Government of Newfoundland News
Provincial Government Recognizes Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
The Provincial Government is recognizing February 12-16 as Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week was created by the Canadian Home and School Federation in 1988. It recognizes the work of teachers, administrators and school staff who are committed to supporting the educational experience of children and youth.
Newfoundland and Labrador is home to more than 10,500 permanent and casual school staff working as teachers, administrators and support staff throughout the province’s school system. This year, the Provincial Government welcomed some school staff as new members of the public service through the integration of the former English School District into government.
In January the Department of Education announced Education Accord NL, which is dedicated to supporting a modern educational experience for all students in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Accord 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.
Quotes
“I extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to teachers and support staff who make every day the best it can be for students and learners. You all make a difference in the lives of children and youth whether it is in the classroom, learning resource centre, gymnasium or music room. I encourage everyone to take a moment this week and recognize their hard work and dedication.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week is the perfect time for school councils and parents to express gratitude to our educators, school staff, and all personnel within the Department of Education for being encouraging mentors and positive role models to thousands of children across Newfoundland and Labrador. Thank you for your continuous commitment to inspire a lifelong love of learning. Your patience, dedication, kindness, and expertise have lasting impacts on the lives you touch. You are greatly appreciated.”
Don Coombs
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils
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Provincial Government Announces the Creation of Education Accord NL
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Environmental Assessment Bulletin
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:
Lumsden Microbrewery, Taproom and Cottages (Reg. 2289)
Proponent: Wrecking Harbour Hospitalities Inc.
The Proponent is planning to construct and operate a microbrewery, taproom, four luxury cottages and event hosting space in Lumsden. The project includes access to a nearby beach with firepits and cabanas available onsite. The brewery will consist of a turn-key style, electrically heated 4-vessel brewhouse system. A phased-in approach to development is proposed where the cottages will be available in phase one, followed by the events space, taproom and lastly the microbrewery.
The undertaking was registered on February 9, 2024; the deadline for public comment
is March 15, 2024; and the minister’s decision is due by March 25, 2024.
Comments may be sent to: EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca
UNDERTAKINGS RELEASED:
Badger Chute Quarry (Reg. 2281) Proponent: Penney Paving Limited
The Project is released from environmental assessment subject to the following conditions:
- The Proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
- The Water Resources Management Division requires that a Water Resources Management Plan be submitted to and approved by the Division prior to commencement of any work related to the project.
- The Proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
- The Proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.
Black Mountain North Quarry (Reg. 2282)
Proponent: Newcrete Investments Limited
The project is released from environmental assessment subject to the following conditions:
- The Proponent must uphold all commitments made in the environmental assessment submission to mitigate the effects of the project on the environment.
- The Water Resources Management Division of the Department of Environment and Climate Change requires that a Water Resources Management Plan be prepared and submitted to the division for review and approval prior to commencement of any work related to this project.
- The Wildlife Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture requires the following:
- A minimum 50-metre undisturbed riparian buffer to be maintained from the highwater mark of all wetlands and waterbodies within and adjacent to the project, that are identified on either the 1:50,000 scale National Topographic System maps, or the topographic mapping layer shown in the Provincial Land Use atlas, to protect sensitive riparian and aquatic species and their habitats.
- Vegetation clearing is not to occur within 800 metres of a bald eagle or osprey nest during the nesting season (March 15 to July 31) or within 200 metres during the remainder of the year. The 200-metre buffer applies to all other raptor nests (e.g., Northern Goshawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, American Kestrel, Great-horned Owl, Boreal Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl). The location of any raptor nest sites shall be reported to the Wildlife Division.
- The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation requires a Viewscape Management Plan (VMP) illustrating which areas of the proposed quarry operation will be screened from view from the Trans-Canada Highway by maintaining natural tree screens and existing topography; the VMP is to be submitted and approved by the Tourism Product Development Division prior to start of construction.
