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Minister Davis Announces Increase to the Minimum Wage

lun, 01/29/2024 - 07:50

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister Responsible for Labour, today announced a $0.60 increase to the minimum wage rate, effective April 1, 2024, in accordance with Labour Standards Regulations.

As of April 1, 2024, the minimum wage will be $15.60 per hour. The minimum overtime wage rate will increase to $23.40. This increase is required under the Labour Standards Regulations and is based on the percentage change in the National Consumer Price Index.

The most recent increase to the minimum wage rate of $0.50 occurred on October 1, 2023, bringing the minimum wage rate to $15.00 per hour.

Quote
“The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of the minimum wage and continues to monitor and review labour standards legislation to ensure it remains relevant, responsive and comparable to jurisdictions across the country. We continue to work to find a balanced approach for both employers and wage earners in the province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for Labour

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Learn more
Employers Reminded of Minimum Wage Increase on October 1, 2023

Labour Standards Act and Regulations

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Voting Day is Postponed Until Tuesday (January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election

dim, 01/28/2024 - 19:45

Elections Newfoundland and Labrador wishes to advise electors, that due to inclement weather, voting will now occur Tuesday, January 30, in the by-election for the District of Conception Bay East-Bell Island.

Voting will take place from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm Tuesday, January 30. Please note that there may be some changes to voting locations. Elections Newfoundland and Labrador will provide an update on the www.elections.gov.nl.ca website and through further news releases.

The decision to postpone Polling Day, is due to the forecasted intense weather during the busiest hours of voting. The safety of electors and staff is our primary focus, while providing electors with a fair opportunity to vote.

For more information, contact the Conception Bay East-Bell Island Returning Office at 709-781-6430, or Elections Newfoundland and Labrador toll-free at 1-877-729-7987 or visit www.elections.gov.nl.ca

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Media contact
Rexanne Eddy
Communications and Training Officer, ATIPP Coordinator
Elections Newfoundland and Labrador
Office of the Chief Electoral Officer
709-729-1474
rexanneeddy@electionsnl.ca

The post Voting Day is Postponed Until Tuesday (January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election first appeared on News Releases.

The post Voting Day is Postponed Until Tuesday (January 30) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election appeared first on News Releases.

Voting Day is Tomorrow (January 29) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election

dim, 01/28/2024 - 11:30

Elections Newfoundland and Labrador wishes to advise electors that polls will be open in the by-election for the District of Conception Bay East-Bell Island tomorrow (Monday, January 29.)

Voting will take place from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

For more information, contact the Conception Bay East-Bell Island Returning Office at 709-781-6430, or Elections Newfoundland and Labrador toll-free at 1-877-729-7987 or visit www.elections.gov.nl.ca

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Media contact
Rexanne Eddy
Communications and Training Officer, ATIPP Coordinator
Elections Newfoundland and Labrador
Office of the Chief Electoral Officer
709-729-1474
rexanneeddy@electionsnl.ca

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The post Voting Day is Tomorrow (January 29) Conception Bay East-Bell Island By-Election appeared first on News Releases.

Environmental Assessment Bulletin

ven, 01/26/2024 - 14:00

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

UNDERTAKING REGISTERED:

Botwood Flowers Hill Quarry                                                     (Reg. 2287)
Proponent: C & H Construction

The Proponent is proposing to develop and operate a two-hectare sand and gravel quarry located at Flowers Hill near Botwood, in central Newfoundland. Development of the undertaking would include the construction of an access road, clearing of vegetation and grubbing of soils. The purpose of the quarry is to provide material for local construction projects. A description of the project can be found on the department’s webpage at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on January 25, 2024; the deadline for public comment is March 1, 2024, and the minister’s decision is due by March 10, 2024.

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

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

Project comments may be forwarded to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca

Anyone submitting comments on a project under environmental assessment is asked to please advise the Department if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the project Proponent.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin first appeared on News Releases.

The post Environmental Assessment Bulletin appeared first on News Releases.

Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-004 Released

ven, 01/26/2024 - 09:56

The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-004 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-2024-004 Report Date: January 24, 2024 Public Body: Department of Justice and Public Safety Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the Department of Justice and Public Safety for records relating to proposed amendments to ATIPPA, 2015. The Department responded by providing several hundred pages of responsive records, but withheld over 2,500 pages using the cabinet confidences exception as justification and cited sections 29, 30, 31, 34, 35, and 40 to support various redactions throughout the provided records. In response, the Complainant filed a complaint with this Office alleging the Department applied the exceptions invalidly and failed to meet its duty to assist. In its response to this Office, the Department withheld some information within the cabinet records from this Office, stating it would create a conflict of interest as we are an advocate on the issues related to ATIPPA, 2015. After review of the submissions and responsive records, the Commissioner concluded the Department met its burden of proving its claim of cabinet confidences, but recommended release of some information withheld pursuant to sections 29 and 35.

