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 Proud. Strong. Determined. The Future is Ours. These powerful words are not just about our team; they are reflective of the people of this province as a whole. Nowhere on earth will you find such fierce pride, such strength of character and such determined spirit as right here in Newfoundland and Labrador. With these characteristics as our foundation, we are ready to advance the work we have started together. The future is indeed ours for the taking.
'Proud. Strong. Determined. The Future is Ours' encapsulates the most vibrant and self-sustaining characteristics of our people and this place we love so much. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are marching boldly towards a brighter, more prosperous and self-reliant future, and I have been honoured and blessed to lead the province during the past four years. This province has never been better positioned to take advantage of the opportunities before us, and through our collective strength and determination, we will succeed.
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 Consultations: Mines Safety Regulations
With the goal of ensuring safety in mines, the Williams government is seeking input into new Mines Safety of Workers Regulations. The Occupational Health and Safety Branch is also looking for input into the new Safety Standard for Mine Hoisting Operations.
Consultation page
 Honouring Cpl. Brian Pinksen
Premier Danny Williams said, "Words cannot express the profound grief of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as we learned of the death of Corporal Brian Pinksen of Corner Brook, who succumbed to injuries he sustained while serving his country in Afghanistan."
 Municipal infrastructure
To support the long-term sustainability of communities and strengthen municipal services, the Williams government will invest approximately $10 million to support 32 new municipal infrastructure initiatives.
 Cupids 400
The Town of Cupids is on the national and international stage Aug 17.10 as the 400th anniversary of the birthplace of English Canada is officially recognized with a series of events to celebrate the milestone occasion. See also www.cupids400.com
 Honouring Danny Cleary
Premier Danny Williams was in Harbour Grace Aug 17.10 at the Danny Cleary Lookout on the Veterans Memorial Highway, to unveil an interpretative panel and commemorative print honouring Harbour Grace native Danny Cleary - a member of the 2008 Stanley Cup Champions, the Detroit Red Wings, and the first Newfoundlander and Labradorian to win hockey's most coveted prize – the National Hockey League's Stanley Cup.
 Premier expresses support
Premier Danny Williams expressed heartfelt concern and support for Provincial Leader of the Official Opposition and MHA for Cartwright - L'Anse au Clair, Yvonne Jones, who announced August 13 she was battling breast cancer and would undergo surgery the following week. "I was terribly saddened to hear that Ms. Jones has been diagnosed with this terrible disease," said Premier Williams. "Cancer is sadly something that has touched us all in some way or another, and is never an easy thing for individuals and their loved ones to face. However, having worked for a number of years with Ms. Jones in the Provincial Legislature, I know first hand what a determined, strong and courageous woman she is; and I am confident that she will face this challenge with the utmost strength and dignity. I wish her nothing but the best in the time ahead and I offer my prayers for a speedy and full recovery."
 Firefighting vehicles
Eleven communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador will benefit from an investment by the Williams government of approximately $2.5 million for new firefighting vehicles under the Fire Protection Infrastructure Program.
Thoughts and prayers
Premier Danny Williams has expressed his deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the four individuals who lost their lives during a boating incident off Twillingate on July 17, 2010.
 Lower Churchill benefits
The Lower Churchill Construction Projects Benefits Strategy released July 14, 2010 by the Williams government will ensure opportunities for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador during the construction phase of the Lower Churchill development. The strategy includes at least 21.5 million person hours of construction employment on two hydroelectric developments at Gull Island and Muskrat Falls, as well as the Labrador-Island Transmission Link, and at least 6.5 million in engineering and project management person hours and specific Gender Equity and Diversity Programs.
