Government of Newfoundland News

The Provincial Government has issued the first round of invitations for individuals that have submitted an expression of interest to immigrate to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Selected individuals have a full-time offer of employment from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer for a position that responds to a specific labour market demand in the province.

A total of 256 individuals received invitations, including 206 invited to apply through the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program and 50 through the Atlantic Immigration Program. Invitees have been informed they are now eligible to apply for nomination or endorsement through those programs.

The following factors were considered when selecting these individuals:

• Occupation, and alignment with current labour market priorities of the province.
• Valid temporary resident status in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Strong ties to Newfoundland and Labrador (including individuals that graduated from post-secondary institutions located in the province).
• Job offers in rural and remote communities.

This round of invitations marks a milestone in implementing a more streamlined economic immigration process that aligns with Newfoundland and Labrador’s evolving labour market needs and reduced immigration capacity due to federal limits on application spaces. Updates on future rounds of invitations will be available on this webpage.

Future rounds of invitations from the expression of interest pool will be conducted as needed to meet program objectives and support Provincial Government priorities. Candidates who were not selected in this draw are encouraged to continue monitoring their email for potential future invitations.

Any expression of interest applicant that has questions is encouraged to contact immigration@gov.nl.ca.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: First Round of Invitations Issued Under Expression of Interest Model for Economic Immigration appeared first on News Releases.

A St. John’s-based research and development organization is undertaking a project to monitor greenhouse gases in the Arctic, with support from the Provincial Government. Today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology announced $148,000 in support for C-CORE as it takes on a contract from the European Space Agency to monitor methane emissions from Arctic wetlands.

The province’s contribution leverages a $300,000 investment from the European Space Agency and $80,000 from C-CORE, for a total project investment of $528,000. This work will strengthen collaboration among researchers and stakeholders involved in methane emission monitoring in the Arctic. The objective is to create better models and a greater understanding of the processes to guide future climate policy. The technology developed in this project will be valuable for understanding which areas of wetlands are more prone to degradation and should be protected, and which ones would be less affected by infrastructure development.

The research program will also provide excellent learning opportunities for students at Memorial University, as well as build local capacity in emissions monitoring capabilities for future work in the province. Students will benefit from supervision by leading professionals in this field and by working on practical research, which will have an international impact. The challenges of climate change are long-term and understanding methane emissions and mitigation is an important part of better understanding the artic environment.

The Research and Innovation Fund Program provides non-repayable contributions to non-commercial entities for research and development and innovation projects, which further supports economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador. The goal is to support highly-qualified people, research, innovative programming and infrastructure in priority areas that have the potential to strengthen research and development and innovation ecosystem capacity.

Quotes
“This project will prepare C-CORE to address ongoing and future emissions monitoring needs that can be used in multiple industries. In addition to collecting valuable data, this work will provide valuable research and technological experience to students at Memorial University, who will benefit from supervision by leading professionals in this field and by working on practical research that will have an international impact.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“I look forward to seeing the research findings that this funding will provide as it will help us better understand and accurately measure greenhouse gas emissions in the Arctic. It is vitally important for us all, but especially for those in northern areas of Canada, to be able to understand the impacts of the changing climate on our permafrost and how those changes impact greenhouse gas emissions.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“C-CORE has decades of experience observing and interpreting the impacts of climate change in the Arctic. New satellite platforms, coupled with artificial intelligence, allow us to greatly improve emissions monitoring. The support of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will allow C-CORE to create the expertise in the province that will allow us to build on our $3M portfolio of emissions-based research and development projects.”
Paul Griffin
President & CEO, C-CORE

-30-

Learn more
Research and Innovation

C-CORE

Follow us on X @IET_GovNL, @ECC_GovNL 

Follow us on Bluesky

Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Announces Support for Methane Monitoring Project appeared first on News Releases.

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

UNDERTAKINGS REGISTERED:

150 MW (Nominal) Avalon (Holyrood) Combustion Turbine Project
Proponent: Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro                              (Reg. 2350)

The proponent is proposing to install 150 megawatts (MW) of combustion turbine generation on their property located adjacent to the Holyrood Thermal Generating Station to provide a source of peaking support and backup generation. The project would involve the construction of a multi-unit combustion turbine power generating facility, including: a tank farm, powerhouse, terminal station, construction laydown areas and related infrastructure on an 11.8-hectare site. A description of the project can be found on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: www.gov.nl.ca/eccm/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on April 4, 2025. The deadline for public comment is May 9, 2025, and the minister’s decision is due by May 19, 2025.

Little Rapids Residential Lot                                                                  (Reg. 2349)
Proponent: Damian and Krista Baldwin

The proponent is proposing to construct a one-story dwelling on a residential lot located at 403C Marble Drive in the community of Little Rapids. The proposal would be located adjacent to the Humber River, a scheduled salmon river. Construction would include installation of a sewer system and well and landscaping. A description of the project can be found on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/env-assessment/projects-list/.

The undertaking was registered on April 4, 2025. The deadline for public comment is May 9, 2025, and the minister’s decision is due by May 19, 2025.

APPROVED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT GUIDELINES ISSUED:

Botwood and Area EVREC Green Energy Project                            (Reg. 2327)
Proponent: Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation (EVREC)

The minister has approved the guidelines for the preparation of the environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Botwood and Area EVREC Green Energy Project. The EIS guidelines identify the information that the proponent will be required to address in the EIS. The EIS guidelines are available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/projects/project-2327/.

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

Environmental assessment information is available at:

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

www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/GUIDE-TO-THE-PROCESS_Jan-2024.pdf

Follow us on X @GovNL and @ECC_GovNL

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

Anyone submitting comments on a project under environmental assessment should notify the Department of Environment and Climate Change if they DO NOT wish to have their comments shared with the project proponent.

 

The post appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, is launching the Seafood Marketing Support Program, to support global market diversification. The program will help proponents identify, assess, target and develop new market opportunities in response to tariff threats from the United States and recent tariffs from China. It will support market diversification and reduce reliance on traditional markets while capitalizing on new opportunities in domestic and international markets.

Funding is available to licensed Newfoundland and Labrador fish processors, aquaculture companies, seafood marketing firms, industry associations, research and development institutions, fisheries organizations, and development associations. Funding will be provided through non-repayable contributions to a maximum of $100,000 and a rate of assistance of up to 90 per cent. Program details and applications are available here.