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

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The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2024-004 Released appeared first on News Releases.

Joint Statement for International Holocaust Remembrance Day

ven, 01/26/2024 - 09:15

On Saturday, January 27, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will recognize International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The Provincial Government stands with Jewish communities to remember the tragedy of the Holocaust in the hope that, through reflection and learning, humanity will never again be stained by such condemnable actions.

In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution that declared January 27, the date of the liberation of the Auschwitz Concentration Camp, to be an International Day of Remembrance for the six million Jews, and millions more, who were victims of the Holocaust.

We remember, we mourn and we use the stories of the victims and survivors to help build a better world.

The Provincial Government continues to stand with Jewish friends and neighbours, and challenge anti-Semitism in all its forms. It is incumbent upon us all to celebrate the rich history of Jewish people in Newfoundland and Labrador and to stand by them, to encourage peace and understanding amongst everyone who calls this place home.

Sincerely:
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Public Advisory: Applications Open for 2024 Vegetable Transplant Program

jeu, 01/25/2024 - 12:15

Applications for the 2024 Vegetable Transplant Program are open to commercial vegetable producers until February 8.

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture offers high-quality, low-cost vegetable transplants to eligible commercial farmers to help increase the production and variety of produce grown in the province, promote higher marketable yields and earlier harvests, and support food self-sufficiency. In 2023, the Vegetable Transplant Program provided 4.3 million vegetable transplants to 123 farmers.

Available crop varieties include cabbage, rutabaga, broccoli, cauliflower, onion, kale, lettuce, leek and asparagus – all grown at the Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Development in Wooddale.

Farmers demonstrating strong compliance with prior programs will receive priority for allocations. The 2024 program guide and online application form are available on the Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website.

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Minister Bragg Honoured for Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture

jeu, 01/25/2024 - 10:30

The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, gratefully acknowledges the Newfoundland and Labrador agriculture industry’s recognition of the Honourable Derrick Bragg’s contributions to agriculture.

The Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador nominated Minister Bragg for the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture’s Outstanding Contribution to the Agriculture Industry Award. The honour was awarded posthumously during the federation’s annual Agriculture Industry Symposium in Grand-Falls Windsor on January 24 following the passing of Minister Bragg on January 22.

Minister Bragg was involved in Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture sector since 2018, first as Parliamentary Secretary to the department and, later, as Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

From his many conversations with farmers and his deep interest in their work, Minister Bragg was able to advocate strongly for the province’s agriculture sector at the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Policy Table. He valued the work of departmental agriculture staff, worked hard to ensure they had access to the resources required to support the agriculture industry more effectively, and was a proud supporter of Newfoundland and Labrador-produced agriculture products.

Quotes
“Minister Bragg’s keen interest in the agriculture sector, his empathy for the challenges our farmers and producers face, and his deep respect for the work they do ran very deep. His practical ability to solve problems and his can-do attitude have earned a great deal of respect from an industry that thrives on hard work and innovation. I know that this honour would have meant the world to him. On behalf of our department, our staff, and the Provincial Government, I join the agriculture industry in honouring our friend, Derrick Bragg.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Minister Bragg was a fine gentleman and very good at putting people at ease in conversations. As a backyard farmer himself, he took every opportunity to highlight the hard work and resiliency farming requires, and never missed an opportunity to meet with farmers to learn what he could about their operations. The agriculture industry of Newfoundland and Labrador is much stronger today because of his influence.”
Lee Noel, Chair
Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Local farmers who knew Minister Bragg liked him because he listened to them. He spent time visiting farms and learning about their issues and challenges in order to be a strong advocate for Newfoundland and Labrador farmers. He was a vocal supporter of the agriculture sector and worked hard to provide opportunities to advance the industry. We are proud to recognize Minister Bragg for this award because he was a great agriculture minister and a great person, and he will be missed. The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture would also like to express our condolences to Minister Bragg’s family at this difficult time.”
Wayne Simmons, President
Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture

Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador

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Provincial Government Announces the Creation of Education Accord NL

jeu, 01/25/2024 - 09:35

Today, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, announced the creation of Education Accord NL. Education Accord NL, which will be co-chaired by Dr. Anne Burke and Dr. Karen Goodnough, will develop a targeted approach to transforming and modernizing Newfoundland and Labrador’s education system.

