BACKGROUNDER
Labrador ~ Commitment, Progress, Confidence
Since taking office in 2003, the Provincial Government
has made steady progress in establishing solid economic and social
infrastructure to help Labradorians capture the opportunities presented
by the regions� strong resource base and skilled, innovative
communities.
Listening to Labrador Voices
- A branch of the Premier�s Office established in Happy
Valley-Goose Bay to ensure a direct conduit between Labrador and
Premier Williams on the priorities and concerns of Labradorians.
- "Listening Tour" of North Coast communities by Premier Williams
and Minister Joan Burke during the summer of 2004.
- Two-day Cabinet retreat (March 7-8, 2005 in Labrador City and
Happy Valley-Goose Bay, respectively), including face -to-face
meetings with over 30 community leaders to hear about the region�s
issues and priorities.
- Premier Williams led consultations in November 2005 with
Aboriginal leaders and Aboriginal women and advanced their issues at
the First Ministers� Meeting with National Aboriginal Leaders in
Kelowna, B.C.
- Premier Williams hosted public meeting with Labradorians in
Labrador during November 2005 on the proposed Lower Churchill
development.
- Premier Williams advanced Labrador issues during the recent
federal election, including Lower Churchill development, 5 Wing
Goose Bay, the Trans-Labrador Highway and Sheshatshiu Reserve
creation.
- Ministerial Advisory Committee on Labrador Transportation
established in February 2006 to develop a comprehensive Labrador
Transportation Strategy.
- In June 2006 the Provincial Government released a discussion
paper to aid in the development of a Northern Strategic Plan for
Labrador.
- On April 20, 2007, the Provincial Government has fulfilled its
2005 Speech from the Throne commitment to develop a Northern
Strategic Plan to address the needs for social and economic
development in Labrador.
- Premier Williams held a Cabinet retreat in Churchill Falls in
September 2006 to discuss issues and to meet with community leaders.
- On February 7, 2007 the Ministers Responsible for Labrador
Affairs and Aboriginal Affairs attended the Northern Development
Ministers Forum in Whitehorse, Yukon to discuss a variety of common
issues experienced across the north.
- Assistant Deputy Minister (Labrador Affairs) position
re-established in Happy Valley-Goose Bay in November 2005.
- On November 8, 2006 a public relations specialist position was
created within the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs in
Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
- In February 2007 the position of deputy minister for Labrador
and Aboriginal Affairs was successfully filled in Happy Valley-Goose
Bay.
Strengthening Labrador�s Economy
The Provincial Government has made strategic
investments to strengthen Labrador�s positioning for long-term economic
growth.
- A new senior government position and supports in Labrador West
was created within the Department of Natural Resources to serve
Labrador�s mining, agricultural and energy sectors.
- $300,000 over three years to support for Destination Labrador,
to help promote Labrador as a tourism destination.
- Participation in annual Northern Development Ministers Forum.
Ministers attending the Northern Development Ministers Forum
announced on February 14, 2007 that this provided to be an excellent
opportunity to discuss issues and opportunities facing Canada�s
northern regions with specific emphasis being placed on education,
employment, transportation and the promotion of northern tourism.
- Labour Relations Agency working to resolve labour
disputes at the mines in Labrador West.
- Ministers attended the Nunavut ministerial visit which took
place in Iqualuit, Nunavut on February 19-20, 2007. The purpose of
the discussions was to look at potential alliances and economic
opportunities in areas of mutual interest. Considering the
geographic proximity and similar cultural landscapes of the
jurisdictions, there is the potential for opportunity to forge
future cooperation and partnerships in the following areas:
transportation, economic development initiatives, and the sharing of
best practices.
- The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
contributed funding for the following initiatives:
Explore Labrador CD-ROM project to market Labrador
businesses and opportunities ($15, 329)
Iqualuit Trade Show delegation to promote linkages between
Labrador and Nunavut � ($ 8,768)
Expo Labrador 2006 Conference and Trade Show in Happy
Valley-Goose Bay ($25,579)
Eco-Tourism Conference in Labrador City in partnership with
the Protected Areas� Association of Newfoundland & Labrador �
($4,663)
Northlink Project 2006-2007 � funding to complement the
implementation of the Northlink�s 2007-2008 Strategic Plan
($32,500)
NOIA Conference in the Labrador Straits � funding to host
the international conference with a focus on innovative
solutions to ensure the survival of small coastal communities
($21,125)
Marketing Initiative for Goose Bay Airport � funding to
assist in the re-branding of the Goose Bay Airport Corporation
($23,250)
North Eastern Corridors Transportation Study � funding to
complete a study outlining opportunities for the province in
relation to the export of goods and services to Nunavut and the
entire circumpolar region ($27,700)
Industrial Park Expansion in Labrador City � funding to
expand the industrial park in Labrador City by seven lots to
meet the growing demand for business expansion ($125,000)
In excess of $150,000 over the last three years to host
capacity building sessions for Community Economic Development
groups since 2003. These workshops dealt with issues such as
board governance, legal issues and conflict resolution.