Benefits Strategy
 Fisheries MOU
Fisheries and Aquaculture minister Clyde Jackman has provided an update on the Memorandum of Understanding signed July 11, 2009 by the Fish, Food and Allied Workers, Association of Seafood Producers and provincial government. The parties to the MOU have been working together to develop proposals through working groups and a steering committee that is chaired by Professor Tom Clift of Memorial University's School of Business. There are working groups on harvesting, processing and seafood marketing. The working groups will finalize their analysis over the next month. Their work will then be presented to the steering committee. The committee will develop recommendations to submit to the minister through a report that will be completed by Professor Clift, and submitted in September.
 Long-term care home in Happy Valley-Goose Bay
Enhancing and strengthening the long-term care system remains a priority for the Williams government and is evident with the opening of a new long-term care home in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The one-level, 50-bed long-term care facility is adjacent to the Labrador Health Centre and features four wings, one of which is a 13-bed protective care unit for dementia care patients. The facility also has a chapel, which converts to a multi-purpose room, and a rehabilitation room. Residents of the Paddon Home moved into the new long-term care home on June 29, 2010.
 NL fisheries science
Having relied for decades upon the research of the federal government and others, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced substantial investments which will significantly expand long-term fisheries science capabilities for the province. Included in the $14 million announcement by Premier Danny Williams is $5.25 million to charter an offshore fisheries research vessel.  This marks the first time in Newfoundland and Labrador's history that the province will solely fund and deploy a fisheries science vessel. In addition, the Williams government will invest in a suite of new fisheries science research programs, including the establishment of a new Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research. The province will work with Memorial University and its Fisheries and Marine Institute to develop and implement these programs.
Also: High level of commitment to fishing industry ongoing (Jul 6.10)
 Growth
Newfoundland and Labrador's population continues to rise, according to the latest estimates from Statistics Canada released earlier this week. It's the fourth quarter in a row that Newfoundland and Labrador has posted population growth, and the seventh consecutive quarter in which the province experienced positive net migration, resulting in a gain of 5,059 people through net in-migration over that period.
 Memorial Day
Tourism, Culture and Recreation minister Terry French is representing the provincial government at the pilgrimage to Beaumont-Hamel in remembrance of the Battle of the Somme. He will attend a July 1 Memorial Day ceremony at Beaumont-Hamel and visit Caribou Memorials to the Royal Newfoundland Regiment located in Beaumont-Hamel, Monchy-le-Preux, Gueudecourt, Masnières, and Courtrai, all sites of significant engagements by the Regiment during World War I.  Additionally, the minister will visit the Canadian Memorial at Vimy Ridge, and participate in the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres.
Remembering July 1, 1916
Premier to lay wreath at Memorial Day ceremonies
Minister to participate in Ottawa wreath laying ceremony
 Tax reductions
New tax reductions that will save Newfoundlanders and Labradorians approximately $37 million annually come into effect July 1, 2010. "The reductions that take effect on July 1 of this year fulfill our ongoing commitment to maintain the lowest rates of personal income tax in Atlantic Canada," said Finance minister Tom Marshall.
 Minimum wage up
Effective July 1, 2010, the provincial minimum wage increases by 50 cents to $10.00 per hour - the final step of the Williams government's 2007 Blueprint commitment of achieving a minimum wage of $10 by '10.
 House of Assembly
Government House Leader Joan Burke has expressed her satisfaction with the spring sitting of the House of Assembly, with the passing of 31 pieces of legislation over 43 days. Key bills include the Children and Youth Care and Protection Act, the Human Rights Act, and the Health and Protection of Animals Act. "This was a long session that saw a tremendous amount of work accomplished, and I would like to acknowledge all members of the House of Assembly for their participation and valued contribution in this session's debate."
2010 Throne Speech |
Budget
House links |
House site
 Immigration
The Williams government has launched a collection of video testimonials by immigrants to Newfoundland and Labrador. These testimonials provide insight into what attracts newcomers to our province and their experiences living and working here. As part of the provincial Immigration Strategy (Diversity ~ Opportunity and Growth) launched in March 2007, efforts are underway to promote Newfoundland and Labrador as a destination of choice for prospective immigrants to Canada.