- The Proponent must advise the Environmental Assessment Division when the conditions of release have been met, by emailing a written description, documents, and images (where applicable) to demonstrate that the conditions have been fulfilled.
- The Proponent must update the Environmental Assessment Division on the status of the project, including a copy of all permits, licences, certificates, approvals and other authorizations required for the project, within one year from the date of this release letter and to provide additional updates if required.
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 is asked to please advise the Department if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the Project Proponent.
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New Youth Innovation Hub Coming to St. John’s
Choices for Youth Inc. will open a new Social Enterprise and Innovation Hub in St. John’s after a joint investment of over $4.3 million.
Announced by Seamus O’Regan, federal Minister of Labour and Seniors and Member of Parliament for St. John’s South – Mount Pearl, on behalf of Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, and Sheldon Pollett, Executive Director of Choices for Youth, this project will create a space for young people to gain employable and transferable skills in a supportive workplace.
Located at 340 LeMarchant Road in St. John’s, the existing building will be renovated to create spaces for social impact, innovation and economic development programs. The work will create an energy efficient space where up to 100 youth per year will develop lifelong career skills.
Upgrades to the exterior and remodelling of the interior will bring the existing building up to current energy efficiency and accessibility standards. Once complete, these improvements are expected to reduce the facility’s energy consumption by an estimated 84 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 3.8 tonnes annually.
Choices for Youth is a non-profit, charitable organization committed to supporting youth and young families in accessing stable housing and employment while working toward family stability and better health, all through innovative programming and social enterprises.
Quotes
“We are pleased to support Choices for Youth in this new social enterprise hub, a project that will help them scale up their important ongoing work – encouraging economic empowerment and social change for vulnerable youth. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting innovative social enterprises that ultimately help to improve employment and overall well-being.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“Congratulations to Choices for Youth on securing this important funding that will further support social enterprise and innovation, as well as provide an improved and accessible environment to support vulnerable youth to develop vital employment skills. Our government is proud to partner with Choices for Youth as it continues to provide programs and services that make a positive difference in the healthy development and overall well-being of youth and young families in our province.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities
“Choices for Youth is helping young people learn the skills they need to make a real difference in the workplace. This investment won’t just help young people get jobs. It will build careers. It will change lives.”
Honourable Seamus O’Regan
Minister of Labour and Seniors and Member of Parliament for St. John’s South – Mount Pearl on behalf of Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“With this support, Choices for Youth can continue to build on its thirty-year legacy of empowering at-risk youth to realize their potential and achieve their aspirations. When young people have safe, welcoming, supportive spaces to acquire the skills they need to get good jobs and build strong communities—that’s great news for all of us.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“The new Choices for Youth Social Enterprise and Innovation Hub will ensure a bright future for young people in St. John’s. The federal government is proud to support the construction of this new, energy efficient space that will host education and training opportunities for youth for years to come.”
Joanne Thompson
Member of Parliament for St. John’s East
“The City is proud to support this new hub for innovation through its Capital Grant program. By investing in this project, we are investing in young people so that they can gain meaningful, and supportive employment and thrive in our community. We commend Choices for Youth for the vision and innovation they have approached this initiative with, which will have a lasting impact for at-risk youth for years to come. We also are thrilled to see this commercial building transformed into an energy efficient, accessible space, which aligns with our goals to be a more sustainable, accessible City.”
His Worship Danny Breen
Mayor, City of St. John’s
“We are profoundly grateful for the federal government’s investment in Choices for Youth’s Social Enterprise and Innovation Hub. This strategic funding represents a big next step in building a social enterprise training and employment ecosystem designed to support and transition vulnerable youth into meaningful careers. With this significant contribution in our province, we are transforming 340 LeMarchant Road into a dynamic space where vulnerable youth can cultivate essential skills while fostering innovation, social impact, and economic development. This investment exemplifies a shared dedication to shaping a resilient and inclusive future for youth and young families in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Sheldon Pollett
Executive Director, Choices for Youth
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Industry, Energy and Technology
Children, Seniors and Social Development
Green and Inclusive Community Buildings
Federal infrastructure investments in Nova Scotia
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Provincial Government Introduces Measures to Increase Enrollment at Regulated Early Learning and Child Care Services and Support Rural and Remote Operators
Today, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, announced two initiatives recommended through the Operating Grant Program review to improve access to early learning and child care services throughout the province. The Minister made the announcement at Riddles and Rhymes Daycare in St. Anthony, and was joined by Riddles and Rhymes Daycare administrator, Jennifer Smith.
