NLIS 5
March 15, 2005
(Executive Council)
The following is the text of the Speech from
the Throne delivered today in the House of Assembly by His Honour, the
Honourable Edward Roberts, QC, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and
Labrador:
New Future, A Renewed Pride
Mr. Speaker, Members of the House of Assembly and people of Newfoundland and
Labrador:
This year, My Government will undertake a range of new and improved
initiatives to more effectively seize the opportunities to grow our economy,
invest in our culture, and demonstrate a strong social conscience.
But first, it is worthwhile to reflect upon one of the most important
developments in the history of Newfoundland and Labrador. On the fifth of
June in 2004, the Prime Minister accepted My First Minister�s proposal for
the fair sharing of offshore oil and gas revenue. On the fourteenth of
February in 2005, following eight months of challenging discussions of
details, My Government and the Government of Canada ratified a
groundbreaking new agreement on offshore revenues that enables Newfoundland
and Labrador to retain 100 per cent of its provincial offshore revenue,
truly making this province the principal beneficiary of our offshore
resources. This was indeed a turning point in our province�s history, a
moment that will define our province for generations to come.
The agreement includes the advance provision by the Government of Canada of
two billion dollars in lieu of revenue that will flow in years to come;
however, the total revenue over the life of the agreement will likely be
even greater than this. Still, the magnitude of the fiscal challenge our
province faces is such that, even with this substantial new revenue, one
cannot afford to waste one precious penny. My Government is determined to
invest the new revenue wisely in ways that will generate the greatest
long-term return for our province and enable future generations to share in
the benefits of these nonrenewable resources long after they are depleted.
My Government thanks Prime Minister Martin for recognizing our province�s
unique financial challenges and resolving to help us address them. Our
province also recognizes the tremendous efforts of My Premier. He was
tenacious and determined in his fight for greater benefits for this
province. His spirit, attitude and leadership have resulted in a brighter
future for Newfoundland and Labrador.
Newfoundland and Labrador aspires to become one of Canada�s brightest
success stories and to make even stronger contributions to the Canadian
family as a truly equal partner, in practice as well as principle.
Money aside, the true significance of the Atlantic Accord 2005 is pride.
During the difficult period of talks on the Atlantic Accord, our province�s
residents, expatriates, and supporters alike stood steadfastly together,
unshakable in their confidence and unwavering in their commitment to
Newfoundland and Labrador. Through media such as the worldwide web, movers
and shakers like Kevin McCann of the "FairDealforNewfoundland.com" web site
demonstrated with competence the new attitude that has taken hold in
Newfoundland and Labrador. My Government is deeply appreciative of the
outpouring of support during this process and commends the people of
Newfoundland and Labrador for standing together for the greater good of us
all. Even more important than the revenue, this new attitude of pride and
self-confidence is the currency that will purchase our province�s success in
the years ahead.
This new attitude is strongly reflected in our province�s culture. Our
stories, songs, traditions, and pictures have always reflected resilience
and tenacity in the face of great obstacles; but more and more, our cultural
icons are encouraging our people to aim higher. It is time to put the
bountiful resources of our province to work for our people so our sons and
daughters can remain here to raise sons and daughters of their own. These
sentiments are echoed in the powerful lyrics of bands like Great Big Sea,
who sing:
In this beautiful life, there�s always
some sorrow
It�s a double-edged knife, but there�s always tomorrow
It�s up to you now if you sink or swim
Keep the faith and your ship will come in.
[�� Excerpt from "Ordinary Day" by Alan Doyleand S�an McCann. Used with
permission.]
This strength also sings through the songs of
Ron Hynes, RASA, Shaye, Crush, Kevin Collins, Pamela Morgan, Jason Greeley,
The Flummies, Spirit of Newfoundland, The Fables, Brothers in Stereo, The
Irish Descendants, Jenny Gear, The Carol Players, The Masterless Men, and so
many other promising musicians. It reverberates through the writings of Ed
Riche, Wayne Johnston, Lisa Moore, Michael Winter, Ramona Dearing, Leo Furey,
Nellie Strowbridge, Beth Ryan, Joel Hynes, and Michael Crummey, to name but
a few. It is portrayed in the theatrical work of Jillian Keiley, Lois Brown,
and Donna Butt. It is reflected in the photography of Sheilagh O�Leary,
Brian Ricks, and Manfred Buchheit and the paintings of Mary Pratt, Lloyd
Pretty, Shelley Cornick, Ian Sparkes, E.J. Wareham, and a host of others. It
is framed in the films of Paul Pope and Gerry Rogers. It shines through the
work of Seamus O�Regan, Rick Mercer, Rex Murphy, Mary Walsh, Gordon Pinsent,
Robert Joy, Tina Maddigan, and Sebastian Spence. And this is only the tip of
the iceberg of the talent that Newfoundland and Labrador is producing.