Minister Howell will be available to media to discuss the Education Accord today (Thursday, January 25) at 1:00 p.m. in the NLSchools board room at 95 Elizabeth Avenue, St. John’s. Minister Howell will be joined Dr. Burke and Dr. Goodnough, Co-Chairs of the Education Accord NL Advisory Team.

Dedicated to supporting a modern educational experience for all students in Newfoundland and Labrador, Education Accord NL will reimagine the education system to ensure students and learners at all levels receive the educational services they need in the classroom, are prepared for the modern global economy, and develop strong decision-making skills to foster positive health and well-being.

The Accord aims to create better outcomes for students and learners while also supporting the Provincial Government’s goal of becoming one of Canada’s healthiest provinces by 2031.

Education Accord NL will focus on four pillars:

  • Early learning and childhood development;
  • Education engagement and transformation;
  • Health and well-being in education environments; and,
  • Post-secondary education and learning across the life span.

The Accord will be developed in consultation with stakeholders and will incorporate research garnered through the extensive engagement and consultation process of Health Accord NL.

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. The Accord will be delivered to government by December 31, 2024.

Biographies for Dr. Burke and Dr. Goodnough can be found in the backgrounder below.

Quotes
“The current education system needs to evolve to ensure we are best preparing our students and our province for success. The Education Accord will contribute to improved educational outcomes and support the well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians now and into the future. I look forward to supporting the work of Dr. Burke and Dr. Goodnough as they lead this important project.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Delivering a modernized and holistic education, and ensuring our students are ready to participate in the global economy, has never been more important. I look forward to working with many stakeholders to include a diversity of voices, concerns and ideas, all of which will be critical to the success of this Accord. I am excited to help lead this new initiative, as we reimagine the Newfoundland and Labrador education system as an empowered society embracing education across the lifespan.”
Dr. Anne Burke
Co-Chair, Education Accord Advisory Team

“I am very excited about this opportunity to work with individuals, groups and stakeholders, to develop a shared vision for education, at all levels, in the province. The Accord will provide a means to build on our strengths and foster excellence in learning and teaching.”
Dr. Karen Goodnough
Co-Chair, Education Accord Advisory Team

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Learn more
Provincial Government Completes Integration of English School District

Teachers Think Tank to be Held in New Year to Inform Recruitment and Retention Initiatives

Provincial Government Partners with Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security to Improve Food Access for Families

Provincial Government Updates Progress on Early Learning and Child Care Initiatives

Provincial Government to Introduce New Model of Assessment and Evaluation for High School Students

Follow us on X @GovNL and @EDU_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

 BACKGROUNDER

Biographies of the Co-Chairs of the Education Accord Advisory Team

Dr. Anne Burke
Dr. Anne Burke is a Professor in Literacy Education and Digital Learning at Memorial University’s Faculty of Education, where she is also the Project Lead for the Discovery Play Centre. Dr. Burke’s extensive scholarship focuses on the interface of equity, social inclusion and the well-being of children through research that supports broader socio-cultural perspectives on literacy education delivery in culturally diverse K-12 classrooms. Much of her international interdisciplinary research in Canada, Finland and U.K. is public engagement-oriented, showing a broad mastery of partnerships with schools, NGOs, cultural institutions, artistic industries and governments. Dr. Burke has received awards for her scholarship, teaching and public engagement partnerships. She has a passion for researching in classrooms alongside teachers, youth and children always advocating for young people’s voices, agency and well- being.

Dr. Karen Goodnough
Dr. Karen Goodnough is a well-established national and international scholar and former dean of the Faculty of Education, Memorial University. She also completed a three-year appointment as an associate dean (undergraduate programs) in the Faculty of Education. Prior to arriving at Memorial, she held faculty appointments at the University of New Brunswick and the University of Rochester, New York. During her academic career, she has been involved in scholarship and research focused on collaborative action research, inclusive science education, pre-service teacher education, and professional learning in teacher education and higher education. Dr. Goodnough received Memorial’s 2016 President’s Award for Outstanding Research in recognition of her contributions to community partnership development; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education; and the “teacher as researcher” movement. She holds a PhD from the University of Toronto, as well as three degrees from Memorial (M.Ed., B.Ed. and B.Sc.). She was a high school science teacher and post-secondary instructor before moving into academia.