Originally designed for Regional Economic Development Boards,
these workshops can be altered to fit any organization involved
in community development
$753,750 in core administration funding to Labrador�s five
regional economic development boards over the past three years
Transportation Infrastructure
- Chip seal surfacing test and performance evaluation completed on
15km of the Trans-Labrador Highway Phase I.
- Trans-Labrador Highway Phase III: approximately 119km of 280km
of highway has been completed. The bridge over the Churchill River
is 100 per cent complete. Anticipated total cost is $110 million.
- $2.7 million announced in Budget 2006 for provincial road
projects in Labrador, including rehabilitating bridges at Trout
Brook, Pinware River and Forteau Brook.
- $50 million committed in December 2005 to cost-share with the
federal government the surfacing of the Trans-Labrador Highway from
Labrador West to Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Surfacing of the
Trans-Labrador Highway from Happy Valley-Goose Bay to Labrador City-Wabush
is estimated to cost in the order of $100 million, to be shared
equally by the federal and provincial government. The project is
expected to take up to five years for completion. Government will
invest $15 million (cost-shared with federal government) to commence
hard-surfacing this summer.
- Strong lobbying encouraged federal government to designate the
TLH part of the National Highway System, eligible for ongoing
federal funding for construction and upgrades. The Minister of
Transportation and Works met with federal ministers on August 7,
2006 to reaffirm the Prime Minister�s earlier commitment to Premier
Williams to cost-share completion of the TLH, and also committed to
sign an agreement by the end of the year.
- Government continues to pursue the federal government for
funding to surface the Trans-Labrador Highway between Happy
Valley�Goose Bay and Labrador City-Wabush. On November 28, 2006, the
Minister of Transportation and Works stated that it was anticipated
that the hard surfacing would commence during the summer of 2007 and
that construction of Phase III would be completed in the fall of
2009.
- Construction of a new highway maintenance depot in the Red
Bay-Lodge Bay area to house specialized snow clearing equipment
($1.5 million). Further $700,000 to increase snow clearing efforts
on this section of the Trans Labrador Highway.
- Improvements to the Labrador Marine Service, including ferry
passenger and freight enhancements ($45,000), a refrigeration system
for the Northern Ranger ($17,000) and ferry dock upgrades for
Postville and Cartwright-Port Hope Simpson ($536,700). $2.8 million
to complete vessel refits for the MV Sir Robert Bond and the
MV Northern Ranger to ensure the safety of marine services
for Labrador.
- Early release of Labrador Marine Service schedule for 2005, 2006
and 2007 shipping seasons. The Labrador Marine Coastal Service was
announced on January 16, 2007 by the Minister of Transportation and
Works. The early release of the schedule will have a positive impact
on the tourism industry as well as provided an extended operating
service for residents who rely on the marine service for
transportation and delivery of goods. The reservation service for
the extended marine season became effective on January 23, 2007.
- Announced on February 27, 2006 was the formation of the
Minister�s Advisory Committee on Labrador Transportation which was
tasked to make recommendations on how best to address future
Labrador transportation needs. The committee was allocated $325,000
in the 2006 budget to develop a comprehensive Labrador
Transportation Strategy. In October 2006 government released the
consultation document for the Labrador Transportation Strategy which
is nearing completion.
- Rigolet fuel infrastructure ($20,000).
- Airstrip rehabilitation and equipment for north and south coast
communities ($718,900).
- Winter trails grooming grants ($240,000 annually).
- Budget 2006 included $759,000 to extend the operating season of
the Straits ferry service (from St. Barbe to Blanc Sablon) by four
weeks. The ferry service between St. Barbe and Blanc Sablon was
extended until ice conditions closed the crossing for the season on
January 24, 2006. The Apollo began its operational season for
the Straits area on April 6, 2007. This allowed for an extended
ferry service for residents and businesses.
- On November 7, 2006, the Minister of Transportation and Works
and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs, released a report to
aid in the development of a sustainable transportation plan for
Labrador. With the release of this consultation document, the
Provincial Government is moving forward with its Blueprint
commitment to develop Labrador to its fullest potential and
to reflect the objectives and aspirations of Labradorians.