Immigration Strategy
 Mental health and addictions
Six mental health and addictions community groups throughout Newfoundland and Labrador will benefit from $225,000 in annualized core funding announced by the Williams government June 23, 2010. This funding will support community groups that are helping people on a daily basis to improve their lives and help overcome their mental health and addictions issues.
Also: Mental health issues to be discussed at public forum (Jun 23.10)
 e-Health
The Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador have announced a combined investment of $370,000 to assist the EXCITE Corporation in Grand Falls-Windsor launch an initiative designed to develop the region's e-health sector. The first step will be to establish a nationally accredited e-health training program at College of the North Atlantic in Grand Falls-Windsor. Once that is in place, the project plan will include a jurisdictional review and an industry scan, as well as curriculum development for the training program. The second objective of the project will be to develop and implement an action plan supporting the establishment of the e-health industry in Grand Falls-Windsor. This will involve the identification of key industry players with significant e-health practices; and the selection of at least six potential projects with these identified industry partners.
 National Aboriginal Day
National Aboriginal Day is a recognition of the contributions made by First Nations, Inuit and Metis people. On Monday, June 21, Aboriginal Affairs minister Patty Pottle is encouraging all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to participate in the celebration.
 Economic forum in Russia
Exploring areas of common interest, building relationships and studying emergence from the global economic crisis were the highlights of a trip to Saint Petersburg, Russia this week by Premier Danny Williams. The Premier was in Russia attending the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), held from June 17 to 19. "This trip represented an excellent opportunity not only to promote Newfoundland and Labrador on the international stage, but also to establish key contacts in areas of common interest with the Russians," said Premier Williams. "The conference focused heavily on financial realities as we emerge from the world recession. It was particularly interesting to hear the perspective of the President of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev, who discussed his country's modernization plan. It included many of the steps our government initiated over the past several years, including tax cuts, debt reduction, broadband access, focusing on innovation and R&D, focusing on energy efficiency and improving the investment climate."
Premier Williams attending Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum in Russia June 17-19 (Jun 15.10)
Link to Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum
 Health Professions Act
New legislation passed through the House of Assembly will improve public protection and patient safety by providing for the regulation of a number of health professions, including many that are not currently regulated. The Health Professions Act will establish an umbrella model of governance that brings a number of professions together with shared accountability for professional regulation while maintaining their own identities.
Bill 17: Health Professions Act
 Human Rights Act, 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador has taken a significant step forward in the area of human rights with the introduction in the House of Assembly of the new Human Rights Act, 2010 by Justice minister Felix Collins. This proposed legislation will replace the Human Rights Code and provides a wide range of new protections, while also increasing the efficiency of the complaints process of the Human Rights Commission.
Bill 31: new Human Rights Act, 2010
Current Human Rights Code
 Animal health and protection
After extensive consultations and a review of animal welfare laws across the country, the Williams government has brought the proposed new Animal Health and Protection Act before the House of Assembly. "The new Animal Health and Protection Act is comprehensive and provides the greatest protection possible for animals in this province," said Natural Resources minister Kathy Dunderdale. "It includes stiffer penalties for those convicted of distress and neglect of animals and we outline very clearly in the act, as well as the regulations currently being developed, what constitutes inappropriate and illegal treatment of animals."
Bill 30: Animal Health and Protection Act
 Driving safety
Amendments to the Highway Traffic Act will enhance enforcement against impaired driving, speeding in school zones and distracted driving. The Williams government has brought Bill 27 before the House of Assembly as part of its ongoing commitment to raise awareness of unsafe driving habits and prevent vehicle collisions and injuries on the province's roadways.
Bill 27: to amend the Highway Traffic Act
The current Highway Traffic Act
 Economic forum in Russia
Premier Danny Williams is travelling to Saint Petersburg, Russia to participate in the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) taking place from June 17-19. The Premier was invited to attend the forum by the Russian Federation. SPIEF is a leading international business and economic event, held under the patronage of the President of the Russian Federation. It attracts over 2,500 international and Russian participants representing government and business leaders from around the world, joined by leading voices from academia, media and civil society. The theme of this year's conference is Laying the Foundation for the Future Global Economy: Managing the Recovery.