The first measure will increase the minimum enrolment threshold for regulated child care centres participating in the Operating Grant Program. The threshold for those centres to receive full grant funding will increase from 70 per cent enrolment to 90 per cent enrolment. This change will come into effect on April 1, 2024. Regional staff from the Department of Education will work with all child care centers to maximize capacity and minimize operational impact. Rural and remote services will not be financially impacted by the increase in enrolment threshold.
In recognition of the unique geographical, staffing, and enrollment challenges that may be experienced in non-urban areas of the province, government is introducing a Rural and Remote Allowance for regulated child care services in rural and remote areas of the province who participate in the Operating Grant Program. This includes centres, family child care homes, and pre-kindergarten programs.
The Rural and Remote Allowance will provide those child care services with an additional 10 per cent of their operating grant funding. This initiative will provide support for those service providers facing unique challenges, and may help offset any potential impact from the increased enrolment threshold.
Over 80 child care services will be eligible to receive the Rural and Remote Allowance. Further information on eligibility is outlined in the backgrounder below.
The Rural and Remote Allowance supports commitments made as part of the $306 million invested through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. Through this agreement, the Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador are working together to improve access to high-quality, affordable, flexible, and inclusive early learning and child care programs and services.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing high quality, affordable child care that is accessible throughout the province. There are currently over 8,600 early learning and child care spaces operating at $10-a-day or less in the province, with almost 1,200 child care spaces created in 2023.
Quotes
“Our government remains committed to improving access to early learning and child care. This grant will address some of the challenges that are being experienced in rural and remote areas, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners to best meet the needs of children and families in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“The Operating Grant Program is a timely response to challenges that rural and remote communities are facing when it comes to providing access to high-quality, affordable, flexible and inclusive child care services. Newfoundland and Labrador continues to do great work in delivering the support that families need. I am glad to see that this grant will help ensure that centres are able to continue to provide high-quality care and meet the needs of families and children, no matter where they live.”
Honourable Jenna Sudds
Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
“This is about helping families with kitchen table issues, because no matter where you live, affordable childcare is common sense. It’s good for families, and it’s good for our kids. This will make sure families in small, rural and remote communities have access to the kind of care that meets their needs.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
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Learn more
Operating Grant Program
Review of the Operating Grant Program for Child Care Services Completed
Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement
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BACKGROUNDER
Rural and Remote Areas
For the purposes of this initiative all Labrador communities are considered remote, and rural communities are all communities except those defined as a part of Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) or Census Agglomerations (CA) as per 2021 Population Counts.
Further Incentives for Early Learning and Child Care in Rural and Remote Areas
- Regulated child care services in Labrador receive an automatic 15 per cent increase to the base Operating Grant Program rates.
- Regulated child care centres located in the Labrador region can avail of an additional 15 per cent rate escalator for personnel expenditures. Eligibility is determined by assessing financial statements submitted from the child care centre.
- A Labrador Allowance bonus provides an annual amount of $5,178 to every early childhood educator working in a regulated child care centre in Labrador participating in the Operating Grant Program.
Operating Grant Program
The Operating Grant Program helps address affordability of child care services for families with young children. Effective January 1, 2023, regulated child care services participating in the Operating Grant Program were supported to lower their rates to $10 per day for infant, toddler, and preschool participants; $4 for afterschool care; and, $5 for before and after school care. The Operating Grant Program is a key component of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. As part of the agreement, the Newfoundland and Labrador government committed to exploring potential enhancements to the program to ensure that regulated operations remain financially viable, and to retain and attract new early childhood educators.