The Seafood Marketing Support Program will focus on:

• Market information and research
• Market development planning
• Adapting products and packaging for new markets
• Market development activities
• Marketing material and promotional tools

Examples of eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• Re-development of packaging for new markets
• Participation in tradeshows/missions
• Market research
• Brand strategy development
• Advertising
• Export development planning

Quote
“Market diversification is central, in these times of uncertainty, to the long-term prosperity of Newfoundland and Labrador’s seafood industry. The fishing sector is united in meeting the challenge to develop new markets and the Seafood Marketing Support Program will help everyone across the industry explore new opportunities in Europe, Asia, and here in Canada.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

-30-

 

The post Minister Byrne Launches Seafood Marketing Support Program for Global Market Diversification appeared first on News Releases.

The enclosed is being released on behalf of the Independent Churchill River Negotiation Oversight Panel:

The Independent Churchill River Negotiation Oversight Panel has launched a new webpage where it will report its quarterly analysis of the ongoing negotiations between Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and Hydro-Quebec.  The new webpage can be accessed by visiting www.icrop.ca.

The Independent Churchill River Negotiation Oversight Panel is providing critical oversight of the ongoing negotiations of the historic deal reached between Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and Hydro-Quebec.

Members of the panel are:

• Dennis Browne, KC, Chair
• C. Douglas Bowman, BS, MS
• Michael Wilson, CA, FCA
• Guy Holburn, Expert Consultant

The panel was created in collaboration between the Provincial Government, members of the Third Party, and independent members of the House of Assembly.  It is designed to provide additional independent, expert oversight of the ongoing negotiations process in respect of new contracts and developments with Hydro-Quebec.

Detailed biographies can be found in the enclosed backgrounder.

Quote
“Our team is bringing a critical lens to the ongoing negotiations with Hydro-Quebec, and the new webpage is an important element in the transparency of our work.  Given the significance of this agreement to the future of Newfoundland and Labrador, it is paramount that we provide the necessary independent, expert oversight to this process.”
Dennis Browne
Chair of the Independent Churchill River Negotiation Oversight Panel

-30-

BACKGROUNDER

Biographies – The Independent Churchill River Negotiation Oversight Panel

Dennis Browne, KC, Consumer Advocate, Chair
Dennis Browne is a lawyer with a practice in administrative law and a graduate of Dalhousie Law School. He serves as the province’s Consumer Advocate on electricity issues and is a labour arbitrator and mediator. He has been Chair of the province’s Labour Relations Board. In 2008 he was retained to report to a New Brunswick Legislative Committee on amendments to that province’s Industrial Relations Act. In 2018 he was Chair of a Ministerial Task Force of the New Brunswick Government reviewing WorkSafeNB. From 2010 to 2014 he was a member of the 2041 Group who advocated against the Muskrat Falls Project. In 2019 the Consumer Advocate represented ratepayers before the Commission of Inquiry respecting the Muskrat Falls Project.

C. Douglas Bowman, BS, MS
Doug Bowman holds BS and MS degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Buffalo and has over 40 years of experience in the power industry. He specializes in electricity services costing, pricing, contracts, power sector restructuring and markets, and has consulted on projects in over 50 countries and regions including Canada, United States, Mexico, Australia, Central America, the Arab countries, South Asia, Egypt, Mongolia, Serbia, and the Republic of Georgia. For the past 28 years, he has advised the Consumer Advocate in Newfoundland and Labrador on general rate applications, planning, capital budgets and related issues.

Michael Wilson, CA, FCA
Michael Wilson has over 40 years of experience in executive positions at Ernst and Young, including office managing partner in St. John’s and senior partner in Toronto. He has extensive expertise in preparing and reviewing commercial contracts across various sectors and has provided consulting services to governments, sovereign wealth funds, and unions. Additionally, he is a veteran entrepreneur and former president of the St. John’s Board of Trade and Rotary Club of St. John’s East.
Expert Consultant

Guy Holburn
Guy Holburn is a Professor of Business, Economics, and Public Policy at the Ivey Business School, University of Western Ontario. His expertise includes corporate governance, regulation, and business strategy, particularly in the energy and utilities sectors. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and authored numerous reports on energy policies. Dr. Holburn founded and directed the Ivey Energy Policy and Management Centre, and serves as a director of London Hydro, a board member of the Alliance for Research on Corporate Sustainability, and a member of the Council for Clean and Reliable Energy. He has consulted for corporations and governments in Canada and the U.S., providing advice on governance, regulation, competition policy, merger strategy, economic impact, and more. Dr. Holburn holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from the University of California, Berkeley, and a B.A. Hons. from Cambridge University. He previously worked as a management consultant for Bain and Company and the California Public Utilities Commission.

The post Independent Churchill River Negotiation Oversight Panel Launches Webpage appeared first on News Releases.

Gros Morne has become a world-renowned destination for travellers thanks its unique landscapes and cultural heritage. The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced total investments of more than $560,000 for four projects within the Gros Morne region which will help strengthen tourism and sustainable food practices.

The Gros Morne Cooperating Association will receive $500,000 to develop the Gros Morne Culinary and Cultural Hub to enhance visitor experiences, celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador’s rich history, support local businesses and extend the tourism season.

The Town of Norris Point will receive over $46,000 to restore and upgrade the historic Jenniex House to include structural, electrical and accessibility updates while assisting the town with the creation of a tourism development plan.

Bonne Bay Cottage Hospital Heritage Corporation will receive more than $13,000 to develop a feasibility study and business plan for a Good Food Now agrifood project to create a sustainable food system between the Bonne Bay Cottage Hospital Heritage Corporation, local farmers and stakeholders.

The Town of Woody Point will receive $8,000 to conduct a feasibility assessment on the current docking conditions located on the town’s waterfront.

These investments will help stimulate the local economy by enhancing tourism experiences, upgrading equipment and infrastructure, conducting feasibility studies and working to improve local food security.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology provides support to organizations by non-repayable contributions for projects aimed at supporting economic development, innovation and capacity building in all regions of the province.

The Regional Development Fund is comprised of the Regional Development Program and Community Capacity Building program. These two components provide a wide array of supports to non-profit organizations, including industry associations, municipalities, public educational institutions and other non-profit groups including co-operatives and economic development organizations.

Quotes
“The projects we are supporting today are grounded in three pillars of development: economic, social, and environmental sustainability. They will help to provide a unique blend of nature, culture, and authenticity to enhance experiences for both visitors and residents. Our government is pleased to provide this support and I look forward to seeing the results in the coming years.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and MHA for Humber-Gros Morne

“Rural Newfoundland and Labrador has an important role to play in our province’s economy. Our support for these projects will bolster the ongoing sustainable development of Gros Morne’s tourism industry by creating spaces for local vendors to sell their goods, increasing the availability of locally produced food, and providing areas where residents and visitors alike can gather to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Gros Morne’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage have long made it a world-renowned destination for travelers. With a commitment to enhancing visitor experiences and supporting sustainable practices, these investments will further elevate this iconic region. These initiatives will not only strengthen tourism but also contribute to the region’s local economy.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

-30-

Learn more
Regional Development Fund

Follow us on X @GovNL, @IET_GovNL, @TCAR_GovNL

Follow us on Bluesky

Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Announces Support for Gros Morne Tourism Projects appeared first on News Releases.

