NLIS 11
May 22, 2002
(Executive Council)

 

House of Assembly concludes spring session

Government House Leader Tom Lush today said he is pleased that government was able to deal with both Budget 2002 and other important pieces of legislation during the spring session of the House of Assembly. Legislation passed during the session included the Main Supply Act (Budget), Environmental Protection Act, Water Resources Act, Interim Supply Act, and amendments to the Tobacco Tax Act and the Income Tax Act.

"Traditionally the spring session of the legislature has dealt with budget debate while the fall session has focused on legislation," said Minister Lush. "I am extremely pleased that government was able to pass important pieces of legislation during the spring session of the legislature and to move forward with government�s agenda."

"The Speech from the Throne allowed Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to know what we stood for. One of the highlights was the announcement of a Royal Commission on Renewing and Strengthening Our Place in Canada. The budget then let residents know how we would move forward. The theme of Budget 2002 - Seeking the Right Balance - is more than a budget theme; It is government�s theme. We must keep investing, wisely, in health care and education, as well as economic development."

Some of the highlights of Budget 2002 included a commitment to funding Phase III of the Trans-Labrador Highway, investing approximately $1.5 billion in health care including wellness initiatives, and providing for a tuition reduction for MUN students. Government also appointed a child and youth advocate, former judge Lloyd Wicks, and new auditor general, John Noseworthy, who operate independently of government and report directly to the House.

Minister Lush noted in particular the passing of two important pieces of legislation this session maintaining clear responsibilities for environmental protection and water resource management.

The Environmental Protection Act revises and consolidates five existing acts: Environment Act, Environmental Assessment Act, Pesticides Control Act, Waste Management Act and Waste Material Disposal Act. The new Water Resources Act revises and replaces the water management provisions of the Environment Act, and incorporates the Well Drilling Act and Water Resources Protection Act, as well as the water rights licensing powers that are currently in the Crown Lands Act. It also introduces new provisions for water rights licensing.

Both acts increase the authority of inspectors and broaden the scope of ministerial orders. The new legislation also creates "whistle-blower protection" prohibiting employers from disciplining or threatening an employee who reports an action that may contravene the acts.

For further information on legislation, please visit: www.gov.nl.ca/hoa/business

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-1341.

2002 05 22                              3:20 p.m.


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