In January 2024 the Provincial Government released a report outlining a review of the Operating Grant Program for child care services in Newfoundland and Labrador. The report includes six opportunity areas for improving the Operating Grant Program, including governance; funding and rates; program policies, processes and requirements; accountability; workforce; and, system enablers.
Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement
The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is increasing access to regulated child care through the creation of nearly 6,000 spaces by 2025-2026, as well as improving affordability, inclusivity and quality of early learning and child care programming in Newfoundland and Labrador. This plan is made possible by federal investments in the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system. These include $306 million for the 2021-2022 to 2025-2026 Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, a one-time investment of nearly $6.5 million in 2021-2022 to support the early childhood workforce, as well as over $34 million for the 2021-2022 to 2024-2025 Early Learning and Child Care Extension Agreement.
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Provincial Government and Association of Allied Health Professionals Reach Tentative Collective Agreement
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Association of Allied Health Professionals (AAHP) are pleased to announce that they have reached a tentative agreement.
AAHP represents over 750 vital health care professionals working in all areas of the health care system in Newfoundland and Labrador.
AAHP will be presenting this tentative collective agreement to membership in hopes of ratification. Details on the collective agreement will be released upon ratification.
In the last 18 months, the Provincial Government has negotiated over 25 collective agreements with public sector unions, representing more than 35,000 public sector workers.
Quotes
“Thank you to the negotiating teams from the Provincial Government and the Association of Allied Health Professionals who have worked hard to find common ground. During the bargaining process, we have continued to be fair and respectful to all health care professionals who deliver important services to the people of this province every day.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board
“We are happy to see both sides come together to reach a tentative agreement. Allied health professionals play an integral role in health care, providing invaluable expertise and support across diverse specialties. Their collaborative approach ensures comprehensive patient care, empowers individuals to lead healthier lives, and strengthens the fabric of our health care system.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“We are very pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that we believe better reflects the value our membership brings to the province’s health care system. This is a positive first step towards creating a system where allied health professionals feel respected, valued, and heard. Retention remains a top priority for our union, and we believe this has put our membership on the right path.”
Gordon Piercey
President, Association of Allied Health Professionals
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Learn more
Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association Sign Collective Agreement
Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreements with CUPE
Provincial Government and NAPE Sign Collective Agreements
Provincial Government and Labrador West Teachers Ratify Tentative Agreement
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Public Advisory: Scheduled Maintenance for Online Payment Systems
Please be advised that Provincial Government online payment systems will undergo planned maintenance on Sunday, February 11, between 12:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. (11:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. in parts of Labrador).
Payments for online services will be unavailable during this time. Users who try to submit online payments while maintenance is occurring will receive a notification alerting them to the scheduled maintenance.
All Provincial Government online payment systems will be impacted except for the Arts and Culture Centres Ticketing, ParksNL Reservations, and Personal Property Registry.
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Media Advisory: Minister Howell to Announce Measures to Increase Access to Early Learning and Child Care
The Honourable, Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, will make an announcement today (Friday, February 9) to increase access to regulated early learning and child care, and improve supports for rural and remote child care services in the province through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.
The announcement takes place at Riddles and Rhymes Daycare, 83-93 East Street, St. Anthony, at 2:30 p.m.
A virtual media availability will follow via Zoom at 3:00 p.m. today. To participate, please RSVP to Lynn Robinson (lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca) who will provide the required information.
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Media Advisory: Minister Pike to Bring Remarks to Choices for Youth Funding Announcement
The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, will bring remarks at a funding announcement for Choices for Youth tomorrow (Friday, February 9).
The announcement will take place at the Choices for Youth social enterprise and innovation hub at 340 LeMarchant Road, St. John’s, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Choices for Youth is a professional services, youth-focused, non-profit, charitable organization that operates programs and social enterprises to help vulnerable youth secure stable housing, employment and education.