Through so many media in so many ways, our people and indeed the entire
world are beginning to see Newfoundland and Labrador as they have never seen
it before. Where once there was uncertainty, there is now renewed pride.
Where once there was pessimism, there is now renewed hope. Where once there
was powerlessness, there is now renewed confidence in our ability to shape
our destiny to our own design. If our grandparents could succeed in carving
a home here when the opportunities were so limited, how much greater our
successes can be with opportunities that are so vast.
Celebrating Our Culture
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
With a new Atlantic Accord now successfully achieved, My Government is
prepared to move forward, in a much more visible and powerful way, with
far-reaching economic development initiatives and cultural policy
strategies.
Now that our people have been reinvigorated by a renewed pride and hope for
our future, we as a society must not allow that sense of self-confidence and
optimism to fade. Rather, we must nurture and sustain our hope and pride so
that it propels our people to a brighter future. We can best build that
brighter future if tomorrow�s leaders have a better appreciation of the
legacy they have inherited from our generations.
Music, drama, writing, film, and visual arts, along with other forms of
expression, allow us to capture and communicate our culture. In its
Blueprint for the Future, My Government stated that, "in its first mandate,
government will increase the presence of cultural content in the school
curriculum and foster links between artists and students in the school
environment." Through the implementation of a sustained, integrated, and
coherent strategy, Newfoundland and Labrador history and culture will be
affirmed as a key feature of the K-12 curriculum, and students will develop
a critical awareness of the role of the arts in creating and reflecting our
heritage. Students, and those who witness their expression of the arts, will
also come to respect the contributions of individuals and cultural groups to
the arts in both local and provincial contexts and will recognize the value
of the arts as a record of our unique experience.
The social, cultural, and economic benefits of My Government�s cultural
strategy will be significant. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, especially
our younger people, will grow in their understanding and appreciation of our
unique culture. Their sense of place will help build the confidence to carry
the province proudly through the next generations.
To promote the arts generally, My Government will introduce a comprehensive
fine arts and culture strategy within the education system that includes
expanding the curriculum for the arts, music, theatre arts, fine arts, and
social studies; supporting professional development; promoting our culture
through the acquisition of works by local authors, artists, and performers;
and investing in the acquisition and repair of musical equipment.
To promote collaboration with our artists, My Government will work with the
province�s writers and artists to develop a new Artists in Schools Program
to connect musical, dramatic, and visual artists with students in
classrooms, enabling them to benefit directly from the inspiration and
mentorship that our cultural muses can provide. There will also be arts
institutes where students can benefit from hands-on mentoring, and fine arts
conferences to facilitate teachers� professional growth.
The intent of My Government�s actions is to promote our culture and instill
in our young people a stronger sense of pride in who we are as a people.
This renewed focus on identity and culture is nowhere more important than in
our province�s Aboriginal communities. My Government is committed to the
development of culturally-relevant curriculum, beginning with social studies
and art, to reflect the rich legacies of Aboriginal peoples. We will
accomplish this through provincial investment and through partnership, where
possible, with federal authorities at Canadian Heritage and Indian and
Northern Affairs Canada.
The needs and aspirations of the Innu of Labrador are a priority of My
Government. In collaboration with the Government of Canada and Innu Band
Councils, My Government is committed to a process that will ensure the
education system fulfils the needs of young people in the Innu communities.
Ultimately, the goal is to provide the Innu communities with the means to
take control of their own lives and their own collective destiny. Education
is fundamental to the success of that endeavour. All our province�s young
people deserve an opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge they need
to reach their potential, and My Government is committed to enabling this.
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
Our culture not only inspires; it also employs. No area of opportunity for
business growth is more promising or exciting than our province�s cultural
sector. By blending the past and the present and combining outside and local
influences, contemporary creators have developed a distinctive "voice" that
is gaining recognition internationally. We are like no other place, and My
Government intends to nurture that uniqueness.
In our province, culture is a driver of economic wealth and contributes to
better education, identity and social cohesion, community health, and
quality of life. It also shapes the face of Newfoundland and Labrador that
greets the wider world.
To nurture our cultural strengths, My Government will bring forward a
Strategic Cultural Plan this year to promote our heritage, celebrate our
identity, and champion creativity.