- November 27, 2006, the Provincial Government committed to
providing a grant to the communities of Williams Harbour and Norman
Bay to enable freight to be shipped via long liner when their ferry
service�s annual contract expires on November 30. The grant is
provided to the local service districts to lease a longliner which
will bridge the gap between the end of the contracted ferry service
(M.V. Challenge One) and the time winter freeze occurs.
- The new transportation depot at Chateau Pond, located between
Red Bay and Lodge Bay, was officially opened on January 9, 2007.
This depot was built at a cost of $1.4 million to government.
Government committed to building this much needed depot and it will
allow snow-clearing crews to work from the centre of the road
outwards, resulting in a more effective snow-clearing effort.
- Announced on January 16, 2007 was the 2007 Labrador Marine
Coastal Service by the Minister of Transportation and Works. The
early release of the schedule will have a positive impact on the
tourism industry as well as provided an extended operating service
for residents who rely on the marine service for transportation and
delivery of goods. The reservation service for the extended marine
season became effective on January 23, 2007.
- In Phase I of its ferry rate review, Government reduced
passenger and vehicle-plus-driver fares on provincial ferries
(including Labrador routes) to bring them in line with road
equivalency costs. Government also cancelled the five per cent,
across the board, rate increase for all fares that was scheduled to
take effect April 1, 2007. Phase II will focus on commercial vehicle
and freight rates and will be completed in 2008.
5-Wing Goose Bay
- Actively marketed base at Berlin Air Show, as well as with other
European government officials.
- Successfully lobbied federal government to secure increased
funding for 5-Wing Goose Bay.
- The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
contributed funding for the following initiatives:
"Lessons Learned" tour for Goose Bay Citizen�s Coalition
($23,000).
5 Wing Goose Bay Community Studies on alternative uses for
the base and development of a business/marketing plan ($98,750).
UAV Student Competition 2007 � funding to host a UAV
competition and market 5 Wing Goose Bay as a premier destination
for companies involved in UAV construction and testing
($59,340).
- The Minister Responsible for Labrador gave a presentation to the
Senate Standing Committee on National Security and recommending
further use of 5 Wing Goose Bay to achieve objectives of Canadian
Forces and NATO.
- Premier Williams has received written commitment from the Prime
Minister to make 5 Wing Goose Bay an operational requirement.
- The Provincial Government is also exploring other related
economic diversification opportunities in aerospace and marine
technology that may further enhance the roles that the base and the
community of Happy Valley-Goose Bay might play in the federal
government�s northern sovereignty plans.
- Government continues to hold the federal government to its
commitments to 5 Wing Goose Bay.
Lower Churchill Development
- Three "full development" proponents and three potential
financing options have been selected to move on the Phase II of the
assessment process.
- Negotiated a new agreement on the recall of 130 MW of power from
the Upper Churchill resulting in $230 million in additional revenues
over five years (a 64 per cent increase over the previous contract).
- Expression of Interest called for the development of the Lower
Churchill hydro resource ($408,000).
- In keeping with the provincial government�s agenda of developing
resources for the maximum benefit of the people and continuing on
the road to self-reliance, Premier Williams announced in May 2006,
that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Newfoundland
and Labrador Hydro would take the lead on the potential development
of the Lower Churchill hydroelectric resource.
- As part of its continuing assessment of market access and
destination options in Canada and the United States for excess power
from the potential Lower Churchill Project, Newfoundland and
Labrador filed an application for long-term transmission service
from the New Brunswick System Operator (NBSO) in February 2007. This
follows requests filed in 2006 with Hydro-Qu�bec Trans�nergie for
transmission service on Hydro-Qu�bec's transmission grid and with
the Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) for a
connection assessment and approval to transmit Lower Churchill power
into Ontario.
- Announced in January 2006 that Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro
will apply to Hydro-Quebec TransEnergie for transmission service to
transmit Lower Churchill power from the Labrador/Quebec border to
markets in Quebec, Ontario, the Maritime provinces and the northeast
United States.
- In May 2006, Premier Williams announced that the Government of
Newfoundland and Labrador and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro will
take the lead on the potential development of the Lower Churchill
hydroelectric resource.
- On December 1, 2006 Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro registered
the Lower Churchill Project with the required federal and provincial
environmental regulatory agencies.
Fisheries and Aquaculture
- Labrador fisheries diversification projects ($94,200).