The post Provincial Government Announces the Creation of Education Accord NL first appeared on News Releases.

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Provincial Government Launches Engagement Process for Intergenerational Program Guide

jeu, 01/25/2024 - 08:46

Today, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, launched an engagement process to inform the development of an Intergenerational Program Guide to encourage and support positive and meaningful interactions between younger and older generations.

Intergenerational programs and activities can have a positive impact on participants’ well-being. Interactions between children, youth and young adults, and older adults help challenge ageism, support physical and mental health and foster cross-generational empathy and understanding.

Once complete, the Intergenerational Program Guide will highlight the benefits of encouraging deliberate and meaningful intergenerational interaction for individuals and groups working with seniors and/or youth, and provide ideas and resources to support such activities.

The engagement process will provide individuals and community stakeholders with an opportunity to share their insights and perspectives to help inform development of the guide.

Several options will be available to provide input including an online questionnaire through EngageNL. There will be an opportunity to make written submissions to the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development via mail or email. There will also be targeted engagement sessions with individuals and organizations that work closely with specific age groups.

For more information and to participate in the engagement process, please visit engageNL.ca or email aging-and-seniors@gov.nl.ca. You can also call 709-729-1382. The engagement process will close on February 29, 2024.

Quotes
“Our government is committed to supporting intergenerational initiatives that bring children, youth and seniors together to encourage the sharing of skills, knowledge and experiences that foster understanding and respect. Today, I am pleased to announce the engagement process that will help inform the development of an Intergenerational Program Guide, which will further support intergenerational initiatives in the province. I encourage everyone to participate in this process and join our collective efforts to build a healthy, inclusive and age-friendly province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“Our 50-plus club recently completed an intergenerational baking project with club members and children from the community through funding provided through the Seniors’ Social Inclusion Initiative. It was so much fun to bring everybody together and work on a common goal. We can all learn from each other and I think development of a guide will encourage more activities like this and bring new ideas that we can all benefit from.”
Yvonne Roul
President, Lawn Golden Age 50-plus Club

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Learn more
www.engagenl.ca

Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development

Follow us on X @GovNL and @CSSD_GovNL

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Supporting Development in Ocean Technology

jeu, 01/25/2024 - 08:00

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced funding of $52,800 through the Business Development Support Program to support SubC Imaging market its underwater imaging technology.

Recently, SubC Imaging developed new products and applications to expand the market for its underwater imaging and technology. With its work in the field of underwater surveillance and coastal monitoring, SubC Imaging has the ability to work with partners to support the defence sector. To market these new products and advancements, it is important to implement a strategic marketing plan to inform the marketplace.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology continues to support the province’s technology success stories, whether it be through research and innovation, business growth activities, or exploring new markets. This funding will help assist SubC Imaging retain expertise, and pass that retained knowledge on to new hires, which will contribute to company growth.

Incorporated in 2010 in Clarenville, SubC Imaging develops and commercializes innovative custom-built underwater cameras and complete imaging solutions. Currently, SubC Imaging has 25 full-time employees and has been successful in establishing itself as a leading provider of revolutionary and reliable underwater imaging solutions for subsea markets. SubC Imaging’s one-of-a-kind solutions deliver high-definition video, images, lighting, management and storage software to a variety of marine research clients to aid researchers around the world in gaining new insights into ocean ecosystems and marine life.

Quotes
“Our government sees the value in supporting the growth of tech companies in our province. The foresight of SubC Imaging to develop a strategic marketing plan is important as they seek additional new customers in new locations around the world. It will also allow them to best position their business and products to stand out in the global marketplace.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“As SubC Imaging continues to pioneer advancements in underwater technology, our emphasis remains on growth and innovation. We’re grateful for this vital funding from the province to help make this possible. With this support, we’re not just expanding our strategic marketing efforts and reach; we’re elevating the standards in the industry to deliver valuable solutions to customers around the world.”
Marcie Crosbie, Director of Marketing
SubC Imaging

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Learn more
SubC Imaging

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The post Supporting Development in Ocean Technology first appeared on News Releases.

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Applications Now Open for Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive

mer, 01/24/2024 - 12:00

This release is being issued on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

As part of the Provincial Government’s continued efforts to increase the availability of affordable housing in Newfoundland and Labrador, applications opened today for the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive pilot program.

