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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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 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.
Preliminary results
Chief Electoral Office
 House of Assembly
The House of Assembly will open for the 2010 spring session on Monday, March 22, at 2:00 p.m.
Budget Day is March 29.10
 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.
 Cupids400
"In 2010, the Town of Cupids will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the founding of Cuper's Cove, the first English settlement established in what is today Canada," said Premier Williams. "I am delighted that Their Royal Highnesses could be here today [Nov 3.09] to witness first-hand the incredible historical relevance of this community. Their visit has brought national and international attention to the significance of Cupids, which will no doubt encourage visitors from around the country and the world, to join us in celebrating Cupids400 events next year."
Legacy Centre construction (Jun 1.09)
Cupids400 |
Cupids |
Digs |
Museum |
Visiting Cupids
 Waterbombers
The NL government today announced an agreement to acquire four new Bombardier 415 waterbomber aircraft through a transaction valued at approximately $120M US. The purchase will renew the province's fleet of waterbombers, providing more modern and efficient fire suppression capabilities, and will also deliver significant industrial benefits for Newfoundland and Labrador.
PC AGM 2009
The PC Party of NL held its 2009 annual convention in Gander Oct 23-25.
 Cabinet changes
Premier Williams announced changes to his Cabinet on October 7, 2009. "I thank Paul Oram for his tireless contribution to the public service and wish him the best in all his future endeavors," said Premier Williams.
 Renewable energy
A 10-minute video - Newfoundland and Labrador: Innovation in Renewable Energy - tells the story of how Newfoundland and Labrador is using technology to harness renewable, clean energy at opposite ends of the scale: the mega-project scale of the Lower Churchill River hydroelectric transmission link; and the isolated village scale of the Ramea wind-hydrogen-diesel project.
News release (Oct 5.09)
 Global Climate Summit
Promoting the province as both an energy warehouse and a jurisdiction finding innovative ways to deal with climate change, Premier Danny Williams concluded his participation in the Governors' Global Climate Summit 2 - On the Road to Copenhagen. "I was particularly proud to share the story of Newfoundland and Labrador with the approximately 1500 delegates who attended the Summit," said the Premier Williams, who was a panelist at the plenary session Driving Technological Innovation and Economic Growth, where he spoke of the province's Energy Plan and Climate Change Action Plan. "There was a tremendous amount of interest in the Lower Churchill project, as it was recognized by many I spoke with as a phenomenal green energy project."
Earlier release: Premier attends Global Climate Summit 2 (Sep 28.09)
Governors' Global Climate Summit 2
Growth
Newfoundland and Labrador’s population increased by almost 1,400 people from April 1 to July 1, 2009, as a result of continued in-migration. Finance minister Jerome Kennedy said the province's population has grown by 2,484 over the past year to 508,925.
 Western Memorial Regional Hospital
Construction of a new state-of-the-art health care facility is one step closer to reality today as Premier Danny Williams announced the site for the new Western Memorial Regional Hospital in Corner Brook. "We are so pleased to be moving forward with the development of this new regional hospital, that will serve the west coast of our province and provide high quality health care to our residents," said Premier Williams. "This is the beginning of what is undoubtedly one of the largest single infrastructure projects this province has seen in many years. This new facility is yet another example of our government's unprecedented investment into providing exceptional infrastructure that will serve our people and make our communities more competitive and attractive as a place to live, work and raise a family."
 NAFO fails again
The voting members of Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO), at their Sep 21-25.09 meetings in Norway, once again ignored scientific advice related to a number of stocks including Greenland halibut, 3M cod and redfish, and 3LNOPs white hake and skate. These stocks, which straddle the 200-mile limit, are located on the east coast of the island on the Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks and at the Flemish Cap. Ignoring scientific advice in the NAFO zones outside the 200-mile limit negatively impacts stocks harvested by Canadians inside the 200-mile limit. "Clearly, the approach of the federal government is not working," said Fisheries minister Tom Hedderson. "This is another demonstration that it will always be problematic for Canada to have to vote with 11 other countries to gain protection of fish stocks off our shores. Once again, we are provided with proof of the need for a system of custodial management to manage fish stocks that straddle the Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks."
NAFO release 25 Sep 2009
NAFO quota table 25 Sep 2009
List of NAFO countries
Map of the region NAFO regulates
NAFO website
North Atlantic Ocean map
(NAFO zone 3M is highlighted yellow, with the Flemish Cap in its upper region. The continental shelf (including the Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks and the Flemish Cap) is in shades of blue. The 200-mile limit is in red.)