- Cod potting tests - a new harvesting technology being introduced
to the Labrador Straits ($31,700).
- Exploratory harvesting for northern stone crab in northern
Labrador, in partnership with Torngat Fish Producers and the
Labrador Inuit Association ($50,000).
- Working with the Gilbert's Bay steering committee to bring
Gilberts Bay from an Area of Interest to a Marine Protected Area,
under the Oceans Act.
- Crab Workers� Support Program ($453,000 committed in Labrador).
Forestry
- Study on the potential for secondary manufacturing and
value-added wood products development in Labrador; the terms of
reference were developed in consultation with Labrador industry and
groups, including the Innu Nation and M�tis Nation. The project team
is working closely with local stakeholders to develop the strategy
($155,000). On November 2, 2006, the Provincial Government released
the Strategic Plan to Develop Labrador Secondary Manufacturing and
Value-Added Wood Products Industry. A team of senior managers from
across government will now do the next piece of work necessary in
regards to investor attraction and marketing to determine the
viability of the plan.
- Forest access road construction ($1.2 million over two years).
- Expanded fire suppression program in Labrador ($460,000).
- Silviculture project funding ($528,064 over two years)
- Five Year Operating Plan for Forest Management District 21,
which covers an area in southeastern Labrador from Charlottetown on
the northeast coast, to L�anse au Clair in the Labrador Straits, an
area approximately 1.9 million hectares in size.
- In February 2007 the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural
Development contributed funding to the Pan Labrador Forestry Forum
in Port Hope Simpson. This provides funding to host a meeting of
stakeholders in the forestry industry ($2,913).
Agriculture
- Northern Agri-foods Development Strategy established, with a
minimum of $1.5 million federal/provincial funding, specifically for
Labrador; projects include potato trials, forage crop research,
carrot production research and support for the first Labrador
Straits Wildberry Conference ($531,000 spent).
- Agri-foods assistance to the Lake Melville Agricultural
Association for investment in agricultural equipment ($165,000).
- On March 15, 2007, the Provincial Government announced that it
will be accepting proposals for a study to determine the feasibility
of private industry establishing primary and secondary production of
milk in Central Labrador with a view of supplying milk to Labrador
and Nunavut. The deadline for proposals was March 23, 2007. The
study is expected to be completed by the fall.
Mines
- Voisey�s Bay development proceeding on schedule, with continued
monitoring of hiring practices to ensure adjacency principle is
being applied for the benefit of Labrador workers. The Voisey�s Bay
Environmental Management Board receives and reviews permit
applications and other project-related plans (over 100 funded in
2004-05), and is funded by government ($450,000 annually).
- Budget 2006 announced $250,000 for geological studies that
support mineral exploration, including $200,000 to conduct a
geochemical sampling and analysis program in prospective areas of
Labrador, and $50,000 to continue the systematic bedrock mapping
project in the Voisey�s Bay area.
- Also announced in Budget 2006, $107,000 to fund a drill core
collection program in Labrador that will gather existing material
left in the field and make it available to other geologists.
- Mineral Incentive Program (Junior Exploration Assistance)
funding to four junior mining firms to conduct exploration programs
on five properties in Labrador ($645,482).
- Mineral Incentive Program (Prospectors Assistance) funding for
five prospectors in support of their activities throughout Labrador
($14,500).
- In May 2006, during National Mining Week, the Provincial
Government announced funding expenditures under the Mineral
Incentive Program with the nearly $1 million increase in funding
announced in the provincial budget. At $2.5 million, this is the
largest budget in the program�s history.
- New initiatives under the Mineral Incentive Program include a
Prospectors Training Course in Happy Valley-Goose Bay which will
took place during the summer of 2006. It is hoped that by offering
this course in the region it will provide the maximum benefit and
opportunity to all interested people in Labrador, which can only
lead to a much higher potential for new mineral discoveries.
Strengthening Social Infrastructure
The Provincial Government has done much to enhance the
health, safety and well-being of Labradorians, in areas as diverse as
child protection, justice, community and personal development.
Health, Wellness and Engagement
- New health centre in Labrador West. The total cost of this
facility is estimated at $60 million. Construction is anticipated to
begin in 2007-08 pending funding approval.
- Government will proceed with the development of a new long-term
care facility in Happy Valley�Goose Bay. Budget 2006 included $1.2
million for detailed design work. The new facility is expected to be
completed in 2010.
- Government announced $917,300 to support a new satellite kidney
dialysis unit in Happy Valley-Goose Bay for dialysis patients.