The Department of Education is advising the public that online registration is now available for the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC). The new assessment was designed to replace the former General Education Development (GED) program.

The Provincial Government has supported the development of this new credential along with other provinces in Canada, and it is now available to adult individuals who want to avail of it for career advancement.

The Canadian Adult Education Credential was developed with input through a provincial-territorial working group, employers, and post-secondary institutions to provide a high-quality, made-in-Canada education credential that meets industry standards as a replacement for the former General Education Development (GED) program. The Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) is for adults who do not have a high school diploma but need an education credential to open new doors to educational or employment opportunities.

Employers, post-secondary institutions and others will be able to count on the credential as a reliable indicator of Canadian adults’ level of educational achievement. The Canadian Adult Education Credential testing is delivered on an easy-to-use online platform. The tests will also support writers requiring access to learning accommodations.

Registration is now available online for the Canadian Adult Education Credential assessment in Newfoundland and Labrador. Additional questions about the credential testing process can be directed to CAEC@gov.nl.ca.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Canadian Adult Education Credential Online Registration Now Available appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, today launched a Guide to Provincial Government Programs and Services to help further promote a vibrant and engaged life for seniors across Newfoundland and Labrador.

The online resource and booklet is designed to provide information on programs, services, and topics that may be of particular interest to seniors and aging adults throughout the province. Separated into eight sections, seniors will now have easier access when looking for information related to health services, financial help, housing and shelter supports.

The Guide to Provincial Government Programs and Services for Seniors is available here.

The guide will also be available to seniors, aging adults and their families from a variety of organizations across the province, such as SeniorsNL. To request printed copies or alternate formats, please email guidetoservices@gov.nl.ca

In September 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador became Canada’s first well-being province. This guide complements initiatives that are already underway to support seniors’ in the province, such as:

• The Seniors Health and Well-Being Plan which includes an Aging Well at Home Grant, the Caregiver Benefit, increased funding for home repair and modification, $500 for food and heating for seniors in coastal Labrador communities and expansion of 211 telephone and navigation service.
• Increasing the Seniors Benefit by 15 per cent, which helps almost 50,000 seniors aged 65 or older.
• Maintaining free driver medicals for people 75+.
• Cutting the provincial fuel tax in half, saving you 8.05 cents per litre (including HST) on gas and diesel.
• A targeted Basic Income Program for people aged 60 to 64.
• An increase of 15 per cent in the Newfoundland and Labrador Income Supplement.
• Grant programs such as the Newfoundland and Labrador Community Transportation Program, Seniors Social Inclusion Initiative and Age-Friendly Newfoundland and Labrador Communities program.

Additional information for these programs can be found in the learn more section below.

The Provincial Government continues its efforts to supporting seniors and older adults to maintain their health, well-being, dignity, and independence.

Quotes
“I am pleased to present this guide as an important resource for seniors and older adults in our province. Our government is focused on supporting seniors to remain healthy, active and engaged in age-friendly and dementia-friendly communities.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“SeniorsNL recognizes the importance of accessible programs and services in supporting seniors across Newfoundland and Labrador. We appreciate the Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the well-being and independence of seniors. The Guide to Programs and Services is a vital resource that will help seniors, their families, caregivers, and health professionals navigate available supports with ease. SeniorsNL is proud to collaborate with the Government to promote and integrate this guide through our Information & Referral Service, Community Outreach and Engagement Program, and Social Prescribing, ensuring seniors have the information and support they need to age well in the right place.”
Kimberly Leonard
Chief Executive Officer, SeniorsNL

-30-

Learn more
Guide to Provincial Government Programs and Services for Seniors

Seniors Health and Well-Being Plan

NL Income Supplement and the NL Seniors’ Benefit

Grant Programs

Follow us on X @GovNL and @CSSD_GovNL

Follow us on Bluesky

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Launches Guide to Programs and Services for Seniors appeared first on News Releases.

On Thursday, March 27 a fire broke out in a six-unit row of homes on Livingstone Street in St. John’s owned by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing. Due to the severity of the damage from this fire, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing will be moving forward with demolition of this row of homes in the interest of public safety.

Only one of the six-units had a tenant at the time of the fire. This tenant has been living in temporary accommodations, and is scheduled to move into another Newfoundland and Labrador Housing unit next week. While repair work was underway, the units were barricaded, as there had been frequent break-ins and vandalism that caused extensive delays.

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing met with contractors this week, and is expected to begin demolition next week. Security has been on-site since March 28, and will remain until this demolition work is completed.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is also providing an update on repair and renovations work. Each year, staff with Newfoundland and Labrador Housing complete an average of 14,000 work orders for routine maintenance, ensuring that more than 5,500 homes are maintained for over 12,000 current tenants province-wide.

Between April 1, 2023 and April 1, 2025, more than 750 provincially owned homes were vacated. When any provincially owned home is vacated it requires some level of repair before it can be redistributed to new tenants. This can range from minor work, such as painting, to major and lengthy structural repairs. During this same timeframe, more than 800 homes were refurbished and made available to families.

There will always be vacancies during this refurbishment process. The current vacancy rate is four percent.

In Budget 2024, the Provincial Government increased the repairs, maintenance and renovations budget for provincially owned homes by $8 million.

Additionally, work is underway on the construction of 32 new provincially-owned homes on Janeway Place in St. John’s, with estimated completion this year. Work is also expected to begin this year on a new 40-unit apartment building in the same area.

Quote
“I would like to express my profound thanks to staff with Newfoundland and Labrador Housing, who go above and beyond to maintain our provincial housing portfolio. The thousands of work orders they complete each year are critical to keeping our homes available to families throughout the province, and we continue to fund major vacancy repairs to ensure that homes that become available can be given to new families as quickly as possible.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Acting Minister of Housing

-30-

Learn more
Like GovNL and NL Housing on Facebook

Follow us on X @GovNL

Follow us on Bluesky

The post Provincial Government Provides Update on Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Units appeared first on News Releases.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) is pleased to recognize a significant anniversary in our province today – 100 years since women gained the right to vote and hold public office. In celebrating this step toward equality, it is also important to recognize it was many more years before those in Labrador as well as Indigenous and racialized women were able to cast their ballots.