 Long-term care
In Corner Brook, Premier Williams has opened four new Protective Community Residences designed to accommodate individuals with various forms of dementia. "These new residences are the first of their kind providing this service in Eastern Canada and are designed to promote independence, dignity and improved quality of life for residents. This is one step in our commitment to upgrade and modernize long-term care homes across the province – a commitment which has seen an investment of over $110 million. I have heard story after story of how happy and comfortable residents are in their new homes, and I am delighted to see the facilities first hand today." The Williams government invested $68.5 million to construct the residences as well as a 236-bed long-term care home at a separate site in Corner Brook which is scheduled to open in the spring of 2010.
 Fisheries sovereignty
Premier Williams has written to Prime Minister Stephen Harper requesting that Ottawa instruct officials to refuse ratification of the draft Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization Convention and launch a formal objection. Proposed NAFO amendments not only threaten to further erode the sustainability of fish stocks, but also serve to institutionalize the ability of other nations to impose their management over stocks inside of Canada's sovereign 200-mile limit.
Premier's letter to the Prime Minister Sep 11.09
 Economy
Premier Williams addressed members and guests of the St. John's Board of Trade Sep 9.09.
 Main River Waterway Provincial Park
Environment and Conservation minister Charlene Johnson has announced the establishment of Main River Waterway Provincial Park - our province's first waterway provincial park. Located at the base of the great Northern Peninsula, the Main River flows in a SE direction for 57km from the tundra-like barrens of the long-range mountains through old-growth forests, a unique aquatic system known as the Big Steady, and a 23km white-water canyon before entering into the Atlantic Ocean near the coastal community of Sop's Arm.
More on Main River
 JUNO Awards 2010
A bold and colourful Host City logo for the 2010 JUNO Awards was unveiled Aug 13.09 at The Rooms in St. John's, where Premier Danny Williams joined Ken Marshall, Chair of the 2010 JUNO Host Committee, to officially introduce the image, and the accompanying slogan. The logo features three stylized clapboard jellybean houses, adorned with speakers, and is accompanied by the slogan 'Ruckus on the Edge'. "The Host City logo for the 2010 JUNO Awards is literally bursting with energy," said Premier Williams. "It's a strong, bold visual expression and it reflects the strength and vigor of Newfoundland and Labrador and its people. With the unveiling of the official Host City logo, the countdown to the 'Ruckus' can begin. The province looks forward to hosting these exciting festivities and celebrating the Canadian music industry."
Earlier release: Premier welcomes return of JUNO Awards in 2010 (Jan 22.09)
JUNO Awards 2010 site
 Hebron memorial
Premier Danny Williams travelled to Hebron Aug 10.09 to take part in the unveiling of a memorial erected for residents relocated from the northern Labrador Inuit community in 1959. Joining Premier Williams were Aboriginal Affairs minister Patty Pottle; Labrador Affairs minister John Hickey; and Tourism, Culture and Recreation minister Clyde Jackman; along with Nunatsiavut Government President Jim Lyall; Minister of Culture, Recreation and Tourism Ben Ponniuk; and former Hebron residents.
Earlier release: Government of Newfoundland and Labrador apologizes to relocatees (Jan 22.05)
 Relief for students
Student representatives from across the province gathered to celebrate a milestone in student debt reduction initiatives in Newfoundland and Labrador. At the strike of midnight July 31.09, interest on provincial student loans is eliminated, making this province the first in Canada to take such action to help students reduce debt. The initiative was brought forward in Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation. "This is groundbreaking," said Education minister Darin King. "We are truly leading the nation in debt reduction initiatives."
 Questioning Ottawa's commitment to the North
Responding to the federal government's just-released 'Canada Northern Strategy: Our North, Our Heritage, Our Future', NL ministers described the strategy as little more than a compilation of previously announced commitments and policy directions. "It is clear to me, after reading the report, the Government of Canada under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper has no strategy for Canada's North and is using this report for political posturing," said Labrador Affairs minister John Hickey. "The strategy is quick to lump Labrador in with the North when given the opportunity to point to accomplishments in devolving governance and environmental protection, such as the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement and the Torngat Mountains National Park, but makes no reference to Labrador when referencing future commitments to the North and its Aboriginal people," said Aboriginal Affairs minister Patty Pottle.
 Sealing industry
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is extremely disappointed that the Council of Ministers of the European Union has voted to ratify the ban of Canadian seal products going into Europe. "Our government is fully in support of the trade action being taken by the Federal Government," said Fisheries and Aquaculture minister Tom Hedderson. "This trade ban is completely unjustified and blatantly disregards international trade agreements, as well as principles of conservation and sustainability that are used across the globe. Our government has advised EU officials of the implications of this decision from both trade and conservation perspectives. The EU is now clearly in violation of international trade agreements and we understand that they have legal opinions to that effect."