In October 2023, this initiative was announced as one of the pillars of the Five-Point Plan to help make housing more affordable for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians by supporting the creation of more housing. This program will allow homeowners to access a forgivable loan of 50 per cent of the cost of renovations, up to a maximum of $40,000, to create a new, self-contained secondary or basement suite within their home.

These loans will be fully forgivable, provided the new unit is rented out below market rates for a minimum of five years. The rental rates will be established by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC), based on annual rental market reports published by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Criteria to qualify for the incentive include:

  • The property where the new unit will be developed must be the primary residence of the applicant, and the applicant must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
  • The individual renting the unit cannot be a sibling or child of the homeowner/applicant, but may be a parent or parents aged 65 or older;
  • The new unit must be registered (where applicable), self-contained and provide living, sleeping, eating, food preparation and sanitary facilities for the exclusive use of the household occupying the unit; and
  • A municipal building permit for the unit must be dated after January 1, 2024.

A full list of program criteria, as well as information on how to apply, can be found on the NLHC website here. A full list of eligible costs under the program can be found in the backgrounder below.

Total funding for the program is $4 million and eligible applicants will be approved on a first-come, first-served basis until all funding is allocated.

Quotes
“Our government continues to invest in creative solutions to increase access to both housing that is affordable and provincially owned social housing in our province. This incentive will support homeowners to create upwards of 100 new basement apartments or secondary suites, helping families find an affordable place to live within existing communities and near existing services. We will continue to advance initiatives under the five-point plan to help meet demand for affordable housing throughout the province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

“The Canadian Home Builders’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is optimistic that this program will not only provide more rental options for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, but also create opportunities for our members to complete projects integral to increasing the housing supply in our province.”
Alexis Foster
Executive Officer
Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Newfoundland and Labrador

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Learn more
Provincial Government Launches Five-Point Plan to Improve Availability of Housing That is Affordable

Proposals Invited for Development of Land for Rental Housing That is Affordable

Follow us on X at @GovNL and @NLHousing

Like us on Facebook

BACKGROUNDER

List of Eligible Costs Covered Under the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive Program

The following list includes costs that can be covered under the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive Program:

Eligible costs:

  • Architectural and design fees;
  • Inspection fees (where applicable);
  • Structural modification;
  • Electrical work;
  • Fixtures;
  • Appliances (50 per cent of actual cost to a maximum of $2,500);
  • Building and trade permit fees;
  • Costs to obtain certificates, drawings and specifications directly related to eligible scope of work;
  • Materials related to the approved construction;
  • Contractor labour (not including work done by applicant or any member of the household); and

Costs that are not eligible include:

  • Repair of existing rental units;
  • Labour costs for work completed by the homeowner; and
  • Landscaping costs.

Any cost not covered by either list must be approved by NLHC prior to work commencing. For more information, visit Secondary Basement Suite Incentive Program FAQ.

The post Applications Now Open for Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive first appeared on News Releases.

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Applications Open for Accessible Communities Grants

mer, 01/24/2024 - 11:30

The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, today announced a call for applications for Accessible Communities Grants that will help communities support the overall well-being of residents.

These grants are available to Municipalities, Inuit Community Governments and Local Service Districts to assist in funding initiatives and small-scale infrastructure projects with a specific focus on building active, healthy, accessible communities.

Further information and applications on Accessible Communities Grants can be found here. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

Accessible and age-friendly communities are key to the promotion of well-being and are in line with recommendations in Health Accord NL.

Quotes
“These Accessible Communities Grants will provide all residents with more accessible and inclusive communities and are an example of how a well-being approach in programs and policies can be incorporated to help create a healthy and sustainable province.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“Our government supports inclusive, accessible and age-friendly communities which contribute greatly to healthy living and quality of life across the life span. The Accessible Communities Grant program is one way we can ensure communities throughout the province can access the tools they need to make that happen.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

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Learn more
Accessible Communities Grants

Health Accord for Newfoundland & Labrador

Follow us on X @MPA_GovNL

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Provincial Government Announces Appointments and Reappointments to the WorkplaceNL Board of Directors

mer, 01/24/2024 - 09:30

The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL, today announced appointments and reappointments to the WorkplaceNL Board of Directors, for three-year terms, as of December 20, 2023.

John Peddle and Greg Viscount have been reappointed to the Board as chairperson and employer representative, respectively.

New board appointments include James Farrell and David Hammond as worker representatives, along with Patsy Coish-Snow and Wayne Pardy as employer representatives.