Achieving this right for women in Newfoundland and Labrador was an arduous process, having been considered by the House of Assembly twice in the late 1800s and defeated both times. When the issue of the social and economic importance of women’s work and their entitlement to the franchise returned to the Assembly for consideration in the mid-1920’s, the House was persuaded and amendments allowing women the right to vote passed on April 3, 1925.

Members of the CWP NL chapter marked today’s occasion, joining Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor, current and former MHAs, public officials and community leaders who identify as women for an event at Confederation Building, co-hosted by the Speaker of the House of Assembly and the Minister of Women and Gender Equality. Today’s event was the kickoff to other commemorations planned to mark the anniversary over the coming months.

The CWP NL chapter is also pleased to see the unveiling of a new display in the House of Assembly public gallery foyer, honouring a century of remarkable individuals who identify as women and their stories of breaking down barriers to make significant and outstanding contributions in our communities and society. The public is encouraged to visit the House of Assembly to view the display, which will remain in place throughout 2025. Information on visiting the House of Assembly is available here.

The CWP is a network of over 3,000 women Parliamentarians in over 180 Commonwealth national and sub-national Parliaments, with a mission to promote the representation of women in Commonwealth Parliamentary Association branches and women’s full and equal participation in political and parliamentary leadership at all levels. The NL Chapter comprises all MHAs who identify as women elected to the House of Assembly, including:

• Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Member for Placentia – St. Mary’s, Chair of CWP NL Chapter
• Lisa Dempster, Member for Cartwright – L’Anse au Clair
• Pam Parsons, Member for Harbour Grace – Port de Grave
• Helen Conway Ottenheimer, Member for Harbour Main
• Lucy Stoyles, Member for Mount Pearl North
• Sarah Stoodley, Member for Mount Scio
• Siobhan Coady, Member for St. John’s West
• Krista Lynn Howell, Member for St. Barbe – L’Anse aux Meadows
• Lela Evans, Member for Torngat Mountains

Quote
“As Chair of the CWP NL Chapter, I am pleased to join with my CWP colleagues to mark this significant occasion in our history. Today, we stand on the shoulders of women who boldly put themselves forward and were elected to serve before us, starting with Lady Helena Squires who was the first woman elected to serve in our Legislature in 1930. With only 39 other women elected in our Legislature since that time, this anniversary reminds us that we must continue to remain committed to the CWP’s mission of promoting the representation of women.”
Sherry Gambin-Walsh, MHA
Deputy SpeakerChair, CWP NL Chapter

-30-

Learn more
House of Assembly

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

The post Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Recognizes the 100th Anniversary of Women Gaining the Right to Vote & Hold Public Office appeared first on News Releases.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to providing access to capital for entrepreneurs with high-growth potential to build on the significant momentum of the province’s growing tech industry. To support this goal, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced a commitment of $4 million over a five-year period to Sandpiper Ventures Fund II.

Sandpiper is a first-of-its-kind venture capital firm which invests exclusively in Canadian women-led technology companies. Headquartered in Halifax, it supports women tech entrepreneurs with investment, business acumen and hands-on support that is proven to increase their chances of success in the marketplace. Its goal is to create funds that deliver superior returns by investing in founders and start-ups that are intent on changing the world around them.

Sandpiper Ventures Fund I launched in 2020 and closed in 2023, securing more than $20 million for investment in women-led startups. Following the Provincial Government’s investment of $750,000 in the initial fund, Sandpiper Ventures has directly invested $2.17M in two Newfoundland and Labrador women-led companies to date: Swiftsure Innovations and SiftMed Inc.

Swiftsure Innovations was founded by critical care nurse Deanne McCarthy who conceived of a better way to manage intubated patients’ oral health. Her SwishKit system aims to reduce the risk of Ventilator Acquired Pneumonia. SiftMed CEO and co-founder Holly Hill created a system to organize medical files for Independent Medical Examiners. The SiftMed platform uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to sort medical-related documents.

Sandpiper Fund II aims to raise a larger fund with balanced investment from both private and government investors. Sandpiper’s investments will focus on companies with potential to scale globally. It will evaluate companies to ensure that they are building transformative solutions that will have a positive impact beyond pure financial metrics. While Fund II will invest in companies across Canada, the Provincial Government’s $4 million commitment requires Sandpiper to invest at least this amount in companies in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This contribution to Sandpiper Fund II demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting promising women-led companies in Newfoundland and Labrador’s rapidly growing tech sector, and to driving broad and inclusive economic growth and development that can benefit the province as a whole. Female-founded companies perform 63 per cent better than those founded by males, and women-led teams generate a 35 per cent higher return on Investment than all-male teams.

Quotes
“Sandpiper Ventures’ unique approach is delivering promising results while directly supporting women-led tech companies. Investments such as this are essential to fostering a more diverse economy and are a key factor in our decision to invest in Sandpiper Ventures Fund II. This investment will make capital available to promising Newfoundland and Labrador startups, while advancing our goal of making our province the top destination in North America to start a tech company.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

”When women thrive, economies grow. Investing in women-led businesses isn’t just about equality – it’s about unlocking innovation, driving economic success, and creating stronger communities for everyone.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for the Office of Women and Gender Equality

“We’re proud to have the support of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, who share our vision for building capacity and accelerating women-led innovation. Their investment in Sandpiper Ventures Fund II strengthens our robust pipeline of high-potential companies in the province – fueling economic growth, advancing equity, and driving innovation exactly when it matters most.”
Rhiannon Davies
Founder and Managing Partner, Sandpiper Ventures

-30-

Learn more
Sandpiper Ventures

Follow us on X @IET_GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

Follow us on Bluesky

Like us on Facebook

The post Provincial Government Supports Women-led Tech Companies with Significant Investment appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, today announced that the Department of Education will purchase copies of Them Days to be made available in high schools in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Them Days began in 1973 as part of a project by the Labrador Heritage Society. Following its incorporation as a registered charity, its mission statement is dedicated to keeping the history of Labrador alive by documenting and preserving the old ways and early days of Labrador. Them Days magazine publishes a quarterly oral history focused on Labrador and maintain an archive of Labrador-related material with an office located in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

The Department of Education will purchase 212 digital copies of the quarterly magazine to be made available in all high schools.

The Provincial Government is always looking at educational opportunities which teach and preserve culture and heritage. This is aligned with Cultural Connections, a provincial fine arts and cultural strategy for K-12 education in Newfoundland and Labrador. This initiative aims to increase the presence of cultural content in the school curriculum and foster links between the arts and school communities.