Appreciation for Governor General's support (May 29.09)
Council of the Federation: strong objection to EU (May 13.09)
Earlier release: EU proposed ban disappoints (Jul 24.08)
Earlier release: Ottawa must prepare for trade action (Jul 11.08)
 SEUS//CP
Delegates from 13 jurisdictions assembled in St. John's for the highly-anticipated Southeastern United States – Canadian Provinces (SEUS//CP) Alliance conference July 26-28. The conference linked industry, academia and government to explore valuable business partnerships in advanced manufacturing, energy and ocean technology.
Southeastern United States - Canadian Provinces Alliance website
 NL-EU relations
As the province continues to emerge as an economy on the rise on the international stage, Premier Williams returned from the European Union this week where he spent time meeting with government officials and industry representatives, promoting the province. His meetings covered a wide array of topics including the fishery, the seal harvest, oil and gas, Canada-EU trade and investment opportunities.
Earlier release: Premier Williams visits European Union (Jun 29.09)
 Memorial Day
"A few years ago, I had the honour and privilege of traveling to Beaumont Hamel for the 90th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme," said Premier Williams. "During the First World War, many young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom, and these brave souls are most deserving of a fitting and lasting memorial right here at home. Most Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will never have the honour of visiting the memorial at Beaumont Hamel personally and I am very pleased that we have been able to replicate the name plaques and to incorporate them into our own Caribou Memorial in Bowring Park. Many people and families have loved ones whose names are listed on those plaques, and I am proud that the names of our brave fallen will now be prominently displayed for all the people of the province to see."
Beaumont-Hamel ceremony 2009 (Jun 30.09)
Memorial Day ceremonies in NL (Jun 30.09)
Remembering July 1, 1916
Hibernia South
In another significant advancement in NL's petroleum industry, the Williams government has delivered its Energy Plan goal of a 10% equity stake as well as a top royalty rate of 50% in the Memorandum of Understanding reached with its oil industry partners to develop the Hibernia Southern Extension. "Hibernia South will increase and sustain production from the Hibernia field, preserving employment levels while providing a significantly greater royalty return for the province than any previous project," said Premier Williams. "With this MOU, we have achieved an unprecedented royalty rate and equity interest. Our government is pleased to join our co-venturers in taking our first oil development to the next level and I thank them for their commitment to our industry and to the province. The revenue to the Provincial Government from the Hibernia Southern Extension project, from all sources, is estimated to be $10 billion based on forecasts by the international energy consulting firm PIRA. We could not be more pleased to have achieved such tremendous benefits for the people from this resource."
Premier's speech Jun 16.09
 Infrastructure
Provincial infrastructure projects totalling $1.6 billion will be tendered this fiscal year, creating an estimated 15,000 jobs (some seasonal) and providing significant economic stimulus to the economy of NL.
Infrastructure announcement Feb 18.09
 Ocean Technology
NL has released "Oceans of Opportunity: Newfoundland and Labrador's Ocean Technology Strategy" - a five-year, $28-million strategy designed to capitalize on opportunities and expand the local ocean technology sector.
Oceans of Opportunity
 Cupids400
Premier Williams announced NL will provide $1.8M more to help fund the construction of the Cupids400 Legacy Centre, bringing NL's total commitment to the Cupids celebration and related infrastructure to over $3.8M. "Next year, in 2010, we will celebrate the 400th anniversary of Cupids, the first English colony established in what is today Canada. While it is important that we mark the occasion with a major celebration, it is equally important that we use this opportunity to build a legacy for the people of Cupids, the surrounding areas, and the entire province."
House of Assembly
Government House Leader Joan Burke said the legislation passed during the spring session of the House of Assembly will directly benefit many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. A tremendous amount of work was accomplished during the session, which adjourned May 28, including the passage of thirty-six pieces of legislation and two resolutions.
 Forestry workers
Premier Williams announced the provincial government will provide financial benefits for workers displaced by the closure of the AbitibiBowater mill in Central Newfoundland - benefits including severance for mill workers (unionized and non-unionized), silviculturists and loggers, and certain entitlements under the Work Force Reduction Program and Early Retirement Allowance program.
 R&D Corp
Premier Williams has announced the launch of the Research & Development Corporation (RDC), a new Crown entity for improving the province's research and development capacity. "Our government is of the belief that in order to stay competitive today, you must continue to invest in tomorrow. RDC will play a leadership role in identifying R&D initiatives that are relevant to our province and that position us for prosperity in the decades ahead."
 Upper Churchill power
For the first time in the province's history, NL is now wheeling hydroelectric power through neighbouring Quebec into the North American marketplace. Premier Williams said: "We understand from Emera that power from Labrador today is being sold directly into the United States; destination – New York. Newfoundland and Labrador is taking a bite out of the big apple."
 Budget 2009
Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation provides significant economic stimulus, benefiting the people and the communities of Newfoundland and Labrador, and includes targeted expenditures in economic development, infrastructure, health, education, poverty reduction, and the environment.