- Assistance for Labradorians to overcome the barrier of
affordability when accessing needed health services outside their
communities and their region ($567,000 annually, including a new
$167,000 program for Labrador West residents who have to travel to
Goose Bay for medical care, instituted in 2005).
- In Budget 2006, $120,000 was provided for such suicide
prevention initiatives over the next two years. The funding is made
available under the Suicide Prevention Grants Program of the
Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs. On February 27, 2007,
the minister announced a grant of $12,000 to the Sheshatshiu Innu
First Nation for their suicide prevention proposal. The Provincial
Government has also provided similar grants to the Labrador M�tis
Nation, the Miawpukek First Nation, the Federation of Newfoundland
Indians and the Mushuau Innu First Nation.
- Support for fetal alcohol syndrome disorder (FASD) prevention
programs offered by the Labrador FASD Advisory Committee and
Labrador-Grenfell RIHA ($100,000).
- $400,000 (an increase of $100,000 in 2006) in annual funding for
the Air Foodlift subsidy program to provide nutritious food such as
fruit, vegetables and dairy products at a more reasonable price in
Labrador�s coastal communities.
- Annual electrical service subsidy provided for Nain Sportsplex
(up to $12,000).
- Funding for two recreation positions for Sheshatshui ($75,000
annually).
- Support for the 2006 Labrador Winter Games ($500,000).
- The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
provided the Point Amour Lighthouse project $40,000 from its
Regional Sectoral Diversification Fund over the last two fiscal
years (2005-06 and 2006-07) to update the Interpretation Centre and
develop a trail system.
- Government announced $230,000 in Budget 2006 to develop
infrastructure in Pinware River Provincial Park, such as a comfort
station and a dumping station.
- Torngat Recreation Commission - the Community Capacity
Building/Leadership Program and the Intra-Labrador Travel Subsidy
Program - provincially funded (approximately $60,000 annually until
2006).
- Employment corporations funding, providing employment for
persons with developmental disabilities ($88,000).
Education
- In September 2006, the Provincial Government announced a new
school for L�anse au Loup. Department officials are currently
working with a consultant to develop estimates.
- Budget 2006 included $1 million to help address inadequate
facility arrangements of the College of the North Atlantic in
Labrador West. A further $1 million was allocated for an extension
on the College of the North Atlantic�s campus in Happy Valley-Goose
Bay.
- In August 2006 Government announced that $5.5 million has been
allocated to complete the extension to College of the North Atlantic
in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
- Government announced on January 25, 2007, that the Department of
Education has approved Voisey�s Bay Nickel Company (VBNC) to offer
Adult Basic Education Level I at the mining site in Labrador. It is
the first time the ABE Level I program has been offered in the
mining industry in the province. This government is focused on
creating opportunities for our citizens and a large part of this is
ensuring we have an educated workforce.
Safety and Justice
- Five additional social work positions announced in 2004
($500,000 annually) and three additional positions in 2005 ($250,000
annually) for northern and central Labrador.
- Training for the corrections staff for sex offender and family
violence treatment programs at the Labrador Correctional Centre
which will also now support Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
assessments, at a cost of $50,000 and $33,600 respectively. In
January 2007, Correction Centre staff were trained in FASD.
- 14 additional RCMP positions, including administrative ($1.2
million annually) established for coastal communities.
- Additional funding provided to RNC in Labrador West (under a
70-30 federal-provincial funding arrangement).
- New RCMP detachment established in Sheshatshui.
- New Supreme Court building constructed and officially opened in
Happy Valley-Goose Bay ($2.1 million).
- Funding to hire legal aid staff in Happy Valley-Goose Bay to
improve access to justice in Labrador, which is consistent with
recommendations of the Aboriginal Law Project Report.
- Funding announced in Budget 2006 to develop a translation
interpretation strategy and a cultural training strategy to provide
broader access to Labrador justice services. The department received
the consultants report and recommendations in January 2007.
Implementation is planned to begin in the spring of 2007.
- Court security expanded to Happy Valley-Goose and Wabush.
Funding also allocated to establish Supreme Court circuit courts for
coastal communities to improve access to justice services in remote
areas.
- Labrador Correction Centre building upgraded ($193,000).
- New video-conferencing unit established in the provincial court
house, Happy Valley�Goose Bay which is used for meetings with other
sites with video-conferencing equipment to relay decisions, etc.
- Sweat Lodge constructed by inmates at the Labrador Correction
Centre for inmate programs was officially opened March 13, 2007.