Link to Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum
 Corner Brook long-term care facility
The Williams government is further illustrating its commitment to enhancing the long-term care system throughout the province with the official opening of a new long-term care home in Corner Brook. On June 11, 2010, Premier Danny Williams officially opened the facility, one of several significant investments the provincial government is making in long-term care.
Sod-turning (Oct 26.05)
 Design for new ferries
"The Provincial Government currently operates five contracted ferry services serving isolated communities along the South Coast of the island and one on the South Coast of Labrador. Given the age of the vessels currently in operation, it is clear that the time has come to upgrade these essential services for what can truly be considered some of our most rural communities. In this year's budget speech, our government announced that it was proceeding with the construction of six new ferries to replace the aging vessels currently serving these communities – and that these vessels would be built right here in Newfoundland and Labrador. I am pleased to inform this Honourable House that in the coming days, my department will be issuing a request for expressions of interest from qualified firms for the provision of a detailed design for these new vessels," said Transportation and Works minister Tom Hedderson on June 10, 2010.
 Cupids highlighted
"It was certainly appropriate that the launch of Tourism Awareness Week took place in Cupids, which this year celebrates the 400th anniversary of its establishment as the first English colony in Canada," said Tourism, Culture and Recreation minister Terry French.
Cupids400 site
 Child protection
The Williams government has brought forward a progressive new piece of legislation to better safeguard the province's most vulnerable children and youth. The Children and Youth Care and Protection Act provides the authority to intervene when a child or youth is the victim, or at risk, of harm or neglect by a parent. It contains significant updates and child-focused amendments which include reducing the number of temporary court orders for children in the care of the province; promoting better permanency planning; requiring a detailed plan of care for children to be filed with the courts; establishing a process for monitoring all children in care; and supporting youth in need of protection for longer periods as they transition into adulthood. "This is the first step towards a major transformation and ultimately creating the best child protection system in the country," said Child, Youth and Family Services minister Joan Burke.
Bill 1 of 2010: An Act Respecting the Care and Protection of Children and Youth
New child protection legislation to enter second reading (Jun 7.10)
 Francophone school
Education minister Darin King and Labrador Affairs minister John Hickey have officially opened the new francophone school, École Boréale, in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The Williams government invested $2.2 million for the new facility which replaced the former school. An additional $300,000 was provided under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement for Minority-Language Education and Second Official Language Instruction for a pre-school facility to be located in the new building where early childhood learning will offered to francophone children. "The new École Boréale will serve generations of francophone children in this region, offering excellence in educational programming in their own language and culture," said Minister King.
 Export Advantage internships
Through a funding commitment of $250,000 under the Williams government's Youth Retention and Attraction Strategy (YRAS), companies in Newfoundland and Labrador will acquire the tools they need to be more competitive and target graduates who seek global employment opportunities to work and contribute to their businesses. The Export Advantage Internship Program is designed to enhance exporting capabilities of companies by providing them with trained individuals in the international trade or exporting fields. Eligible companies that hire a recent university or college graduate to help with their export-related activities will qualify for financial assistance up to $25,000 to cover a portion of the intern's salary.
Program details |
Fact sheet
 Budget 2010 passed
The House of Assembly has voted on and passed the funding initiatives identified in Budget 2010. "I'm pleased to see the investments put forward by the Williams Government moving ahead," said Finance minister Tom Marshall. 'Budget 2010: The Right Investments - For Our Children and Our Future' further enhances the commitment by the provincial government to continue its substantial investments in economic stimulus, healthcare and education.
