Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
January 20, 2011

Food Subsidy Program Assisting Isolated Labrador Communities

The Air Foodlift Subsidy program (AFS), which helps provide consumers in remote Labrador with nutritious, perishable foods at a reasonable cost, is now underway for communities on the North Coast and in the Southern Labrador communities of Black Tickle, Williams Harbour and Norman Bay.

Under the program, a subsidy is paid to participating retail stores to offset the high cost of flying perishable foods into these communities. Retailers are required to pass savings on to the consumer on the cost of goods sold.

“The Air Foodlift Subsidy continues to be monitored, enhanced and revised according to the changing face of Labrador,” said the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs. “The Government of Newfoundland Labrador remains firmly committed to improving the health and well-being of Labradorians and recognizes the unique challenges of those who live in remote and isolated communities. Through this important subsidy, we are working to achieve our Northern Strategic Plan mandate to provide a better future for our children.”

Minister Hickey noted that the continuation of the pilot marine service across the Strait of Belle Isle lessens the need for the AFS for most communities in Southern Labrador. Under the service, the MV Sir Robert Bond crosses twice-weekly from Corner Brook to Blanc Sablon. This allows the use of the Trans Labrador Highway, which is now the preferred method for the delivery of goods.

“The Trans Labrador Highway has opened up new avenues to get goods to consumers in a timely manner, and the continued year-round marine service pilot project enhances the opportunity to have these goods shipped to retailers and consumers on a regular basis,” said Minister Hickey. “However, residents should be assured that if the marine service is interrupted due to adverse ice conditions or severe weather, the Air Foodlift Subsidy program will be made available to participating retailers.”

A list of eligible food items can be found at: www.laa.gov.nl.ca/laa/programs_we_offer/eligible_items.html

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Media contact:
John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-1674, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca 

2011 01 20                                                         11:00 a.m.