Government of Newfoundland News

To enhance business and market development in the outfitting industry, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced $21,700 through the Business Development Support Program for Off the Grid Adventures Inc.

Headquartered in Deer Lake, Off the Grid Adventures offers guided big game (moose and black bear) hunting near Roddickton, which is known as the “Moose Capital of the World.” The company’s lodge is a 20-minute flight by float plane from Hawkes Bay.

The outfitters have hosted crews from television shows Quebec Countryside and Canada in the Rough, and episodes about their operation have aired on WildTV.

This funding from the Provincial Government will be used for marketing initiatives. Through the Business Development Support Program, the Provincial Government supports small and medium-sized businesses that are committed to develop and grow their operations by improving operational productivity, focusing on trade opportunities and developing their markets.

Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador is a bucket list destination for people around the world, and local companies like Off the Grid Adventures provide visitors the opportunity to experience our traditions, landscapes and culture. Our government is proud to help them grow, and it is my honour to be the MHA of a district with so much to offer.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and MHA for Humber-Gros Morne

“Off the Grid Adventures is already seeing returning clients who want to experience all that the Great Northern Peninsula has to offer. This funding will help this company expand its market while also promoting the entire western Newfoundland region.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Our pristine wilderness areas and abundant wildlife make Newfoundland and Labrador a world-class destination for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits like big game hunting. This support for Off the Grid Adventures will help them attract even more visitors and create additional employment and economic activity.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The Business Development Support program has made a positive impact on our business! It has supported our marketing efforts, which has helped tremendously for our tourism-based business … especially in a post-Covid world. It has allowed us to reach clients in regions that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible, with travel, booth displays, and promotional materials, also, assisting us in establishing and growing our presence online. We continue to see sales as a result of this funding and appreciate the support of this program as we continue to grow our business.”
Barry Samms
Off the Grid Adventures

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Business Development Support Program

Off the Grid Adventures

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The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, today offered a joint statement on the retirement of David Diamond, President and CEO, of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.

“On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, we extend our sincere gratitude to Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services President and CEO David Diamond for his dedication to the province’s health care system and its workers, and his commitment to improving health care for all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.

We thank Mr. Diamond for his leadership in not only transitioning to one provincial health authority, but also for being an instrumental partner in health transformation. Mr. Diamond has helped create a solid foundation for the continued reimagination of healthcare in Newfoundland and Labrador, as envisioned in Health Accord NL.

On behalf of the residents of the province, we thank Mr. Diamond for more than a decade of service to Newfoundland and Labrador and wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.”

Mr. Diamond will stay in the role until the end of June. The recruitment process will soon begin.

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“As Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I am extremely disappointed with Vrbo’s ‘Relax – Rooster’ video spot which features the beloved Newfoundland and Labrador folk song, I’se the B’y.

Earlier today, I spoke with Vrbo leadership and requested that Vrbo take immediate action to remove this video from both YouTube and television rotation.

I’se the B’y is synonymous with our province and culture. As Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, we take strong exception to Vrbo using the song in this derogatory manner. The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation has received innumerable complaints about this spot, which have intensified since it was aired during the Super Bowl on February 11, 2024.

Our province offers so much to Vrbo’s customers and tourists from all over the world, including our rich musical history. This is not an accurate representation of our province, our culture or our people.

I encourage Vrbo to take the time to learn about our beautiful province at www.newfoundlandlabrador.com.”

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The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, is sharing his condolences following the passing of Denis Parker.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Denis Parker, who shared his love of music as a writer, teacher, player and singer of the blues in Newfoundland and Labrador for more than 50 years.

Denis was widely recognized as a trailblazer in the music industry and was inducted to the NL Jazz and Blues Hall of Fame in 2018.

As Executive Director of the Music Industry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador for 18 years, Denis was instrumental in supporting and developing young artists in this province.

On behalf of our province, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, his friends and his colleagues in the music community.”

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Newfoundland and Labrador was well represented at this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence with local entrepreneurs receiving recognition. The 27th annual awards were presented at an event in Halifax during Craft East Buyers’ Expo on February 10, 2024.

East Coast Glow, owned by Karen and Roger Dewling, was named Outstanding Exporter, which recognizes an individual, organization or company for exporting achievement of craft or giftware outside Atlantic Canada.

Using plant-based ingredients and pure iceberg water, East Coast Glow creates highly effective skincare products with a mission to connect people with nature through sustainable, wildcrafted skincare. With a production facility and retail storefront in Bonavista, their products, which range from soaps and body cleansers to salves, lotions and lip balms, are also sold online, through retail craft fairs, in their shop and across Canada.