Mr. Viscount’s reappointment is based on a recommendation by the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council Inc. Mr. Farrell’s appointment is based on a recommendation by the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour. All other appointments followed the merit-based appointments process.

Biographical information is provided in the backgrounder below.

WorkplaceNL serves approximately 215,000 workers and 17,500 employers across Newfoundland and Labrador, and administers employer-funded, no-fault workplace injury insurance as directed under the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act, 2022.

Quote
“I am pleased to announce the reappointments of Mr. Peddle and Mr. Viscount, along with the new appointments of Mr. Farrell, Ms. Coish-Snow, Mr. Hammond and Mr. Pardy to the WorkplaceNL Board of Directors. They each bring extensive industry experience and expertise to the Board, and I am confident in their ability to effectively carry out their responsibilities in supporting the well-being of our workforce in the province.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL

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Learn more
WorkplaceNL

Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act 2022

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BACKGROUNDER

Biographies

Patsy Coish-Snow
Patsy Coish-Snow has a career spanning over 40 years, including 18 years in senior executive management roles in the provincial healthcare system where she played key leadership roles in the reorganization and integration of health care organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador. She has successfully facilitated and led many policy, program and system-wide initiatives at regional and provincial levels, resulting in system transformation while ensuring a commitment to safe and quality health care. Ms. Coish-Snow retired from the public sector in 2013 and currently works part-time in contract management. She has been active in board governance roles at local, provincial, and national levels including Director, Canadian College of Health Leaders; Board of Regents, Memorial University; Vice-chair of the Board of the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information; as well as Director, Board of Directors for Workplace NL. Ms. Coish-Snow is also an honorary lifetime member with the Canadian College of Health Care Leaders.

Ms. Coish-Snow holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Memorial University, a Master of Health Administration from Dalhousie University and an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

James Farrell
James Farrell is a lawyer and labour relations professional currently working for FFAW-Unifor’s Industrial Division where he advises on all areas of labour law including discipline and discharge, collective bargaining, pensions and benefits, workplace investigations and disability management. Mr. Farrell started his career in 2008 with the Government of the Northwest Territories as a labour relations advisor and has since served as legal counsel to the Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty Association and the City of Calgary, among other organizations. He has appeared at provincial and appellate levels of court and has experience in grievance arbitration along with a variety of federal and provincial regulatory proceedings. He is a Regional Vice-President of the Canadian Association of Labour Lawyers and regularly presents at national conferences on labour law and employment relations. Mr. Farrell is also a community volunteer and plays trumpet in the Gower Community Band.

Mr. Farrell holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Co-op) and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Memorial University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Calgary.

David Hammond
David Hammond brings 16 years of experience representing employers and unions as a human resources and labour relations professional. Mr. Hammond began his career in the public sector in 2017 as a human resources consultant with Eastern Health. In 2017, he accepted employment with the Registered Nurses’ Union of Newfoundland and Labrador, where he has held several roles including Labour Relations Officer, Director of Corporate Services and, most recently, interim Executive Director. Concurrently, Mr. Hammond has enjoyed a successful career as a reservist with the Canadian Armed Forces spanning over 25 years. A logistics officer by trade, he is currently the Acting Commanding Officer of both First and Second Battalion at The Royal Newfoundland Regiment.

Mr. Hammond holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Employee Relations from Memorial University, along with the Chartered Professional in Human Resources designation.

Wayne Pardy
Wayne Pardy is an international-award-winning safety professional with over 35 years of experience conducting safety and quality management training, system development, auditing, software implementation and consulting for businesses, governments and labour throughout Canada, United States and Europe. Mr. Pardy is the author/co-author of four books on safety and quality and is currently working with co-author Terri Andrews on his fifth book on safety and quality auditing. He has been active in board governance, including being a past member of the Board of Directors of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association, past Chair of the Minister’s Advisory Council on Occupational Health and Safety for Newfoundland and Labrador, and a former advisory board member for the Safety Engineering Technology Program at College of the North Atlantic. Throughout his career, he has guest lectured on safety for the School of Continuing Studies and Professional Development of Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, and Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia. He has also been a frequent keynote speaker and session leader at many conferences and professional development seminars in Canada and the United States. Mr. Pardy is a member of the Technical Advisory Committee for CSA Z100 (Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems) and CSA Z1010 (Management of Work in Extreme Conditions.) He is also a member of the committee advising the Standards Council of Canada on the development of the ISO standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, ISO 45001.