- Following the provincial Aboriginal women�s conference in
Stephenville, officials of the Department of Justice met with Inuit,
Innu and Metis women in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Sheshatshiu in
February. The focus was access to justice issues and enhancing
communications with Aboriginal communities.
Strong and Sustainable Communities
- Municipal operating grants and special funding for Labrador
municipalities (approximately $3 million annually).
- Investment in essential major infrastructure projects under the
Municipal Capital Works Program, the Multi-Year Capital Works
Program, the Canada/ Newfoundland and Labrador Infrastructure
Program and the Canada/ Newfoundland and Labrador Inuit Communities
Agreement.
- Under the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Program the Provincial
Government continues to pursue funding for infrastructure in Happy
Valley-Goose Bay for a wastewater treatment project.
- Announced December 8, 2006, the Provincial Government will spend
an estimated $400,000 in 2007 to ensure small businesses and
residents in isolated diesel communities on the Labrador coast and
the island receive almost no rate increase in 2007 as a result of
Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro�s General Rate Application.
Following negotiations with the consumer advocate and other
interveners, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro was able to avoid
requesting a rate increase for most groups of customers for 2007,
except for those in remote diesel communities. This increase was
related to the rising cost of fuel for diesel generation. The
Provincial Government has decided to absorb the cost of the planned
increase for these customers for 2007.
- On December 15, 2006, the Provincial Government announced that
low income earners would be eligible to receive up to $200 to help
offset the cost of heating their homes from all sources through an
expanded Home Heating Rebate Program. This program is available to
individuals and families with a household income of $30,000 or less
regardless of their heating source. This program will result in a
government investment of $12.8 million, up from the $8.2 million
spent on last year�s program.
Helping Labradorians Connect
- Labrador Travel Subsidy for high school athletes (over $400,000
annually).
- Community Access Program (CAP) funding for computers and
Internet access ($104,000 in 2004-05, $109,000 in 2005-06 and
$101,000 for 2006-07). There are now 21 CAP sites in Labrador.
- One time funding for Smart Labrador during their work on the
Smart IT initiative to expand broadband throughout Labrador
($294,075).
- Government has validated its ongoing support to the Combined
Councils of Labrador and has invested $100,000 in Budget 2006.
Culture and Heritage
- $1.9 million announced in Budget 2006 to proceed with the
performance space in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The Provincial
Government will continue to explore a partnership with the federal
government to share in the total project cost estimated at $4
million. Site preparation has been completed and construction is to
begin with the 2007 construction season. It is anticipated that
construction will be completed during the winter of 2008.
- Support for Destination Labrador, to help promote
Labrador as a tourism destination ($300,000 over three years).
The Department of Innovation Trade and Rural
Development contributed funding for the following initiatives:
- Mina Hubbard Celebrations � provided to the
Labrador Heritage Society ($47,250)
- creation of a cultural video on life in
northern Labrador, based on the Anderson files � funding to
Torngasok Cultural Society ($11,859)
- Hebron Mission Restoration � funding to
Torngasok Cultural Society ($132,332)
- Jersey Rooms Phase II � funding to Town of
L�Anse au Clair for museum/interpretation work ($28,602). The
Jersey Trail, in nearby L�anse au Cotard, extends along the
shoreline of the L'Anse au Clair Bay and tells the story of
L�Anse au Clair�s first settlers. Stone building foundations and
an extensive stone-paved walkway are still visible. The Jersey
Trail was officially opened on June 26, 2006
- Gateway to Labrador Visitor Centre
re-profiling � funding to Labrador Straits Historical
Development Corporation ($39,911). The official opening took
place on June 26, 2006, for the Gateway to Labrador Visitor
Centre, a restored early 20th century church. This is
the first building on the entrance to L�Anse au Clair and will
serve as a link to the rest of the province
- Birch Brook Nordic Ski Club � funding for ski
trail and groomer garage improvements $11,461 in 2005 and
$26,932 in 2006
- Cain�s Quest Labrador Snowmobile Endurance
Race � $37,963 for 2006 and $53,540 for 2007
- Craft Training and Agricultural-Craft Fair in
southern Labrador � funding to host craft workshops and assist
in the implementation of the craft and agricultural fair
($3,198)
- Red Bay Marine Infrastructure Development
Plan - funding will assist in identification of alternate uses
for the infrastructure as related to the National Historic Site
($18,288)
- Grenfell properties restoration in Mary�s
Harbour � funding to upgrade tourism infrastructure for
travelers visiting Battle Harbour ($75,752)
- Pioneer Footpath Development Plan in the
Labrador Straits � funding to complete the phase I development
plan of a walking trail system from L�anse au Clair to Red Bay
($18,515)
- Labrador Winter Trails Enhancement � funding
to re-route and upgrade various sections of the Labrador wide
trail system ($47,501)
- Ice Carving Equipment for Sno Break 2007 �
funding to purchase ice making and carving equipment to add
another attraction to the festivities and further enhance the
winter tourism industry in Labrador ($6,000)
- In June 2006 the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
announced funding for 21 arts and heritage projects totalling
approximately $475,000 under the Cultural Economic Development
Program (CEDP). One recipient of funding based in Labrador was THEM
DAYS Magazine and Archives which received $50,000 toward its annual
operating costs.