To ensure our plan is comprehensive and effective, My Government will
convene a roundtable discussion with the arts and heritage communities on
the proposed details and, together, we will embark on a partnership of
strengthening our cultural identity, building a creative province, and
seizing the economic opportunities for generations to come.
My Government looks forward to the opening of one of the most unique and
exciting cultural facilities in Canada. The Rooms will house the Archives,
Art Gallery, and Museum of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Rooms will offer a
combination of excellent programs and services, together with effective
educational and public outreach programs, to make the institution relevant
and meaningful for every school-aged child and adult in our province.
My Government will also create a Provincial Historic Sites and Monuments
Board to identify, designate, preserve, and celebrate the people, places and
events that embody the rich history of Newfoundland and Labrador.
My Government is also delighted this year to join with the Roman Catholic
community of Newfoundland and Labrador in celebrating the 150th anniversary
of the completion and consecration of the Basilica-Cathedral of St. John the
Baptist in St. John�s. Our Province celebrates with its Roman Catholic
community the remarkable contributions that the Church has made throughout
Newfoundland and Labrador over the centuries.
Newfoundland and Labrador is being discovered again, this time as a unique,
exotic, tourism destination. The province�s unique natural attractions, its
communities and its people, and its cultural heritage are powerful assets
for our tourism industry. From Mackinsons to Makkovik and from Roddickton to
Ramea, our visitors are captivated by the magnificent landscape and
seascape, our unique history and culture, and a pride that is unmatched
anywhere.
Tourism is a real export earner and wealth generator for a destination,
particularly one having the potential this province has. My Government
recognizes that an investment in tourism will generate revenue in all
regions of the province through increased visitors and increased capacity of
accommodations and activities, resulting in increased employment and revenue
for tourism operators and the communities in which they reside.
My Government believes that, in order to reach our true tourism potential,
we must continue to professionally market our destination. It is through
effective and increased marketing efforts that we will continue to grow our
share of non-resident visitors and spending.
Fostering Economic Growth
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
Cultural tourism is just one opportunity to foster economic growth. There
are many others. In all sectors of our economy, My Government will begin
replacing barriers to opportunity with bridges to success.
My Government has already outlined a comprehensive blueprint for economic
development. Newfoundland and Labrador competes for investment and export
market share against many other jurisdictions. Our economic future will be
determined by our success in reaching, and ultimately exceeding, not just
our nearest competitors in the rest of Canada and other North Atlantic
countries, but also the emerging economic powers of the Pacific Rim.
The focus must be on building a competitive economy driven by private sector
firms selling in competitive markets and operating out of all regions of our
province. The key to success will be our province�s performance in
attracting investment, driving innovation, and building and attracting new
skills throughout the province.
Last year, My Government established a new Department of Business to
facilitate growth and investment throughout rural and urban regions of our
province. My Government will strive to make Newfoundland and Labrador a more
business friendly location and work to ensure continued growth and
investment in our province.
In its inaugural year, the Department of Business has undertaken a
comprehensive inventory of provincial business development programs. This
inventory will allow My Government to assess its business support functions
and help it to identify where enhanced measures will need to be targeted.
Small and medium size businesses are the backbone of our province�s economy.
To grow economic opportunities, our province must nurture its business
sector.
The issue of poor access to capital is well documented as a major barrier to
business growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. My Government is preparing to
address this weakness with significant new initiatives to leverage business
success. In particular, My Government will create sources of capital to
enable businesses to establish, grow, diversify, and prosper.
The Department of Business has also undertaken a strategic audit of
Government�s branding practices. In order to identify ways to better
position Newfoundland and Labrador as an attractive place in which to visit,
live and set up business, My Government will be developing a major branding
initiative.
My Government will create strong trade and marketing development units to
help businesses identify new opportunities for growth. It will also seek the
reduction of trade barriers.
To advance diversification, My Government has undertaken a range of
initiatives involving broadband, marine industries, provincial education
export strategies, and the provincial nominee program. This year, My
Government will unveil a major Innovation Strategy that will develop an
advanced technology base in the province, with a major emphasis on ocean
technology and marine sciences in the Avalon area and the emerging
environmental sector in western Newfoundland.
In the months ahead, My Government will move forward with a Rural
Development Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador. My departments of
Business and Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, in partnership with
other levels of government, regional economic development boards, small
business, industry and community organizations, will continue to implement a
number of key initiatives that are significantly benefitting our rural
economies.