Budget 2010 | Speech | Highlights | Releases
 North Amethyst oil
Natural Resources minister Kathy Dunderdale has announced another major milestone in our province's petroleum industry – the achievement of first oil production from North Amethyst, the first White Rose satellite development, at 3:00 p.m. May 31, 2010. This marks the first oil production from one of our fields in which this province has an equity stake in every barrel that is produced. Our government, through Nalcor Energy – Oil and Gas, holds a five per cent working interest in North Amethyst. Husky Energy is the project operator and primary interest holder.
 Climate change, energy efficiency
Premier Danny Williams, Natural Resources minister Kathy Dunderdale and Environment and Conservation minister Charlene Johnson have released a public discussion paper entitled Responding to Climate Change In Newfoundland and Labrador. The paper is being released to stimulate public discussion on the provincial government's strategy development on climate change and energy efficiency.
Discussion paper
 Lewisporte Health Centre
The Williams government will start on the construction of a new health centre in Lewisporte. Premier Danny Williams and Health and Community Services minister Jerome Kennedy participated in the official sod-turning ceremony on the site of the new Lewisporte Health Centre, which once constructed will include long-term care beds and a dementia bungalow.
 Vale Inco strike
Premier Danny Williams has spoken with Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty to discuss the impacts of labour disputes with Vale Inco on communities, employees and families in both provinces, and Premier Williams is strongly recommending Vale Inco and the United Steelworkers union resolve their differences immediately and put an end to these strikes.
 Pharmacy network
Newfoundland and Labrador has officially begun connecting community pharmacies to the provincial Pharmacy Network. "The provincial Pharmacy Network is a true testament of our government's commitment to providing timely access to quality health care for the residents of our province, regardless of their location. This is one of the largest and most complex information technology projects undertaken by our province and will make our health care system better, safer and more efficient," said Health and Community Services minister Jerome Kennedy. (May 26.10)
Also: New authority for pharmacists to improve patient access (Jun 23.10)
 Western NL petroleum exploration
Natural Resources minister Kathy Dunderdale updated the House of Assembly on the three-well exploratory drilling program led by Nalcor Energy – Oil and Gas at Parsons Pond on the province's west coast. The first well in Nalcor's drilling program has reached its total drilling depth of 3,160 metres. This represents the deepest well ever drilled in Western Newfoundland.
Thoughts and prayers
Premier Danny Williams has expressed heartfelt sympathy and concern to the family and friends of the three young men thought to have lost their lives during a boating incident near Muskrat Falls on the Churchill River earlier this week. "On behalf of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the three young men involved in the boating incident on the Churchill River in Labrador," said Premier Williams. "Our sincerest thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of unimaginable pain and sorrow. I pray there is closure to this horrific accident, and that they find strength and peace through the memories they have of their loved ones."
 Offshore review
The provincial povernment has released the Terms of Reference for an assessment of the offshore oil spill prevention and response in place off Newfoundland and Labrador and named master mariner Captain Mark Turner, an expert in marine safety and environmental management, to immediately start the review.
Also see: C-NLOPB release on Orphan Basin drilling
 Corner Brook Law Courts
"Today is a proud day for the City of Corner Brook as we officially open the Corner Brook Law Courts," said Premier Danny Williams, MHA for Humber West, on May 3, 2010. "Early into our mandate, our government recognized the need for a modern courthouse which addressed the continuing growth of the west coast region of the province. Our investment of $21 million into this significant infrastructure project achieves that goal. Strategically located in proximity to other important centres in Corner Brook and people who most often use the courts, this beautiful new and modern facility is one in which we should all take great pride."
 Premier meets in Ottawa
Premier Danny Williams is in Ottawa April 27.10 for several high level meetings including a meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The Premier will have several items on his agenda as he represents the people of Newfoundland and Labrador including the fishery, the province's request to attain the federal government's Hibernia interest, the Lower Churchill development, and land claims in Labrador among others.
Vision care
Recognizing the importance of vision health, the Williams government is investing $200,000 in one-time funding to the CNIB to help the organization expand its programs and reduce wait times for services in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.