Mr. Pardy is a graduate of Memorial University and holds professional designations including Advanced Safety Certificate (ASC) from the National Safety Council in Chicago; a Certified Safety Management Practitioner (CSMP); a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP); and an Accredited Quality Auditor.

John Peddle
John Peddle is the president of AMP Associates Ltd., providing consulting services to employers, law firms and individuals in the fields of labour relations, human resources, organizational management, compensation and benefits. Between 1995 and 2008, Mr. Peddle was the Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Boards Association where he provided advice and guidance to chief executive officers and board chairs of the province’s health care organizations on operational and governance issues. During this period, the Transparency and Accountability Legislation was enacted and Mr. Peddle provided trustee education to board members of the healthcare boards. Throughout the course of his career, he has held several board governance roles, including two terms as Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council, as well as several terms as Chair of their Labour Relations and Workers’ Compensation committees. He has been a Director of the Victorian Order of Nurses Canada for over 10 years, currently chairing their pension committee, overseeing the management and investment of the pension fund for the employees of the organization. Mr. Peddle was first appointed to the WorkplaceNL Board in 2010 as a Director and in 2017 as Chairperson.

Mr. Peddle holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Memorial University, and an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

Greg Viscount
Greg Viscount has a career spanning 45 years in business, working in the wholesale and retail food sector and seafood processing. Most recently, he has been working as the General Manager for Ocean Choice International. Mr. Viscount has held the role of Employer Representative on the WorkplaceNL Board of Directors since 2014, as nominated by the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council (NLEC). In recent years, he has also served as Chair of the NLEC, Chair of the Association of Seafood Producers and as a member of the Board of Directors for One Ocean, an inter-industry liaison organization for fishing and petroleum industries.

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Heritage NL Designates the Historic Cable Superintendent’s House a Registered Heritage Structure

mer, 01/24/2024 - 08:30

Heritage NL has awarded a provincial heritage designation to the historic Cable Superintendent’s House in Heart’s Content.

The house was constructed between 1881 and 1882 by J. and J.T. Southcott as housing for the Superintendent of the Anglo-American Telegraph Company. It is one of the last remaining Anglo-American Telegraph Housing structures in Heart’s Content designed by J.T. Southcott, recognized for its Second Empire style with a mansard roof and dormer windows.

The Cable Superintendent’s House is located on Parish Hall Hill, in the Heart’s Content designated Heritage District, next door to the Cable Staff House Registered Heritage Structures. It is an important component of the transatlantic cable history of Heart’s Content, including the Heart’s Content Cable Station Provincial Historic Site, which is currently on the Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage inscription.

Established in 1984, Heritage NL is a Crown agency of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation with a mandate to help preserve the rich heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador. Heritage structure designation is given to buildings which are deemed to be excellent examples of the province’s rich built heritage and worthy of commemoration and protection.

Quotes
“Recognizing heritage structures and protecting them is an important element of preserving our stories for generations to come and the story of the Heart’s Content Cable Station Provincial Historic Sites is close to my heart as it is located in my district of Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde. Its historical relevance continues to prove itself on the world stage as the location advances through the process for UNESCO World Heritage inscription.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“This property is an important part of the communications history of Newfoundland and Labrador as seen through our built heritage. The Cable Superintendent’s House was built for Newfoundland’s role in transatlantic communications, keeping North America better connected to Europe. We are pleased to work with the owners of properties such as this, to continue to preserve the built heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Dr. Lisa Daly
Heritage NL

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Cable Superintendent’s House Registered Heritage Structure 

Heart’s Content One Step Closer to UNESCO World Heritage Status

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Public Advisory: Applications Opening Soon for Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program

mer, 01/24/2024 - 08:00

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture will accept applications for the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program from February 1 until March 15, 2024.

The program aims to help farmers and producers increase the environmental resiliency of farms by adopting beneficial land use and management practices. Initiatives include maintaining and providing healthy soil and water resources, wildlife habitat and biodiversity, and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program provides support for:

  • Activities that decrease the amount of marginal and fragile lands used for cropping;
  • Activities that maintain healthy, strong soils while naturally mitigating the impacts of climate change on farms;
  • Agri-environmental beneficial management practices that seek to increase and enhance multiple ecological goods and services; and
  • Awareness and knowledge transfer, extension services, program development and product development services related to eligible RALP activities and outreach.

Applications and a program guide are available on the department’s website.

Funding for the program is provided through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year (2023-28), $3.5-billion agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities, and $2.5 billion that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s farmers and producers can apply for funding from the more than $42 million in cost-shared Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership funding, including more than $4.6 million for Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program initiatives.