Speech | Highlights | Releases
 Cameron Inquiry
The provincial government has released the report of the Commission of Inquiry on Hormone Receptor Testing. Health and Community Services minister Ross Wiseman said the report presents a range of recommendations which will serve to strengthen the health care system for the people of the province.
Report
Infrastructure
In order to stimulate economic activity in the face of the global economic downturn, the Williams government has announced it will increase infrastructure spending to approximately $800 million in the 2009-10 fiscal year - a jump of $285 million - well over 50 per cent – from the 2008-09 fiscal year.
Labrador receives $130M
 Nickel processing
The provincial government has negotiated improvements to the development agreement with Vale Inco for the construction of a commercial hydromet processing plant at Long Harbour.
 Oil milestone
On Jan 23.09, Newfoundland and Labrador marked the production of its one-billionth barrel of oil from Hibernia, Terra Nova and White Rose.
 JUNO Awards
Premier Williams welcomed news the JUNO Awards will return to Newfoundland and Labrador in 2010, saying he is confident they will be "an event that the national music industry, and people throughout the country, will remember and talk about for many years to come".
 Timber and
water rights
Premier Williams has introduced legislation to ensure natural resources used by AbitibiBowater are returned to their rightful owners, the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, saying: "...we cannot as a government allow a company that no longer operates in this province to maintain ownership of our resources. We will not give away our valuable timber and water resources to a company that does not honour its historic commitments on industrial development of our timber resources."
 Nalcor Energy
Premier Williams unveiled the new name and corporate identity of the province's energy corporation: Nalcor Energy, positioning this energy producing province as an internationally-competitive player in the resource sector.
News release
Nalcor Energy
 Corrections review
The government has released the comprehensive independent review of adult corrections in NL, which contains 77 recommendations to help improve the living conditions and the availability of programming for inmates, and the working conditions of correctional officers and others in the corrections system.
 Adverse Health Events report
The task force examined how our health system identifies and responds to various types of adverse events which may impact patients, assessed best practices in other jurisdictions and made recommendations.
 Physicians
Ongoing recruitment efforts for physicians are netting big results for communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
Fiscal management
Newfoundland and Labrador's credit rating has again been upgraded. "We have taken a very strategic and long-term approach to governance in this province, and we are reaping the dividends. Investing heavily in infrastructure, reducing the tax burden, tackling debt and investing in both economic and social programs and services has set this province on the right track."
Standard & Poors (Nov 21.08)
Dominion Bond Rating Service (Oct 23.08)
 Youth
160 young adults 18-30 gathered in St. John's Nov 14-15 for a provincial youth summit to discuss making NL the province of choice for young people to live and work.
Release: Youth gathered
Release: Premier attended summit
 Seafood processing
The Williams government announced the province will now operate under a revised seafood processing policy framework, delivering on its commitment to the Fishing Industry Renewal Strategy.
 Innu Nation
The Tshash Petapen (New Dawn) Agreement resolves key issues and marks a new beginning for the Innu of Labrador and their relationship with the province.
St. John's Board of Trade speech
Premier Williams highlighted provincial energy projects and economic progress as well as federal promises in his address on September 10.
 Post-secondary education
"Over the past three years, we have committed $62.4 million to freeze tuition, to introduce up-front, needs-based grants, and to reduce interest on student loans to prime."
 Culture
The province will cover the financial gap left by the elimination of federal arts programming to ensure local artists and cultural industries will not be negatively impacted.
 Hebron
Premier Williams and Newfoundland and Labrador's oil industry co-venturers have announced and signed the final deal for the development of the province's fourth offshore oil project, Hebron, signaling a new era in our history.
 Humberwood
A new $3.6M provincial treatment centre for individuals struggling with addictions has been officially opened in Corner Brook.
 Council of the Federation
Premier Williams raised issues of concern for Newfoundland and Labrador at the annual Council of the Federation meeting in Québec City.
 Budget 2008
"...We are stepping up to a new plateau of success and strength by putting the resources and talents of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to work more effectively to secure a sustainable future in which our families can prosper and thrive for generations to come."
 Speech from the Throne 2008
"...The support and confidence of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that has sustained My Government these past four years is the foundation for the successes we will achieve in the years to come."
Latest news...
Government news releases
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Olympics and Paralympics NL
Helping Haiti
Memorial University of Newfoundland - Corner Brook
Energy
Regional development
Remembrance
On November 11th and July 1st, we remember all who have served.
Youth Retention and Attraction Strategy
By-election: The Straits - White Bay North
Fisheries innovation
Energy
Community recreation
Tourism, Culture and Recreation minister Clyde Jackman announced funding to implement the objectives of the NL recreation strategy, Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador:
Speech from the Throne 2009
Heartbreaking sacrifice
Financial update
A have province
PC Convention 2008
Custodial management
Federal election 2008
By-elections
Memorial University