To build on their exporting success, East Coast Glow is focusing efforts on the international market in 2024.

The Glass Station in Rocky Harbour received the award for Outstanding Retailer, which recognizes excellence in display, merchandising and service to the public.

In addition to displaying the work of owner and maker Urve Manuel, the Glass Station features the work of a number of craftspeople and visual artists, the majority of whom are based in Newfoundland and Labrador. The shop shows a curated selection of fine craft, designed and chosen to represent the Gros Morne region and to provide visitors with memories of their experiences in the province.

The craft shop and gallery also hosts special events and visitors, invites residents to participate in charitable efforts and works with partners to accelerate the growth of regional tourism.

The Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence are presented annually in conjunction with the Craft East Buyers’ Expo, which showcases craft and giftware made exclusively in the Atlantic Provinces.

Quotes
“Congratulations to East Coast Glow and the Glass Station for their accomplishment at this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence. It always makes me proud to see what craftspeople from this province can accomplish and we are happy to continue to support traditional and contemporary artists build and grow their creative initiatives.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Congratulations to all recipients of this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence, especially Newfoundland and Labrador’s own East Coast Glow and The Glass Station. Our province is home to so many creative and unique artisans who contribute to the vibrancy and heritage of our communities. As we celebrate the Year of the Arts this year, it is the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors to support local artisans and craftspeople on their adventures throughout the province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Industry Strategy 2023-2025

East Coast Glow

The Glass Station

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The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is seeking public input on highway improvement projects to be considered for the upcoming 2024-25 road construction season, as well as future years.

Residents can submit their suggestions or concerns, along with photos, to roadsplaninput@gov.nl.ca or the following mailing address:

Department of Transportation and Infrastructure
Attention: Director of Roads
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL
A1B 4J6

Residents are encouraged to provide highway information such as region, route name or number, the nearest municipality or landmark, and the type of highway issue being experienced. The deadline for submissions is end of day February 26, 2024.

The roads plan is currently being finalized and any additional information received will be reviewed to ensure it aligns with the information gathered to date. Road projects included in the plan are based on safety; traffic volumes; socio-economic impacts; input from the public; commercial, industry and tourism impacts; populations serviced; the impacts of climate change; and assessments by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure’s engineers.

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, with $225 million invested in highway construction in the 2023-24 season. This is the largest provincial investment in highway and road infrastructure over a five-year period in the province’s history.

Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl.

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

Quote
“We are continuing our efforts to modernize road infrastructure and connect communities across Newfoundland and Labrador and the assessment of our current roads infrastructure is an important element in the development of our roads plan. Through this engagement, we want to ensure we have captured any suggestions that need our attention.”
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

New Galway Interchange

Pitts Memorial Drive

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The Information and Privacy Commissioner, Michael Harvey, has released his Report A-2024-006 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-2024-006 Report Date: February 8, 2024 Public Body: Memorial University of Newfoundland Summary: The Complainant submitted four access to information requests to Memorial University of Newfoundland related to expenditures incurred by three of the University’s separately incorporated entities. Memorial did not perform a search for the records requested by the Complainant and instead responded claiming it does not have custody or control of the records as they relate to expenditures by the separately incorporated entities. The Commissioner noted that Memorial should have performed a search for responsive records, as without such a search a claim of lack of custody or control cannot be substantiated. Therefore, Memorial did not meet its duty to assist the Complainant pursuant to section 13(1) of ATIPPA, 2015. An analysis of Memorial’s custody or control showed that on a balance of probabilities Memorial has custody or control of records containing information relating to the Complainant’s access request.

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

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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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Le gouvernement provincial reconnaît la Semaine d’appréciation des enseignants et du personnel scolaire

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Provincial Government Announces the Creation of Education Accord NL

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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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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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Learn more
Industry, Energy and Technology

Children, Seniors and Social Development

Green and Inclusive Community Buildings

Strengthened Climate Plan

Federal infrastructure investments in Nova Scotia

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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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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

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Reaches Tentative Collective Agreement with Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association

Provincial Government and Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland and Labrador Sign Collective Agreement

Provincial Government Highlights Ratified Collective Agreements with CUPE

Provincial Government and NAPE Sign Collective Agreements

Provincial Government and Professional Association of Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador Sign Collective Agreement

Provincial Government and Labrador West Teachers Ratify Tentative Agreement

 

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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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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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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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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.

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“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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Premier Furey Announces Initiatives to Commemorate 75th Anniversary of Confederation

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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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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.

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“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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2024 NAPE Summit

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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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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.

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“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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