In addition, the Provincial Government announced in June 2024 that a Newfoundland and Labrador Studies course, now offered as an elective in the high school curriculum in public schools, will become a graduation requirement for students who begin high school in September 2027.

Quotes
“Learning about all aspects of our province’s rich culture is important for students as part of their educational experience. Them Days is a vital publication that preserves the vibrant history of Labrador, and we are happy to place digital copies in high schools to ensure students have access to the vast catalogue of information and resources that the quarterly magazine provides.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education

“Bringing Them Days into the classroom is an important way to showcase Labrador’s distinct culture to a new generation of students throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. This initiative will offer our high school students a new tool to learn first-hand about Labrador’s extensive history and show how Them Days has been the keeper of Labrador cultural stories, traditions and history for the last 50 years.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister of Environment and Climate Change

-30-

Learn more
Them Days

Cultural Connections

Newfoundland and Labrador Studies Course to Become Graduation Requirement for High School Students

The post Renowned Labrador Magazine Them Days to be Available in Provincial High Schools appeared first on News Releases.

The Government has advised the Speaker to reconvene the House of Assembly on Wednesday, April 9 at 2 p.m. (1:30 p.m. in most of Labrador) for the resumption of the spring sitting in accordance with the 2025 parliamentary calendar.

Proceedings throughout the spring sitting will broadcast live via the House of Assembly television channel and streamed via the House of Assembly website and social media channels (Facebook and YouTube).

-30-

Media contact
Mark Jerrett
House of Assembly
709-729-6943
markjerrett@gov.nl.ca

The post Resumption of the House of Assembly appeared first on News Releases.

On April 3, 1925, women in the Dominion of Newfoundland achieved the right to vote and hold public office. This happened because women like Armine Gosling, Fannie McNeil, Lady Jeannette Thorburn, Emma Peters, Myra Campbell and Agnes Ayre, led the suffrage movement, facing resistance, ridicule and countless barriers. They rallied and demanded change – not just for themselves, but for future generations.

Today at Confederation Building, the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for the Office of Women and Gender Equality, and the Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, were joined by Her Honour The Honourable Joan Marie Aylward, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, to mark the 100th anniversary of this milestone in our province’s history.

The celebration recognized remarkable women from our province, including those who have served in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, the 40 women who have served in the House of Assembly in the past 100 years, those from this province who have served in the House of Commons and the Senate, as well as the Chief Justice of Newfoundland and Labrador. The event also recognized public servants in the Legislative, Executive and Judicial branches of government.

Women and gender-diverse individuals have always been at the heart of progress in Newfoundland and Labrador, driving change in our communities, workplaces and homes. They lead businesses, care for families, break barriers in science and technology, advocate for human rights and shape our future in politics and governance.

Quotes
“The right to vote and hold public office is not just a privilege – it is a responsibility. It is a call to action. It is a reminder that democracy flourishes when all voices are included, and when every individual has a seat at the table. Regardless of background, race or circumstance, every woman, girl and gender-diverse person can lead, vote and be heard.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“The House of Assembly was pleased to partner with the Office of Women and Gender Equality to host today’s event, commemorating such a significant and important anniversary in our history. Today, we came together to celebrate a century of remarkable individuals who identify as women and their stories of breaking down barriers to make significant and outstanding contributions in our communities and society.”
Honourable Derek Bennett
Speaker of the House of Assembly

-30-

Learn more
Office of Women and Gender Equality

House of Assembly

Follow us on X @GovNL and @WGE_GovNL

Like us on Facebook

The post Province Celebrates the 100th Anniversary of Women Achieving the Right to Vote and Hold Public Office appeared first on News Releases.

More than $316 million has been announced for highway construction projects for 2025-26, as part of the Provincial Government’s Multi-Year Provincial Roads Plan. This investment is part of the $1.4 billion over five years in improvements to provincial roads and highways announced in 2023.

The Roads Plan outlines a list of highway construction projects planned for the 2025-26 highway construction season and a partial list of projects planned for 2026-27. In addition to major highways and regional trunk roads, the plan also includes many provincially owned local roads. More details on these projects can be found in the backgrounder below.

The Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister of Rural Economic Development, will be available to speak to media about the Roads Plan today (Thursday, April 3) in the East Block Lobby, Confederation Building, beginning at 2:00 p.m. He will be joined by Kris Mulcahy, Executive Director, Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.

In December of last year, residents were encouraged to provide information on roads to be considered for the plan such as region, route name or number, the nearest municipality or landmark, and the type of road issue being experienced. Over 200 suggestions were received. This information was considered along with technical input from the department’s engineers to help finalize this year’s plan.

Other significant factors in determining the list of highway construction projects selected for the plan include the impacts of climate change; commercial, industry and tourism impacts; daily traffic volumes; speed; road condition ratings; and populations serviced.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has already begun issuing tenders for road construction work to begin this construction season. Tenders have been issued for various projects including:

• Rehabilitation of Northwest Gander River Bridge (Route 360);
• Rehabilitation of Main Tickle Bridge (Route 340);
• Road Rehabilitation Avalon (Route 100);
• Road Rehabilitation Avalon (Routes 70, 70-20 and 72);
• Bridge Rehabilitation Central (Routes 340, 340-65, 360, and 390); and,
• Road Rehabilitation on Trans Canada Highway Western from Mollichignuck Brook towards Doyles.

The department will continue issuing tenders throughout the next few months in preparation for the upcoming construction season.

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

As the road construction season approaches, motorists are asked to remain vigilant, slow down and exercise caution when travelling through construction zones. Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca or the nl511 app.

Quotes
“We recognize that roads infrastructure is critical to the social and economic well-being of residents, communities, and businesses throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Again, this year, we have a balanced approach for addressing that infrastructure in our Roads Plan, supported by our government’s unprecedented multi-year funding commitment of $1.4 billion over five years announced in 2023. We are also pleased to continue our collaboration with the Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador as we approach construction season.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Rural Economic Development

“Our association is encouraged to see that government is continuing its efforts to share provincial infrastructure priorities with the industry and the public. These updates, along with multi-year planning and timely tender releases, are key to supporting a strong and coordinated construction season. When project timelines are communicated clearly, contractors and their partners across the province can better prepare, ensuring that staffing, training, and investments are aligned with the work ahead. As we approach the upcoming season, we remain committed to working closely with government to help deliver infrastructure that strengthens communities and supports economic growth across Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Kris Mulcahy
Executive Director, Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador

