social activities.

In 2024-25, seven recipients were awarded funding through the Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program, as detailed in the backgrounder below.

Program guidelines and applications can be found here. The deadline to apply is June 2, 2025.

The Provincial Government is investing $300,000 for the 2025-26 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program.

Quotes
“Increasing access to transportation options can help improve independence, well-being, and provide opportunities for people to become more active and included in communities. I am pleased to open applications for the 2024-25 Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“The Town of Clarenville and Random Age-Friendly Communities were thrilled to be a recipient of the NL Community Transportation Program in 2024/2025. This support allowed the Town of Clarenville to replace the seniors’ transportation bus which has provided over 24,000 rides to seniors and individuals with disabilities in Clarenville and the surrounding area for the past 10 years. Without the support of the Provincial Government, it would have been highly unlikely that this service could have continued.  Random Age-Friendly Communities, the seniors, and wheelchair users of Clarenville and the surrounding area thank you for helping to make this happen.”
Larry Reid
Chairperson of Random Age-Friendly Communities

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Grants

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BACKGROUNDER

2024-25 Recipients

Recipient Project Grant

  Burin Peninsula Health Care Foundation A feasibility study and planning project to explore the potential for a rural public transportation system in the Greater St. Lawrence region, from Little St. Lawrence to Lamaline, on the Burin Peninsula. The study will assess needs, potential routes, and operational models to improve access to essential services for residents.

  $10,000 Community Wheels Project c/o Lions Club of Twillingate, Inc. Funding to provide accessible transportation for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and residents with limited or no transit options in Twillingate, New World Island, and surrounding communities.

  $8,000 Placentia Chamber of Commerce / Community Connections Housing Coalition Support for the expansion of a local transportation service in Placentia.

  $10,000 Town of Clarenville Funding to support the replacement of the aging community bus, operated by Random Age-Friendly Communities, which has served seniors and individuals with mobility challenges in Clarenville and surrounding areas for over a decade. The new 16-passenger accessible bus will ensure continued access to essential transportation services for residents in need.

  $100,000 Town of Grand Bank Funding to hire a consultant to evaluate how existing transportation services, particularly those associated with the Blue Crest Nursing Home, can be leveraged to benefit the wider community. The study will focus on enhancing accessibility for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and residents with limited or no transportation options.

  $10,000 Town of Harbour Breton Funding to support a community transportation service for residents of Harbour Breton who lack access to personal or public transit. The initiative will improve access to medical appointments, banking, shopping, and social activities, enhancing quality of life for those facing transportation barriers.

  $10,000 Town of Torbay A comprehensive rural transportation feasibility study for the Killick Coast region, including Bell Island, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, Torbay, Flatrock, Bauline, Pouch Cove, and Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove. This project will include a robust public engagement strategy and market research to assess community needs, potential service models, and funding options for an inclusive and accessible transportation system.

  $20,000

 

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The Provincial Government today launched an Intimate Partner Violence Awareness campaign, focused on violence prevention and the supports that are available to those who may need them.

This extensive $100,000 campaign is designed to raise awareness that sharing intimate images without permission is a crime, and to explain how those at risk can obtain Emergency Protection Orders and utilize Clare’s Law.

Emergency Protections Orders, also known as EPOs, are non-criminal court orders that a judge of the Provincial Court may grant in urgent situations to provide immediate protection when family violence has occurred. EPOs are temporary with a maximum duration of up to 90 days, and can vary on a case-by-case basis.

Clare’s Law, or the Interpersonal Violence Disclosure Protocol Act, enables police agencies to share information about a person’s risk of experiencing violence, based on their partner’s criminal history.

The multi-faceted campaign will run for approximately seven weeks, and will include outreach through online ads, social media as well as streaming services like connected TV, Spotify and Tuned In. Posters with QR codes and website links will be displayed in junior and senior high schools across the province, along with post-secondary institutions. The awareness campaign will also utilize public buses, bus shelters and electronic billboards, where available.

The Provincial Government is committed to making Newfoundland and Labrador a safer place for all.