Last year, My Government established a Rural Secretariat to coordinate
initiatives to revitalize our rural communities. Following consultations, My
Government has recently announced a structure for the Rural Secretariat
which will enhance partnerships and decision-making between government and
communities. The structure will involve nine sustainable regions each with a
Regional Council, and a Provincial Council of the Rural Secretariat. The
Provincial Council will meet directly with Cabinet and ensure regional
perspectives inform public policy development and implementation.
My Government has also recently hired a Chief Information Officer who will
be responsible for streamlining and enhancing service delivery, reforming
management and operational IT practices throughout government, and bridging
the role of government in public service delivery with the private sector.
The new Chief Information Officer has completed a review of the government�s
information technology functions and found considerable opportunity for new
approaches. Strategic improvements will be made to My Government�s IT
functions that will result in a more efficient, better organized, and
accessible provincial government.
Productivity, competitiveness and a stable labour climate are hallmarks to
economic growth. Last year My Government established the Labour Relations
Agency to work toward the improvement of labour relations in the province
and to maintain a stable labour relations climate conducive to economic
growth. This year, we will enhance the role of the Agency in improving
productivity and competitiveness in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Agency
will expand its work with business and labour at the level of the workplace,
and build strategic partnerships with other government departments in the
pursuit of economic development.
Harnessing Our Natural Resources
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
My Government will take the lead in harnessing our bountiful natural
resources for economic growth throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
The people of our province are determined to set the bar higher when
determining acceptable arrangements for the development of our resources.
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians must be the principal beneficiaries of
these developments. No longer will our people watch quietly as our resources
create opportunities for others at our expense.
My Government is delighted with the achievements of the Hibernia, Terra
Nova, and White Rose projects and is eager to advance development at
Hebron-Ben Nevis and exploration in the Orphan and Laurentian basins and
offshore Labrador. My Government will continue to work with developers to
advance these and other projects. My Government will stand by its belief
that there must be no more giveaways. It will explore opportunities to
better harness these resources for the greater benefit of all
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
My Government is also pleased with successes and emerging opportunities in
the mining and mineral exploration sector and will foster continued
exploration and development in Labrador and on the Island.
My Government is in the process of developing a comprehensive Energy Plan to
define energy needs, opportunities, and costs. In January of this year, My
Government, in partnership with Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, initiated a
new approach to development of the Lower Churchill hydroelectric resource.
We launched a Request for Expressions of Interest and Proposals for
participation in the development. The deadline for submissions is March
31st. We will assess all our options and proceed when we have identified the
best development concept. Our objective is to reach a development
arrangement that ensures this province will realize significant, long-term
economic benefits from this untapped, clean, renewable energy resource.
In the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, My Government will create a
Seafood Diversification and Development Division to address harvesting,
processing, and marketing challenges in an integrated and comprehensive
manner.
It will also create a new Sustainable Fisheries and Oceans Policy Division
and expand its Planning Division to provide a better focus on fish and
seafood trade issues. These and other changes will allow the department to
implement new initiatives related to foreign overfishing, aquaculture, fish
health, price-setting mechanisms, ecosystems management, trade and tariff
barriers, and sustainable fisheries policy.
Earlier this month, My Government announced its intention to proceed with a
raw material shares system for the crab fishery on a two-year pilot basis.
Under the pilot project, the amount of raw material that seafood producers
can process will be capped as a condition of their crab processing licence.
The system will improve regional distribution of crab processing and provide
for a more orderly fishery for harvesters, processors, and fish plant
workers. Our crab fishery is threatened by declining prices, unfavourable
exchange rates, excess inventory, fish plant overcapacity, and the
possibility of the federal government cutting quotas. It would be
irresponsible to sit idly without acting to strengthen the economic engine
of our fishery. My Government has committed to restructure our fish
processing policies to promote sustainable balance and meaningful work in
our rural areas.
My Government�s Department of Environment and Conservation will spearhead a
process to involve all sectors in identifying common values and implementing
a shared vision for sustainable development. The department will also
provide knowledge and support for environmental conservation so that our
people can benefit from our resources for generations to come.
Last year, My Government indicated its support for a proposal to create a
Centre of Environmental Excellence in western Newfoundland, using as its
foundation the education, training, and research capacity of Memorial
University�s Sir Wilfred Grenfell College and the College of the North
Atlantic. The vision for this centre of excellence is that it will serve as
a catalyst for the establishment of innovative companies. Advanced research
and educational programs would support and strengthen new business
opportunities in such areas as forestry, environmental tourism, and
geospatial mapping. In the upcoming year, My Government will finalize a
concept in consultation with potential partners and stakeholders, and then
undertake a detailed feasibility study along with a master plan.