- The redeveloped A.M.G.Town Centre in L�Anse au
Clair was officially opened on June 26, 2006. It houses a family
resource centre, new council chambers, a gym and computer room with
Internet access.
- Completed The Way Forward, a tourism outfitting strategy
for Newfoundland and Labrador.
- An archaeology conference was held in Battle Harbour during June
2006 entitled The Many Faces of Labrador: Community and
Archaeology in the Big Land. Discussion revolved around the
state of archaeology research in Labrador by bringing together
interested community leaders and top archaeologists from across the
province and country.
- $94,267 from the Regional-Sectoral Diversification Fund invested
in two Labrador organizations for community initiatives:
- $75,752 to assist Mary�s Harbour Town Council
with major improvements to the ferry site;
- $18, 515 to Labrador Straits Historical
Society for an extensive walking trail system.
Responsible Environmental Stewardship
- Budget 2006 confirmed $516,800 for the second year of a six-year
project to monitor the effects of the Trans-Labrador Highway on the
threatened Mealy Mountains woodland caribou.
- Innu Forest Management Process Agreement funding ($340,000
annually).
- Labrador M�tis Nation participation in forest management process
funded ($400,000 over two years).
- $148,400 allocated in Budget 2006 toward an updated estimate of
Davis Strait polar bear populations to ensure that the polar bears
are not over harvested.
- The Provincial Government announced its intention to proceed
with the Labrador wind monitoring program in June 2006. It is in
line with government�s action to expand the mandate of Hydro to
explore every aspect of the energy industry and pursue developments
in the best interest of the province.
- The Provincial Government embarked on a province-wide public
consultation process in January 2006 on the development of the
provincial Energy Plan. Government is continuing its work to
complete a comprehensive provincial Energy Plan
which is expected to be completed
by late spring. The plan will incorporate government�s public policy
direction regarding the development of our energy resources,
including wind projects.
Working with Aboriginal Communities
Toward Greater Self-Reliance
- Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement Act has been passed
by both the federal and provincial levels of government. Minister
Rideout appeared before the House of Commons and Senate Standing
Committees on Aboriginal Affairs in June 2005 to encourage the
expeditious passing of the legislation.
- Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement signed with the Labrador
Inuit Association and the Government of Canada in Nain on January
22, 2005, providing the foundation for sustainable development in
northern Labrador. There was $1,324,600 announced in the 2006 Budget
to fulfill provincial obligations for the implementation of the
Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement, such as land use planning,
surveys, and co-management boards.
- Torngat Mountains National Park Reserve Land Transfer Agreement
signed with the Government of Canada on January 22, 2005 (which
included a funding commitment from Parks Canada of $14 million over
first 10 years).
- Progress in negotiations on Innu land claims and the impacts and
benefits issues related to the Lower Churchill project.
Supporting Aboriginal Communities
Understanding the past, enhancing the present and
building the future
- Premier Williams delivered an apology to the people relocated
from Hebron and Nutak.
- Federal-Provincial Inuit Communities Agreement extended for 2004
and 2005, providing some $13 million annually for municipal
infrastructure, supplementary education programs, community
development and housing (under a 70-30 federal-provincial funding
arrangement).
- The Rooms Provincial Museum, in partnership with The Innu
Nation, acquired a rare 18th century caribou-skin coat
purchased at $104,650. Curation and exhibition of the coat will be
undertaken under the direction of a Joint Management Committee
representing The Rooms Provincial Museum and the Innu Nation. Upon
the development of a cultural facility in Labrador by Innu Nation,
ownership of the coat will be transferred to Innu Nation.
- The Provincial Government agreed on September 8, 2006, to
transfer the necessary Crown lands to the Government of Canada for
the creation of a reserve for the Innu First Nation at Sheshatshiu,
in Labrador.