Quotes
“Intimate partner violence is a significant issue and can come in many forms. I am pleased to see this awareness campaign launched today. Newfoundland and Labradorians have the right to be protected and to feel safe and we want all residents to know that this government has the tools and resources available to help.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“Raising our province’s awareness about intimate partner violence is about encouraging action, breaking silence, and empowering change, and the Office of Women and Gender Equality is pleased to provide the funding for this initiative from the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence. A campaign like this can be the driver that saves lives and shifts society toward zero tolerance.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“It is extremely important that our students are educated on the severity and implications of intimate partner violence, and the harm on victims when sharing intimate images. This awareness campaign will complement other educational initiatives, like Kids in the Know programming, for students to better understand how to keep themselves safe and prevent harm against others.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

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Protect Yourself

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The Auditor General will deliver a performance audit report to the Public Accounts Committee tomorrow (Tuesday, April 1) on matters related to personal care homes in the province. The audit was initiated at the request of the Committee pursuant to section 22 of the Auditor General Act, 2021.

Embargoed access to the report will be provided to media beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the scrum area in front of the House of Assembly.

Media representatives planning to participate are asked to RSVP to evanbeazley@gov.nl.ca.

The Auditor General and the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee will be available to the media beginning at 11:00 a.m.

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Media contacts
Chrysta Collins
Office of the Auditor General
709-730-1568
chrystacollins@oag.nl.ca

Bobbi Russell
House of Assembly
709-729-1178
bobbirussell@gov.nl.ca

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The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today provided an update on the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the possible sale or lease of the Bull Arm Fabrication Site. The RFP, which closed in March 2024, explored potential options to maximize use of the Bull Arm Fabrication Site.

Following a fair and transparent process, which included the evaluation of proposals received, as well as completion of an economic and treasury impact analysis, the Provincial Government will commence commercial negotiations with two proponents – DF Barnes Services Ltd. and NARL Marketing LP.

Negotiations with the two parties will determine if the Provincial Government is able to reach an agreement that provides the maximum economic and employment benefit to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, while also providing a viable long-term business opportunity for potential proponents. The RFP does not bind government to proceed with a sale or lease of the site to any of the respondents. A final decision will be made pending the outcome of the negotiations.

The Bull Arm Fabrication Site is Atlantic Canada’s largest fabrication site. It spans over 25 square kilometres with 10 kilometres of paved roadway, and 20,600 square metres of enclosed fabrication facilities and marine infrastructure. The site was originally developed for the Hibernia project in the 1990s but has played a key role in the development of a number of major projects since that time, including serving as the location for the construction and integration of major components for the Hebron project. The lease for the Bull Arm Site is currently held by Bull Arm Fabrication Inc., which operates the site on behalf of the Provincial Government.

Quote
“I am pleased that we have entered the next phase of the RFP process and have officially commenced commercial negotiations with two well-established businesses in the province. The Bull Arm site is a valuable asset and any future decision on Bull Arm will be made to ensure maximum economic benefit for residents of the province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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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 RELEASED:

Beaver Brook Bridge Removal                                          (Reg. 2344)
Proponent: Gander Bay Indian Band Council

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: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2344/

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_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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Starting April 1, 2025, the Provincial Government is offering COVID-19 vaccine as a spring booster dose to specific populations identified by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization. These populations include:

• Adults 65 years of age and older.
• Adult residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings for seniors.
• Individuals six months of age and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised due to an underlying condition or treatment.

The vaccine will be available until June 1, 2025.

Individuals are encouraged to contact their local pharmacy or primary care provider for vaccine availability. Vaccine is also available through local public health offices, please visit timefortheshot.ca or contact your local public health office for more information Eastern Zones, Central Zone, Western Zone , Labrador Grenfell Zone.

The COVID-19 vaccine remains an important tool to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19 as well as reducing the risk of severe disease.

Public Health continues to monitor the evidence and evolving epidemiology of COVID-19 and will provide additional guidance as needed.

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The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs, is participating in an event on Sunday, March 30, to commemorate the life of Lydia Campbell, historic, Indigenous Labrador author and matriarch.

The commemorative event is being organized by Them Days and starts at 11:00 a.m. An open invitation has been extended to the public to attend.

The event includes a special ceremony at Mulligan Bay, a settlement located near North West River on Lake Melville. Minister Dempster will be joined by Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans and Military Relations.

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Starting this spring, the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine will be available to adults aged 60 years and older residing in congregate living facilities, such as long-term care homes and personal care homes in Newfoundland and Labrador.

RSV typically causes upper respiratory infections that commonly present as a runny nose and cough. However, in high-risk populations, RSV can progress to more serious complications such as pneumonia, which may require hospital admission.