Working With Our Communities
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
My Government believes it is vital to help our province�s regions and
communities discover new opportunities for development by pursuing new
avenues of cooperation. My Government is committed to working with our
communities to capitalize on opportunities that, collectively, will provide
a foundation for future growth on a provincial scale.
A major obstacle to community development is deficient infrastructure.
Infrastructure is exceptionally expensive to construct and repair, but wise
investments reap sizeable dividends for local communities. My Government�s
infrastructure strategy is identifying needs, establishing priorities, and
locating funds to proceed with important projects in multiple areas of our
province. Providing this funding earlier is enabling municipalities to plan
their activities better.
One of My Government�s greatest concerns is the level of debt that many
municipalities are carrying and the inability of many of these smaller
communities to service their debt with an aging and declining population.
These demographic factors, compounded by economic challenges, have created
unsustainable fiscal realities for many communities. My Government intends
to work with the Federation of Municipalities to find creative, effective
ways to alleviate debt loads.
Several municipalities are also experiencing significant challenges in
obtaining and retaining appropriately-trained personnel to operate the
increasingly-complicated infrastructure needed to meet drinking water and
waste water standards. Having learned from the errors of others, My
Government is determined to protect our people from contaminated drinking
water by working closely with our municipalities to ensure they have access
to the necessary resources to carry out proper testing and proper reporting.
My Government will also invest in community recreation programs and
infrastructure to advance community cohesiveness, support our athletes,
enhance tourism opportunities, and improve the quality of life of our
people.
Our people have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to community service
and have built a formidable not-for-profit sector. Facing challenges from
health services to community development, groups of Newfoundlanders and
Labradorians have come together to provide solutions to many of our
challenges. We need these people and organizations more now than ever
before. My Government is determined to strengthen the relationship between
the government and the volunteer sector, to improve the grants process, and
to identify opportunities for cooperation and collaboration.
My Government is proud of the many varied contributions our citizens make to
their communities. Last year, My Government honoured the first recipients of
the distinguished Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. This year, we will
build on that tradition by honouring others whose contributions have made
Newfoundland and Labrador stronger and more vibrant.
To keep our communities safe and secure, My Government will continue to
invest in the strength of our police forces. We are deeply appreciative of
the tremendous work our police officers do to protect us and preserve the
peace. The recent tragedy in Alberta reminds us how much we should
appreciate the commitment and sacrifices of our police officers. To the
families of Constable Peter Schiemann, Constable Anthony Gordon, Constable
Leo Johnston, and Constable Brock Myrol, we offer our prayers and deepest
sympathies.
Securing a Brighter Future for Labrador
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
My Government recognizes that the people of Labrador face unique challenges.
The barriers to development are pronounced in Labrador; yet, nowhere are the
opportunities for growth greater.
Last year, My Government announced Phase III of the Trans-Labrador Highway;
a new Upper Churchill recall agreement; the implementation of the Northern
Agrifoods Development Strategy; a reconfigured Labrador Coastal Marine
Service; air food lift support; and forestry agreements with the Innu Nation
and the Labrador M��tis Nation.
This year, in addition to the many Aboriginal issues addressed earlier, My
Government will move forward with initiatives to secure a brighter future
for all Labradorians.
My Government will commission the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal
Affairs to develop a Northern Strategic Plan to address the needs for social
and economic development in Labrador. The department will work closely with
the people of Labrador to ensure the plan reflects the priorities and
aspirations of Labradorians.
My Government will continue to promote Labrador�s tremendous tourism
potential through Destination Labrador.
On the 22nd of January, history was made in the northern Labrador community
of Nain. With an overwhelming mandate from the Inuit people of our province,
the Labrador Inuit Association entered into a groundbreaking land claims
agreement with the Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland
and Labrador, establishing the Government of Nunatsiavut - "Our Beautiful
Land". For 30 years, community leaders laboured to reach this agreement.
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians congratulate the Inuit people of Labrador
for giving all of us a timely lesson on the importance of patient
perseverance. In the words of the Inuttitut language, "Sivunitsavut
pitsiatunejuk!" - "Our future is in great hands!"
Having concluded the historic land claims agreement with the Labrador Inuit
Association, My Government is committed to working with the province�s other
Aboriginal peoples to achieve agreements and strategies to advance the
well-being of Aboriginal communities.
My Government, by requiring an adjacency principle, will ensure that
Labradorians are given opportunities to find employment on major development
projects in Labrador�s communities.