Health and wellness
- Government worked with the Innu and the Government of Canada to
further the Innu Healing Strategy and address social problems.
- Support for reopening of the Shushepishipan Group Home
($70,000).
- Family resource projects and other projects to help protect and
empower aboriginal women and their families ($400,000, including
$100,000 for violence prevention).
Education and family development
- Budget 2006 also provided $120,000 to continue a community-based
grants program and collaborative work to address quality of life
issues for Aboriginal women and children.
- A new elementary and intermediate religious education program
with more information on Aboriginal spirituality.
- Emergency funding granted to the Hopedale school for fire
recovery.
- Support for family resource programs through the Shakastueu
Pisham Centre in Sheshatshui and the Piguttuk Family Resource
project in Nain ($210,000 annually).
- Addressing issues identified in the Philpott Report on Innu
education ($500,000) such as working with the Innu and the federal
government to develop a bi-cultural model of education that will
encourage Innu children to achieve their potential while preserving
and fostering their language and culture.
- In June 2006 Government committed to investing $1.2 million
throughout the province in adult education through an initiative for
the College of the North Atlantic to expand the number of sites
where Adult Basic Education (ABE) Level I is offered. One of the
nine full-time ABE sites is located in North West River.
Women of Labrador
- $80,000 has been identified in Budget 2006 to increase the
annual grants for the province's eight women's centres (Corner
Brook, Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador
City, Port aux Basques, St. John's, Stephenville) so that clients
can have improved access to information, support and referral
services. The increase will bring the annual funding for each of the
centres to $75,000. This increased the funding for women�s centres
in Labrador City and Happy Valley-Goose Bay ($10,000 each).
- $120,000 has been identified in Budget 2006 for Aboriginal women
and children. This includes $100,000 to continue a community-based
grants program designed to address violence and other quality of
life issues for Aboriginal women and children and $20,000 in
continued funding to enable ongoing collaborative work and meetings
between Aboriginal women and the Government of Newfoundland and
Labrador to advance the quality of life for Aboriginal women.
- Women�s Policy Office worked with National Women�s Institute to
support their efforts for children in north coast Labrador ($5,000).
- Support to open a women�s shelter in Hopedale ($200,000) and
extra funding for Hope Haven in Labrador City ($100,000) in 2006
budget.
- The Provincial Government invested $70 000 to Hopedale Status of
Women Council for new women�s shelter.
- Women�s Policy Office organization of first Aboriginal women�s
conference. Support for an Aboriginal women�s conference on social
and economic needs and priorities � Aboriginal Women, The Path to
the Good Life, March 13-15, 2006 held in Happy Valley-Goose Bay;
funding ensured that 80 Aboriginal women could participate
($80,000).
- The Provincial Government has already begun to take action on a
number of issues outlined in The Path to the Good Life. In
Budget 2006, the provincial government provided funding for
increases to legal aid services, improved health and policing
services, improved women�s shelters in Labrador and the development
of a strategy to improve access to translators for Aboriginal people
using the justice system. Aboriginal women�s issues are also
identified as a significant part of the government�s new six-year
plan of action on violence prevention. Government is currently
undertaking a review of cultural sensitivity and culturally
appropriate services and supports to ensure that all Aboriginal
people receive services from government with respect and
understanding.
- On August 9, 2006, the Provincial Government announced funding
for eight projects to aid in violence prevention for Aboriginal
women and children have been approved through the government�s
Violence Prevention Initiative. The eight projects, totaling
approximately $78,000, will provide funding for Innu, Inuit,
Labrador Metis and Mi�kmaq communities.
- Provided $10,000 in funding to the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation
to support Innu Ishkueut Healing Journey conference held by the
Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation.
- Government assisted with the organization and funding for the
second Aboriginal women�s conference, The Good Life for
Aboriginal Women: Moving Forward, Building Strength held
November 24-26, 2006. Innu, Inuit, Metis and Mi�kmaq women met in
Stephenville from with representatives from the provincial
government to discuss justice, violence and poverty.
- In March 2006, the Provincial Government sponsored six
Aboriginal women to attend a national forum on violence against
Aboriginal women in Ottawa.
- In December 2006, $80,000 in funding was granted by Women�s
Policy Office to eight community-based projects � five based in
Labrador � to address violence against Aboriginal women and
children.
- Women�s Policy Office hosted province-wide school writing
contest to promote the contribution of Aboriginal Women to the
province during Women�s� History Month;
- Government has committed to hosting the upcoming National
Aboriginal Women�s Summit in June 2007 in Corner Brook.
|