Budget 2010
The Williams government delivered Budget 2010 on Monday, March 29. " Budget 2010: The Right Investments – For Our Children and Our Future" presents a sound and progressive fiscal framework with investments targeted for the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, now and into the future.
Speech | Highlights | Releases
 Cameron Inquiry
Health and Community Services minister Jerome Kennedy has provided an update on the progress in implementing the 60 recommendations of the report of the Commission of Inquiry on Hormone Receptor Testing. "A little over a year after the release of the Cameron Report, significant progress has occurred on the implementation of the recommendations," the minister said.
Earlier: Cameron Report released (March 2009)
Cameron Report
 Speech from the Throne 2010
The House of Assembly opened for the 2010 spring session on Monday, March 22 with the Speech from the Throne.
Throne Speech 2010 (PDF)
Budget Day is Monday, March 29.10
Second session ends
 Contaminated sites
Budget 2010 will reaffirm the Williams government's commitment to the remediation of contaminated sites with a total investment of $10 million to address environmental and safety issues associated with the former mine in Buchans and the former United States military station in Hopedale.
Update: Contract awarded for Buchans remediation (Jun 23.10)
 Paul Davis in Topsail
Voters in Topsail District have elected PC candidate Paul Davis to represent the district in the House of Assembly. Thank You to all the voters of Topsail District who expressed your support in the March 16, 2010 by-election.
Official results
Chief Electoral Office
 Premier returns to work
After extended medical leave, Premier Danny Williams resumed official duties on Monday, March 15, 2010. The Premier thanked Deputy Premier Kathy Dunderdale for her work as Acting Premier in his absence. The Premier also thanked everyone for their support and well wishes before and after his surgery. "I was completely overwhelmed and touched by the incredible outpouring of support and prayers during this time. I wish to sincerely thank each and every individual who took the time to write or call my office, and for the many expressions of well wishes that were passed along."
 Cougar Flight 491
Premier Danny Williams today expressed the deep sorrow that remains in the hearts of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and indeed all Canadians, in remembering the victims of Cougar Flight 491 that crashed off the province’s shores one year ago today on March 12, 2009.
Earlier: Premier honours individuals on Cougar Flight 491 (Mar 23.09)
Earlier: Premier's statement on the day of the tragedy (Mar 12.09)
 Illegal activity
Premier Danny Williams has expressed deep disappointment by comments being made by Quebec Innu leaders. Premier Williams indicated that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will not tolerate illegal activity undertaken by any groups, including the Quebec Innu, nor will the provincial government be intimidated by threatening statements and rhetoric being put into the public domain by the leadership of these groups.
Earlier: NL gov calls on Quebec Innu to respect conservation principles (Feb 21.10)
 Hibernia Southern Extension
The Williams government has signed formal agreements with its industry partners to develop the Hibernia Southern Extension, solidifying the province's 10% stake in the project, through Nalcor Energy – Oil and Gas, and a top royalty rate of 50%. The deal formalizes the MOU reached in June 2009. The Hibernia Southern Extension is estimated to return approximately $13 billion to the provincial government in royalties, return on investment through Nalcor Energy – Oil and Gas and corporate income tax.
Earlier: NL achieves increased equity stake, top royalty rate in Hibernia Southern Extension (Jun 16.09)
 Appointment
PC Party Leader, Premier Danny Williams has announced the appointment of Lynette Carroll as the new Executive Director for the PC Party of Newfoundland and Labrador.
 Focus on Children
Child, Youth and Family Services minister Joan Burke welcomed the Auditor General's review of three areas now under the mandate of the new department: Child Care Services; Protective Intervention Program for Children at Risk; and Living Arrangements for Children and Youth. "As we create a new department dedicated to children, youth and their families, it is essential that we understand and are completely aware of the issues and shortcomings within these program areas." ..." Children and youth is a key area for our government in its budget considerations for this year," said Minister Burke. "We must make sure that we build on previous investments and that any new resources and investments are aligned and utilized to their greatest potential. We have the opportunity now to review all our existing programs and services and to focus on addressing the gaps and shortcomings."