-30-

BACKGROUNDER

Route Route Name Description 2025-26 2026-27 1 Trans Canada Highway Culvert replacements/rehabilitations between Whitbourne and St. John’s ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Mill and fill sections between Whitbourne and St. John’s ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Streetlight and median repairs Outer Ring Road near Carrick Drive ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Roaches Line underpass ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Foxtrap overpass ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Paving section Galway Interchange ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Manual’s River feeder canal westbound ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Leech Brook Bridge ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Paving sections near Grand Falls ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Badger Brook Bridge ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Big Junction Brook Bridge ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Paving sections near Birchy Narrows ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Paving sections between Springdale and Baie Verte   ● 1 Trans Canada Highway Paving sections between Glenwood and Lewisporte ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Little Junction Brook Bridge ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Middle Brook Bridge ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Rehabilitate Dark Hole Brook Bridge ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Removal of Port aux Basques Marine Atlantic overpass ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Paving Section between Gallants and Burgeo Highway ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Paving section between Doyles and Mollichignick Brook Bridge ● ● 1 Trans Canada Highway Replace Deer Lake Tailrace Bridge ● ● 1 Trans Canada Highway Replace bin walls Massey Drive ●   1 Trans Canada Highway Improvements to White’s Road interchange   ● 1 Trans Canada Highway Construct passing lanes Port aux Basques ● ● 1 Trans Canada Highway Replace Port aux Basques Marine Atlantic overpass ● ● 3 Robert E Howlett Memorial Dr Rehabilitate Cochrane Pond underpass ●   10 Southern Shore Highway Paving section between St. Shott’s and Trepassey ●   10 Southern Shore Highway Paving sections near Peter’s River   ● 10 Southern Shore Highway Replace Witless Bay Bridge   ● 10 Southern Shore Highway Rehabilitate Tors Cove Bridge ●   11 Petty Harbour/Maddox Cove Road Paving section   ● 11 Petty Harbour/Maddox Cove Road Replace culvert Petty Harbour ●   20 Torbay Road Replace Pouch Cove Bridge   ● 20 Torbay Road Paving a section between Flatrock and Pouch Cove ●   41 Beachy Cove Road Paving section ●   41 Beachy Cove Road Slope stabilization near Ferry Terminal ●   50 Thorburn Road at St. Thomas’ Line Replace Broad Cove Brook Bridge ●   50 Thorburn Road Paving section ●   60 Conception Bay Highway Paving sections near Topsail Beach and Holyrood ●   70 Baccalieu Trail Replace Double Brook Bridge   ● 70 Baccalieu Trail Replace Ochre Pit Brook Bridge ●   70 Baccalieu Trail Replace seawall Spaniard’s Bay ●   70 Baccalieu Trail Paving sections Old Perlican to Bay de Verde ●   70 Baccalieu Trail Paving section near Holy Redeemer School ●   72 Bareneed Road Replace retaining walls in Port de Grave ●   80 Trinity South Highway Replace Whiteway Bridge ● ● 80 Trinity South Highway Paving sections between Cavendish and New Melborne ● ● 81 Markland Road Rehabilitate sections ●   90 Salmonier Line Replace North Arm River Bridge ● ● 90 Salmonier Line Paving sections New Bridge to Riverhead ●   91 Old Placentia Bay Highway Southeast Placentia ●   93 Mount Carmel Road Replace Store Gully Bridge   ● 94 Admiral’s Beach Road Replace culvert ●   102 Ship Harbour Road Paving section Ship Harbour ●   201 Main Road Bellevue Replace Chapel Arm Bridge No. 3 ●   210 Burin Peninsula Highway Culvert replacements ●   210 Burin Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate Long Pond Brook Bridge ●   210 Burin Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate Red Harbour River West Bridge ●   210 Burin Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate Grand Bank Brook Bridge ●   212 Harbour Mille Road Paving section near Jacques Fontaine ●   213 Main Street, Frenchman’s Cove Rehabilitate Frenchman’s Cove Bridge ●   215 Petite Forte Road Replace Boat Harbour Bridge ●   220 Grand Bank to St. Lawrence Paving section near Epworth ●   221 Main Street Burin Road Paving section near Burin ●   221 Main Street Burin Road Paving sections near Port au Bras ●   222 Winterland Road Paving section ● ● 230 Bonavista Peninsula Highway Replace culvert Morley’s Siding ●   230 Bonavista Peninsula Highway Paving section near Lethbridge ●   230 Bonavista Peninsula Highway Paving section near Bonavista ●   231 Random Island Road Rehabilitate Random Island Causeway Bridge ●   231 Random Island Road Paving section near Random Heights ●   235 Southern Bay to Cape Bonavista Paving section near Stock Cove ●   235 Southern Bay to Cape Bonavista Replace culverts Bonavista ●   235 Southern Bay to Cape Bonavista Culvert replacements Open Hall to King’s Cove ●   320 Bonavista North Highway Paving section near Hare Bay ●   320 Bonavista North Highway Replace culvert near Trinity ●   330 Gander Bay Highway Replace Windmill Brook Bridge North ●   330 Gander Bay Highway Replace Windmill Brook Bridge South ●   340 Road to the Isles Paving section Lewisporte to Loon Bay ●   340 Road to the Isles Rehabilitate Shoal Tickle Bridge ●   340 Road to the Isles Rehabilitate Main Tickle Bridge ●   340 Road to the Isles Rehabilitate Southwest Brook Bridge ●   340 Road to the Isles Paving section near Summerford ●   340 Road to the Isles Paving section near Lobster Harbour ●   345 Moreton’s Harbour Road Rehabilitation near Tizzard’s Harbour Road   ● 350 Botwood Highway Paving section near Botwood ●   350 Botwood Highway Replace culvert near Northern Arm Depot ●   350 Botwood Highway Replace culvert near Mill Pond ●   351 Old TCH Replace culvert Middle Brook near Norris Arm ●   360 Bay D’Espoir Highway Replace Conne River Bridge ● ● 360 Bay D’Espoir Highway Paving section   ● 360 Bay D’Espoir Highway Rehabilitae Bernard’s Brook Bridge   ● 361 St. Albans Road Rehabilitate Bay D-Espoir Causeway Bridge ●   362 Belleoram Road Replace culvert near St. Jaques ●   362 Belleoram Road Paving sections ● ● 363 Coomb’s Cove Road Replace culvert Coombs Cove Road ●   370 Buchans Highway Paving sections ● ● 370 Buchans Highway Replace Little Red Indian Brook Bridge ● ● 380 Pilley’s Island Road Pave section near Pilley’s Island ●   390 Springdale Road Rehabilitate Indian Brook Bridge ●   401 Howley Road Paving section ●   404 Robinson’s Road Paving sections ●   405 Highland’s Road Paving sections ●   410 Baie Verte Road Paving section near Flatwater Pond Park   ● 411 Westport Road Replace culvert near Pound Cove ●   414 La Scie Highway Paving sections ●   415 Nippers Harbour Road Slope stabilization ●   417 Pacquet Road Replace culvert Pacquet Road ●   420 Jackson’s Arm Road Rehabilitate Main River Bridge ●   420 Jackson’s Arm Road Rehabilitate Gile’s Brook Bridge ●   420 Jackson’s Arm Road Paving sections ●   421 Road to the Beaches Rehabilitate Rocky Brook Bridge ●   421 Road to the Beaches Rehabilitate Rushy Brook Bridge ●   431 Trout River Road Pave sections between Glenburnie and Woody Point   ● 432 Main Brook Highway Paving section ●   432 Main Brook Highway Rehabilitate West Brook Bridge ● ● 432 Main Brook Highway Rehabilitate Roses Brook Bridge ● ● 436 Lanse aux Meadows Road Rehabilitate Upper Brook Bridge ● ● 436 Lanse aux Meadows Road Rehabilitate Bartlett’s River Bridge ●   437 Cape Onion Road Rehabilitate Eastern Brook Pond Bridge ●   440 North Shore Highway Replace Ballam’s River Bridge   ● 450 South Shore Highway Slope stabilization ●   450 South Shore Highway Paving section ●   462 Mattis Point Road Slope stabilization Fox Island River ●   462 Mattis Point Road Paving section Fox Island River ●   470 LaPoile Highway Paving section near Rose Blanche ●   480 Burgeo Highway Rehabilitate Burnt Pond Bridge ●   480 Burgeo Highway Rehabilitate Dry Pond Brook Bridge ●   480 Burgeo Highway Rehabilitate Lloyd’s River Bridge ●   480 Burgeo Highway Replace culverts near Top Pond Brook Bridge ●   480 Burgeo Highway Paving sections near Top Pond ●   500 Trans Labrador Highway Replace culverts at Ossokmanuan Reservoir Causeway ●   500 Trans Labrador Highway Replace Demille River culverts ●   510 Southern Labrador Highway Rehabilitate Veteran’s Memorial Bridge ●   514 Charlottetown Junction Rehabilitate Charlottetown Access Road ●   520 North West River Road Replace Goose River Bridge   ● 520 North West River Road Paving section near Gosling Lake ●   520 North West River Road Paving section Hamilton River Road ●   100-6 Freshwater Crescent Paving section Freshwater ●   100A Argentia Access Road – Collector Rehabilitation of Fitzgerald’s Pond culverts ●   100A Argentia Access Road – Collector Paving section Dunville ●   100B Argentia Access Road – NHS Paving sections Branch to Point Verde ● ● 100B Argentia Access Road – NHS Replace St. Bride’s Bridge North ● ● 10-34 Brigus South Road Replace culverts ●   10-36 Harbour Road Rehabilitate Dean’s Road Bridge ●   201-10 Bear Hill Road Replace Chapel Arm Bridge No. 2 ●   201-10 Bear Hill Road Rehabilitate Chapel Arm Bridge   ● 204-19-1 Lower Road Gooseberry Cove Replace culvert Gooseberry Cove ●   204-19-3 Gooseberry Cove Road Road realignment Gooseberry Cove ●   210-10-3 Old Mill Road Goobies Rehabilitate Old Mill Road Bridge ●   210-19 Main Road Baine Harbour Replace retaining wall Baine Harbour ●   210-21 Rushoon Access Road Rehabilitate Rushoon River Bridge ●   210-23-4 Peter Coady’s Rd Jean de Baie Replace Jean De Baie Bridge ●   2-1-6 Come by Chance Access Road Replace culvert Come by Chance ●   220-10 Little Bay to Beau Bois Road Paving section Little Bay ●   220-10 Little Bay to Beau Bois Road Paving sections near Beau Bois   ● 220A Mcgettigan Boulevard Replace Marystown Harbour (Canning) Bridge ● ● 220A Mcgettigan Boulevard Canning Bridge bypass ●   220A Mcgettigan Boulevard Replace Marystown underpass ● ● 230A Memorial Drive Replace George’s Brook Bridge ●   231-16 Hickman’s Harbour Road Replace retaining wall Hickman’s Harbour ●   2A CBS Bypass – Peacekeepers Way Replace culvert Lawerence Pond interchange ●   2A CBS Bypass – Peacekeepers Way Rehabilitation Route 001/002 interchange underpasses ●   2B Pitts Memorial Rehabilitate CNR Viaduct ●   2B Pitts Memorial Rehabilitate Blackhead Road overpass ●   2B Pitts Memorial Road upgrade including storm sewer, curb and gutter, guide rail and paving ● ● 30-12 Old Marine Drive Realignment Marine Drive ●   310-41 St. Brendan’s Road Granular resurfacing St. Brendan’s ●   3-1-6 Benton Road Paving section Benton ●   320-36 NewWesValley Road Rehabilitate Spurrell’s Island Bridge ●   320-36 NewWesValley Road Paving section   ● 330-14 Ladle Cove Road Paving section ●   330-28 Cape Freel’s Road Paving section   ● 362-10 Pool’s Cove Road Paving section ●   3A Team Gushue Highway Team Gushue Highway ● ● 40-15 Bauline Line Extension Paving section ●   414-17 Pond Road Rehabilitate Shoe Cove North Bridge ●   420-10 Pollard’s Point Road Rehabilitate Pollard’s Point Bridge ●   430-76 Great Brehat Road Paving section St. Anthony-Bight ●   430 Northern Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate West River Bridge ●   430 Northern Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate Bartlett’s Brook Arch ●   430 Northern Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate Parker’s River Bridge ●   430 Northern Peninsula Highway Paving sections between Black Duck Cove and Green Island Cove ● ● 430 Northern Peninsula Highway Paving sections Bonne Bay to Wiltondale ● ● 430 Northern Peninsula Highway Rehabilitate Castor River Bridge ●   430 Northern Peninsula Highway Paving section near St. Anthony ●   430 Northern Peninsula Highway Replace culvert near Hawke’s Bay   ● 430 Northern Peninsula Highway Paving sections St. Paul’s ● ● 430 Northern Peninsula Highway Paving sections near Three Mile Rock ● ● 430 Northern Peninsula Highway Remove White Hills Road Bridge ●   450-1 Lewin Parkway Rehabilitate Humber Road overpasses ●   50-25 Bennett’s Road and Broad Cove Road Paving section ●   70-16 Bishops Cove Road Paving section ●   70-17 Crane’s Road Paving section ●   70-20 Bryant’s Cove Road Paving sections ● ● 92-10 Southside Road Rehabilitate sections ●     Bell Island Paving sections of Bell Island ●      Placentia Paving sections of Jerseyside, Freshwater and Southeast ●      Codroy Valley Paving sections Codroy Valley Area ●     Bay St. George Paving sections Bay St. George South Area ●  

 

The post Projects Announced for the 2025-26 Multi-Year Roads Plan   appeared first on News Releases.