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are especially proud of Canadian Forces
Base 5-Wing Goose Bay. This world-class facility has trained flight crews
from many countries over the years and contributed greatly to world peace
and security. When its future became uncertain, My Government approached the
Government of Canada and the governments of other countries in a
collaborative effort to identify new uses that would secure a bright future
for our base.
My Government was delighted in February with the appointment of General Rick
Hillier as the Government of Canada�s Chief of the Defence Staff. One of our
province�s most-distinguished sons, General Hillier has already been
successful in convincing the Government of Canada to significantly expand
its defence spending. My Government will work closely with General Hillier
and the federal government to secure new opportunities that will diversify
5-Wing Goose Bay and sustain its operations for years to come.
On the 8th of March in Labrador, My Government announced an investment this
year of at least $56 million to improve access to health services,
strengthen Aboriginal communities, build and repair infrastructure, and
expand economic opportunities. This was the strongest signal yet that My
Government intends to help Labrador thrive and prosper and see Labradorians
enjoy the same standard of living enjoyed by residents living on the Island.
My Government will also establish a branch of the Premier�s Office in Happy
Valley-Goose Bay to ensure a direct conduit between Labrador and My First
Minister on the priorities, views, and concerns of Labradorians.
Getting People Healthier
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
While My Government is committed to move Newfoundland and Labrador ahead to
better economic times, it recognizes there are significant social barriers
to opportunity that we must confront together. My Government is committed to
bringing down these barriers, beginning with the barriers to good health.
A healthier society is a stronger, more-productive society. My Government
will promote wellness to keep people healthier; and when people do become
sick, My Government will provide funding to diagnose and treat them sooner
and more effectively.
Last year, My Government announced a new MRI for Corner Brook; expanded
dialysis services; an expanded provincial drug program; new immunizations
for children; a new Division of Aging and Seniors; a new Chief Nurse
position; a renewed commitment to smokefree workplaces; an OxyContin task
force; and a financial commitment to improve the safety of our personal care
homes.
The First Ministers� Health Accord provides substantial additional funding
to Newfoundland and Labrador to enable the province to reduce wait times and
provide better care for patients. My Government will invest strategically to
achieve needed advances in health care delivery. Areas of focus will include
diagnostic services, vision restoration, joint replacement, cancer and
cardiac care, and access to services for residents in northern areas.
To ensure our health and community services system meets the needs of the
people it serves as effectively as it can, My Government will focus on
planning for the delivery of services in each region of the province. These
plans will focus on the appropriate locations of services, the appropriate
skill mix of our service providers, the best means of integrating services,
the delivery of new models of primary health care, and strengthening of
public health.
My Government is especially committed to secure and advance the quality of
care that our seniors receive. We must not and will not forget the men and
women who contributed so much to our province over the years and asked for
so little in return. With the best interests of our seniors guiding its
actions, My Government will move ahead this year to design and implement a
long-term care strategy in order to both increase the number of long-term
care beds around our province and to identify other necessary supports to
allow our seniors to remain in their communities.
My Government believes we can reduce the demands on our health care system
by promoting health and wellness. Recent national reports indicate
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are among Canada�s most obese and inactive.
The rate of childhood-onset diabetes is among the highest in the country. My
Government will foster a culture of wellness in our classrooms and develop a
planned and sequential health and physical education program in our schools
to inspire in our young people a lifelong commitment to regular exercise,
healthy eating, and positive self esteem. My Government is also developing
new nutrition guidelines for schools that will ensure students are provided
with healthy food choices and given information about healthy eating. If we
can support our young people eating well and exercising regularly, we as a
society will be healthier, hardier, and happier.
My Government appreciates the recommendations it received from the
Reid/Power inquiry and OxyContin Task Force Report and will refine and
implement a mental health and addictions plan to ensure people in need of
mental health and addictions services are able to access them.
Addressing Poverty
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
My Government recognizes the devastating effects of poverty and is committed
to taking steps to alleviate and reduce poverty.
Last year, My Government announced tax cuts for the poor; a home heating
fuel rebate; indexation of the Newfoundland and Labrador Child Benefit rate;
indexation of the Seniors� Benefit rate; an enhanced Mother Baby Nutrition
Supplement; an expanded Supported Employment Program for individuals with
developmental disabilities; improved delivery of income support and
employment and career services; a higher minimum wage; and funding for youth
support programs, including the unique Youth Promise Challenge and a new
shelter and resource centre for young people.
Building on several measures announced last year, My Government will refine
and implement a comprehensive Poverty Reduction Strategy in collaboration
with stakeholders both within and outside the government.
