The following statement was read today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister of Service NL:

New Online Resource Delivers Open Access to Restaurant Inspection Reports

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in this Honourable House to announce that restaurant inspection reports are now available online.

Previously, members of the public were required to contact a Government Service Centre in their area to obtain a paper copy of an inspection report for a particular restaurant. This could often take three to five business days. Today, we are announcing a new level of access by making restaurant inspection reports available online, 24 hours a day.

Mr. Speaker, this new information service demonstrates our government’s intent to proactively disclose information that is commonly requested. It illustrates government’s willingness to simplify and enhance access to information and it is a good example of why we created the Office of Public Engagement.

Mr. Speaker, our officers inspect thousands of food establishments in the province annually, under an agreement with the Department of Health and Community Services. During each inspection, all aspects of food safety and facility sanitation are reviewed for compliance. When problems are discovered, our inspectors issue orders to correct any deficiencies and may schedule follow-up inspections to ensure establishments are following the standards under the legislation.

This website provides a snapshot of these reports for restaurants and take-outs across the province, organized alphabetically and by region. Users are able to scroll through inspection reports, dating back to April 1, 2012, and obtain a report which outlines the status of a particular restaurant. The report will indicate whether the establishment is fully compliant with the standards, or whether there are issues which need to be addressed.

Mr. Speaker, the general public have the right to know that the establishment in which they choose to dine is complying with all food safety standards and as such, we are pleased to announce this exciting initiative.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.