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Provincial Government Announces Grants to Commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Confederation
As part of the commemoration of Newfoundland and Labrador joining Canada in 1949, the Provincial Government is announcing two grant programs to enable communities and heritage groups to mark the milestone 75th anniversary.
The Community Celebrations and Events Grant is for municipalities, local service districts and Inuit Community Governments to support Confederation 75 celebratory events. Funding amounts will vary based on population size and funded events must take place between April 1 and July 15, 2024.
The Heritage and Indigenous Cultural Projects Grant is intended for heritage organizations (museums, archives, historical societies, historic trusts) and Indigenous organizations with a cultural or heritage mandate. Funding eligibility is $2,500 for exhibits, projects, programs or events thematically related to Newfoundland and Labrador’s Confederation with Canada.
Celebrate NL will administer both grant programs. Applications for the Community Celebrations and Events Grant and the Heritage and Indigenous Cultural Projects Grant can be found here and will be accepted until March 1, 2024.
Quote
“Seventy-five years is such a significant milestone in our province’s relationship and history with Canada. We want our communities and heritage organizations to be able to recognize this time in history and also reflect on what it means to be part of Canada. These grants will allow communities and heritage and Indigenous Governments and Organizations to plan events for their residents tell the story of the province’s union with Canada.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Learn more
Premier Furey Announces Initiatives to Commemorate 75th Anniversary of Confederation
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Media Advisory: Minister Abbott to Participate in 2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards Press Conference
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will bring greetings at a Canadian Folk Music Awards press conference taking place today (Thursday, February 8).
The event will begin at 2:00 p.m. at The Ship Pub, 265 Duckworth Street, St. John’s.
This year’s Canadian Folk Music Awards take place from April 3-7 in St. John’s, a fitting event for the Year of the Arts which celebrates Newfoundland and Labrador’s rich arts and cultural sector.
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Provincial Government Participating in North American Prospect Expo
In support of Newfoundland and Labrador’s energy potential, the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology is attending the North American Prospect Expo (NAPE) Summit in Houston, Texas, from February 8-9, 2024.
The NAPE Summit was established in 1993 to provide a central area for oil and gas companies to promote local, national and international oil and gas prospects and producing properties. NAPE 2023 reported more than 8,000 delegates in attendance and over 450 exhibitors with registered booths at the exhibition grounds.
NAPE continues to evolve with the energy transition, now adding a minerals hub to its oil and gas offerings. The show launched a renewable energy sources hub in 2021.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s oil and gas industry – with its low emissions per barrel compared to the international average and our strong environmental, social and governance structure – can be a part of the solution as the world transitions to a lower carbon economy.
The province’s Renewable Energy Plan explores pathways currently available on the province’s journey towards net zero, including prospective renewable energy projects such as hydro and wind; digitalization; electrification; low-carbon hydrogen production; emissions reduction; and process improvements in existing industries like oil and gas and carbon capture, utilization and storage.
Quote
“Newfoundland and Labrador is a globally preferred location for energy development and the department’s participation in the NAPE Summit allows us to continue to promote the province’s energy sector and build on recent developments in the responsible development of petroleum, wind and hydrogen.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
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Renewable Energy Plan
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Public Advisory: Starlink Satellite Systems Installation Complete
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure wishes to advise that installation is now complete for two Starlink satellite systems along the Trans-Labrador Highway.
The travelling public can now access public Wi-Fi at both Cartwright Junction through the Cartwright Public Wi-Fi network and Crooks Lake through the Crooks Lake Public Wi-Fi network.
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Provincial Government Provides Funding for Innovative Radiology Technology
The Department of Health and Community Services has provided funding of $196,000 to Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services to implement radiology technology at the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander and the Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre in Grand Falls–Windsor.
The equipment is a wire-free, radiation-free system that assists with locating soft-tissue lesions during surgery. The technology consists of an introducer needle with a preloaded magnetic marker. This technology:
- Reduces delays in access to surgery and aids in planning with respect to radiology resources.
- Averts potential adverse outcomes from such a delay.