The best remedy for poverty is often a secure job. My Government will foster
stronger labour force attachment by taking an aggressive approach in
assisting income support clients, particularly youth, to access employment.
The Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment will establish a
pilot Supported Employment for Single Parents Program in a region outside
the Avalon. It will implement a new earnings exemption model to better
assist income support clients who are employed.
My Government will integrate women�s voices and perspectives, including
those of Aboriginal women, when formulating public policies. It will also
enhance the use of gender-based analysis across departments, agencies,
boards, and commissions to evaluate and advance the status of women in our
province.
My Government will continue its commitment to violence prevention through a
new violence prevention program with new management and leadership; new
funding to fight violence against Aboriginal women in Labrador; new funding
for a much-needed women�s shelter in Hopedale; and new family violence
legislation that will be introduced.
There will be special measures to ensure women share equitably in the social
and economic benefits of the province and to address employment barriers for
women in non-traditional and resource-based industries. Women�s
participation in leadership and decision making will also be advanced
through measures including supports for Aboriginal women.
Educating for Success
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
Recognizing that education is the key to both personal and economic
development, My Government will help to bring down the barriers to learning
so that our students and graduates are better able to seize the
opportunities before them. Indeed, no issue is of greater importance, as
Newfoundland and Labrador looks to the future, than the need to prepare our
young people for success.
Healthy, safe and comfortable buildings are essential for schools to succeed
in their core mission of educating children. To ensure our schools meet this
standard, My Government will develop and implement a comprehensive capital
financing and maintenance plan. This year, it will move forward with several
major renovations of schools in various areas. My Government recently
announced funding to correct problems caused by water infiltration into
school buildings.
My Government believes a solid education must begin early in a child�s life.
To build on the work of the recently-established Ministerial Council for
Early Childhood Learning, My Government will recognize early childhood
learning as an important part of the education process. We will explore
opportunities and options to ensure all children enter Kindergarten having
had appropriate learning experiences in their pre-school years.
Education does not end with grade school. More and more, our students must
pursue post-secondary studies to gain the knowledge, skills, and credentials
they need to take on challenging careers and reach their potential.
Given the unprecedented demand for greater diversification and improved
sustainability, we recognize that the provincial public post-secondary
system must undergo change and renewal. Further, the increasing pace of
change requires us to constantly explore strategies to improve the way our
public post-secondary education system operates.
To accomplish this, My Government last year commissioned a White Paper on
Post-secondary Education in order to tailor the system to better prepare
students for opportunities here at home. This work is underway, and My
Government is prepared to begin implementing, in the year ahead, a range of
measures based on recommendations flowing through this process.
My Government is particularly cognizant of the need to modernize
post-secondary facilities to ensure our programs can prepare students to
tackle modern challenges effectively. My Government will ensure our
facilities and programs are modern and relevant to current and emerging
needs.
My Government will also forecast skills requirements and plan ways of
meeting the labour force demands with local graduates.
My Government will also create a Labour Market Development unit to
consolidate related activities and positions. The demands on the provincial
labour market are changing rapidly, and it is vitally important that this
province be well positioned to respond. A skilled, well-trained labour force
is key to the ongoing economic growth and prosperity of Newfoundland and
Labrador. There is no more important time for us to emphasize education than
now. We must maintain a viable post-secondary system while ensuring our
students have the ability to compete with the best. We must all be partners
in renewing and expanding our higher education system for the next
generation. The White Paper on Public Post-secondary Education will
establish the foundation for our future success.
Progress and Promise
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
Even with a solid economic development agenda and a strong social
conscience, My Government cannot lose sight of the fiscal challenges that
our province continues to face.
My Government commenced its term in November of 2003 with a mandate and a
plan to apply a new approach to governance in Newfoundland and Labrador.
While considerable work awaits our collective efforts, Newfoundland and
Labrador is closer to realizing its dreams today than when My Government
first began.
No challenge in 2004 was greater than the province�s financial instability.
Newfoundland and Labrador was facing billion-dollar deficits that, within a
decade, would almost have doubled the province�s net debt without decisive
action to address the challenge head on. Independent auditors and advisors
expressed their concerns about the province�s fiscal sustainability,
concerns that My Government shares. Our children deserve a legacy of promise
and opportunity, not a stack of bills for the money we are spending today.
That is why My Government remains committed to the strategy it announced
last year to eliminate the cash deficit over its first term while
significantly reducing the accrual deficit. Achieving fiscal sustainability
means making choices, and last year, the responsible choices were difficult
to make. By carefully balancing expenditures, My Government secured and
enhanced a host of social and economic development programs that are vital
to families and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The result
is that we have begun to get a better handle on our fiscal challenges.