The RSV vaccine can provide protection against serious respiratory infections among vulnerable populations, including adults aged 60 years and older in congregate living facilities who are at the highest risk of developing severe complications from RSV infection.

Beginning April 1, 2025, RSV vaccine for older adults at congregate living facilities will be administered by NL Health Services.

For more information on the RSV vaccine, residents can contact their local public health nursing office.

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The deadline to apply for 2025-26 Active NL funding has been extended.

Not-for-profit community-based groups and organizations, municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, local service districts and schools now have until April 30, 2025, to apply.

This fund supports community-based active living initiatives, infrastructure or equipment that will help directly increase physical activity, sport, and active recreation for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Budget 2024 provided an additional $400,000 to this program for the Year of Sport, bringing the total funding available to $2,990,000.

Those interested in applying for Active NL funding are encouraged to review the program guidelines to determine eligibility of applicants, infrastructure projects, equipment and initiatives.

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The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-019 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

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

Report: A-2025-019 Report Date: March 26, 2025 Public Body: Memorial University Summary: The Complainant made an access request to Memorial University for a copy of the letter of reprimand issued to the Chair of the Board of Regents. Memorial withheld the entire record citing several provisions of section 40 of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). On review the Commissioner concluded that section 40 applied to some of the information in the record and recommended that Memorial continue to withhold part of the record and disclose the remainder.

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

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Applications are now open for the 2025-26 Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program to support established farmers and new entrants who are growing Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture and agrifoods sectors.

The deadline to apply is April 25, 2025. Funding priority is given to projects that enhance food self-sufficiency, increase agricultural growth, or increase secondary processing of food products.

Eligible applicants must have reported a minimum of $15,000 in eligible agriculture sales in one of the last three years or qualify as a new entrant. To encourage and support new farmers in the industry, new entrants can qualify for up to $20,000 in funding under the Agriculture Infrastructure Program.

For more information, visit Agriculture Programs and Funding, call 709-637-2077 or email PAAP@gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“The Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program continues to help farmers and producers invest in agriculture infrastructure, land development, and new technologies. Every project funded, be it large or small, supports diverse and environmentally sustainable farms, improves food self-sufficiency, and contributes to sustainable agricultural growth.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

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The Provincial Government is cautioning the public about passive investment immigration schemes that are currently being promoted by some entities within the province and elsewhere in Canada.

A passive investment immigration scheme is an agreement in which a foreign investor provides money for a business proposition in exchange for permanent residence to Canada, without the intention to reside in a jurisdiction or be directly involved in business operations. Passive investment immigration schemes may also include requests to hire specific international workers, in exchange for direct investment in a business or economic development project.

This practice is strictly prohibited in Newfoundland and Labrador and in most other Canadian jurisdictions. Business owners, Indigenous governments and organizations, and community organizations should be aware that international companies may approach them to participate in such schemes.

Newfoundland and Labrador administers two pathways to permanent residence for prospective newcomers, the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program and the Atlantic Immigration Program. The Provincial Nominee Program contains two international entrepreneurship streams, open only to individuals intending to reside in Newfoundland and Labrador and who can demonstrate they are actively involved in the operations of a business in the province.

Resources are available to protect against immigration and citizenship fraud and scams. The Provincial Government’s Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism can also be contacted for any questions or concerns at immigration@gov.nl.ca.

Please stay vigilant and protect yourself and your organization from business dealings involving passive investment immigration schemes.

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The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-018 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

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

Report: A-2025-018 Report Date: March 25, 2025 Public Body: Northern Peninsula Regional Service Board Summary: The Northern Peninsula Regional Service Board failed to respond to multiple access requests made by the Complainant within the required timeframes under the Act, prompting complaints to this Office that NPRSB did not uphold its duty to assist. The OIPC found NPRSB to be in clear violation of its legal obligations and recommended that it respond to the requests, comply with statutory duties, apply for extensions when needed, undergo access and privacy training, and improve communication with this Office.

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

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Beginning Monday, March 31, bridge rehabilitation work will get underway on Route 60 at the Topsail River Bridge (west of the former Woodstock Public House heading toward Topsail Beach).

Motorists travelling on this section of the highway are asked to slow their vehicles to 30 kilometres per hour and please respect the traffic control measures in place.

The bridge rehabilitation work is anticipated to take four to six weeks to complete.

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.

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