 Budget 2010
Finance Minister and Treasury Board president Tom Marshall begins public consultations on January 15, 2010 to gather input on priorities for Budget 2010.
 Labrador-Island ferry
The Williams government is investing $1.5 million more to finance a pilot project with the goal of providing a year-round ferry service between the Island and Labrador across the Strait of Belle Isle.
 Republic of Doyle
Welcoming the launch on CBC of the made-in-Newfoundland-and-Labrador TV series Republic of Doyle on Jan 6.10, Premier Williams said: "Our province has always been blessed with a wealth of incredible talent and it is extremely exciting to showcase some of our finest actors, producers and industry people through the Republic of Doyle. I am so deeply proud of the young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who have poured their hearts and souls into this unique and modern new series. Along with internationally acclaimed actors and crew, this series will offer audiences a first-class entertainment experience. I never cease to be amazed by the creativity and raw ambition of our people. I had the opportunity to see a preview of the series, and I can promise viewers they will not be disappointed. The manner in which this series showcases the sights, sounds and culture of the province is nothing short of spectacular. As a government, we are proud to support this project and the professional individuals, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, who are involved in its production."
Positive ratings, reviews (Jan 13.10)
Series showcases NL (Jan 6.10)
Setting records (Nov 26.09)
Major industry boost (Apr 30.09)
CBC site
CBC marketing site
Growth
Newfoundland and Labrador continues to see an upward trend in population growth. According to figures released Dec 23.09 by Statistics Canada, from July 1, 2009, to October 1, 2009, the province's population increased by 1,347 people, representing the highest increase for a third quarter since 1982.
 Minimum wage
Effective January 1, 2010, the NL minimum wage increases by 50 cents to $9.50 per hour. The increase represents another step by the Williams government toward meeting its commitment of achieving a minimum wage of $10 per hour by 2010. That commitment will be met when the final scheduled increase takes effect on July 1, 2010.
 Home heating
In recognition of current usage and costs associated with home heating, the Williams government has made changes to the 2009-10 Home Heating Rebate Program. Regardless of the type of energy source purchased to heat the home, individuals and families with a net income of $40,000 or less will be eligible to receive a rebate of up to $250 and up to $500 for those living in coastal Labrador communities. Individuals and families with net income up to $35,000 will receive a full rebate. The rebate gradually decreases as income levels rise to $40,000, with no eligible individual or family receiving less than $100.
Last year's rebate program (Dec 8.08)
House of Assembly
Government House Leader Joan Burke expressed her pleasure with the work that was completed during the House of Assembly's fall session, which concluded Dec 21.09.
 Trans-Labrador Highway open
"I have the great pleasure of announcing that, effective today [Dec 16.09], Phase III of the Trans-Labrador Highway is open to the public. This connects all three phases into one continuous Trans-Labrador Highway route that spans approximately 1,150 kilometres from Labrador West to Southern Labrador. This is a truly monumental achievement and a pivotal moment in the history of Labrador and indeed the entire province," said Transportation and Works minister Tom Hedderson.
Also: Satellite phone service expanded to Trans-Labrador Highway Phase III (Dec 18.09)
 Developing innovators
With an investment exceeding $440,000, Newfoundland and Labrador is supporting 21 projects focused on developing a new generation of innovators and creating awareness of career options for youth in the areas of science, engineering and technology. "As a government, we are taking important steps to introduce youth to the vast possibilities that exist and to support the continued development of young minds across the province," said Innovation, Trade and Rural Development minister Shawn Skinner.
 Poverty reduction
Newfoundland and Labrador has realized significant improvement in the overall level of poverty since 2003. In fact, Newfoundland and Labrador has moved from being a province with one of the highest levels of poverty in Canada to the province with the third lowest level.