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Minister Crocker Congratulates Newfoundland and Labrador Artists Nominated for ECMAs

mar, 01/23/2024 - 14:45

Nominations for the 2024 East Coast Music Awards (ECMAs) were released earlier today and the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is congratulating nominees from this province.

In total, 52 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians received nominations across 28 different categories, marking another fantastic year of recognition for artists from this province.

The ECMAs are a five-day, non-stop musical celebration showcasing and recognizing the best of East Coast artists and music. This year, the awards and associated events will take place in Charlottetown, P.E.I., from May 1-5, 2024.

Quotes
“Music is an innate part of our culture and heritage as Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. It is no surprise that our musicians continue to have such a presence at the East Coast Music Awards and seeing 52 nominations this year is just incredible. Congratulations to all nominees and we look forward to cheering you on in Charlottetown in May!”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“We are so proud of the representation from our province. With nominations in 28 different categories, we are pleased with the increase in diversity of genre and the showcasing of newcomer musicians.”
Rhonda Tulk-Lane
CEO, MusicNL

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East Coast Music Awards

MusicNL

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Public Advisory: Emergency Shelter and Support Services Available for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

mar, 01/23/2024 - 13:30

With anticipated cold weather conditions, the Provincial Government is advising individuals experiencing homelessness to contact Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s emergency shelter line at 1-833-724-2444 for assistance with temporary accommodations.

Safe Haven Shelter at 10 St. Clare Avenue in St. John’s serves as a warming centre in times of inclement weather. The emergency shelter line will identify other options for those calling from outside the St. John’s metro region.

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Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership Investing in Farmers’ Mental Health, Wellness and Safety

mar, 01/23/2024 - 13:00

Work to strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s agriculture sector continues with over $7 million in approved funding to support more than 110 projects in Newfoundland and Labrador since the launch of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) in April 2023.

Investments include more than $928,000 to support the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture in delivering a wide range of projects, including a new farm-focused mental health and safety initiative.

The Sustainable CAP investment of $72,500 for the Farmer Mental Health, Wellness and Safety program will help farmers, farm workers and their families deal with challenges they encounter in the province’s agriculture sector.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture represents farmers and farming groups and leads a suite of professional development and educational initiatives funded by the Sustainable CAP, including:

  • Agriculture in the Classroom – Newfoundland and Labrador: $330,000
  • 2023 Agriculture Expos: $255,312
  • NL Young Farmers: $229,034
  • 2024 Agriculture Industry Symposium: $22,000
  • 2023 Open Farm Day: $11,295
  • Support for Women in Agriculture Conference: $8,572

The Sustainable CAP is a five-year (2023-2028), $3.5 billion agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and $2.5 billion that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s farmers and producers have access to more than $42 million in cost-shared Sustainable CAP funding.

For more information on the Sustainable CAP in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the program guide and cost-shared applications, visit the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Sustainable CAP website. To learn more about federally funded Sustainable CAP programs, visit the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada website.

Quotes
“We know that the environmental and economic challenges our farmers and their families face can have a real impact on their mental health. This investment will help improve the well-being of those working in the agriculture sector across Newfoundland and Labrador and ensure folks have the support they need, when they need it.”
Honourable Lawrence MacAulay
Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“As farmers face challenges in the sector such as natural perils and climate change, their safety and well-being is our most important priority. Thank you to the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture for leading this charge and providing meaningful opportunities for education, public awareness and professional development in all aspects of our province’s agriculture sector.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

“Our farmers’ wellbeing is a high priority for the NLFA. With Sustainable CAP funding, we have been making progress on several projects, and we are proud now to be moving forward on this new initiative to address our farmers’ mental health, wellness and safety concerns. Together we are working towards a better future for our farmers and the agriculture sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Wayne Simmons
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture

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Learn more
Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership – Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership – Government of Canada

Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture

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Media Advisory: Minister Byrne Speaking at Agriculture Symposium

mar, 01/23/2024 - 11:45

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will bring opening remarks during the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture annual Agriculture Industry Symposium taking place this week in Grand Falls-Windsor.

Minister Byrne will bring greetings this evening (Tuesday, January 23) at the Mount Peyton Resort and Conference Centre, 214 Lincoln Road, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The theme for the 2024 symposium is Risk Management in Agriculture. The symposium will provide a forum to deliver updates on existing projects and highlight additional opportunities for growth and sustainability.

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