- Aids in patient comfort.
Currently, lesions are marked pre-operatively by interventional radiology using a wire to mark targeted areas on the day of surgery. This practice can significantly impact timely access to required surgery for the patient due to logistics and human resource challenges.
The radiology technology will allow radiologists and surgeons to precisely locate lesions for removal and more precisely limit the removal of soft tissue margins around the lesion.
This funding from the department to implement new radiology technology in Central Newfoundland is another example of the Provincial Government’s efforts to implement creative solutions to improve and reimagine the health care system, building on recommendations in Health Accord NL, for the well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Quotes
“Embracing technology is one way to modernize and transform our health care system. Through the power of innovative tools, we can enhance patient care, improve outcomes and revolutionize the way we approach wellness. This initiative is one more step in our government’s commitment to reimagining our health care system.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“NL Health Services is pleased to implement this new technology at both the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Services Centre in Gander and the Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre in Grand Falls-Windsor. Innovative technology, such as this, provides us with opportunities to enhance health-care delivery and improve timely access within the Central Zone, while providing a more comfortable experience for our patients leading up to surgery.”
Joanne Pelley
Chief Operating Officer – Central Zone and Provincial Chief Nursing Officer
NL Health Services
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Health Care Action
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Minister Abbott Addresses Heavy Civil Association and Provides Update on Roadwork Completed in the 2023-24 Construction Season
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, today addressed the Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador and provided an overview of the significant road work awarded this past season, as a result of the $225-million investment for highway and road construction announced in 2023-24.
Approximately 80 tenders for road work were awarded for projects such as culvert replacement, bridge repairs and replacement, and approximately 565 kilometres of paving, in the Provincial Government’s continued efforts to modernize road infrastructure and connect communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.
Some project highlights from the 2023 season include:
- Completion of the Shoal Harbour River Bridge.
- Culvert replacement on Peacekeeper’s Way at Kelligrews River.
- Galway Interchange on the Trans-Canada Highway.
- Pitts Memorial Drive/CN Viaduct Improvements.
- Rehabilitation of Pinware River Bridge in Labrador.
- Culvert replacement on the Trans-Canada Highway between Corner Brook and Pasadena.
- Replacement of Romaine’s River Bridge on Route 460.
The Provincial Government is currently finalizing the roads plan for the 2024-25 construction season.
In 2023, the Provincial Government announced a historic investment of nearly $1.4 billion to improve highway and road transportation infrastructure over five construction seasons. This is the largest provincial investment in highway and road infrastructure over a five-year period in the province’s history.
Information on active highway construction projects, highway repairs and winter driving conditions is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.
Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.
Quote
“All throughout our province, we continue our focus on road construction work that modernizes our roadways and highways and is critical to ensuring the safety of the travelling public. We made significant progress this past season, with tenders being awarded earlier than ever. Our unprecedented investment of $1.4 billion over five years will again allow for a number of road construction projects in the 2024-25 season that will greatly benefit our towns and communities.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
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Learn more
Historical Five-Year Investment in Highway and Road Infrastructure
Contract Awarded for Replacement of Shoal Harbour River Bridge
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Media Advisory: Minister Abbott Speaking at Heavy Civil Association Annual General Meeting
The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, will speak at the Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Annual General Meeting tomorrow (Wednesday, February 7).
The event takes place at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s, beginning at noon.
The Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador represents companies in the province’s road construction, water and sewer, and heavy construction industry.
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Media Advisory: Minister Pam Parsons to Participate in Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People
The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, will participate in a roundtable of Indigenous leaders and representatives and federal-provincial-territorial ministers focusing on the advancement of the MMIWG Calls for Justice and ending violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
The two-day event takes place on February 7 and 8, 2024, at the Shaw Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, and online. Minister Parsons will participate virtually.
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The post Media Advisory: Minister Pam Parsons to Participate in Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People appeared first on News Releases.