Progress report (Dec 14.09)
Earlier: Poverty Reduction Strategy (June 2006)
 Financial update
Finance Minister Tom Marshall released the 2009-10 fall financial update Dec 7.09.
 Upper Churchill
Premier Danny Williams informed Members of the House of Assembly and the general public of action taken by Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation as a result of information passed on to that corporation by the provincial government.
 Offshore equity
On November 23, Husky Energy announced that it discovered additional oil resources in the North Amethyst field, a White Rose extension area. As a result of the discovery of this additional oil, the province will benefit through Nalcor by such a large amount that it is the same as recouping the purchase price for our equity in the White Rose Extension project and our equity in the Hibernia South extension field. And depending on recovery rates and price of oil during production, this one discovery will cover all, or substantially all, the purchase price of our equity share in the Hebron development as well. This is outstanding news for the people of this province and it certainly proves our critics wrong. Our decision to take equity in these resource projects is already paying tremendous dividends. Our government is taking greater ownership in the development of our resources in the best interest of the people of the province, and for the greatest benefit of the people of the province. This announcement demonstrates precisely why taking an equity stake in our resources is such an important and worthwhile public policy.
 Terra Nova
by-election
Thank You to all the voters of Terra Nova District who expressed your support in the November 26, 2009 by-election.
Sandy Collins, PC MHA-Elect
Preliminary results
Chief Electoral Office
 Long-term care at Pleasantville
Two new long-term care homes will be constructed on the site of the former Janeway Properties in Pleasantville, replacing the Hoyles-Escasoni complex in St. John's. "The investment reflects our government's continued commitment to investing in health care infrastructure throughout our province and to planning now to address the future needs of our aging population."
 Atlantic premiers meet
Premier Danny Williams is hosting the Council of Atlantic Premiers in Churchill Falls Nov 20. Premiers Darrell Dexter (NS), Robert Ghiz (PEI) and Shawn Graham (NB) will attend. Premiers will receive status reports with respect to activities of the past year including the Atlantic Gateway, as well as a report on the Council of the Federation Large-Scale Hydro Forum held recently in St. John's. Premiers will discuss energy cooperation among the Atlantic provinces, positions of the four provinces in regard to climate change, and the importance of Canada's economic relationship with the United States.
 Dairy industry
A new three-year, $12-million land development initiative will assist the dairy industry to become self-sufficient in the local production of forage, ultimately lowering the cost of importing forage and improving dairy producers' bottom lines.
 NAFO fails again
The Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) has once again failed to protect fish stocks off Canada’s east coast. In a special meeting of NAFO that was held in London, England on November 16, the organization decided against closing the Flemish Cap shrimp fishery in NAFO area 3M, despite warnings from the NAFO Scientific Council that the stock has collapsed and that the fishery should be closed.
 NL in New York
Premier Danny Williams hosted a luncheon in New York on Monday, Nov 16.09 to promote our trade and investment opportunities. "It is important that we promote Newfoundland and Labrador abroad and create awareness about the innovative technology, projects and trade opportunities available in our province. We will showcase Newfoundland and Labrador as a prospective location for investment and focus specifically on our province's potential as a long-term producer of competitive and reliable green energy through the Lower Churchill project."
Fiscal management
The provincial government has maintained a stable credit rating of Aa2 from Moody's Investor Services. Information released Nov 5.09 highlights strong governance and management practices in a changing provincial economy as contributing factors to continued fiscal stability.
Moody's (Nov 5.09)
Earlier: Standard & Poors (Nov 21.08)
Earlier: Dominion Bond Rating Service (Oct 23.08)
 JobsinNL
The NL government today launched JobsinNL.ca, its new official online recruitment and job search resource.
"The launch of this site represents another step in our continued efforts to better connect employers and job seekers throughout the province," said Human Resources, Labour and Employment Minister Susan Sullivan. www.JobsinNL.ca is a powerful, simple, and streamlined website that can provide job seekers and employers with everything they need in just a couple of clicks.
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