My Government invested in health care, education, justice and safety,
assistance for children and families, and support for Aboriginal
communities. To promote new opportunities, My Government invested in
infrastructure, municipalities, business growth, and resource development.
To promote openness and good governance, My Government brought forward
measures to enhance planning, effectiveness, and accountability.
This year and in the years that follow, My Government will continue to
identify and implement responsible measures that improve the way the
people�s government functions.
Through the program renewal process initiated last year, we have identified
areas of strength and places where service delivery can be improved. As the
process evolved, so did our focus.
Program renewal cannot be an isolated initiative: it is also a frame of
mind, an attitude. Our public service must always be striving to improve,
enhance, and modernize programs and services.
Through program renewal, we have identified and started many positive,
forward-thinking initiatives, but others will take time and strategy to
implement.
In the coming year, My Government has plans for another extensive
legislative agenda. In the Spring sitting of the Legislature, amendments
will be introduced to the Smoke-free Environment Act to provide for a 100
per cent ban on the use of tobacco in all public places. Amendments to the
Wild Life Act will be introduced to provide greater enforcement and
increased penalties for violations of the act, especially related to inland
fish species. And further automobile insurance reforms are expected to be
brought forward based on the review by the Public Utilities Board and the
Department of Government Services.
Building Stronger Federal-Provincial Relations
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
My Government is also deeply committed to a continued partnership and
positive relationship with the Government of Canada.
There have been tensions in recent months, but both sides are motivated to
build a smooth working relationship in order to advance the fortunes of
Newfoundland and Labrador and of Canada generally.
That desire resulted in the Atlantic Accord 2005. My Government is committed
to build on this success and other achievements, such as the welcome new
attention to health funding, foreign overfishing, and 5-Wing Goose Bay. In
September of 2004, My Government was proud to be a part of an important
agreement among the federal, provincial, and territorial governments on the
provision of substantial new funding for health care. It was proud to help
strengthen Canada�s Equalization Program. Additionally, at My Government�s
urging, Prime Minister Paul Martin has drawn international attention to the
scourge of unsustainable foreign fishing on our continental shelf. There
have also been discussions and initiatives with respect to infrastructure,
economic development, education, research, the federal presence in this
province, and many other issues.
Other significant issues await our concerted efforts in the months and years
ahead. My Government this year will focus on fisheries management,
post-secondary educational infrastructure, child care, pharmacare, home
care, regional economic development, culture, transportation services and
infrastructure, energy development, and a range of other priorities.
A Time for Heroes
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
As our people and My Government work to shape a brighter future, we remind
ourselves that we are limited only by the breadth and depth of our dreams.
In recent months, our people have dared to dream dreams that push far beyond
the limits of our circumstances. Our confidence in our future has never been
stronger than it is today. Our pride in ourselves has never been more secure
than it is today. Our hopes for tomorrow have never been greater, yet we
remain wholly grounded in reality.
Why? Because we have rediscovered something essential about ourselves that
we were in danger of forgetting. If tribulation had made defeatists of our
ancestors, none of us would be here. Our very existence is a testament to
the grit, determination, and humanitarianism of the heroes who built this
place. These soils are rich with their blood, the seas salty with the sweat
of their labour. We are humbled by the magnitude of our legacy. It is on the
shoulders of giants that we stand. How could we ever fall when we stand with
heroes so great!
Let us never forget that these heroes stood, not alone, but side by side. At
Beaumont Hamel, they fought and died bravely, side by side. On the merciless
seas, they gave their lives, side by side. On the flakes and in the fields,
they worked themselves into early graves, side by side. We will not loosen
this albatross from our necks and achieve the prosperity we so richly
deserve unless we vow that we will do so together, side by side.
The time has come for new heroes to step forward: men, women, and young
people who can build their community, grow our economy, foster cooperation,
and inspire the confidence we need to pursue our dreams together.
We will not forget the legacy that makes us strong; but with renewed pride,
we will build a new future of opportunity and self-reliance that is truly
deserving of its illustrious heritage. This year, we will seize the
opportunities to grow our economy and invest in our culture. And we will do
so together, side by side.
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly:
Estimates of expenditure will be laid before you in due course and you will
be asked to grant supply to Her Majesty.
I invoke God�s blessing upon you as you commence this new Session.
May Divine Providence guide you in your deliberation.
2005 03 15
3:05 p.m.
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