Minister Parsons Announces Funding for Tourism Organization
To enhance business and market development in the tourism industry, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced $37,526 through the Business Development Support Program for Tourism Southwest Inc.
Tourism Southwest represents several accommodations operators conducting business on the Southwest Coast of the province. The organization identifies product development opportunities to provide the travelling public with the best possible tourism experience.
The businesses represented by Tourism Southwest financially contribute to local and regional tourism product development efforts as well as a consolidated regional marketing campaign. Tourism Southwest continues to work in collaboration with provincial tourism officials and the Western Destination Management Organization to implement a marketing campaign that maximizes marketing advertising dollars and highlights the many tourism attractions in Southwestern Newfoundland.
This funding will allow Tourism Southwest to continue its implementation of its multi-year marketing strategy that has seen development of a new website and social media presence, branding, development of short videos to use in social media and a partnership with the Western Destination Management Organization on ad campaigns and attendance at tradeshows.
The Provincial Government’s contribution leverages a $53,994 investment from Tourism Southwest for a total investment of $91,520. The strategy supports Tourism Southwest’s efforts to raise the profile of the Southwest Coast, along with the region’s local businesses and tourism operators, while encouraging local and international travellers to visit.
Quotes
“The Southwest Coast of Newfoundland and Labrador offers the very best of what the province has become known for among world travelers – wilderness, culture, tradition, and unforgettable travel experiences. Our department is proud to support Tourism Southwest as they work to promote this corner of the province and grow its tourism potential.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“The spectacular Southwest Coast has incredible potential as a tourism destination and is one of the main gateways into Newfoundland and Labrador. Our government is pleased to support Tourism Southwest in their efforts to reach a wider audience, so that more visitors will choose to visit this stunning part of our province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“Tourism Southwest Inc. would like to thank the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology for their continued partnership and funding support to implement marketing activities that promote Newfoundland’s Southwest Coast. With pristine coastline, soaring mountains, and far-flung communities, the Southwest Coast is Newfoundland and Labrador’s secret adventure. There are dozens of hidden gems and diversions to visit in this beautiful stretch of the province between Port aux Basques and Gros Morne National Park.”
Ruth Forsey-Gale
President, Tourism Southwest Inc.
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Business Development Support ProgramTourism Southwest
The post Minister Parsons Announces Funding for Tourism Organization first appeared on News Releases.
The post Minister Parsons Announces Funding for Tourism Organization appeared first on News Releases.
Minister Crocker Shares Condolences on the Passing of Kevin Lewis
The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is sharing his condolences following the passing of Kevin Lewis.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin Lewis.
An inspiration to young artists, Kevin was an educator and mentor to students in his Theatre Arts classes, helping them achieve their goals.
He was also a well-known performer and director who graced our province’s stages from St. John’s to Ferryland to the West Coast and into Labrador, portraying unforgettable characters on stage and screen in such productions as The Boys of St. Vincent, Random Passage and The Grand Seduction.
Honoured just last year as the recipient of the 2023 ACTRA NL Award of Excellence, Kevin will be remembered by artists and former students, and the wider arts community, as a person who faced life’s challenges with humour and grace.
On behalf of our province, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, his friends and his colleagues in the arts community. His legacy will live on through all those whose dreams he help to shape.”
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The post Minister Crocker Shares Condolences on the Passing of Kevin Lewis first appeared on News Releases.
The post Minister Crocker Shares Condolences on the Passing of Kevin Lewis appeared first on News Releases.
New Procurement Strategies Geared Toward Supporting Local Suppliers and Ensuring Sustainability
The Provincial Government today introduced two new procurement strategies: the Newfoundland and Labrador First Procurement Strategy and the Sustainable Procurement Strategy. The strategies are aimed at maximizing the success of provincial suppliers in obtaining government contracts, supporting provincial supplier development, and increasing sustainable practices in purchasing.