Applications are now open for the Voyage Program for Grade 9 students in the K-12 public education system. The deadline for applications is April 11, 2025.

This three-week summer bursary program is available for Grade 9 students in core French or in immersion. Students at all levels of French (beginner to advanced), who meet the eligibility requirements, are encouraged to apply for this unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a French-speaking environment in Quebec. The program offers beginner and advanced French language classes, along with engaging cultural activities and excursions conducted entirely in French.

The Department of Education is collaborating with Collège de Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pocatière in La Pocatière, Québec, for summer 2025.

The bursaries are awarded directly to the post-secondary institution hosting the program and covers the cost of tuition, room and board, instructional materials, and all compulsory activities.

Parents, students and teachers with questions about the Voyage French Summer program can contact voyage@gov.nl.ca.

The Voyage French Summer Program is made possible through funding received through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on Minority Language Education and Second Official Language Instruction.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Applications Open for the Voyage French Summer Program appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, and the Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, will be joined by Her Honour The Honourable Joan Marie Aylward, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women achieving the right to vote and hold public office.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 3, at 10:00 a.m. in the main lobby of the East Block, Confederation Building.

-30-

The post Media Advisory: Province to Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Women Achieving the Right to Vote and Hold Public Office appeared first on News Releases.

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, today announced approvals though the Harvester Enterprise Loan Program, which was launched in July 2024. It expands support for independent fish harvesters and positions the sector for future success.

To date, the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation (IBIC) has approved the following under the program:

• $3.11 million in loan guarantees
• $474,000 in down payment loans
• $269,000 in interest rebates

The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program supports the development of the province’s independent fish harvesting industry through loan guarantees, down-payment loans and interest rebates to fish harvesters.

Qualified harvesters applying for a loan with an eligible financial institution that will be guaranteed by the Provincial Government may be eligible to receive a down-payment loan through the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, as well an interest rebate to reduce financing costs associated with the loan from the financial institution.

Harvesters interested in applying for the program should complete an application form available on the Harvester Enterprise Loan Program website and contact their local financial institution to inquire about obtaining a loan to be guaranteed by the Provincial Government. The financial institution will subsequently coordinate the application with the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology regarding the loan guarantee, and the department will coordinate with the harvester directly regarding the down-payment loan and interest rebate.

The program represents an investment of up to $10 million towards the down-payment loans and up to $5 million for the interest rebates. Approvals will be based on budget availability and applications will be reviewed on a first come, first served basis.

The program offers increased loan guarantees of up to $2 million for license acquisition, $3 million for vessel-only related items, and $4 million for combining of enterprises. Guaranteed loans are negotiated between the harvester and their financial institution, and must comply with certain conditions, such as a limit on the interest being charged to the harvester.

The Harvester Enterprise Loan Program is the latest initiative the Provincial Government has undertaken to position the province’s fishing industry for future success. Other initiatives include:

• Permitting outside buyers to apply for fish buyer licences for seafood products harvested in this province.
• Increasing processing capacity for the crab fishery based on an increased Total Allowable Catch for 2024.
• Establishing a 10-point plan to advance free enterprise in the fishing sector with strengthened controls over corporate concentration.

These measures are in addition to ongoing advocacy to the Federal Government on management decisions and funding of projects through the federal-provincial Atlantic Fisheries Fund.

The Innovation and Business Investment Corporation (IBIC) operates as a Crown corporation reporting to the Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology. It was established on May 31, 2018, under the Innovation and Business Investment Corporation Act.

Quote
“It’s important that we continue to provide practical solutions to the challenges our fish harvesters face. This enhanced loan program positions our harvesters and our fishing industry towards long-term prosperity.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

-30-

Learn more
Harvesters Enterprise Loan Program

Follow us on X @GovNL and @FFA_GovNLLike us on Facebook

The post Approvals Announced Through Harvester Enterprise Loan Program appeared first on News Releases.

The Provincial Government is calling for proposals for projects under the Newfoundland and Labrador Settlement and Integration Grants program. The program is a key part of immigration retention efforts by supporting the social, economic and cultural integration of newcomers to the province.

Priority will be given to projects that support the direct delivery of settlement services to newcomers, regardless of immigration status, and support labour market attachment and economic immigration.

Organizations eligible for project funding include:

• Non-profit organizations
• Post-secondary institutions
• Municipalities
• Indigenous governing bodies

The full Newfoundland and Labrador Settlement and Integration Grant guidelines are available online here.

Applications will be assessed as received and must be submitted through the Labour Market Programs Support System (LaMPSS). Applications will begin being accepted at 12:00 p.m. NDT on Friday, April 4, 2025.  All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. NDT on Friday, May 2, 2025.

To support organizations interested in applying for program funding, a virtual training session on how to navigate LaMPSS will be offered at 10:00 a.m. NDT on Friday, April 11, 2025. More sessions may be added as needed. Anyone who would like to attend the information session or ask questions about this call for proposals is encouraged to contact the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism at settlement@gov.nl.ca.

-30-

The post Public Advisory: Call for Proposals Issued for Newcomer Settlement and Integration Grants appeared first on News Releases.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has released Report A-2025-020 under authority of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015. A summary of the Report is included below.

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

Report: A-2025-020 Report Date: March 31, 2025 Public Body: City of St. John’s Summary: The Complainant made an access to information request to the City of St. John’s seeking records about themselves and an address. The City’s search produced more than 400 pages of records. Upon review, the City determined that some of the information should be withheld pursuant to sections 29(1)(a) (policy advice), 30(1) (legal advice), and 40(1) (disclosure harmful to personal privacy). The Complainant asserted that the City had not met its duty to assist by not disclosing all records that exist. Further, the Complainant claimed that the material withheld by the City should be disclosed. This Office reviewed the material and determined that the City had met its duty to assist the Complainant. Moreover, the Complainant did not substantiate their claim that additional records existed. During our investigation, the City disclosed to the Complainant information previously withheld under section 29. On review of the information withheld under section 30(1), this Office determined that the use of that section was applicable.

-30-

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

The post Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner – Report A-2025-020 Released appeared first on News Releases.