The Newfoundland and Labrador First Procurement Strategy will help create an environment that provides the best opportunity for provincial suppliers to be successful in obtaining contracts through maintaining the provincial preference discount; increasing open call thresholds; promoting the use of exemptions under trade agreements; and reducing the use of bid bonds. It also focuses on new suppliers by helping them strengthen their ability to participate in government procurement processes by providing them with the knowledge and training they need through supplier-focused information sessions; reverse trade shows; and consultation on more significant procurements.
The Sustainable Procurement Strategy is focused on embedding sustainability considerations into processes for procuring goods, services and construction alongside traditional considerations such as price, quality, service and technical considerations. Applying a sustainable approach to procurement will ensure that the existing purchasing power of government departments and agencies will be utilized to help achieve broader social, environmental and economic goals.
Both strategies complement a procurement policy change that was made in 2020 to better support local suppliers. A local preference provision was added to the Public Procurement Regulations at that time to mandate an allowance of ten per cent for provincial suppliers for all procurements, to the maximum permitted under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement.
Quotes
“It is important that, as a government, we continue to modernize our purchasing processes, follow the best procurement practices, and achieve best value for dollars spent, and do all of this in a sustainable fashion. We must also work to ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador companies are given the greatest opportunity to secure contracts here at home. Both the Newfoundland and Labrador First and the Sustainable Procurement strategies are integral in helping us achieve these objectives.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Agency
“As a business and information technology supplier based in Newfoundland and Labrador, local procurement resonates profoundly within our company. It is our belief that the synergy between the private and public sectors is vital to fostering business growth within our province. The strategies announced today represent a modern and strategic progression toward strengthening the relationships between both established and emerging local suppliers and the Provincial Government.“
Chris Dillon
Vice President, Consulting & Business Development
Triware Technologies Inc.
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The post New Procurement Strategies Geared Toward Supporting Local Suppliers and Ensuring Sustainability first appeared on News Releases.
The post New Procurement Strategies Geared Toward Supporting Local Suppliers and Ensuring Sustainability appeared first on News Releases.
Premier Furey Participates in Dubai Health Care Recruitment Mission
The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, travelled to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on February 3 to participate in a health care recruitment event and explore potential business partnerships and post-secondary education expansion.
Premier Furey was joined by members of the recruitment teams from the Department of Health and Community Services and NL Health Services at the Canadian Health Attraction Recruitment Mission 2024 to meet with health care professionals about recruitment to Newfoundland and Labrador.
During the visit, the Premier will also meet with officials with the Canadian University of Dubai as the Provincial Government builds new connections and investigates innovative opportunities that may further support post-secondary education in Newfoundland and Labrador, now and into the future.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s public post-secondary institutions have had a long-standing international presence. Both Memorial University and College of the North Atlantic have partnerships, relationships and connections with many institutions and private organizations in over 100 countries around the world.
In addition, the Premier and government officials will meet with regional business leaders to highlight Newfoundland and Labrador’s natural resources, renewable and clean energy potential, advanced manufacturing, high-tech services, and research and innovation hubs.
The meetings include the Canada-U.A.E. Business Council, a bilateral cooperation council established by both governments that includes the United Arab Emirates’ major investors in Canada and Canada’s major investors in the United Arab Emirates.
Canadian and international partners recognize the strategic importance of Newfoundland and Labrador in meeting the world’s demand for secure, renewable and clean energy.
The health care professional recruitment trip is in addition to trips to Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Saskatchewan in 2023 and participation in numerous health care recruitment trade shows by the department’s and NL Health Services’ recruitment teams.
Since April 1, 2023, more than 450 nurses and 79 doctors have been recruited to work in the province since April 1, 2023.
Health care professionals interested in learning about the opportunities and incentives to work in Newfoundland and Labrador can find more information at WorkInHealthNL.ca.
Details on the Provincial Government’s recruitment results are available at healthcareaction.ca.
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“Recruiting and retaining health care professionals is of paramount importance to our government. This mission is an opportunity to showcase Newfoundland and Labrador as an ideal place for health care professionals to work and live. It also allows us to explore potential post-secondary and natural resource sector expansions for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
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